
Multipolarity
Charting The Rise Of A Multipolar World Order
Philip Pilkington is an unorthodox macroeconomist.
Andrew Collingwood is an equally skeptical journalist.
Lately, both have realised that - post-Ukraine, post-Afghanistan withdrawal - the old, unipolar, US-led world order is in its death throes.
In its wake, something new is being born. But what shape will that take? That will depend on a combustible combination of economics and geopolitics; trade and military muscle.
Each week, our duo take three off-radar news stories and explain how each is shaping our multipolar reality.
Latest episodes

6 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 12min
Premium Edition Teaser: Iran Special
The podcast dives into the recent military operation against Iranian nuclear facilities, questioning the actual damage inflicted. It explores Iran's potential movements of enriched uranium before the strikes and the lack of military response. The discussion examines the credibility of reports on Iran's military capabilities and speculates on the future of conflicts in the region. Additionally, strategic risks of using advanced military technology like B-2 bombers are analyzed, revealing deeper motivations behind these high-stakes operations.

11 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 1h 13min
Special Edition: Malcom Kyeyune on Military Parades and Hypersonics Over Tel Aviv
Malcolm Kyeyune, a geopolitical commentator, dives into the complexities of current global dynamics. He critiques a lackluster American military parade, contrasting it with stronger displays from other nations. The conversation shifts to the rising threat of hypersonic missiles, particularly regarding Israel and Iran. Kyeyune also explores the fractures within Trump's coalition, revealing tensions between tech advocates and traditional conservatives. He warns about the dangerous political polarization in the U.S., drawing parallels to historical periods of unrest.

Jun 12, 2025 • 51min
Musk Rat Love, Remember the LA mo’, Promising The Rare Earth
Tensions bubble as the divide between tech moguls and political leaders widens, signaling a rift in the MAGA movement. The chaos in LA raises unaddressed questions about law and order in a fracturing America. Meanwhile, China's powerful grip on rare earth metals presents a looming challenge for U.S. tech and military sectors, sparking urgent trade negotiations. Inflation dynamics further complicate global capital markets, showcasing the ongoing economic fallout from recent crises.

15 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 1h 14min
Special Edition: Pilkington Launches "The Collapse Of Global Liberalism"
Discover a bold thesis that proclaims liberalism as not just failing but fundamentally flawed. The discussion dives into how hyper-liberal ideologies have led to societal decay and hollow economies. Explore the critique of modern business education driven by profit over community. Unpack the historical roots of liberal thought and its impact on today's world, and consider the emerging post-liberal movement inspired by classical ideals. Delve into the evolving global landscape and potential shifts back to pre-liberal principles.

May 29, 2025 • 15min
Premium Edition Teaser: Xi Blinded Me with Science, Every Ottoman for Himself, Poison Ivy
China's ambitious new industrial strategy aims to strengthen its technological prowess, even as the U.S. cuts science funding. The geopolitical landscape shifts with the U.S. ambassador's stance on Syria, raising questions about modern imperialism. Meanwhile, Trump’s proposals threaten higher education funding, targeting elite institutions like Harvard while pushing trade schools. Are these moves against the credentialed elite, or merely political theater? The implications for global competition and innovation are profound.

34 snips
May 22, 2025 • 52min
Special Edition: A Tale of Two Great Walls?
Discover the evolving landscape of China as a travel destination and how perceptions of freedom and security clash with reality. Explore the implications of a proposed remittance tax on U.S.-Mexico relations, revealing tensions stemming from domestic reforms and the war on drugs. Uncover the complexity of U.S. military strategies against Mexican cartels, and delve into the broader geopolitical dynamics surrounding military power and historical legacies. Different cultures, shifting alliances, and intricate politics come alive in this compelling discussion.

8 snips
May 15, 2025 • 47min
The Abraham Discords, Bloody Vicious Rocket, The Grand Old Duke Of Tariffs
Tensions rise as rumors swirl of a U.S.-backed two-state solution, leaving Israel feeling isolated. Meanwhile, the latest clash between Pakistan and India sees advanced technology reshaping air combat outcomes. Could we be witnessing a shift toward long-range engagements? Finally, significant tariff reductions on Chinese imports are on the horizon, prompting questions about the future of trade and economic dynamics. Are we entering an era of de-dollarization? Tune in for insights on these critical global issues.

7 snips
May 8, 2025 • 57min
Romanian Light, Rocket From The Crypt, Authoritarians For Democracy
Romania's political scene has transformed into a spectacle, with a far-right candidate taking center stage amid accusations of misconduct. Meanwhile, missile threats loom over air defense systems, as modern warfare challenges traditional strategies. In Germany, the classification of the Alternative for Germany party as extremist reflects deeper societal divisions. The conversation warns of the perils of normalizing extremism and sheds light on the dangerous blend of nationalism with European values. It's a compelling exploration of politics, defense, and societal shifts.

May 1, 2025 • 14min
Premium Edition Teaser: 51st State of Mind, You Bloody Bastard, Wanging On
The podcast dives into Canada's political landscape and the surprising shifts in voter sentiment. It questions the impact of American politics on Canadian identity amidst a shifting global backdrop. Tensions between India and Pakistan flare, raising concerns about regional stability and global stakes. Meanwhile, central Asian nations discuss trade ties with China, hinting at emerging power dynamics. The conversation highlights how these events intertwine, shaping a complex narrative of nationalism and international influence.

15 snips
Apr 24, 2025 • 56min
Moon Age Daydream, Iran So Far Away, The Empire Strikes Back
Gold prices are soaring, driven by market turbulence and shifts toward this traditional safe haven amidst rising inflation. The discussion dives into U.S. military ambitions regarding Iran, questioning the wisdom behind potential aggression. China's response to U.S. tariffs reveals a tit-for-tat strategy, raising import tariffs and restricting resource supply, highlighting the crucial role of rare earth metals. The podcast explores the intertwined nature of energy markets and foreign policy, revealing how these dynamics will shape future geopolitical landscapes.