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
4 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 15min
Premium Edition: Kaiser Friedrich IV and Trumpian Grand Strategy
A recent election in Germany has ignited a political fire, with the AfD party rising to prominence. Could this be a turning point for the Christian Democrats as they eye total control? Meanwhile, Donald Trump's unpredictable moves on the global stage continue to baffle observers. As political coalitions shift and voter demographics reveal stark divides, concerns about democratic stability mount. What does all this mean for the future of governance in Europe and beyond? Tune in for insights into this turbulent landscape!
24 snips
Feb 20, 2025 • 55min
Special Edition: Munich!
This special edition delves into the implications of the Vance speech and Ukraine peace plans. It scrutinizes Europe's dependency on the U.S. for defense amid political turmoil and rising populism. Internal threats to free speech are highlighted, especially in Britain. The podcast critiques the UK's military budget mismanagement and contrasts it with Russia's spending. As the war in Ukraine continues, it questions Europe's foreign policy and security strategies in the face of external threats from both Russia and China.
11 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 55min
Save The Aid, The UK Art of The Deal, If I Speak I Am In Trouble
Corruption within USAID is under scrutiny, revealing possible hidden networks that could change public perception. The UK strikes a controversial deal with Mauritius over the Chagos Islands, raising questions about ethics and historical injustices. As the US pivots back to asserting control over tech sectors, Europe faces pressure over online free speech. This shifting geopolitical landscape poses risks for international stability while stirring debates on colonial legacies and the implications for global power dynamics.
21 snips
Feb 6, 2025 • 1h 3min
Born in the USAID, Deep Deep Trouble, Customs of the Natives
Explore the dismantling of USAID and its surprising effects on independent bloggers in Moldova. Discover the rise of China’s DeepSeek AI and its implications for U.S. dominance in technology. Delve into the consequences of Trump’s tariff policies that often feel like empty promises. Examine the recent elections in South America and their impact on U.S. influence. Lastly, confront the decline of meaningful political discourse and how it's swayed by political organizations favoring ease over critical thinking.
20 snips
Jan 30, 2025 • 1h 2min
Special Edition: Glenn Diesen on Trumpism, Ukraine, and the Hegemon's End
Glenn Diesen, a professor at the University of South-Eastern Norway and associate editor at Russia in Global Affairs, dives into the shifting global power dynamics. He discusses the waning U.S. hegemony in light of the Ukraine war and the rise of Russia and China. Diesen critiques America's interventionist foreign policies and the flawed assumptions behind energy sanctions on Russia. He calls for a reevaluation of U.S. strategies towards a more multipolar world, emphasizing Europe's precarious position amid these transformations.
Jan 23, 2025 • 17min
Pardon?, Little Red Note, Shall We Tell Peter Zeihan?
Joe Biden's unprecedented wave of pardons raises eyebrows about accountability in American politics. The stark contrast between American and Chinese Zoomers reveals unexpected lifestyle differences, hinting at deeper geopolitical implications. The discussion delves into the troubling transition towards 'big man politics' in the U.S., drawing parallels with post-Soviet dynamics. As the political landscape shifts, questions about stability and the future of governance loom large. Tune in for a captivating exploration of these pressing issues!
9 snips
Jan 16, 2025 • 53min
Trump Regime Detonates UK?, Biden's AI Chips Ban, Trussification Part 4
Britain faces a dual crisis, grappling with grooming gang scandals and economic turmoil. The political landscape is further complicated by perceptions of American influence, like Elon Musk's role in destabilizing UK politics. Meanwhile, the Biden administration's restrictions on AI chip exports create a ripple effect in global tech competition, potentially isolating the U.S. economically. Amid these challenges, the notion of 'Trussification' resurfaces, questioning the strategic economic maneuvers that could affect future political legacies.
4 snips
Dec 19, 2024 • 43min
Special Edition: Dissident Former Diplomat Ian Proud on UK-Russia Relations
Ian Proud, a former British diplomat with 24 years of experience, shares his insights on the complex UK-Russia relations during his tenure in Moscow from 2014 to 2019. He discusses the dramatic shift from collaboration to sanctions following key events like the Salisbury nerve agent attack. Proud delves into the historical animosities between the nations and critiques the current British foreign policy landscape, calling for a more coherent approach amidst changing global dynamics. His reflections offer a unique perspective on navigating the intricacies of diplomacy.
42 snips
Dec 12, 2024 • 1h 13min
Special Edition: Steve Hsu on China, Tech, and Trumpism 2.0
Steve Hsu, a theoretical physics professor and startup founder, dives into the evolution of Trumpism, emphasizing its shift toward enhancing American competitiveness against China. He discusses China's rapid transformation to a free market, the challenges of its low birth rates, and the potential of its educated youth in STEM. The conversation highlights the U.S.'s tech sanctions on China, suggesting they might backfire and boost China's innovation. Hsu also reflects on America's strengths and the emergence of a counter-elite aiming to revitalize its industrial capacity.
Dec 5, 2024 • 13min
Premium Episode Teaser: Syria's Big Comeback, Georgia's Last Colour Revolution, Vive Le 6ieme Republique!
Syria is unexpectedly back in the headlines, with rebel forces making surprising advances and Turkey playing a crucial role. Georgia's political scene appears to be fading, potentially marking the end of colorful revolutions. Meanwhile, in France, President Macron faces rising tensions amid economic struggles and potential government shake-ups. The podcast humorously mixes holiday cheer with the serious realities of these political upheavals, weaving together themes of instability and the search for stability.
