Rory Stewart

Rory Stewart, co-host of The Rest is Politics and former British Cabinet Minister, joins for a lively discussion on the shifting tides of global power. They analyze the complexities of American foreign policy and its impact on democracy, examining the rise of populism and political extremism. Stewart shares insights on deindustrialization in the U.S. and its implications for swing states. They also highlight innovative solutions like unconditional cash transfers and reflect on rebuilding America with a mix of optimism and humor.

In this episode, Rory Stewart, a British academic and former politician, shares keen insights on the UK's current turmoil from political ineptitude to rising poverty. He discusses Afghanistan's sobering transition under Taliban control and critiques the erosion of trust in liberal democracies due to elite failures. Rory provides a nuanced view on immigration's role in the UK, touches on the challenges of free speech in the digital age, and emphasizes the transformative potential of direct cash transfers in combating global poverty.

Rory Stewart, a former Cabinet minister and author with extensive experience in international development, shares his insights on the UK's pandemic response. He discusses the government's failure to heed early warnings and the detrimental effects of groupthink and optimism bias. Rory critiques Boris Johnson's leadership style compared to more decisive leaders, explores the ethical dilemmas behind lockdown decisions, and highlights the importance of systemic reform for future threats like AI and geopolitical challenges.

Rory Stewart, a writer and former British politician now at GiveDirectly, dives deep into the fraying world order. The conversation uncovers the failures of military interventions in Afghanistan and Iraq, revealing cultural misunderstandings and the moral dilemmas of nation-building. They dissect the catastrophic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan and its implications, while also tackling the rise of populism, the influence of social media, and the future of NATO and Brexit. Stewart’s insights highlight the complexities of governance amidst chaos.

Rory Stewart, a former British MP and author of 'Middleland: Dispatches from the Borders', shares insightful reflections on the disconnect between rural and urban politics. He discusses Cumbria's historical significance and its misunderstood identity within Britain. Stewart critiques Westminster's ignorance towards rural needs, emphasizing the importance of fair representation and acknowledging hidden economies. He advocates for electoral reform to counter the risks posed by first-past-the-post politics, all while navigating the complexities of local vs. national priorities.

Rory Stewart, former UK Secretary of State for International Development and co-host of The Rest is Politics, dives into geopolitics and global poverty solutions. He champions direct cash transfers as a revolutionary way to combat extreme poverty. The discussion also touches on the rise of populism and its global implications, emphasizing stability in international relations. Their conversation navigates the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict while humorously addressing parenting and literature, blending serious topics with lighter moments.

Rory Stewart is a former Conservative MP and author, known for his insights into rural life and politics. In a thought-provoking discussion, he examines the delicate balance between rural and urban communities while emphasizing that politics should prioritize values over mere delivery. Rory tackles the dangers of authoritarianism, drawing parallels with figures like Trump, and delves into the debate on Scottish independence with a call for democratic dialogue. He also touches on local governance and the potential for a more inclusive political system.

Rory Stewart discusses the importance of argument in our lives, from philosophical debates to legal decisions and democratic governance. He reflects on the dangers of bad arguments in politics and the historical significance of speaking and arguing well. The podcast explores the evolution of human argumentation, the impact of social media on discourse, and the power of rhetoric in shaping movements and influencing others.

Rory Stewart, a former British politician and diplomat known for his insights into international affairs, joins the conversation to tackle whether Islam uniquely threatens open societies. They discuss the shifting perceptions of Muslims post-9/11 and the rise of Islamophobia, alongside the complexities of addressing Islamic ideologies without fostering bigotry. Stewart emphasizes the necessity for nuanced language that distinguishes between violent extremism and the diverse, compassionate practices within Islam. Their dialogue advocates for critical yet empathetic discourse.

Rory Stewart and Alastair Campbell discuss France's recent election, Keir Starmer's actions in the UK, and Iran's new president, Masoud Pezeshkian. They cover the transition in France, Starmer's first week, and the implications of Iran's new leadership. The podcast also explores Tony Blair's criticisms, the use of ChatGPT for research, and potential future Conservative leaders.