

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

5 snips
Sep 19, 2024 • 1h 1min
NATO's New Secretary General, The Youth In Asia, The Weeks Of The Jackal
Jens Stoltenberg, the recently departed NATO Secretary General, joins former Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte for a lively discussion. They delve into NATO's evolving role in a multipolar world amidst rising tensions between Russia and China. The conversation shifts to Britain's economy, exploring the implications of a growing national debt and the controversial euthanasia debate. They also touch on the troubling rise of political fanaticism in the U.S., drawing parallels to historical political violence and its impact on foreign policy.

41 snips
Sep 12, 2024 • 1h
Special Episode: Super Mario Is Draghi Draghi Draghi
Mario Draghi, a pivotal figure in shaping European economic policy, delves into the urgent challenges facing the EU. He critiques a recent report that seemingly misses the mark on practical solutions. The discussion touches on the stark productivity gaps compared to the US and China and questions the myths surrounding innovation. The episode also scrutinizes the EU's energy dilemmas and the need for a coherent strategy amidst chaotic responses, highlighting how current policies may fall short of fostering true competitiveness in European industries.

Sep 5, 2024 • 15min
Premium Episode: The Silicon Archipelago, The Silicon Archipelago Germany and the Rise of Socialist Nationalism Budget Beatdown, Turning Turk
Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, shares insights about Europe's quest for a tech hub amidst geopolitical challenges. He discusses the surprising implications of his recent arrest in Paris and its potential impact on the tech landscape. Sara Wagenknecht, a prominent German politician, explores the political shifts in Germany, particularly the rise of the AfD and her own influence. They dive into the EU's budget reforms, the strategic aspirations of Hungary and Turkey, and the broader geopolitical dynamics reshaping the digital discourse.

4 snips
Aug 29, 2024 • 42min
Special Episode: Thomas Fazi on the ECB, Pavel Durov, and America's End of Empire Moment
Thomas Fazi, a contributor to UnHerd and Compact, dives deep into the imploding EU and its corrupt institutions. He critiques the European Central Bank's coercive power during financial crises, arguing it undermines national sovereignty. The conversation highlights the troubling shift from national control to technocratic governance, and discusses how the Ukraine conflict impacts European security. Fazi also connects the arrest of Telegram’s Pavel Durov to rising authoritarianism, noting the resilience of grassroots movements in the face of oppression.

4 snips
Aug 22, 2024 • 52min
Kamala Chameleon, Biden’s Building Binge, Another BRIC in the Wall
Kamala Harris, the current U.S. Vice President, and Jake Sullivan, National Security Advisor, delve into pressing geopolitical shifts. They discuss Ukraine’s ongoing conflict and the potential repercussions for U.S. foreign policy under new leadership. The conversation also critiques the Inflation Reduction Act, revealing how promised green advancements are stymied by economic reality. Finally, they explore Azerbaijan's ambition to join BRICS, emphasizing its strategic pivot towards Russia amidst the changing global landscape.

Aug 15, 2024 • 53min
Once Shy Twice Bitten, Domino Theory Revisited, The Ascent of Musk
Polling predictions may be missing the mark as the 'Shy Trump Effect' comes into play ahead of the U.S. elections. Meanwhile, Southeast Asia sees a geopolitical shift as Malaysia aligns with China amid rising anti-American sentiment. The clash between Elon Musk and the EU highlights the growing tensions surrounding content regulation and free speech on social media. With trade disputes brewing, questions arise about the EU's dependence on U.S. tech and its impact on future economic strategies.

4 snips
Aug 8, 2024 • 49min
Premium Episode: The Japanese Stock Market Crash, Captain AnCap & The Legend Of El Dorado, The British Race Riots
Japan faces significant stock market declines, raising questions about the stability of global finances. Argentina's mysterious gold reserves, now seemingly missing, spark speculation about economic strategies. Meanwhile, the British race riots highlight deep societal fractures and immigration policies gone awry, leaving authorities scrambling. The podcast delves into the implications of these events and looks toward the future demographic landscape amidst ongoing turmoil.

10 snips
Aug 1, 2024 • 1h 9min
Special Edition: Gladden Pappin on Orbán's Big Speech
Gladden Pappin, an expert on political discourse in Hungary, discusses Viktor Orbán's provocative speech at the Tusványos festival. They explore its implications for Hungary's foreign policy amidst a shifting global landscape. Pappin examines Orbán's philosophical approach, highlighting contrasts with liberal foreign policies and the rise of alternative ideologies. The conversation delves into European geopolitics, the impact of 'woke' diplomacy, and the challenges facing traditional liberal ideals in a multipolar world.

Jul 25, 2024 • 1h 9min
Special Edition: "This Is Not A Coup" - feat. Malcom Kyeyune
Specializing in Soviet history and political science, guest Malcom Kyeyune discusses an attempted power seizure from Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev, parallels between historical and present-day coup attempts, Joe Biden's sudden resignation, coercive tactics in special circumstances, chaos in American politics, challenges within the Democratic Party, and events resembling a coup.

5 snips
Jul 18, 2024 • 53min
Did You Enjoy The Theatre Mrs Trump?, Let's Vance, Ponzi Capital Management
Exploring the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Trump and its impact on American politics. Discussing J.D. Vance as a potential VP nominee. Questioning the ethical practices of private equity firms and warning of a looming crisis.