Helen Thompson

Join Kate Raworth, creator of the doughnut model, Helen Thompson, a political economy expert, and Bim Afolami, a Conservative MP focused on renewable energy, as they explore whether we can thrive without economic growth. They discuss the necessity of revising our understanding of prosperity, emphasizing sustainability and social equity over GDP. The trio critiques the relentless pursuit of growth and advocates for innovative economic models that prioritize well-being, pushing for an inclusive dialogue that challenges traditional economic narratives.

In this engaging discussion, Helen Thompson, a Professor of Political Economy at the University of Cambridge with a focus on energy's geopolitical effects, joins Tom and Dominic. They delve into the critical role of oil in U.S. politics and its impact on modern conflicts like the situation in Ukraine. The conversation traverses the future of energy, including China's rise in green technology and the implications of Putin's actions on his geopolitical power. They also humorously link oil's cultural representation in shows like 'Dallas' to real-world energy dilemmas.

Helen Thompson, a Professor of Political Economy at the University of Cambridge and expert on energy geopolitics, joins the hosts to discuss the monumental influence of oil throughout history. She traces the journey from the first oil well to Hitler's fixation on oil. The conversation highlights the geopolitical shifts post-Suez Crisis and the formation of OPEC. Key moments include the role of oil in shaping modern warfare and its impact on the Soviet Union's collapse, revealing the intricate power dynamics that continue to shape our world.