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
May 19, 2024 • 33min
Episode 2067: Jordan Elgrably on richly complex stories about the Middle East and North Africa mostly ignored by Western media
Jordan Elgrably, Editor of the Markaz Review, shares richly complex stories from the Middle East and North Africa often overlooked in Western media. Topics include challenging stereotypes, showcasing diverse narratives, exploring racial and religious identities, and discussing new Middle Eastern fiction. The podcast emphasizes the importance of highlighting courageous narratives and addressing the absence of certain voices to challenge Western perspectives on the region.
May 17, 2024 • 43min
Episode 2066: Steven Johnson on the invention of dynamite, anarchist violence and the rise of the 20th century surveillance state
Steven Johnson, author, discusses the invention of dynamite, anarchist violence, and the rise of the 20th-century surveillance state. They dive into the symbiosis between technology, political unrest, and modern detective techniques. The conversation touches on Nobel's dynamite, Emma Goldman's violence, and the evolution of state surveillance.
May 16, 2024 • 42min
Episode 2065: Craig Whitlock explains how an overweight Malaysian contractor known as Fat Leonard bribed, bilked and seduced the U.S. Navy
Prize-winning investigative journalist Craig Whitlock reveals the scandal of Fat Leonard, a Malaysian contractor who bribed and seduced US naval officers. The story uncovers corruption, incompetence, and moral lapses within the Navy. Whitlock discusses the erosion of trust in the military due to corrupt actions, shedding light on the betrayal and lack of accountability within the higher ranks.
May 15, 2024 • 41min
Episode 2064: Chris Gavaler explains how How Stars Wars, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings and Marvel determine how we view reality
Chris Gavaler discusses how popular franchises like Star Wars and Marvel shape our reality perception, influencing fan identity and societal views. The podcast explores the impact of sequels and retcons on our worldview, as well as the reinterpretation of historical figures and the influence of pop culture on Supreme Court decisions.
May 14, 2024 • 40min
Episode 2063: Rabbi Shai Held on why Judaism is really all about Love
Rabbi Shai Held discusses why Judaism is about love and how Christianity's adoption of this idea led to misconceptions. He explores the portrayal of God in religious texts and delves into the intersection of love and law in Judaism. The conversation also touches on embracing interconnectedness through self-love and the radical message of love and suffering in religious traditions.
May 13, 2024 • 40min
Episode 2062: KEEN ON AMERICA featuring Ali Velshi
Ali Velshi, host of MSNBC's 'The Last Word', discusses his journey to becoming an American citizen and the importance of small acts of courage in defending democracy. The podcast explores themes of citizenship, identity, societal change, banned books, government roles in healthcare and gun rights, and the need for individual courage in upholding democratic values.
May 12, 2024 • 42min
Episode 2061: Rafil Kroll-Zaidi on Branson, Missouri, the most American town you've never heard of
Author Rafil Kroll-Zaidi explores the unique culture of Branson, Missouri, a small town in the Ozarks. He discusses the town's appeal to mostly white American visitors, his own experiences visiting Branson, and the broader implications for understanding the American nation. The podcast delves into topics such as urban-rural dynamics, political identities, race, Trump's media impact, and contrasting views on America's future.
May 11, 2024 • 40min
Episode 2060: Ferdia Lennon on the tragicomedy of the Peloponnesian War
Ferdia Lennon, author of Glorious Exploits set in Syracuse during the Peloponnesian War, discusses blending comedy and tragedy in historical literature. Topics include exploring ancient history in Sicily, using humor to critique power, dissecting the facade of civilization, and portraying female characters and divine presence in narratives.
May 10, 2024 • 36min
Episode 2059: Keith Teare on why critics of the iPad Crush advertisement are "haters of the future"
Keith Teare, author of That Was The Week tech newsletter, discusses the backlash against Apple's Crush advertisement, labeling critics as 'haters of the future'. The podcast delves into cultural hysteria, social media influences, and the inevitable progress of history in tech innovation.
May 9, 2024 • 35min
Episode 2058: Timothy Morton searches for a Christian Ecology that will get us out of our Planetary Hell
Timothy Morton, a rock star interpreter of planetary crises, discusses Christian Ecology and navigating catastrophic times. He explores the parallels between hellish scenarios and our current environmental crisis, the intersection of Christianity, ecology, and morality, the necessity for mercy in environmental behaviors, and the role of unity in addressing societal divisions and environmental challenges.
