Aspen Ideas to Go

Hope seems like a simple concept, but the feeling can be difficult to hold onto. And when times are difficult and chaos swirls around us, it’s more important than ever. How do we find and practice hope when it’s elusive? Spiritual and religious leaders rely on centuries of experience and wisdom to continually guide people back to hope, and this episode’s discussion from the 2024 Aspen Ideas Festival draws from these experts. Lutheran pastor Nadia Bolz-Weber founded the House for All Sinners and Saints in Denver, and doesn’t shy away from unorthodox methods of ministry. Rabbi Sharon Brous is the founder and leader of IKAR, a nondenominational Jewish congregation in Los Angeles. Humanist chaplain Greg Epstein works with the populations at Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Union Theological Seminary professor and the former director of the Religion and Society Program at the Aspen Institute, Simran Jeet Singh, introduces and moderates the conversation. aspenideas.org

As elections loom, the threat of AI-generated misinformation becomes a hot topic. Experts discuss strategies like 'pre-bunking' and voter education to combat deceptive practices. From successful safeguards in Taiwan to recognition for Michigan's election efforts, innovative approaches are highlighted. The role of trusted sources and critical thinking is crucial for voters to differentiate fact from fiction. With technology evolving, collaboration between public and private sectors is essential to protect democracy and enhance electoral integrity.

The discussion dives into the historical stagnation of U.S. immigration policy amid rising migration pressures. Experts explore the complexities of legal and illegal processes, emphasizing the need for comprehensive reform and lawful pathways. Political challenges and moral responsibilities surrounding asylum claims are examined. The panel also highlights the humanitarian funding needed due to global conflicts and climate change. Lastly, they present innovative strategies from the Biden administration and local initiatives aimed at managing immigration effectively.

Mustafa Suleyman, CEO of Microsoft AI and author of "The Coming Wave," teams up with Andrew Ross Sorkin, co-anchor of CNBC’s "Squawk Box," to discuss the future of artificial intelligence. They explore the balancing act between innovation and regulation, debating how to harness AI for societal benefit. Topics include the ethical implications of synthetic data, navigating education in a tech-driven world, and the energy demands of AI technologies. Their insights provide a thoughtful outlook on responsible AI development and its transformative potential.

University leaders grapple with public mistrust and complex challenges, from protests to standardized testing debates. Experts highlight the importance of open dialogue to foster critical thinking in students. Financial crises and declining enrollment put pressure on institutions to innovate. The impact of faculty compensation and housing affordability also takes center stage, alongside the need for robust mental health support. Amidst it all, the quest for educational integrity continues as universities strive to prepare future leaders.

Peter Thiel, an influential tech founder and investor, dives into the intertwined worlds of politics and technology. He shares insights on his fluctuating support for Trump and speculates on the future implications of a potential second term. Thiel explores the evolution of AI, touching on its philosophical ramifications and market dynamics. He discusses the complexities of monopolies in tech, contrasting regulation and innovation, and highlights the socio-economic debates around Bitcoin. The conversation also addresses TikTok's national security risks amid geopolitical tensions.

Fareed Zakaria, a prominent journalist known for his insights on foreign policy, delves into the rise of populism and its challenges to liberal democracy. He discusses how U.S. missteps, like the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, have eroded trust in American ideals. Zakaria highlights the struggle between individual liberty and the longing for social cohesion, and the transformation of America's ruling class from a white Protestant elite to a diverse meritocracy. He emphasizes the importance of cultural education and fair compensation for public officials to combat corruption.

Conflict and suffering can bring out the worst in people, but it can also bring out the best. This is one of the lessons New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof has learned from decades of reporting on the ground in war zones and amidst humanitarian nightmares. Somehow, despite witnessing atrocities like the Tiananmen Square protests, genocide in Darfur and war in Iraq, Kristof still believes in humanity and holds onto optimism about the future. In his latest book, a memoir called “Chasing Hope: A Reporter’s Life,” he explains how he’s been able to persist. Podcast and TV host Kelly Corrigan interviews Kristof at the 2024 Aspen Ideas Festival about his road from a small rural town in Oregon to a decades-long career at the Times. This conversation was held on June 29.*Please note that this conversation references substance abuse, sexual abuse, and suicide. aspenideas.org

The federal right to abortions in the United States has been overturned, access to contraception and IVF services are threatened in many states, and the gender wage gap persists. It feels like an era of backsliding for women’s rights and freedoms. What can we do to reverse the trend and get back on the road to progress? Three experts and crusaders for women’s and family rights meet on stage at the 2024 Aspen Ideas Festival for a conversation and strategy session on standing up for women. U.S. Representative (D-CA) Katie Porter, NYU law professor and constitutional law scholar Melissa Murray, and litigator Roberta Kaplan discuss recent Supreme Court decisions, the presidential debate, and the policy priorities and messages they’d like to see from lawmakers and candidates. Journalist Katie Couric moderates the conversation and takes audience questions. The talk was held on June 28. aspenideas.org

The grim stream of news from the Middle East has been making it more and more difficult to hold onto hope for peace. When and how will the conflict in Gaza end? And could war even spread to Israel’s northern border with Lebanon? Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, who served from 2006 to 2009, takes the stage at the 2024 Aspen Ideas Festival to share his frank thoughts on the situation. Washington Post reporter David Ignatius interviews Olmert, pushing to the heart of the issue in this rare opportunity to hear straight from the leader. In the second portion of the talk, Ignatius continues the conversation with the current ambassador to the United States from Jordan, Dina Kawar, and former U.S. ambassador to Israel, Thomas Nides. The diplomats give insights into the region’s complexities and possible paths out of constant conflict. Both talks were held on June 26. aspenideas.org