The Audio Long Read

The discussion explores how Trump's second term shifted perceptions from post-truth panic to a broader cultural stupidity. Key events highlight administrative incompetence, while cultural imagery like Idiocracy shapes our understanding of political absurdity. The debate also delves into whether these actions are strategic or genuinely incompetent. With a focus on how neoliberalism has outsourced judgment, the conversation questions if reinstating expertise or imagination can combat systemic stupidity.

Join Noof Ousellam, a professional narrator known for his engaging voice work, as he explores the chaotic world of the Baader-Meinhof gang. The discussion dives into the contrasting motivations of West German radicals and their Palestinian counterparts. Ousellam reveals Ulrike Meinhof's disturbing transformation from journalist to radical, the group's hasty escapes to the Middle East, and their unexpected challenges back in Germany. The podcast paints a vivid picture of ambition, error, and the dark turn to violence that defined this infamous group.

Delve into the fascinating saga of Albert Einstein's posthumous image rights. A California lawyer transformed his likeness into a lucrative asset, raising questions about commercialization versus legacy. Explore legal battles over Einstein's image, including lawsuits against corporations and debates within the Hebrew University. Discover how his iconic photo with a tongue out shaped public perception and why Einstein continues to resonate across cultures. Would he approve of the way his image is used today? Tune in for intriguing insights on fame and ownership.

American Jews' evolving relationship with Israel is explored, revealing early cultural fascinations and political divides. The Six-Day War of 1967 stands out as a transformative moment, uniting many in emotional solidarity. Yet, critiques emerged, highlighting tensions over identity and dual loyalties. The shift from skepticism to advocacy reshaped American Jewish institutions, prompting questions about representation and territorial expansion. The podcast delves into historical perspectives that continue to influence contemporary debates.

Song-Chun Zhu's bold move from the U.S. to China unravels a narrative packed with ambition and geopolitical tension. His early life shaped his relentless drive, while dissatisfaction with mainstream AI led him to seek a deeper, philosophical approach. Zhu's concerns about data-driven methods highlight a desire for generalization and cognizance in AI. He proposes a centralized national effort for AI development, sparking discussions on global talent flows and the eroding appeal of American academia.

Dive into the complex journey of Black motherhood and infertility as Edna Bonhomme candidly shares her experiences. She delves into the gaps in reproductive health data and challenges the assumption of reproductive agency. Edna contrasts her experiences with IVF and healthcare systems in the U.S. and Germany, highlighting the impact of medical racism and maternal mortality. Through personal anecdotes and community discussions, she paints a poignant picture of the emotional toll of infertility and the quest for new parenting narratives.

In a poignant exploration of Syria's turmoil, two friends navigate a landscape marred by sectarian violence and revenge killings. As chaos reigns post-Assad, interviews reveal deep scars and a refusal to forgive without justice. Munir and Enes, from conflicting backgrounds, face personal and communal tragedies while displaying acts of silent solidarity amid the bloodshed. A failed rescue exposes the brutal reality of survival, while warnings about a cycle of reprisal violence highlight the urgency for a new social contract.

Join stage and screen actor Kobna Holdbrook-Smith as he breathes life into Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o's poignant essay on language and decolonisation. The discussion highlights Ngũgĩ's reclamation of his Kikuyu identity and his Marxist activism, alongside the historical suppression of native languages as tools of conquest. Delve into the grim realities of cultural erasure in educational settings and the ongoing postcolonial privileging of imperial languages. Ngũgĩ emphasizes the urgent need for decolonised education that honors indigenous languages and fosters genuine knowledge.

Hettie O'Brien, a regular Long Read writer and expert on private equity's role in housing, delves into the fierce Danish backlash against Blackstone's housing acquisitions. She reveals how Blackstone transitioned from commercial properties to residential homes post-2008. O'Brien discusses innovative tenant resistance strategies, including the impactful 'Blackstone Law' designed to limit rent hikes. With insights into tenant organization, government interventions, and the tug-of-war between housing policy and investor profits, this narrative shines a light on the complexities of affordable housing.

The discussion explores historical successes in environmental action, like the ban on whaling and the eradication of leaded gasoline. It highlights the importance of regulation over market forces in protecting nature. Key events, such as the Donora smog, illustrate how crises can catalyze policy change. The podcast emphasizes the Montreal Protocol as a triumph of global cooperation against ozone depletion. Ultimately, it reminds listeners that past victories offer hope in the ongoing fight against ecological disasters.