Topics discussed include improving consumer sentiment, Biden's Houthi strategy, Harvard's misconduct allegations, brokenness of American institutions, and the importance of science fiction in shaping thinking about human society.
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Quick takeaways
An improving economy increases Biden's likelihood of winning reelection and weakens Trump's rhetoric.
Corruption within American institutions threatens the foundations of society and can amplify destructive political movements.
Deep dives
Improving Economy Boosts Biden's Chances of Reelection
Americans are becoming more optimistic about the economy, with sentiment surging almost 30% since November 2021. The improving economy, along with lower inflation and signals from the Federal Reserve on interest rate increases, is positive news for President Joe Biden. While it may take a few months for these economic improvements to translate into real political news, an improving economy increases Biden's likelihood of winning reelection. Additionally, if the economy continues to perform well, it weakens former President Donald Trump's rhetoric, as people perceive their own financial situations positively.
US Strategy to Combat Houthis in Yemen
The Biden administration's strategy to combat the Houthis in Yemen involves degrading the militants' abilities through targeted attacks, introducing vessels carrying weapons, and increasing sanctions pressure. The aim is to starve the Houthis of resources and ultimately resolve the shipping crisis caused by their attacks, which has led to inflated prices and jeopardized lives. The strategy also includes Israel's plan for more targeted operations in Gaza, which could weaken the Houthis' case for supporting the Palestinians. However, the effectiveness of the approach relies on an effective naval blockade and China's potential support, which may not be achieved overnight.
Corruption and Integrity in American Institutions
The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, is retracting or correcting dozens of papers spanning two decades due to errors and corruption. This is just one example of misconduct allegations targeting Harvard researchers and reflects a wider issue within the American elite. The prevailing culture of laxity about scholarly integrity undermines the functioning and legitimacy of institutions. The corruption within American institutions extends beyond academia to areas such as journalism, Washington D.C., and elite circles. This deep-rooted corruption threatens the foundations of society and risks amplifying popular anger and the rise of more destructive political movements.
This week, Walter and Jeremy talk improving consumer sentiment, the Biden administration’s leaked ‘Houthi strategy,’ Harvard’s latest misconduct allegations, and the brokenness of American institutions.
Each week on What Really Matters, Walter Russell Mead and Jeremy Stern help you understand the news, decide what matters and what doesn’t, and enjoy following the story of America and the world more than you do now. For more, check out tabletmag.com/what-really-matters. You can read Walter Russell Mead’s Tablet column here, and check out more from Tablet here.