Robert Pape

Join Robert Pape, a University of Chicago political science professor renowned for his research on political violence, as he explores the unsettling rise of violent populism in America. He discusses the implications of Trump's pardons for January 6 insurrectionists, linking demographic shifts to increased political violence. Pape reveals the unexpected backgrounds of many insurrectionists and emphasizes how economic inequality fuels resentment. He also shares glimmers of hope, citing widespread rejection of political violence among Americans.

Robert Pape, a political scientist from the University of Chicago and expert on political violence, dives into the alarming resurgence of violence both in the U.S. and globally. He highlights how domestic endorsement of political violence correlates with rising terrorism and discusses the implications of demographic shifts for political polarization. Pape also covers historical military interventions and their unintended consequences, questioning the effectiveness of air power in modern warfare, especially in the Israel-Gaza conflict.

Dr. Robert Pape, a political science professor at the University of Chicago, delves into the troubling trend of democracies using military force within their own borders. He discusses the ethical implications of such actions, especially in light of recent federal troop discussions for Chicago. Pape explores how military occupancy can erode civil liberties and heighten tensions, recalling historical examples like Northern Ireland. The conversation reveals deep insights into the risks of escalating violence and the delicate balance between security and democracy.

Renowned terrorism expert Robert Pape discusses the growing acceptance of political violence in the US, with around 12 million Americans believing violence is justified to restore Trump to power. He highlights the need to strengthen democratic institutions and address the approximately 10% of the population that supports violence and extremism. The podcast explores the erosion of freedoms, spread of misinformation, and potential challenges to American democracy, emphasizing the importance of bipartisan efforts and media responsibility in preventing political violence leading up to the 2024 election.

In this engaging discussion, Daniel Byman, a Georgetown University professor and terrorism expert, joins Robert Pape, a University of Chicago political science professor specializing in political violence. They explore alarming trends of politically motivated violence in America, highlighting that left-wing attacks may outnumber right-wing ones. Both experts discuss the rise in support for political violence, the role of leadership rhetoric, and the urgent need for counterterrorism measures. Their insights shed light on the complex dynamics driving these troubling developments.