Graham Allison

Graham Allison, a Harvard Government Professor and expert on U.S.-China relations, discusses the 'Thucydides Trap,' a framework illustrating the risks of conflict between established and rising powers. He highlights historical parallels to the Peloponnesian War and World War I, explaining why great-power war has been avoided until now. Allison contrasts China's ambitions with the Soviet Union and examines how economic entanglement impacts stability. He identifies Taiwan and risky third-party incidents as potential flashpoints for conflict.

In a riveting discussion, Graham Allison, a Harvard expert on great-power competition, analyzes the intricate dynamics of the U.S.-China rivalry. Jin Keyu, an authority on tech and trade, highlights the implications of tech competition and China's shift to a consumption-driven economy. Monica Toft offers insights on how smaller states can navigate between superpowers, while Happymon Jacob raises alarms about nuclear proliferation risks amid ongoing Middle East tensions. Together, they explore the evolving geopolitical landscape and its impact on global trade.

Graham Allison, former student and colleague of Henry Kissinger, discusses Kissinger's legacy as a statesman, his engagement with history, and his brand of realism. They also explore Kissinger's accomplishments, failures, and concerns towards the end of his life. Topics include preventing great power wars, limiting nuclear weapons states, preventing destructive applications of AI, privacy risks, realism and idealism in international relations, and the rivalry between the US and China.

Foreign policy expert Graham Allison joins the podcast to discuss the deteriorating relationship between the US and China, focusing on the potential triggers for conflict. They explore the consequences of this relationship, including the nuclear threat and the challenges faced by Ukraine. Despite the tensions, they highlight the importance of cooperation on global issues and the potential for shared interests in climate, technology, finance, and health to make these powerful rivals unwilling partners.

Graham Allison, a renowned political scientist and former dean at Harvard's Kennedy School, is joined by Matthew Colford for a thought-provoking discussion. They delve into the 'Thucydides trap,' exploring how the rising power of China could potentially displace the U.S. Historical parallels are drawn to the Cold War, shedding light on modern tensions. They also examine nationalistic leadership styles and propose the establishment of a White House Council of Historical Advisors to enrich policy-making with insights from history, underscoring the importance of understanding the past to shape the future.