James Waddell

Jonathan Rosenthal, Africa editor for The Economist, shares insights into Nigeria’s controversial easing of lockdowns amidst rising COVID-19 cases and economic struggles. He highlights the dire choices faced by African leaders balancing health and economic survival. Meanwhile, culture writer James Waddell reflects on the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s 150-year history and financial challenges, connecting its elite relationships with broader cultural identities. They also touch on surprising research linking smoking to milder COVID-19 symptoms, sparking intriguing discussions.

In this discussion, James Waddell, Culture writer for The Economist, shares insights on the intricate balance African leaders face between pandemic policies and economic survival. As Nigeria eases lockdowns, the dire consequences of these measures come to light. Unexpectedly, there’s a fascinating link between nicotine and COVID-19 symptoms, prompting medical research. Additionally, Waddell reflects on the Metropolitan Museum of Art's 150-year history, highlighting its financial struggles and the pivotal changes it faces in a post-pandemic world.