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 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, 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, 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.

Rory Stewart, a former UK MP and expert in international aid, argues that traditional philanthropy may be harming the poor. He reveals how ineffective aid programs often misallocate funds and advocates for a radical shift to unconditional cash transfers. Stewart illustrates the transformative power of cash in alleviating poverty with compelling case studies, including one from Rwanda. He emphasizes how these cash transfers not only improve health and education but also empower individuals to make their own choices, challenging conventional aid paradigms.

Rory Stewart, a former British politician and aid manager, now champions direct cash giving after discovering its surprising effectiveness in fighting poverty. Jane Zhao, a psychology professor, shares insights on how providing cash can empower those in need, challenging traditional welfare methods. They reveal how direct financial support creates more significant, sustainable change, highlighting powerful stories from communities in Rwanda. Tune in for a compelling case that giving cash not only lifts others but also enhances the giver's happiness.

Rory Stewart, a former UK politician known for his in-depth understanding of government, discusses the pressing challenges facing British politics. He explores the stagnation of the UK's economy and the historical roots of current inequalities. Stewart critiques the complexities of governance, emphasizing the need for clarity and citizen engagement. He tackles the impact of Trump's leadership style and proposes radical reforms, including dismantling traditional parties. Insightful and provocative, Stewart's ideas aim to rethink political dynamics and inspire a more accountable system.

Rory Stewart, former UK Secretary of State for International Development and now a senior advisor to GiveDirectly, argues that simply giving cash can eradicate extreme poverty. He shares his transformation from skeptic to advocate for unconditional cash transfers, highlighting their success in alleviating poverty. Stewart critiques traditional aid models, emphasizing the practicality of cash assistance and its empowering effects on communities. He discusses bipartisan approaches to poverty, alongside insights on the complex relationship between money and happiness, and offers a hopeful vision for ending poverty.

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.