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
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 2, 2020 • 22min
In Syria’s trouble: an embattled despot digs in
In this discussion with Tom Nuttall, The Economist's Berlin bureau chief, the dire situation in Syria unfolds, revealing Bashar al-Assad’s reliance on foreign support despite economic ruin and a restless population. The talk pivots to the historical significance of German reunification, highlighting its impact on Europe's balance of power and the ongoing concerns about Germany's increasing influence. The conversation also celebrates 100 years of Hercule Poirot, exploring his unique legacy and role in popular culture.
Oct 1, 2020 • 20min
Enclave on edge: Armenia and Azerbaijan
Join Piotr Zalewski, The Economist’s Turkey correspondent, and Matt Kaplan, the science correspondent, as they dive into the perilous Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Zalewski analyzes how recent clashes could pull in both Turkey and Russia, while discussing the historical complexities of the region. Kaplan shifts gears to uncover the evolutionary reasons behind the funnel-web spider's lethal venom, blending nature's wonders with urgent geopolitical issues. It's a fascinating exploration of tension and survival in both human and animal worlds.
Sep 30, 2020 • 24min
Shoutshow: Trump and Biden clash
John Prudeau, US editor for The Economist, and Adam Roberts, Midwest correspondent, delve into the chaos of the Trump-Biden debate, highlighting the personal attacks that eclipsed policy discussions. They explore the chilling connection between Chicago's drill music and gang violence, particularly the tragic case of rapper FBG Duck. Additionally, the history of soap emerges as a fascinating topic, showcasing its links to gender roles and societal expectations during the Industrial Revolution. Tune in for a mix of politics, music, and social history!
Sep 29, 2020 • 22min
No-tax-and-spend policy: Trump’s tax returns
James Astle, The Economist's Washington bureau chief, dives into the financial intricacies of Donald Trump's tax returns, revealing his substantial losses and looming debt. The discussion unveils how Trump's minimal tax payments contrast sharply with his wealth, raising eyebrows about his business claims and political future. Additionally, the conversation explores China's ambitious carbon-neutrality goal for 2060 and delves into a unique Swiss referendum that creatively engaged voters through a game of pick-up sticks.
Sep 28, 2020 • 23min
Bench press: Trump’s Supreme Court pick
Amy Coney Barrett, a Supreme Court nominee recognized for her conservative take on abortion and gun rights, discusses how her potential confirmation could shape the court for decades. David Rennie, a Beijing bureau chief, highlights inspiring stories of blind students in China gaining access to higher education, challenging societal norms. Together, they explore the growing aspirations of visually impaired youths and the transformative impact of judicial appointments on American law.
Sep 25, 2020 • 23min
Another matter: the Breonna Taylor verdict
John Fasman, Washington correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the Breonna Taylor case, discussing its links to ongoing protests and the urgent need for police reform. He explores the complexities of the legal justifications behind the grand jury's decision. Meanwhile, Susanna Savage dives into the rewilding movement in the Scottish Highlands, emphasizing the balance between ecological goals and agricultural traditions. They also touch on Rocket Internet's struggles, illustrating the challenges faced by startups in today’s market.
Sep 24, 2020 • 24min
Winter is coming: covid-19’s next phase
Join Edward Carr, Deputy Editor of The Economist, and Stephanie Studer, the China Correspondent reporting from Wuhan, as they dive into the critical state of global COVID-19 responses. They explore Wuhan's complex recovery journey six months post-lockdown, revealing the psychological scars still haunting residents. The discussion also touches on the advancements in treatment elsewhere, contrasting recovery efforts globally, and even takes a quirky detour into the cultural quirks of New York accents, showcasing how language reflects identity.
Sep 23, 2020 • 23min
America’s next top chamber, modelled: the Senate battle
Dan Rosenheck, a data editor at The Economist known for his expertise in election analytics, delves into the critical dynamics of the upcoming Senate races. He showcases a statistical model predicting how these elections could reshape America's governance. The discussion also touches on Tesla's prominent role in the electric vehicle sector, amidst rising global competition, and pays tribute to astrophysicist Joan Feynman and her groundbreaking work on auroras and the sun.
Sep 22, 2020 • 22min
Stumbling block: the battle over WeChat
Join Hal Hodson, Asia technology correspondent, as he sheds light on the ongoing legal drama surrounding WeChat and its implications for U.S.-China relations. John Hooper, Italy and Vatican correspondent, dives into the rising tide of migrants landing on Lampedusa, unpacking the political fallout amid a global pandemic. They explore the ramifications of internet regulation shifts and the evolving landscape of immigration policies, while also revealing Japan's surprising obsession with canned coffee—perfect for commuters!
Sep 21, 2020 • 23min
Judge dread: the fight for Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s seat
Join John Fassman, Washington correspondent at The Economist, and John McDermott, Chief Africa correspondent, as they delve into the complex legacy of Ruth Bader Ginsburg and the potential political fallout from her passing. They discuss how her vacancy might shift the Supreme Court and its implications for upcoming elections. The conversation shifts to Africa, addressing the critical issue of land ownership rights, which are pivotal for economic development. Secure land ownership could dramatically transform lives and unlock vast economic potential across the continent.
