The Intelligence from The Economist
The Economist
Get a daily burst of illumination from The Economist’s worldwide network of correspondents. Our reporters dig past the headlines to get to the stories beneath—and to stories that aren’t making headlines, but should be. A unique perspective on the issues and events shaping your world.Sign up for Economist Podcasts+ at http://www.economist.com/podcastsplus-intelligence.If you’re already a subscriber to The Economist, you’ll have full access to all our shows as part of your subscription.For more information about Economist Podcasts+, including how to get access, please visit our FAQs page at https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts
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Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 17, 2021 • 23min
Sub plot: the AUKUS alliance
Shashank Joshi, The Economist's defense editor, dives into the significant implications of the AUKUS alliance between the U.S., Britain, and Australia, especially regarding nuclear submarines and its counterbalance to China. He discusses the geopolitical fallout, including France's displeasure over lost contracts. Joshi also covers the tumultuous container shipping industry as it battles disruptions and rising costs, while touching on the increasing intersection of politics and media production, where leaders shape narratives to connect with the public.
Sep 16, 2021 • 21min
Shake, rattle the roles: Britain’s cabinet reshuffle
Anne McElvoy, Senior editor at The Economist, and Natasha Loader, the health policy editor, dive into Britain’s recent cabinet reshuffle, discussing its reflection on Boris Johnson's political strength and the potential impacts on key issues like housing. They also tackle the controversial ethics of COVID-19 human challenge trials, shedding light on the scientific insights gained from deliberately infecting volunteers. Lastly, they explore how rural areas are capitalizing on their dark skies for tourism, transforming their economies in innovative ways.
Sep 15, 2021 • 20min
Hunger gains: Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis
Ben Farmer, The Economist's correspondent covering Afghanistan, sheds light on the dire humanitarian crisis following the Taliban’s takeover. He discusses the devastating impact of economic collapse and the halt of international aid on millions of Afghans. Tim Cross, Technology editor, analyzes the high-profile legal battle between Apple and Epic Games, highlighting the implications of the court’s ruling for market competition. Additionally, they touch on how lax pollution monitoring in the U.S. poses health risks, raising concerns over environmental regulations.
Sep 14, 2021 • 23min
Percent of the governed: California’s recall vote
In this discussion, Alexandra Sewage-Bass, a Senior correspondent for The Economist, analyzes the stakes of California's recall election, particularly its implications for Governor Gavin Newsom and national politics. Shashank Joshi, the defense editor, dissects the sheer scale of Russia's recent military exercises, emphasizing their strategic messaging without direct confrontation. The conversation also touches on Dante's lasting wisdom from 'The Divine Comedy,' drawing parallels between historical crises and today's geopolitical tensions.
Sep 13, 2021 • 21min
Getting their vax up: America’s vaccine mandates
Callum Williams, a Senior economics writer for The Economist, dives into the contentious debate surrounding President Biden's vaccine mandates. He analyzes the political backlash and the implications for public health. The conversation also shifts to how the pandemic has transformed urban landscapes, with economic activities migrating from bustling cities to quieter suburbs. Additionally, Williams highlights fascinating discoveries at a Finnish burial site that challenge our understanding of ancient gender roles.
Sep 10, 2021 • 22min
From the ground up: New York after 9/11
Rosemary Ward, The Economist's New York correspondent, discusses the dramatic rebuilding of Lower Manhattan after 9/11, highlighting its transformation into a vibrant, family-friendly hub. Robert Guest, Foreign editor, connects societal instability with women's mistreatment, emphasizing the need for women in peace negotiations to ensure stability. They reflect on Afghanistan's political landscape and the critical link between women's rights and national security, while also exploring the surprising gender dynamics in hummingbird plumage.
Sep 9, 2021 • 22min
Putsch back: Africa’s latest coup in Guinea
Kinley Salmon, Africa correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on the recent military coup in Guinea, discussing its implications for governance and public sentiment in the region. James Yan, Foreign correspondent based in Vancouver, analyzes Canada's turbulent political landscape as Prime Minister Trudeau navigates a snap election amidst growing challenges. The conversation also touches on the cultural bias in Georgia towards male children, reflecting on societal shifts and future implications for gender equality.
Sep 8, 2021 • 22min
The call before the storm? Brazil’s protests
Emma Hogan, America's editor for The Economist, shares her expertise on the political unrest in Brazil, sparked by President Bolsonaro's controversial call to arms amidst declining support. She discusses the implications of rising public protests ahead of crucial elections. Meanwhile, Daniel Knowles, an international correspondent, delves into the allure of conspiracy theories, particularly in the Congo, and how they shape political narratives. Their conversation highlights the dangers and societal impacts of misinformation in today's world.
Sep 7, 2021 • 21min
Bitcoin of the realm: El Salvador’s experiment
Alice Fullwood, Wall Street correspondent for The Economist, dives into El Salvador’s bold Bitcoin experiment initiated by President Nayib Bukele. She explores the government's hopes for economic growth and financial inclusion through forced crypto adoption but notes skepticism from both locals and international institutions. The conversation touches on the practical challenges, such as currency volatility and political instability, while also reflecting on the broader implications for remittances and foreign investment.
Sep 6, 2021 • 22min
Heartbeat of the matter: Texas’s draconian abortion law
Stephen Mazey, a Supreme Court correspondent for The Economist, discusses the implications of Texas's strict abortion law and its potential threat to Roe v. Wade. He explores the legal battles ahead and the law's national ramifications. Sarah Maslin, Brazil correspondent, shares alarming statistics about police violence, particularly the racial disparities in killings. She sheds light on the tragic police raid in Jacarezinho and its impact on marginalized communities, drawing parallels to systemic racism in the U.S.
