"Moment of Zen"  cover image

"Moment of Zen"

Latest episodes

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Nov 23, 2024 • 59min

E106: Can Populism Beat the Administrative State? | Samo Burja

In a riveting discussion, Samo Burja, a political theorist and expert on populism, sheds light on the intricate relationship between populism and modern governance. He explores how populism has reshaped political strategies, using examples like Trump's tactics. Burja examines the historical evolution of the state and challenges facing the Republican Party in supporting populism. He also dives into the impact of privacy concerns in our data-driven world and the interplay between politics and cryptocurrency, suggesting innovative pathways for reform.
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Nov 16, 2024 • 1h 2min

E105: Samo Burja and Rudyard Lynch | The Left's Identity Crisis & the Future of Democracy

In this engaging conversation, geopolitical analyst Samo Burja reveals profound insights into the decline of traditional power structures. He discusses the aftermath of Trump's election and draws striking parallels to the religious wars of the 1600s. Burja also addresses the challenges facing the political left, the role of technology in governance, and the misuse of government data. The dialogue spans urban life in Mexico City, modern cultural shifts, and the impact of Hollywood on society's narratives, providing a compelling lens on today's global dynamics.
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Nov 9, 2024 • 54min

E104: Will Shadow President Elon Save Us? | Noah Smith

Noah Smith, a Bloomberg Opinion columnist and economist, discusses the political landscape following Trump's election and Kamala Harris's loss. He explores the complex dynamics of political polarization and suggests strategies for the Democratic Party to reconnect with working-class voters. Smith critiques identity politics, advocating for a focus on individualism and economic mobility. The conversation also touches on the impact of influential figures like Elon Musk on governance and public sentiment concerning economic issues.
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Nov 4, 2024 • 1h 5min

E103: Election 101, Trump vs Kamala Check-In

Insights on the 2024 presidential election reveal a close race between Trump and Harris. The discussion highlights key swing states and evolving voter demographics, particularly among Hispanic and Black voters. The impact of electoral college dynamics and voter engagement poses crucial questions about election integrity. Speculations arise about the fallout for Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, should either candidate face defeat. Additionally, the emergence of non-traditional political figures signals a shift towards a more diverse candidate landscape.
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Oct 27, 2024 • 1h 20min

E102: Elite Human Capital, Trump vs Kamala, and Richard Hanania's Intellectual Evolution

Richard Hanania, author of "The Origins of Woke," dives into the concept of elite human capital, analyzing how intellectuals in journalism and academia shape societal ideals. He discusses ideological trends in career choices and the polarized political landscape, particularly contrasting views on Trump and governance. Hanania also explores immigration's impact on crime and political dynamics, while advocating for thoughtful dialogue between tech innovators and media. His insights reveal the complexities of American politics today and the challenges ahead.
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Oct 20, 2024 • 1h

E101: Can Classical Liberalism Survive Wokeness? with Tim Urban

Tim Urban, writer of the popular blog Wait But Why and author of What’s Our Problem?, dives into the clash between freedom and equality in today’s society. He discusses how social justice movements challenge open dialogue and the need for classical liberal values. Urban raises the question of whether we truly encourage diverse thought or silence dissent for progress. He emphasizes the threats posed by cultural power dynamics and the importance of balancing individual rights with the collective good in maintaining a healthy democracy.
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Oct 13, 2024 • 1h 19min

E100: AI, Gambling, and Healthcare: A High-Stakes Game of 'Do Your Own Research

In this engaging discussion, venture capitalist Keith Rabois shares insights from his early investment in OpenAI, while Logan Bartlett, Kevin Ryan, and Zach Weinberg analyze the competitive landscape of AI. They debate the balance of regulation in tech and gambling, addressing the ethical concerns of platforms like Robinhood. Moreover, the group tackles vaccine misinformation and its implications for society, emphasizing the importance of accountability and informed decision-making in both healthcare and technology sectors. Tune in for valuable perspectives!
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Oct 5, 2024 • 1h 6min

E99: The Possibility of Human Extinction with Samo Burja

Samo Burja, a thinker on societal issues, delves into the pressing global fertility crisis. He highlights alarming trends in countries like Japan and South Korea and discusses potential urgent interventions, including tax incentives for families. The conversation touches on cultural and technological factors influencing birth rates, emphasizing the risk of civilizational collapse if these issues remain unaddressed. They also explore the role of genetic engineering and state influence on reproduction, pondering the future of humanity amidst declining populations.
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Sep 28, 2024 • 1h 6min

E98: Long Ripples in History with Samo Burja and Rudyard Lynch

Samo Burja, a deep thinker on historical ideas, and Rudyard Lynch, a commentator on historical context, dive into the 'long ripples' of history. They examine Plato's lasting influence and the effects of the Industrial Revolution on modern society. The conversation touches on declining fertility rates in industrialized nations and their potential dystopian consequences. They also explore technology's impact on population dynamics, the evolution of public discourse, and the necessity of a nuanced understanding of history in addressing contemporary challenges.
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Sep 22, 2024 • 1h 11min

E97: World War 2, Tucker Carlson, and a Right-Wing Critique of Daryl Cooper

Daryl Cooper, a historian known for his controversial takes on World War II, joins the conversation alongside anonymous guests Hannah and Steve. They dissect the implications of Tucker Carlson's recent interview with Cooper, highlighting the perils of historical revisionism. Topics include the contentious portrayal of Churchill and Hitler, the emotional weight of challenging established narratives, and the multifaceted nature of antisemitism. The discussion underscores the need for nuance in political ideologies and the potential impact on contemporary discourse.

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