

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

Jan 29, 2026 • 12min
Special Edition: Japanese Bonds and the Unwinding of the Global Financial System
Discussion of a visible fracture in the Transatlantic Alliance and its fallout at Davos. Exploration of how political rupture could spill into global finance. A worrying sell-off in Japanese bonds and the risk that rising rates force large Treasury liquidations. Concerns about cascading market stress and a potential crisis window around 2026.

15 snips
Jan 22, 2026 • 56min
Special Edition: Amerikanets on the Venezuela Shadowplay
The podcast delves into the concepts of simulated warfare and propaganda, referencing Jean Baudrillard's ideas on the Gulf War. Amerikanets discusses the surreal narrative of the Venezuelan operation under Trump, filled with implausibilities. They unravel the mystery of Cuban bodyguards' casualties and examine discrepancies in media reporting. The conversation shifts to the historical precedence of bribing opponents and how these simulations impact public perception. Finally, they explore the consequences of hybrid warfare and the implications of a shifting global power landscape.

25 snips
Jan 15, 2026 • 55min
Not Without My Shah, Green Eyed Monster, Fed Up
Tensions rise in Iran as protest movements draw in the exiled Crown Prince, stirring debates on regime change. Meanwhile, Trump’s quirky take on Greenland reveals deeper geopolitical motives. The hosts dissect the implications of US foreign interests, emphasizing a more thoughtful approach to international relations. On the economic front, the Fed's struggles under Jerome Powell lead to critical discussions about the future of independent central banking amid rising inflation pressures. Intriguing insights and lively commentary make for a compelling listen!

13 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 58min
The Day After The Revolution: Venezuela’s Coming Chaos
This discussion dives headfirst into the recent U.S. kidnapping of Nicolás Maduro, exposing the chaos and geopolitical shifts in play. The hosts explore criticisms of intervention and the risky balancing act of regime change, questioning the motives centered around oil and U.S. dominance. They highlight the potential backlash from coercive policies and the elusive search for a credible alternative to Maduro. The episode wraps with crucial implications for U.S. standing in the region and the complicated dynamics involving China and Russia.

Dec 24, 2025 • 2min
Multipolarity Advent Calendar: The Final Night
In a festive finale, the host expresses gratitude to the team and invites listeners to consider special premium content on Patreon. Playful holiday wishes and creative sign-offs bring a cheerful end to the discussion, perfectly capturing the spirit of the season. It's a lighthearted reminder to treat yourself and spread joy, making it an enjoyable wrap-up for everyone.

Dec 23, 2025 • 15min
Multipolarity Advent Calendar: Day Thirteen
In today’s exploration, Philip and Andrew unveil a striking critique of Britain's political landscape. They discuss the ramifications of the Spectator's controversial choice to feature a stunt writer, highlighting its impact on conservative media's reputation. Philip reveals the politically charged fallout from Bonnie Blue's endorsement of Reform UK. He warns of potential chaos leading to extreme political shifts and underscores how elite tactics threaten societal norms. The episode wraps up with a commentary on Britain's diminishing credibility on the global stage.

Dec 22, 2025 • 18min
Multipolarity Advent Calendar: Day Twelve
In a creative twist for the holiday season, the hosts delve into the geopolitical landscape, revealing the Edward Bernays Reader as a key object. They discuss Europe's indifference to the US National Security Strategy and Zelensky's controversial NATO-plus proposal. The British press faces scrutiny for its reactions, while Niall Ferguson's mixed reviews spark debate on framing in foreign policy. The implications of a shifting liberal order are examined, alongside predictions of Britain's identity crisis and Europe's urgent need for clarity in the face of change.

Dec 21, 2025 • 14min
Multipolarity Advent Calendar: Day Eleven
The hosts unlock a window into robotics, featuring the Optimus humanoid droid as a focal point in the tech rivalry. Discussions highlight China's exceptional advancements in critical technologies like autonomous vehicles and semiconductors. They debate whether 2025 might see the US losing its edge to China and criticize the West's lagging industrial strategy. The conversation also touches on the West's last hope in AI while questioning the difficulty in imagining a future dominated by Chinese tech. A fascinating look at the global tech landscape!

Dec 20, 2025 • 16min
Multipolarity Advent Calendar: Day Ten
In this festive episode, Philip and Andrew explore key geopolitical themes of the year. They delve into the mystery of Trump's poor economic polling despite GDP growth. The discussion shifts to the failure of tariffs and foreign direct investment strategies. They analyze the unregulated world of international trade law. AI emerges as a major driver of US growth, yet concerns about speculative investments and rising costs in data centers loom large. The potential fleeting nature of the AI boom is also revealed, suggesting risks for economic stability.

Dec 19, 2025 • 9min
Multipolarity Advent Calendar: Day Nine
Discover the wave of drone-related panic sweeping Europe as experts unravel the truth behind alleged incidents. Most sightings were found to be misidentifications or outright fabrications, yet the media frenzy continues. Dive into how this hysteria reflects political motivations and impacts international credibility. The discussion raises questions about reliance on U.S. military support and the emerging anti-drone market. Join in as they explore the intersection of psychology and politics amid the festive backdrop!


