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The Wright Show

Latest episodes

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Feb 11, 2025 • 60min

Why Wokeness Failed (Robert Wright & Musa al-Gharbi)

Musa al-Gharbi, a sociologist and author of "We Have Never Been Woke," dives into the complexities of political messaging and the failures of wokeness. He discusses Trump's surprising electoral victories and how the left has struggled to connect with working-class voters. The conversation highlights the tension between class-based politics and identity politics, questioning whether Democrats can unify around broader policies. Al-Gharbi critiques the role of elites in social justice and the disconnect from ordinary people's values, urging a more inclusive approach.
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Feb 8, 2025 • 60min

Trump's Shock-and-Awe: Madness or Method? (Connor Echols & Robert Wright)

The hosts dive into the complexities of USAID cuts and Trump's controversial foreign policy, particularly regarding the situation in Gaza. They analyze the impact of tariffs on US power and trade relationships, shedding light on the superficial nature of recent negotiations. Meanwhile, discussions about Congress's differing motivations compared to the administration highlight the evolving landscape of AI and its implications for politics and international relations. Listeners are invited to engage with critical issues like AI safety and the repercussions of Trump's climate policies.
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Feb 6, 2025 • 60min

The Truth About DeepSeek (Robert Wright & Paul Triolo)

In this discussion, Paul Triolo, a prominent expert on China's technology policy, sheds light on the evolving AI landscape. He debunks misconceptions surrounding DeepSeek and its connections to the Chinese government. The conversation also covers the geopolitical implications of chip restrictions and the competitive AI race between the U.S. and China. Triolo shares insights on the open-source AI dynamics, the challenges of AGI misconceptions, and the importance of collaboration among nations to ensure safety and effective governance in the face of rapid technological advancement.
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Feb 3, 2025 • 60min

Trump vs International Law (Robert Wright & Mark Leon Goldberg)

Mark Leon Goldberg, publisher of Global Dispatches and an expert in international affairs, dives into the intricate relationship between Trump and the UN. He discusses whether Trump is truly anti-internationalist and reflects on the most pro-UN president post-Cold War. The conversation covers the imperative of global governance, challenges faced by the ICC and ICJ, and the significance of the WHO amid the pandemic. They also analyze the evolving Republican stance on international cooperation and the humanitarian implications of U.S. foreign policy.
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Jan 31, 2025 • 60min

The China AI Panic (Robert Wright, Connor Echols, and Elizabeth Beavers)

In this insightful discussion, Elizabeth Beavers, a national security law expert and adjunct professor at the University of New Hampshire, dives into the complexities of terror designations under the Trump administration. She examines the implications of labeling entities like Yemen's Houthis and Mexican cartels as terrorist groups. The conversation also highlights the legal and economic ramifications of these designations, raising questions about their fairness and impact on local economies. Beavers emphasizes the need for a reevaluation in light of shifting geopolitical dynamics.
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Jan 30, 2025 • 60min

The AI Tsunami Approaches (Robert Wright & Paul Bloom)

Paul Bloom, a psychologist and writer, dives deep into the complexities of artificial intelligence and human behavior. He and Robert Wright unravel Musk’s provocative public actions, exploring motives and media reactions. They discuss the nationalistic rivalry in AI between the U.S. and China, emphasizing ethical risks. Bloom shares his theory on the emotional connections we form with AI, considering the implications of technology replicating our personalities. The conversation also touches on human irrationality and its impact on political landscapes.
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Jan 28, 2025 • 60min

Bonus Episode: The Meaning of the DeepSeek Shock (Robert Wright & Connor Echols)

Dive into the intriguing rise of DeepSeek, a Chinese AI firm shaking up markets and sparking geopolitical debates. Explore how generative AI is reshaping job dynamics and raising concerns around censorship. Discover the competition between proprietary and open-source models and their implications on employment. The discussion also highlights the energy demands of advanced AI and the pressing climate issues it poses. A captivating exploration of the intersection of technology, business, and global politics awaits!
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Jan 28, 2025 • 60min

An American Jew Reflects on Gaza (Robert Wright & Peter Beinart)

Peter Beinart, author of "Being Jewish After the Destruction of Gaza," dives into the complex relationship between Israeli policies and rising anti-Semitism. He discusses how American Jews are navigating their identity amid the Israel-Gaza conflict and critiques the role of affluent donors in shaping U.S. foreign policy. The conversation also questions the viability of a two-state solution, advocating for a binational state that promotes equal rights for both Jews and Palestinians. Beinart's insights challenge traditional narratives and engage in a deep exploration of moral responsibility.
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Jan 25, 2025 • 60min

American Problems, Global Solutions (Connor Echols & Natasha Hakimi Zapata)

Natasha Hakimi Zapata, a seasoned progressive journalist and author of "Another World Is Possible," joins to discuss transformative global policies that the U.S. could adopt. She highlights Uruguay's renewable energy triumphs and Norway's family-friendly policies that boost gender equity. The conversation also dives into Portugal's drug decriminalization success, advocating for a health-focused approach. Throughout, Natasha emphasizes the need for bipartisan cooperation to address societal challenges and foster a humane governance model.
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30 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 60min

Human Agency vs "Agentic” AI (Robert Wright & Kanjun Qiu)

Kanjun Qiu, the CEO of Imbue, an AI research lab, dives into the complexities of artificial intelligence and its future impact on human agency. They discuss the risks of a dystopian "Wall-E world" and the necessity of human-centric AI that enhances creativity rather than stifles it. Kanjun emphasizes how bespoke AI agents could transform daily life while advocating for technology that empowers personal freedom. The conversation also touches on the iterative nature of software development and the importance of open-source tech in fostering individual creativity and reducing control.

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