Multipolarity
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.
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 28, 2025 • 58min
Multipolarity Dialogues: Why Serbia Is In A Very Weird Place Right Now, with Misa Djurkovic
In this engaging discussion, Miša Đurković, a keen political analyst and Director at the Institute of European Studies in Belgrade, dives into Serbia's tumultuous political landscape. He explores the ongoing anti-corruption protests triggered by a tragic accident, highlighting Serbia's precarious democracy under pressure from its leader, President Vučić. The conversation also covers the complexities of the Republika Srpska's political turmoil, the implications of NATO and EU relations, and the broader geopolitical struggles in the Balkans.
Aug 21, 2025 • 48min
All’s Fair In War, Slumdog Day Afternoon, Shite Christmas
The podcast delves into the geopolitical shifts surrounding the Ukraine War and the complex dynamics at play among U.S. and European leaders. It discusses India's strategic moves in the context of Russian financing, revealing unexpected consequences of Trump's policies. The conversation highlights how U.S. consumers are set to bear the brunt of rising trade tariffs, as Goldman Sachs predicts impending inflation spikes. This mix of diplomacy, economic strategies, and holiday pressures creates a compelling narrative of today's shifting global landscape.
12 snips
Aug 14, 2025 • 1h 1min
The Semtex Road, Baked Alaska, 404k
Dive into the geopolitical whirlpool where a new peace route between Armenia and Azerbaijan meets potential turmoil. Explore the implications of Trump's latest financial maneuverings, allowing Americans to invest 401(k) funds in crypto and gamble on longevity funds. Unpack the absurdity of turning retirement savings into a possible game of high-stakes luck. Plus, ponder the echoes of history as Russia plans discussions in Alaska, and assess Europe's struggle with foreign security in the ongoing shadows of the Ukraine conflict.
Aug 7, 2025 • 1h 4min
Airstrip Zero, Goodness Gracious Xi, AliBaba For Ali Baba
The podcast dives into Britain's social and political decline as seen through a banned crypto ad. It highlights the disconnect between voters and political parties amid growing public discontent. There's a focus on the implications of America urging India to cut oil ties with Russia and the potential chaos in Britain’s electoral future. Additionally, the episode explores Iran's quest for advanced air defense systems through China, showcasing shifting geopolitical alliances and the complexities of international relationships.
Jul 31, 2025 • 15min
Premium Edition Teaser: The Bus To Nowhere
Dive into the confusion of global trade dynamics as Europe finds itself caught between the U.S. and China. Recent trade agreements are stirring controversy, especially in Germany and France, raising questions about European credibility. The podcast explores Europe's energy policy and its implications for relationships with major powers like Russia and China. Geopolitical tensions highlight differing views between European and American leaders, shedding light on the future of European autonomy amid shifting allegiances.
23 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 57min
Multipolarity Dialogues: Steve Hsu on China's Tech Frontiers
Steve Hsu, a physicist and tech entrepreneur, delves into China's rapid advancements in technology, challenging the old narrative that it only imitates. He discusses innovations in AI, robotics, and semiconductors, highlighting how China leads in critical tech sectors. The conversation shifts to military technology, examining the implications of China's missile and drone advancements on global power dynamics. Amidst this rise, Hsu questions the U.S.'s response and whether it can regain geopolitical dominance.
10 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 46min
Special Edition: Global Cakeism
Tariff strategies from the Trump era take center stage, revealing unexpected consequences for the U.S. economy. The decline of the dollar raises eyebrows as corporations seek refuge in European markets. A deeper look at tariff dependency highlights potential dangers for fiscal stability. The idea of 'cakeism' emerges in Brexit discussions, linking to U.S.-Japan relations, illustrating the complexities of international negotiations. As Japan cultivates self-sufficiency, alliances shift, pointing to an evolving geopolitical landscape.
13 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 54min
Milei Down and Die, Tears of a Clown, Very Stable Genius Coins
Explore the wild antics of Javier Milei, from his unique love life to Argentina's economic chaos and the IMF's desperate interventions. Witness the tears in the British Parliament as political leaders grapple with governance failures amid a growing crisis. Discover the quirky world of stablecoins, where you can buy digital dollars that aren’t even in your pocket. The conversation mixes satire with serious insights, revealing the absurdities of modern economics and political dysfunction.
18 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 49min
The Twelve Day War, 5 Percent? Get Bent, Dead Dollar Bounce
Explore the aftermath of military strikes and their implications for U.S.-Iran relations and global defense spending. Delve into the complexities of NATO commitments and the challenges Europe faces in military funding amid rising energy costs. Discover the intriguing dynamics of U.S. equities and the potential onset of de-dollarization that may reshape the capital market landscape. Lastly, trace the evolution of bond markets and the caution that comes with current economic stability against the backdrop of historical trends.
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.
