Uncomfortable Conversations with Josh Szeps

“Liberalism in 2025”: STAN GRANT

Dec 10, 2024

In a riveting conversation, Stan Grant, an experienced global journalist and prominent Indigenous Australian, dives into the complexities of liberalism as we approach 2025. He discusses the shifting geopolitical landscape influenced by conflicts in Syria and Ukraine, and critiques how Enlightenment ideals sometimes falter in the modern world. The role of public broadcasters in promoting inclusivity and journalistic integrity amidst societal challenges is also examined. Grant's insights on cultural identities and the dilemmas of democracy resonate deeply in today's globalized society.

01:12:23

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Episode guests

Stan Grant

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The transformation of Syria illustrates the long-standing impacts of historical decisions like the Sykes-Picot Agreement on current geopolitical instability.

The rise of authoritarianism globally signals a significant challenge to the stability of liberal democracies and the values they uphold.

Media plays a crucial role in shaping discussions around identity and citizenship, which can influence social cohesion in multicultural societies.

Deep dives

Reshaping the Middle East

The discussion highlights the ongoing transformation of the Middle East, particularly focusing on Syria. Historical context is essential, as the region's current conflicts stem from as far back as the Sykes-Picot Agreement after World War I, which artificially drew borders without consideration for local complexities. This legacy has seen the West supporting various despotic leaders in the past, leading to further instability. Amidst Syria's turmoil, the power vacuum raises questions about who will emerge as effective leadership, as past patterns suggest that familiar elements may rise to fill the void, potentially perpetuating cycles of conflict.

Intro

3min

Turbulence in the Middle East: History and Power Dynamics

12min

Democracy and the Dilemmas of Enlightenment Ideals

2min

Christianity and Modernity: A Philosophical Exploration

5min

Navigating Identity and Rights in a Globalized Society

4min

Navigating the Complexities of Liberalism

15min

Navigating the Complexities of Liberalism and Society

18min

Navigating Media Complexity in Australia

15min

As Syria transforms, as Trump returns, as Putin prepares for victory, as China lies in wait, and as we all look towards a new year, Josh sits down with one of the smartest analysts of liberal democracy.

Stan Grant was CNN's Senior International Correspondent based in Abu Dhabi, Hong Kong and Beijing, before returning to Australia as International Affairs Analyst for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

He is arguably Australia's most experienced global journalist and the most famous Indigenous Australian. He resigned from the national public broadcaster last year in a national firestorm about racism.

He and Josh discuss the future of the global order, whether Enlightenment values are up to the task, and the role of public broadcasters like the ABC.

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