Keen On America
Andrew Keen
Nobody asks sharper or more impertinent questions than Andrew Keen. In KEEN ON, Andrew cross-examines the world’s smartest people on politics, economics, history, the environment, and tech. If you want to make sense of our complex world, check out the daily questions and the answers on KEEN ON.
Named as one of the "100 most connected men" by GQ magazine, Andrew Keen is amongst the world's best-known technology and politics broadcasters and commentators. In addition to presenting KEEN ON, he is the host of the long-running show How To Fix Democracy and the author of four critically acclaimed books about the future, including the international bestselling CULT OF THE AMATEUR.
Keen On is free to listen to and will remain so. If you want to stay up-to-date on new episodes and support the show please subscribe to Andrew Keen’s Substack. Paid subscribers will soon be able to access exclusive content from our new series Keen On America. keenon.substack.com
Named as one of the "100 most connected men" by GQ magazine, Andrew Keen is amongst the world's best-known technology and politics broadcasters and commentators. In addition to presenting KEEN ON, he is the host of the long-running show How To Fix Democracy and the author of four critically acclaimed books about the future, including the international bestselling CULT OF THE AMATEUR.
Keen On is free to listen to and will remain so. If you want to stay up-to-date on new episodes and support the show please subscribe to Andrew Keen’s Substack. Paid subscribers will soon be able to access exclusive content from our new series Keen On America. keenon.substack.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 19, 2025 • 44min
Episode 2242: Ian Goldin on the past, present and future of migration
Ian Goldin, a professor at Oxford University and former World Bank VP, dives into the nuances of migration. He discusses how migration has been a driver of human progress despite rising anti-immigrant sentiments. Goldin highlights the disconnect between political rhetoric and the need for migrants in aging economies, particularly in tech. He also emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between economic migrants and refugees, and suggests that attitudes towards migration could shift dramatically by 2050 due to demographic and environmental changes.
Feb 18, 2025 • 39min
Episode 2241: Gaia Bernstein on the Threat of AI Companions to Children
Gaia Bernstein, a law professor and technology policy expert, warns about the emerging threat of AI companions to children's well-being. She argues that while these companions may seem to combat loneliness, they could actually deepen social isolation by creating too-perfect relationships. Bernstein highlights serious concerns over data privacy and children's vulnerability to manipulation. She calls for regulatory measures to protect kids as small tech companies aggressively develop these AI tools, potentially reshaping their emotional and social development.
Feb 17, 2025 • 48min
Episode 2240: Ray Brescia on how our private lives have been politicized by social media
Ray Brescia, a distinguished law professor and author of The Private is Political, dives into how social media has politicized our private lives. He discusses the relentless nature of surveillance capitalism and its influence on personal privacy. Brescia proposes a letter-grade system for tech companies based on their privacy practices, raising questions about its feasibility. He also examines social media's role in events like January 6th, highlighting the risks of data manipulation, especially regarding sensitive issues like reproductive health.
Feb 16, 2025 • 36min
Episode 2239: Frank Vogl on why Trump's financial deregulation is likely to lead to another global economic crash
Frank Vogl, co-founder of Transparency International and author of "The Enablers," shares his concerns about the Trump administration's financial deregulation. He warns that the diminishing oversight could eclipse the 2008 crisis. Vogl outlines three major risks: the loosening grip on traditional banks, unregulated tech firms entering banking, and the expanding crypto market. He highlights the eerie similarities to the speculative frenzy of the 1920s, urging a restoration of robust regulatory measures to safeguard the economy from potential calamity.
Feb 15, 2025 • 37min
Episode 2238: What to make of J.D. Vance's speech at the Paris AI Summit
In this discussion, Keith Teare, author of the That Was The Week newsletter and a former activist, dives into J.D. Vance's controversial speech at the Paris AI Summit. Teare sees Vance's push for AI opportunities over safety as a potential catalyst for US-Europe relations. They explore the clash of political ideologies in AI regulation and the rapid rise of companies like Anthropic. The tense Musk-OpenAI rivalry also heats up, alongside transformative shifts in the AI landscape, illustrating the complexities of global tech dynamics.
Feb 14, 2025 • 49min
Episode 2237: Matthew Karp explains how progressives can successfully bulldoze America
In this engaging conversation, historian Matthew Karp, a Princeton expert on the U.S. Civil War era, critiques the Democratic Party for losing touch with working-class Americans. He argues that they represent the 'nerve center of American capitalism' yet fail to enact meaningful economic reforms. Karp advocates for a new left-wing populism, blending innovative economic solutions with nationalism. He highlights the need for charismatic and relatable leadership to reconnect with disillusioned voters, drawing on successful international models to inspire change.
Feb 13, 2025 • 49min
Episode 2236: Colum McCann and Dianne Foley on what a mother said to her son's ISIS executioner
Colum McCann, bestselling author of acclaimed novels, joins Diane Foley, founder of the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation, in a poignant discussion about forgiveness and grief. They explore Diane's extraordinary choice to forgive her son Jim's executioner, showcasing the power of love in the face of tragedy. The conversation also touches on significant changes in U.S. hostage policy sparked by Jim's death, highlighting the complexities of justice and the importance of empathy amidst loss.
Feb 12, 2025 • 44min
Episodes 2235: Jeffrey Toobin on whether we all deserve second chances
Jeffrey Toobin, a CNN legal analyst and author known for his deep dives into legal history, discusses the controversial nature of presidential pardons in American politics. He argues that the uniqueness of pardon power, free from checks and balances, allows for potential abuses. Toobin highlights the troubling distinction between mercy and political power, criticizing pardons from recent administrations. He also reflects on the legacy of Ford's pardon of Nixon, expressing concern about the implications for accountability and democracy as partisan divisions deepen.
Feb 11, 2025 • 38min
Episode 2234: Walter Mosley on Easy Rawlins, King Oliver and the history of fictional black American detectives
In a captivating discussion, acclaimed writer Walter Mosley delves into his latest novel, exploring the journey of King Oliver as he navigates personal and societal challenges in modern New York. He contrasts Oliver's fluid racial dynamics with Easy Rawlins' strict 1940s Los Angeles environment. Mosley shares insights on his disciplined writing process, producing multiple works annually, and reflects on the influence of jazz in his storytelling. The conversation touches on complex themes of race, justice, and the intertwining of personal and societal struggles.
Feb 10, 2025 • 46min
Episode 2233: John Kay on why (almost) everything we are told about business is wrong
John Kay, a Scottish economist and author of "The Corporation in the 21st Century," challenges the notion that big tech firms are paragons of capitalism. He argues they operate as 'capital as a service' companies with minimal physical assets. Kay shares insights on the temporary nature of corporate dominance, using historical examples like U.S. Steel. He critiques a focus on individual leadership and shareholder value, advocating for trust and collective capabilities in business. He also expresses skepticism about Trump’s tariffs and Musk's government involvement.
