Uncommon Knowledge

Ian Toll, a naval history expert and author of a Pacific War trilogy, and Jonathan Horn, a historian and former speechwriter for President Bush, dive into the complexities of America's wartime decisions. They discuss the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, exploring moral dilemmas and the context of those choices amidst fierce battles and civilian suffering. The conversation touches on MacArthur's strategic campaigns and the psychological impacts of wartime decision-making. They emphasize the significance of storytelling in teaching WWII history to the next generations.

Christopher Cox, a historian and former SEC Chairman, dives into the complex legacy of Woodrow Wilson, authoring a biography titled 'Woodrow Wilson: The Light Withdrawn.' He discusses Wilson's notable achievements as a reformer and wartime leader, juxtaposed with his troubling views on race and women's rights. Cox elaborates on Wilson's opposition to women's suffrage and his influence on segregation policies, while also pondering how his Southern roots shaped his elitist worldview. The conversation reveals the intricate dynamics of judging historical figures through a contemporary lens.

Kevin Warsh, a former Federal Reserve governor and current fellow at the Hoover Institution, shares his insights on the Fed's current trajectory. He argues that the central bank has lost sight of its price stability mandate, reflecting on the impact of past policies. Warsh critiques quantitative easing's transition from stopgap to status quo and discusses the risks of fiscal irresponsibility. Despite these concerns, he remains optimistic about the U.S. economy, driven by innovation and productivity.

Associate Justice Samuel Alito, known for his conservative judicial philosophy, shares insights on his approach to constitutional law. He delves into his landmark decision in Dobbs v. Jackson and the criteria for overturning precedents. Alito discusses originalism, the balance of judicial power, and the complexities surrounding race and constitutional interpretation. He also reflects on the evolving landscape of religious liberty and the often contentious relationship between executive power and the judiciary, providing a thought-provoking perspective on American democracy.

Mike Johnson, the 56th Speaker of the U.S. House, discusses the passage of the "One, Big, Beautiful Bill," a major budget measure aimed at implementing elements of the Trump agenda. He defends it against critiques from figures like Elon Musk, highlighting its potential for tax cuts and national defense funding. Johnson navigates the complexities of a divided Congress and emphasizes the need for fiscal responsibility. He also shares insights on the importance of collaboration and innovative solutions for government efficiency and economic stability.

Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, former Stanford professor and newly appointed director of the National Institutes of Health, delves into significant reforms needed in American science. He unveils the issues plaguing public health institutions, such as the replication crisis and chronic disease management. Bhattacharya emphasizes transparency, innovation, and restoring public trust in science. He discusses politics around research funding and advocates for better vaccine evaluation standards while warning about the risks of gain-of-function research, marking his transition from critic to reformer.

In this wide-ranging and richly entertaining conversation, novelist and political satirist Christopher Buckley joins Peter Robinson for a reflection on writing, legacy, friendship, and grace. From their early days as speechwriters for George H. W. Bush to Buckley’s prolific career as an author of more than 20 books—including Thank You for Smoking and Steaming to Bamboola—the two longtime friends revisit the formative moments, literary inspirations, and unforgettable characters that shaped Buckley’s life and work. Buckley offers sharp, often hilarious insight into the craft of satire, the absurdities of Washington politics, and the cultural shifts in American media and manners. The conversation also turns poignantly to Buckley’s late parents, Patricia and William F. Buckley Jr., his transition from political fiction to historical novels, and the enduring influence of figures like Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush. Woven throughout is a deep appreciation for civility, wit, and the lost art of gentlemanly discourse—an ethos embodied by the towering figures of a previous generation, now honored in memory. With warmth and self-deprecating humor, Buckley closes the interview by discussing his father’s typewriter (which Christopher has donated to the Hoover Institution Archives), on which William Buckley composed the National Review's formative mission statement: to “stand athwart history and yell stop”; and by reading from the epilogue of Steaming to Bamboola, offering a quietly moving meditation on departure and legacy. Recorded on March 13, 2025

Economist Thomas Sowell, a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution, returns to discuss his new website, Facts Against Rhetoric. He delves into the collapse of educational standards, critiques affirmative action, and highlights overlooked achievements in Black history. Sowell argues for personal responsibility within communities and examines the adverse effects of recent tariffs on the economy. With wit and clarity, he calls for a cultural shift towards valuing fact-based discourse over emotional rhetoric.

Frank Dikötter, a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution and expert on Chinese history, challenges the narrative of China as a superpower. He argues that the image of strength is a façade, masking profound fragility beneath repression and propaganda. Dikötter examines the disparity between urban and rural development, the flawed economic statistics, and the CCP's paranoia that drives its decisions. He also draws unsettling parallels between China and the Soviet Union, emphasizing that real power rests with the populace reclaiming autonomy.

Niall Ferguson, a leading historian and Milbank Family Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution, dives into pressing global conflicts. He examines the stalemate in Ukraine and highlights how the Trump administration reshaped U.S. foreign policy. Ferguson draws parallels between the U.S. today and 1930s Britain, confronting the empire’s decline and China’s rising influence. The discussion further explores Europe’s defense responsibilities and the strategic implications of tensions surrounding Taiwan, emphasizing the necessity for historical insights in tackling contemporary challenges.