Brian Klaas

Brian Klaas, an Associate Professor in Global Politics at University College London and a contributing writer for The Atlantic, explores the delicate balance of modern life. He discusses how today's world, though seemingly stable, is more unpredictable than ever, drawing parallels to the lives of hunter-gatherers. Klaas highlights the dangers of linear thinking in understanding societal change and warns that small disruptions can lead to significant consequences. His insights challenge the efficacy of our current systems in navigating the complexities of an increasingly volatile global landscape.

In this engaging discussion, Brian Klaas, author of "Corruptible: Who Gets Power and How It Changes Us," dives into the unsettling connection between power and corruption. He reveals how individuals with toxic traits often seek positions of authority, showcasing the 'dark triad' of personality characteristics. Klaas shares fascinating examples, such as a domineering homeowners' association president and a manipulative school janitor. He emphasizes the need for accountability and integrity to mitigate corruption and explores strategies for ethical leadership.

Join Brian Klaas, a political scientist and writer, as he dives into the profound influence of chance on our lives. He discusses 'sliding doors' moments, illustrating how small choices twist our destinies. Klaas highlights personal stories where chaotic events shaped historical outcomes, challenging the myth of individualism. He examines our need for pattern recognition, warning against oversimplifications like conspiracy theories. Finally, he reflects on navigating control in a rapidly changing world, emphasizing resilience amidst uncertainty.

John Lechner, author and Wagner Group expert, and Brian Klaas, geopolitics analyst for The Atlantic, dive into the infamous Wagner Group's failed coup against Putin. They discuss the bizarre background of leader Yevgeny Prigozhin and the chaotic mix of mercenaries and political interests driving the group. What sparked the coup attempt? How did internal power dynamics play a role? The conversation sheds light on the future of Russian political stability and the chilling ripple effects of authoritarian rule.

Brian Klaas, an associate professor of global politics and host of Power Corrupts, dives into the complexities of power and its effects on morality. He discusses how power can corrupt or reveal character flaws, emphasizing the need for empathetic leadership. The conversation illuminates the psychological burdens faced by leaders, exploring traits like narcissism and psychopathy. Klaas also critiques the moral implications of leadership and offers insights into fostering integrity within political systems, urging a closer look at accountability and diverse representation in power.