The Intelligence from The Economist
The Economist
Join Jason Palmer and Rosie Blau for noise-cancelling news and analysis from The Economist's global network of correspondents. Every weekday this award-winning podcast picks three stories shaping your world—the big shifts in politics, business and culture, plus things you never knew you needed to know. On Saturdays, download The Weekend Intelligence to dive deep into a single story, vividly told. 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
May 5, 2021 • 21min
Cache and carry: American states’ gun-law push
Alexandra Sewitch-Bass, a senior correspondent for The Economist, and Matthew Holhouse, a British political correspondent, dive into the heated gun law debates in the U.S. as states adopt permitless carry laws. They question the mismatch between these laws and public sentiment amidst rising violence. The conversation also shifts to Brexit, exploring how it has fueled Scottish nationalism and the potential for another independence referendum. This discussion highlights the complexities of regional politics and the pressing issues of autonomy and identity.
May 4, 2021 • 22min
Strait shooting? The growing peril to Taiwan
Join David Rennie, the Beijing bureau chief for The Economist, and Claire McHugh, a writer for the same publication, as they delve into Taiwan's escalating tensions with China. They discuss the unraveling of 'strategic ambiguity' and the implications for global politics. Rennie emphasizes Taiwan's semiconductor industry amid China's military posturing. McHugh shifts focus to the rise of zoonotic diseases, linking environmental changes to health risks and highlighting the pressing need for sustainable practices. A quirky look at canine communication rounds out the conversation.
May 3, 2021 • 22min
The turn at a century: Northern Ireland’s anniversary
Sam McBride, a journalist for The Economist specializing in Northern Ireland, dives into the current political landscape following the resignation of Arlene Foster. He discusses the growing sentiment for Irish reunification amidst unionist turmoil and demographic shifts post-Brexit. The conversation also highlights how the pandemic reshaped diplomacy, making it more inclusive through digital platforms. Additionally, McBride touches on the evolution of art, focusing on the rise of immersive experiences that engage audiences in new ways.
Apr 30, 2021 • 22min
Illiberal-arts degrees: Hungary’s universities seized
Join Matt Steinglass, a Europe correspondent, as he critiques Hungary's higher education reforms under Viktor Orban's government. Kurt Kleiner reveals groundbreaking research on a potential blood test for clinical depression, promising more targeted treatments. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe pays tribute to LaDonna Brave Bull Allard, reflecting on her significant contributions to Native American rights and heritage. This episode intertwines themes of political influence, medical innovation, and the enduring legacy of activism.
Apr 29, 2021 • 23min
A word in edgewise: Turkey, Armenia and genocide
Join Piotr Zalewski, Turkey correspondent for The Economist, and Rob Gifford, Senior Editor, as they delve into the contentious recognition of the Armenian genocide and its impact on Turkey-Armenia relations. They discuss the historical grievances that still linger and the skepticism surrounding normalization efforts. Gifford also sheds light on the tightening grip of the Chinese government on Christianity, examining the struggles of Christians in both sanctioned and underground settings amid increasing state control.
Apr 28, 2021 • 22min
A great deal to be desired: Europe-Britain trade
John Peet, The Economist's Brexit editor, delves into the complexities of the post-Brexit trade agreement, revealing the tensions still lurking between Europe and Britain. Sasha Nauta, the public policy editor, discusses the growing presence of women in armed forces, highlighting their significant contributions and the challenges they face, such as sexism and harassment. They also touch on the recent surprising vote in the European Parliament and the cultural censorship surrounding Chloe Zhao's Oscar win, illustrating the shifting political landscape.
Apr 27, 2021 • 21min
SPAClash: the buzz and the bust
Alice Fullwood, Wall Street correspondent for The Economist, shares her insights on the rise and challenges of Special Purpose Acquisition Companies (SPACs), exploring their impact on investments and market trends. Cultural writer Michael Hann discusses Brazil's controversial gun laws, highlighting political implications under President Bolsonaro. The episode also transports listeners to HighMag, the world's largest magazine archive, emphasizing its role in preserving cultural history and the ambitious digitization project that aims to make this treasure trove accessible to all.
Apr 26, 2021 • 23min
Extremist prejudice: rebranding Navalny
John McDermott, Chief Africa correspondent for The Economist, offers a deep dive into pressing global issues. He discusses the alarming legal treatment of Alexei Navalny in Russia, highlighting rising repression and its implications for international relations. The conversation shifts to Africa's COVID-19 vaccination hurdles, examining supply chain struggles and public hesitancy that hinder progress. Lastly, the revival of composer Florence Price’s legacy brings a cultural touch, showcasing her contributions that have finally gained recognition.
Apr 23, 2021 • 23min
Carbon date: Biden’s climate summit
Charlotte Howard, energy and commodities editor at The Economist, and Avantika Chilcotti, international correspondent, dive into President Biden's ambitious climate targets and the U.S.'s need for reputation rebuilding on climate issues. They explore the rise of Zoom fatigue in remote work, unpacking research on its psychological effects and the dynamics of virtual communication. The discussion also touches on the decreasing relevance of awards shows like the Oscars in a streaming-dominated world.
Apr 22, 2021 • 20min
Growth negligence: India’s covid-19 failings
Max Rodenbeck, South Asia bureau chief for The Economist, sheds light on India's staggering COVID-19 crisis. He discusses the overwhelmed healthcare system and the danger of mass gatherings as new case numbers soar. Rodenbeck reveals alarming undercounts of cases and deaths, alongside criticizing the government’s ineffective response. The episode also touches on political unrest in Chad following the assassination of President Idris Déby, highlighting the potential for regional instability as power dynamics shift.
