Best of the Spectator

Selena Wisnom, an Assyriologist and author of "The Library of Ancient Wisdom: Mesopotamia and the Making of History," dives into the enigmatic cuneiform culture. She shares insights on Ashurbanipal, the scholar-king, and his extraordinary library. Wisnom reveals the striking interplay of divine messages and human actions in Assyrian society, along with the harsh realities of ancient warfare. She explains the significance of lamentation as a cultural practice and debunks myths about Sumerian demons while exploring the evolution of ancient divine worship.

Dr. Kurt Martens, a Professor of Canon Law at the Catholic University of America, dives deep into what truly unfolds when a pope dies. He discusses the intense dynamics of the papal conclave, revealing how cardinals informally negotiate and influence decisions. The conversation also highlights the ceremonial rituals surrounding a deceased pope and the voting procedures that can shape the future of the Church. Martens sheds light on the unique challenges cardinals face, including the reluctance of priests to ascend to bishopric roles amid changing ecclesiastical perceptions.

Emma Fox, CEO of Berry Bros & Rudd, shares her extensive retail expertise and fond childhood memories. She humorously recounts her unique 'sugar butties' diet and reflects on family dinners that sparked her culinary journey. The conversation highlights the rise of the English wine industry, emphasizing inclusivity in wine exploration. Emma also champions female leadership in a traditionally male-dominated sector, revealing how diverse teams enhance workplace culture while demystifying wine pairing for everyone.

In this engaging discussion, journalist Isabel Hilton, founder of Dialogue Earth, and Neeraj Singh Manhas, an expert on transboundary rivers, dissect the implications of China's massive new dam project in Tibet. They explain how the Yarlung Tsangpo river's management could fuel tensions between India, Bangladesh, and China. The hidden costs of such projects are explored, revealing concerns over ecological damage and human displacement. They also emphasize the urgent need for diplomatic frameworks to address these complex water politics.

Oren Cass, founder and chief economist of American Compass, shares his insights on tariffs and U.S. trade policy with Freddy Gray at the ARC conference. They discuss Trump's recent announcement of reciprocal tariffs and how it could reshape global trade dynamics. Cass challenges the longstanding consensus on free trade, questioning its effectiveness for American businesses, especially in competition with China. They explore the complexities of economic dominance and the need for a pragmatic approach to U.S.-China relations in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Hugh Schofield, a seasoned journalist, sheds light on the plight of Algerian novelist Boualem Sansal, questioning why there’s little movement to secure his release. Michael Simmons delves into concerns about frivolous funding, cautioning against backing potentially harmful organizations. Lisa Haseldine explores the alarming parallels between the rise of Germany's AfD and the tumultuous Weimar era. Alice Loxton reviews the chilling accounts of female killers in early modern Britain, while Aidan Hartley reflects on family ties and the impact of uncovering a secret half-brother.

Simon Hart, former Welsh Secretary and Chief Whip of the Conservative Party, shares insights from his new book, 'Ungovernable: The Political Diaries of a Chief Whip.' He discusses the complexities of political loyalty and the challenges faced during his tenure, especially his tough resignation under Boris Johnson. Hart reflects on the Rwanda vote as a highlight, likening the whips' office to an HR department, and critiques the party's overly optimistic outlook ahead of the 2024 elections. His humor and serious reflections offer a unique glimpse into the inner workings of politics.

Yuri Stoyanov, a research fellow at SOAS specializing in Eastern Orthodox studies, and Svitlana Morenets, The Spectator's Ukraine correspondent, delve into the schism within Eastern Orthodoxy sparked by the Ukraine conflict. They discuss how the war has forced Ukrainians to choose between rival church affiliations. Stoyanov highlights Patriarch Kirill's apocalyptic rhetoric, which resonates with soldiers but may not reflect the views of ordinary Russians. They also explore rumors of President Putin's involvement in unusual rituals amid the conflict.

Michael Gove, the Editor of The Spectator, advocates for a realist reset in European politics, influenced by Trump's presidency. Geopolitical theorist Robert Kaplan adds depth, discussing how democracy can morph into tyranny. Journalist Paul Wood and cardiologist Christopher Labos debate the fine line between healthy skepticism and pseudoscience in the cholesterol conversation, highlighting misinformation surrounding heart health. Lastly, Peter Conrad illuminates the magical elements in Dickens' writing, exploring how these themes enchant and engage readers.

James Bradley, an Australian novelist and critic, discusses his book Deep Water: The World in the Ocean. He emphasizes the need to rethink our connection with the sea and reveals the intelligence of fish—a mind-bending notion! Bradley dives into the contrasts between Western and indigenous views on the ocean, showcasing the critical role it plays in our ecosystem. He also addresses the alarming environmental challenges, like coral bleaching, while sharing glimmers of hope for sustainability and resilience amid these crises.