
These Times
UnHerd political editor Tom McTague and Cambridge professor Helen Thompson team up to investigate the history of today’s politics — and what it means for our future. Each week they will explore the great forces, ideas and events that led us to where we are, whether in Britain, the United States, Europe or beyond. It’s a politics podcast for those who want a deeper, historical understanding of the news, to understand what has really shaped our world and why. We hope you enjoy! Don’t forget to rate, like and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts — and, of course, to get in touch with all your questions and comments so we can respond in future episodes. Email us at thesetimes@unherd.com or tweet us at @thesetimespod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes

14 snips
Aug 12, 2024 • 53min
The End of the European Project?
Explore the shifting political dynamics in Europe as recent elections reshape alliances. Discover the rise of far-left movements and the fragmentation of governance amidst economic concerns. Delve into Germany's economic transition and Turkey's unique geopolitical role within the EU. Analyze the challenges in navigating the electric vehicle market as competition from China intensifies. Finally, uncover the historical tensions between Eastern and Western Europe, revealing the complexities of European identity in today's changing landscape.

Aug 6, 2024 • 50min
When Israel Assassinates
Fahd Shakur, a Hezbollah military commander, and Ismail Hanayi, a Hamas leader, delve into the implications of Israel's recent political assassinations. They discuss the historical context of targeted killings and their impact on regional tensions and stability. The guests analyze how these actions influence Israeli-Palestinian relations and the strategic motivations behind them. Additionally, they reflect on international assassination policies and the evolving landscape of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, highlighting the complexities of diplomatic relations.

Jul 29, 2024 • 1h 2min
Israel Edges Towards War With Hezbollah
The podcast delves into escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, sparked by recent attacks and their implications for regional geopolitics. Discussions highlight the impact of U.S. political dynamics on Middle Eastern policies, especially within the Democratic Party. There's a focus on Hezbollah's military capabilities, Lebanon's instability, and the potential for a broader conflict. Additionally, the podcast examines America's struggle to balance its responses in a complex global landscape involving major powers like China and Russia.

13 snips
Jul 22, 2024 • 1h
Biden Quits: What next for the Democrats?
Discussion on Joe Biden's withdrawal from the presidential race, impact on Democratic Party strategy, complexity of succession planning, significance of California and Ohio in politics, challenges faced by incumbents in the Biden era

Jul 15, 2024 • 57min
The Shooting of Donald Trump: America and Violence
Exploring the culture of violence in American politics and society, including the impact of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump. Contrasting narratives of violence in Britain and America. Analyzing themes of violence in American culture through film and literature, delving into the nation's violent origins. Discussing fatalism and apocalyptic tendencies in American narratives and politics, with an agile coach sharing insights on retrospective techniques.

Jul 8, 2024 • 56min
Republics in Danger: Election Crisis in France and America—and Lessons for Britain
The podcast discusses the election outcomes in France, challenges in left-wing governance, comparisons between UK and France party systems, and the impact of the Israel-Gaza conflict on political leaders. It also explores generational renewal in political parties and the fragility of democracy in France and America.

Jul 6, 2024 • 39min
Labour's shallow victory, with Freddie Sayers
Political commentator Freddie Sayers and Tom McTague discuss Labour's narrow victory in the UK elections, the shifting political landscape towards fragmented support, and the challenges faced by the Conservatives in regaining lost seats. They delve into the strategies needed for the next Tory leader to build a coalition of voters and the importance of political stability and persuasion in European politics.

Jul 6, 2024 • 58min
Labour Landslide: The Brutality of British Elections
Exploring Labour's surprising win with a small vote share in the British elections. Discussions on strategic voting history, economic management impact on parties, recent elections in Scotland, challenges faced by SMP Party, energy transition in politics, and Labour's differentiation strategy for economic growth.

Jul 3, 2024 • 25min
Britain on the Edge: Election Day
From Rishi's campaign in the rain to last-minute substitutes, the podcast explores the British election journey. Delving into strategies, political insights, sacrifices, tensions on election day, and Sunak's campaign warnings. It even includes amusing anecdotes about correspondence with Prince William and improvements in infant formula companies.

Jul 1, 2024 • 57min
Is Biden Gone? The Democratic Party after THAT debate
Exploring the Democratic Party's dilemma over Biden's candidacy, historical parallels to past elections, shifts in American politics towards China, and predictions for future episodes.
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