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
Dec 9, 2020 • 20min
Laïcité, égalité, fraternité? France’s secularism bill
Simon Rabinovich, Asia economics editor for The Economist, discusses France’s new secularism bill aimed at tackling Islamist extremism while maintaining core secular values. He explores the public's reaction to these proposed measures in light of recent tragedies. The conversation shifts to Taiwan, where its robust economic growth during the pandemic is highlighted, alongside its strategic position in the global tech market. Lastly, Rabinovich offers insights into adapting holiday traditions in the workplace as companies navigate post-pandemic celebrations.
Dec 8, 2020 • 22min
Granting immunity: America weighs vaccine approval
Natasha Loader, health policy editor at The Economist, discusses the U.S. vaccine approval process amidst the urgency of the pandemic, highlighting safety evaluations and distribution challenges. Sarah Burke, a foreign correspondent, explores the rise of multi-generational living as a solution to loneliness, showcasing innovative housing projects aimed at promoting community integration. The conversation expands to the evolution of Advent calendars, from traditional designs to extravagant modern versions, reflecting cultural shifts during the festive season.
Dec 7, 2020 • 22min
Fairly unusual: Ghana’s elections
Kinley Salmon, Africa correspondent for The Economist, offers insightful analysis on Ghana's pivotal elections. He discusses Ghana's commitment to maintaining electoral integrity amidst regional instability and examines the rivalry between political opponents. Salmon emphasizes the significance of these elections as a potential beacon of hope for democratic practices in West Africa. Additionally, he explores the challenges facing Ghana, including the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing issues of corruption and governance.
Dec 4, 2020 • 23min
Intensive scare: covid-19 ravages America
Stephen Gibbs, the Venezuela correspondent for The Economist, discusses the ruling party's strategies as it prepares to dominate the National Assembly elections, sidelining opposition leader Juan Guaidó. Adam Roberts, the Midwest correspondent, highlights the harrowing COVID-19 crisis unfolding in America, particularly in the Midwest, where healthcare systems are on the brink. Oliver Morton reflects on the rich legacy and tragic demise of the Arecibo telescope, which once played a crucial role in astronomy and showcased humanity's quest for knowledge.
Dec 3, 2020 • 22min
Your planet, or mines? Kicking the coal habit
In this enlightening discussion, Charlotte Howard, The Economist's energy and commodities editor and expert on global energy markets, dives into the pressing need to reduce coal consumption globally. She contrasts declining use in the West with rising demand in Asia, particularly China and India. The conversation also touches on the inspiring democratic struggle in Belarus, showcasing the resilience of its people. Plus, an innovative technique using candy-floss machines for effective face masks adds an unexpected twist to the episode!
Dec 2, 2020 • 22min
Trans formative: a landmark children’s-rights ruling
Rob Gifford, a reporter on transgender youth issues, and Jan Petrovsky, business editor, dive into Britain's recent High Court ruling on puberty blockers for minors, emphasizing the debate over informed consent in medical treatments. They discuss the ruling's global implications for transgender rights and healthcare. Additionally, Jan unpacks the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act, exploring its effects on U.S.-China relations and investment landscapes. The episode also touches on Poland's disco polo music, revealing its cultural and political significance.
Dec 1, 2020 • 19min
Nuclear-war head: assassination in Iran
An expert on Middle Eastern politics delves into the assassination of Iran's top nuclear scientist, Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, and its critical implications for U.S.-Iran relations. The discussion highlights the potential for violent retribution impacting diplomatic chances with the new American administration. The conversation also shifts to revolutionary advancements in AI for protein structure prediction, showcasing how these innovations could reshape industrial processes and disease management. Meanwhile, effective European lockdown strategies are examined in the context of COVID-19 transmission.
Nov 30, 2020 • 22min
No show of force: France’s controversial police-protection bill
Sophie Petter, the Paris bureau chief for The Economist, discusses the fierce protests ignited by a controversial police-protection bill, which critics say threatens media freedom and accountability amidst rising concerns over police brutality. Mark Johnson, the education correspondent, examines global educational responses to the pandemic's disruption of high-stakes exams, revealing stark differences in grading outcomes. The conversation also touches on South Africa's alarming rise in livestock theft and the challenges faced by farmers.
Nov 27, 2020 • 20min
One party to rule them all? India’s fraying democracy
Max Rodenbeck, South Asia bureau chief for The Economist, and Wendelin von Bredow, who covers Europe, discuss India's precarious democracy under Prime Minister Modi. They probe the erosion of judicial independence and the rise of a potential one-party system, expressing hope for India's diverse society. The conversation shifts to Sweden, where entrenched gang violence reveals troubling social divides, contrasting sharply with its peaceful reputation. They also explore how Black Friday is transforming in the pandemic era with a significant rise in online shopping.
Nov 26, 2020 • 23min
At his majesty, displeasure: Thailand’s anti-monarchy push
Tom Felix Jung, an Economist correspondent in Bangkok, discusses the brave grassroots protests demanding reforms to Thailand's monarchy, led by fearless youth challenging long-held royal authority. Meanwhile, Liam Taylor, based in Kampala, delves into the political unrest in Uganda following the arrest of popular opposition figure Bobi Wine, illuminating the risks faced by dissenters and the youth-driven demand for change. Together, they explore the rising tide of political activism in two very different corners of the globe.
