Nicholas Burns, the U.S. ambassador to China since 2022, reflects on his extensive foreign service career and the tense U.S.-China relationship. He discusses Xi Jinping's centralized power and China's ambitions in the Indo-Pacific, as well as the contrasting views of Chinese leadership on Western decline. Burns emphasizes the delicate balance of critique and connection in diplomacy, particularly regarding human rights. He also addresses the significance of Taiwanese relations and the strategic importance of fostering ties with Chinese students in America.

Nicholas Eberstadt, a prominent political economist and expert on demographics, joins Kanishk Tharoor to discuss a looming global challenge: the age of depopulation. They delve into the dramatic drop in fertility rates, particularly in places like India and Europe. Eberstadt argues that personal choices, rather than policies, drive these declines. They explore how governments can better manage the implications of shrinking populations, touching on migration, automation, and the balance between individual freedom and societal needs in an evolving world.

Antony Blinken, Secretary of State under President Biden, shares insights from his pivotal role in navigating a turbulent geopolitical landscape. He discusses the challenges posed by Russia's invasion of Ukraine and Middle Eastern conflicts, emphasizing the resurgence of traditional warfare. Blinken advocates for responsible competition in U.S.-China relations and highlights the urgent need for peace in Gaza. He also stresses the importance of strong international alliances for America's future foreign policy amidst shifting global dynamics.

Mara Karlin, a Professor at Johns Hopkins University and a defense strategy expert, delves into the resurgence of total war and its impact on the global stage. She explores the evolving dynamics of modern warfare highlighted by the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing U.S. military strategies amidst rising tensions with China. Karlin discusses the intricacies of U.S. involvement in the Middle East, examining its influence and limitations. Finally, she underscores the critical need for technological adaptation in warfare, particularly in drone capabilities.

Francis Fukuyama, a renowned political scientist and author, joins editor Dan Kurtz-Phelan to dive into the current crises facing global democracy amid Donald Trump’s potential return. They discuss the backlash against the status quo and explore how economic dissatisfaction fuels support for illiberal populism. Fukuyama analyzes the institutional challenges intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic and the paradox of the U.S.'s international strength contrasted with its internal divisions. Their conversation also touches on the implications for foreign policy amid rising global tensions.

In this engaging conversation, Daniel Drezner, a Tufts University professor specializing in international politics, and Kori Schake, an expert from the American Enterprise Institute with deep roots in U.S. defense and foreign policy, dive into the implications of a second Trump term. They explore how Trump's past policies on Ukraine, trade, and alliances could return with even more vigor. Key topics include potential shifts in Middle Eastern relations, the unpredictable nature of U.S.-China dealings, and the complicated dynamics of immigration policies with Mexico. Tune in for a thought-provoking analysis!

Robert Pape, a political scientist from the University of Chicago and expert on political violence, dives into the alarming resurgence of violence both in the U.S. and globally. He highlights how domestic endorsement of political violence correlates with rising terrorism and discusses the implications of demographic shifts for political polarization. Pape also covers historical military interventions and their unintended consequences, questioning the effectiveness of air power in modern warfare, especially in the Israel-Gaza conflict.

Beverly Gage, a Yale historian and author of "G-Man: J. Edgar Hoover and the Making of the American Century," dives into the surprising acceptance of foreign autocrats in U.S. politics, especially during Trump's presidency. She explores how historical admiration for dictators is woven into American political life. Gage also discusses the modern political shift towards authoritarianism, linking domestic grievances with the rise of foreign autocrats and drawing parallels to McCarthyism, revealing the intricate connections between past and present ideologies.

Ari Shavit, a prominent Israeli writer known for exploring Israel's identity and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, shares his insights on the aftermath of the October 7 attacks. He discusses the shift in national identity and the urgent need for a coherent strategy regarding Gaza. Shavit navigates the limitations of one-state and two-state solutions, advocating for mutual recognition to revive peace efforts. He also highlights the regional dynamics and security threats, particularly from Iran, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation for stability.

Condoleezza Rice, former national security adviser and secretary of state, discusses the urgent need for a proactive U.S. foreign policy. She argues against the rising tide of American isolationism, emphasizing the dangers of neglecting global issues like the conflicts in the Middle East and the ambitions of China and Russia. Rice draws from her extensive experience to highlight the importance of strategic alliances and active engagement to ensure international stability and security in an increasingly complex world.