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
Aug 7, 2020 • 22min
That history should not repeat: Hiroshima’s storytellers
Noah Snyder, The Economist's Tokyo bureau chief, discusses the vital effort to preserve the stories of Hiroshima and Nagasaki survivors, emphasizing the hope that their experiences can prevent future atomic tragedies. Wendelin von Bredow, the roving Europe correspondent, analyzes the tense Belarusian presidential election, where the long-standing leader faces unexpected opposition and public discontent. The conversation also touches on the intersection of horror storytelling and modern technology, revealing the chilling effects of a recent Zoom prank.
Aug 6, 2020 • 23min
A broken system, a broken city: Beirut
Greg Karlstrom, a Middle East correspondent for The Economist, discusses the devastation in Beirut following a catastrophic explosion linked to systemic negligence. The city's shattered infrastructure leaves 300,000 homeless as the government grapples with its failures. James Tozer, a data journalist, shares insights from the updated excess-death tracker, illustrating the true toll of COVID-19 and the complexities of accurate reporting. They also explore shifts in workplace dynamics post-pandemic, revealing changing attitudes toward office life.
Aug 5, 2020 • 21min
One nation, under gods? India’s divisive temple
In this discussion, Alex Trevely, The Economist's India correspondent, shares insights on the Ayodhya temple's consecration as a focal point in India’s Hindu-nationalist agenda, raising concerns about the country's secularism. Alongside, Simon Long reveals how COVID-19 has worsened the plight of dementia patients but spotlights hopeful advances in early detection for Alzheimer's. The dialogue also touches on the booming e-bike market, highlighting the competition it brings to traditional transport as cycling trends shift dramatically post-pandemic.
Aug 4, 2020 • 20min
Going old Turkey: a regional power spreads
Nicholas Pelham, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, delves into Turkey's burgeoning regional influence since the Arab Spring. He discusses Turkey's assertive military actions in Libya, Syria, and Iraq, linking them to historical aspirations reminiscent of the Ottoman Empire. The conversation shifts to Tanzania, examining its dubious economic growth claims and the implications of its middle-income status amidst local governance challenges. Pelham also reflects on urban development controversies in Athens, highlighting concerns over preserving historical integrity.
Aug 3, 2020 • 24min
Ballot blocks: the squeeze on Hong Kong
Dominic Ziegler, author of Banyan, a column on Asian affairs, dives into the current political turmoil in Hong Kong. He discusses the chilling effects of postponed elections and the national security law on democracy and activists. The conversation then shifts to how global protests against racism could influence discrimination in the Arab world, particularly concerning Ethiopian migrants in Lebanon. Finally, Ziegler touches on the historical challenges of phylloxera in French vineyards, showcasing resilience in winemaking amid adversity.
Jul 31, 2020 • 22min
Living larger: Google’s challenges
Ludwig Sigler, U.S. technology editor for The Economist, and Ryan Avent, economist and columnist, discuss Google's massive growth and the accompanying privacy challenges it faces amid increasing scrutiny. They dive into the historical connections between economic success and hygiene, exploring how urbanization has evolved alongside public health crises. Additionally, they highlight Dubai's creative efforts to attract tourists despite its extreme summer heat, showcasing innovative strategies that could reshape its tourism industry.
Jul 30, 2020 • 23min
Barriers to entry: covid-19 and migration
In this discussion, Tim Judah, The Economist's Balkans correspondent, unpacks the evolution of organized crime in the Balkans. He highlights how COVID-19 has worsened migration issues, allowing leaders to tighten borders. Judah reveals that today's gangsters are tech-savvy, operating through global networks rather than traditional syndicates. The conversation also touches on the economic contributions of migrants and critiques the misleading nationalism surrounding migration policies, contrasting these themes with exciting developments in space exploration.
Jul 29, 2020 • 24min
One mightily damaging backstory: 1MDB
Join Miranda Johnson, a Southeast Asia correspondent based in Singapore, and Alice Fullwood, a U.S. finance correspondent in New York, as they unveil the intricate web of the 1MDB scandal. They discuss the dramatic political fallout from Najib Razak's corruption case and the broader implications for Malaysian governance. The conversation shifts to the rise of shadow banks, exploring their increasing influence and the risks associated with them. Additionally, they share insights into the colorful tradition of mushroom foraging in China's Yunnan province.
Jul 28, 2020 • 21min
Feds up: Trump orders troops on America’s streets
John Fassman, Washington correspondent for The Economist, dives into the controversial deployment of federal troops in U.S. cities under Trump. He discusses the legality and ethical concerns surrounding military intervention in civilian protests. The conversation also speculates on how this may influence upcoming elections. Additionally, the podcast features a lighthearted analysis of the Big Mac Index, showcasing its quirky insights into global currency valuation. Lastly, Indian scientists reveal an innovative approach to tackle water and fire challenges through sustainable methods.
Jul 27, 2020 • 20min
Bat out of elsewhere? Tracing SARS-CoV-2’s origins
Natasha Loader, health policy editor at The Economist, dives deep into the origins of SARS-CoV-2, tracing it from bats to pangolans and emphasizing the need for further research to avert future pandemics. The discussion also links extreme weather, like unprecedented Arctic heat, to climate change. Additionally, it highlights the phenomenon of wealthy Africans seeking better travel options through 'passport shopping,' revealing inequalities in global mobility. It's a captivating blend of health, environment, and social issues.
