Robert Wright's Nonzero

Derek Davison, a commentator on international affairs and co-host of the American Prestige Podcast, and Daniel Bessner, a scholar and author, delve into a variety of pressing global topics. They dissect the recent Trump-Xi trade dynamics and the implications for US-China relations. The discussion also tackles Trump's controversial nuclear testing claims and the potential impact of AI on scientific advancement. They analyze Bill Gates's shift towards prioritizing immediate humanitarian needs and critique the ongoing situation in Gaza, highlighting the complexities of ceasefires and casualties.

Nikita Petrov, a member of the Non-Zero team and publisher of Psychopolitica, shares his insights on the Trump Doctrine. They discuss Trump's aggressive rhetoric toward drug cartels and the U.S.'s Regime change strategy in Venezuela. The duo explores Trump's tendency to favor force over diplomacy, the potential rise of a more competent authoritarian in his wake, and even debates whether Trump's foreign policy could paradoxically foster global peace. Humor and showmanship also emerge as key factors in Trump's appeal.

Vincent Fakhoury Horn, a Palestinian-American Dharma teacher and host at Buddhist Geeks, brings a unique perspective to the conversation about mindfulness and geopolitics. He shares his personal connection to Palestine and insights on the American Buddhist response to the conflict. The discussion delves into the moral responsibilities tied to mindfulness amidst global violence, the ethical implications of U.S. policies, and the complexities of trauma and identity for both Palestinians and Jews. This engaging dialogue emphasizes the need for contemplative practices to inspire social action.

Joining Robert Wright is Paul Triolo, a tech and China policy specialist at Albright Stonebridge Group. They dive into the complexities of US-China tensions over microchips and rare earth elements. Triolo explains how Trump's tariff threats were triggered by China's export rules and reveals the strategic importance of rare earths in industry and defense. He discusses the implications of the US ‘50% rule’ and how both nations' export controls have sparked a game of tit-for-tat, leading to significant global supply chain disruptions.

Liron Shapira, host of the Doom Debates podcast and a prominent AI pause activist, delves into the alarming theories of Eliezer Yudkowsky regarding AI risk. He describes his journey to becoming a Yudkowskian and discusses the notion that superintelligence may lead to human extinction. The conversation also covers the complexities of AI alignment, the potential for misalignment caused by evolving behaviors, and the societal challenges posed by rapid AI advancements. Liron highlights the silent anxiety about AI and critiques funding narratives in the doom discourse.

In this discussion, Paul Bloom, a psychologist and author known for his work on culture and science, joins Robert Wright to delve into contemporary issues. They tackle Bari Weiss's rise as a media figure and her controversial reporting. The conversation shifts to the fragile situation in Gaza and the political implications for leaders like Netanyahu and Trump. Bloom and Wright also dissect the AI hype cycle, questioning the potential risks of superintelligent systems and their unpredictable goals, all while engaging in a spirited debate on free speech in today’s political climate.

Nikita Petrov, a contributor to the Non-Zero team and expert on media influence, dives into pressing topics about media dynamics and geopolitics. They discuss the motivations behind the $150M acquisition of the Free Press and what it means for U.S. media control. The conversation touches on the significant influence of pro-Israel donors and the implications for figures like Charlie Kirk. Petrov also explores the role of TikTok in shaping political narratives, alongside the complexities of recent Middle Eastern conflicts and cognitive sovereignty in the age of AI.

Stephen Macedo, a Princeton political scientist and author of "In COVID’s Wake", joins to dissect the pandemic's handling. He critiques school closures, arguing they were prolonged due to political factors even as evidence showed low transmission risks. Macedo questions the reliance on medical experts alone and highlights socioeconomic biases that exacerbated inequalities. The conversation delves into how dissent was stifled in academia and media, and the necessity for institutions to reflect on their roles in restoring public trust.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.nonzero.org0:28 The deal Hamas offered Bibi before October 7 12:14 How October 7 changed the landscape 22:58 Why Clinton’s Camp David talks failed 38:08 What Arafat was actually offered at Camp David 46:25 The centrality of the right of return 51:59 Beyond two states 56:21 Heading into OT: Abandoning false optimism is not pessimismRobert Wright (Nonzero, The Evolution of God, Why Buddhism Is True) and Robert Malley (Yale - Jackson School of Global Affairs, Tomorrow is Yesterday). Recorded September 23, 2025.Twitter: https://twitter.com/NonzeroPods

In this captivating discussion, AI researcher David Krueger, a professor at the University of Montréal, dives into existential risks posed by AI. He explores Eliezer Yudkowsky's alarming visions of uncontrollable superintelligent AIs and challenges the assumption that AIs will always strive for infinite goals. Krueger introduces his idea of 'gradual disempowerment,' discussing how economic pressures can lead to a slow ceding of decision-making power to AI, potentially undermining human agency in society. The interplay of AI safety, ownership, and cultural shifts adds layers of intrigue to the conversation.