The Wright Show

Matthew Duss, the Executive VP at the Center for International Policy and former advisor to Bernie Sanders, dives deep into pressing global issues. He discusses the ethical implications of Israel's military actions in Gaza and examines how U.S. foreign policy influences public opinion. The conversation navigates the complexities of U.S.-China relations and critiques the shift in trade policy under Trump. Duss also advocates for urgent campaign finance reform, questioning the impact of oligarchy on democracy and the political landscape.

Robert Wright, Editor-in-Chief of Non-Zero, dives into the chaotic landscape of Trump's first 100 days. They discuss the implications of recent firings in the National Security Council and Trump’s shift in foreign policy, especially regarding China and the Middle East. The conversation also sheds light on Marco Rubio's changing stance on hawkish policies. With a critical eye, they analyze Trump's unpredictable approach, exploring whether it sets the U.S. on a collision course with China and how it resonates with Generation Z.

Anatol Lieven, Director of the Eurasia Program at the Quincy Institute, shares his insights on the complex dynamics of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He discusses the realistic paths to peace and the roles of both sides in negotiations. Lieven critiques Trump’s military leadership and the effects of his administration’s purges. The conversation dives into the military-industrial complex and its influence on the conflict, examining modern warfare's shift from tanks to drones. His plan for peace aims to balance interests while highlighting the need for experienced diplomacy.

The new NonZero World ... Headlines ... Stories of the week ... Michael Brendan Dougherty on Pope Francis' foreign policy legacy ... Michael: The pope should be a voice for peace ... A European church no more ... Michael: The Vatican went too far in deal with China ... How the Holy See helped Obama reach out to Cuba ... The pope's moral clarity on Gaza ... A restrainer in the Vatican? ...

Trump and Elon’s bad week = good news for Bob… ... …but bad news for Canada's prime minister? ... Trump’s crackdown on speech expands ... Debating embryo-screening ethics ... Heading to Overtime ...

Pratap’s bona fides ... How Pratap ran afoul of Modi (and the price he paid) ... Trump vs Modi: compare and contrast ... India’s birth as a multi-ethnic state ... Pratap on how we got Trump (and Modi) ... Heading to Overtime ...

Ron Kampeas, a seasoned journalist and former Washington Bureau Chief at JTA, shares intriguing insights on Trump's initiatives against antisemitism. He discusses the complexities of how these measures might exacerbate tensions rather than alleviate them. The conversation dives into the Israel lobby's influence and the challenges progressive Jews face in speaking out. Kampeas critiques the impact of poor journalism on antisemitism. Together, they strive for a more nuanced and transparent dialogue about these pressing issues in American politics.

Samuel Hammond, Chief Economist at the Foundation for American Innovation, unpacks the complex tariff strategies of Trump's administration. He discusses the potential economic ripple effects and how tariffs are reshaping global trade dynamics. Hammond challenges the perception of China's economic fragility, emphasizing its capitalist traits and political stability. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in U.S.-China relations and the need for technological supremacy to maintain global power. Tune in for insights on the interplay of tariffs and American imperialism.

Sina Toossi, a Senior non-resident fellow at the Center for International Policy, dives into the complex dynamics of U.S.-Iran negotiations. He reflects on Trump's dual persona as both a dealmaker and a warmonger. The conversation explores Iran's growing nuclear leverage and the challenges of military tactics versus diplomatic solutions. Toossi also highlights the resurgence of Iran's reformist camp and what it means for future talks. This insightful discussion reveals the intricate balance between progress and escalating tensions.

Paul Bloom, a world-renowned Canadian psychologist, joins Robert Wright for a riveting discussion touching on the psycho-logic behind Trump’s tariffs. They explore the flaws in America’s political structure and examine trade dynamics with Canada and Ukraine. The conversation humorously navigates political pressures, the duality of intelligence in figures like Elon Musk, and the complexities of societal taboos like consensual incest. They also delve into media consumption and playful predictions, making for an engaging and thought-provoking exchange.