
Uncommon Knowledge
For more than two decades the Hoover Institution has been producing Uncommon Knowledge with Peter Robinson, a series hosted by Hoover fellow Peter Robinson as an outlet for political leaders, scholars, journalists, and today’s big thinkers to share their views with the world.
Latest episodes

13 snips
Jul 16, 2024 • 1h 12min
The Magician’s Twin, with David Berlinski, Stephen Meyer, and James Orr | Uncommon Knowledge | Peter Robinson | Hoover Institution
Exploring parallels between magic and science, historical relation of science and religion, Newton's dual nature as scientist and alchemist, impact of DNA on atheism, challenges of materialism in explaining non-material phenomena

Jun 25, 2024 • 44min
Doing “The Best Things First,” with Bjorn Lomborg | Uncommon Knowledge | Peter Robinson | Hoover Institution
Bjorn Lomborg, President of the Copenhagen Consensus Center, discusses prioritizing policies, economic growth, and technology solutions in global development with Peter Robinson. They explore investing in global issues, contrasting UN development goals, calculating costs and benefits, addressing tuberculosis, global food security, trade, tariffs, and rethinking climate change priorities.

13 snips
Jun 4, 2024 • 59min
A Dangerous Moment, with Douglas Murray | Uncommon Knowledge | Peter Robinson | Hoover Institution
Author and columnist Douglas Murray discusses his reporting from war-torn Ukraine and Gaza. He delves into biases in conflict reporting, campus activism, and modern anti-fascism. The conversation navigates Ukraine's complexities, immigration, global dynamics, and reflections on resilience amidst a turbulent world.

May 15, 2024 • 1h 6min
“The End of Everything,” with Victor Davis Hanson | Uncommon Knowledge | Peter Robinson | Hoover Institution
Classicist Victor Davis Hanson discusses the annihilation of ancient societies like Thebes and Carthage, drawing parallels to modern vulnerabilities. Delving into the fall of Byzantine Constantinople and the importance of understanding adversaries throughout history. Emphasizing the challenges in modern warfare and the significance of deterrence in international relations.

May 1, 2024 • 1h 2min
Paul Wolfowitz on the Afghanistan and Iraq Wars and a Life in Foreign Policy | Uncommon Knowledge | Peter Robinson | Hoover Institution
Former policymaker Paul Wolfowitz discusses the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, detailing the decision-making processes and reasons behind US involvement. Topics include the rapid defeat of Taliban forces, Iraq's pursuit of nuclear weapons, challenges in managing long-term wars, and reflections on the post-9/11 era. Wolfowitz also emphasizes the importance of public wisdom and historical lessons in shaping US foreign policy.

10 snips
Apr 16, 2024 • 1h
The Rise of the Machines: John Etchemendy and Fei-Fei Li on Our AI Future | Uncommon Knowledge | Peter Robinson | Hoover Institution
Stanford's AI experts John Etchemendy and Fei-Fei Li discuss the origins, promises, and threats of AI technology. They emphasize the importance of cautious adoption, ethical considerations, and the intersection of AI with biology and human identity. The conversation also explores the impact of technology on society, education, and the need for philosophical guidance in AI development.

26 snips
Apr 2, 2024 • 1h 4min
Andrew Roberts on “Conflict: The Evolution of War from 1945 to Ukraine” | Uncommon Knowledge | Peter Robinson | Hoover Institution
Historian Andrew Roberts discusses the evolution of war from 1945 to present, highlighting differences in warfare tactics. He also talks about his support for Israel in the Gaza conflict, challenges Ridley Scott's view on historians, and delves into the complexities of global conflicts, defense spending, and the role of deterrence in modern warfare.

13 snips
Mar 19, 2024 • 1h 5min
Why Bitcoin Will Take Over The World: Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong | Uncommon Knowledge | Peter Robinson | Hoover Institution
Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong discusses the basics of digital currencies, challenges faced by the cryptocurrency industry, regulatory clarity, and the evolution of crypto adoption. The podcast also explores the macroeconomic implications of Bitcoin and the responsibilities of a wealthy CEO in advancing technology for societal benefit.

Feb 23, 2024 • 57min
Growing Up Segregated: Three Witnesses To The Struggle For Civil Rights, Part 2 | Uncommon Knowledge | Peter Robinson, Condoleezza Rice, Mary Bush, and Freeman Hrabowski| Hoover Institution
Friends Mary Bush, Freeman Hrabowski, and Condoleezza Rice discuss growing up in segregated Birmingham, overcoming racism to achieve success, and reflect on today's culture. They touch on education, community support, and the impact of structural racism. The podcast explores the challenges of desegregation, educational struggles in Alabama, and the importance of valuing education and embracing diversity.

Feb 7, 2024 • 1h 2min
Birmingham, 1963: Three Witnesses to the Struggle for Civil Rights | Uncommon Knowledge | Peter Robinson, Condoleezza Rice, Mary Bush, and Freeman Hrabowski| Hoover Institution
Condoleezza Rice, Mary Bush, and Freeman Hrabowski, former classmates in segregated Birmingham, discuss life during Jim Crow Alabama, the racial violence of 1963, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s impact on civil rights.