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Open to Debate

Latest episodes

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Nov 8, 2024 • 53min

Is the American Dream in Decline?

Naima Raza, a journalist at New York Magazine and Vox, moderates a heated discussion with David Leonhardt, a Pulitzer Prize-winning senior writer for The New York Times and author, about the status of the American Dream. They explore whether this ideal is truly in decline, delving into rising costs of healthcare and education. The debate juxtaposes perspectives on economic disparity against notions of opportunity and progress. They reflect on historical shifts, the impact of recent crises, and grassroots movements advocating for inclusive capitalism.
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Nov 1, 2024 • 53min

Nate Silver on The Art of Risking Everything: Politics, Money, Power

Nate Silver, a leading political forecaster and founder of FiveThirtyEight, joins moderator Nick Gillespie to discuss the tight race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. They dive into the art of risk-taking, weighing the contrasts between 'the river' and 'the village' in politics. Silver shares insights on navigating biases in election forecasting and the ethical implications of data-driven decisions. The conversation also touches on the collapse of Sam Bankman-Fried’s FTX and the importance of civil discourse in an increasingly polarized political climate.
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Oct 25, 2024 • 53min

Has The Electoral College Outlived Its Usefulness?

In this discussion, Jamelle Bouie, a New York Times columnist, and Kate Shaw, a constitutional law professor, argue that the Electoral College subverts the will of the majority. They highlight historical failures, including presidents who won without the popular vote. Countering this, Tara Ross and Bradley A. Smith stress the necessity of the system for minority representation and political balance. The debate examines whether the original intentions of the founders align with modern democratic ideals, leaving listeners to weigh the pros and cons of reform versus retention.
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Oct 18, 2024 • 53min

Will Kamala Harris or Donald Trump Be Better For America?

Naima Raza, a journalist and co-host of the Semafor podcast 'Mixed Signals', moderates a lively debate featuring comedian and activist Pete Dominick. They humorously tackle the contrasting economic policies of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, discussing inflation, immigration, and job creation. The conversation heats up as they explore leadership qualities and the implications of both candidates on national security. With sharp wit, they navigate the serious nuances of political ideologies while emphasizing the value of civil discourse in today's polarized climate.
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Oct 11, 2024 • 53min

Should Israel Strike Iran?

Michael Doran, an expert on Middle Eastern politics, and Shira Efron, a specialist in Israeli foreign policy, debate whether Israel should strike Iran amidst rising tensions and military aggressions. They discuss the existential threat posed by Iran and weigh the risks of military action against diplomatic alternatives. The conversation highlights America's role in shaping Israel's strategy, the implications of conflict for regional dynamics, and Israel's growing international isolation. What strategic moves should be made to navigate this critical juncture?
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Oct 4, 2024 • 53min

Were Israel's Actions in the Gaza War Justified?

The discussion dives deep into whether Israel's military actions in the Gaza War were justified. Advocates stress the need for self-defense after the October 7th attack, while opponents cite the humanitarian crisis and rising civilian casualties. The debate touches on moral responsibilities, proportionality in warfare, and the implications of international law. Heated exchanges address the tragic impact on families and the role of U.S. support, all underscored by a call for compassion and accountability amidst the chaos.
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Sep 27, 2024 • 53min

Election 2024: Are Identity Politics Holding Us Back?

The debate kicks off with a dive into the historical roots of identity politics and its influence on the 2024 election. On one side, advocates argue it empowers marginalized groups, while opponents claim it stifles productive conversations. As the dialogue unfolds, complexities around race, equality, and policy emerge, highlighting generational shifts in understanding representation. Migration’s impact on identity politics is also examined, addressing the balance between economic forces and xenophobia, ultimately promoting a call for inclusivity and a unified democratic future.
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Sep 20, 2024 • 53min

Should We Legalize the Market for Human Organs?

The podcast tackles the pressing organ shortage crisis, revealing the stark reality of waiting lists and daily deaths. It explores the controversial idea of legalizing a market for human organs and the ethical dilemmas that arise from commodifying body parts. Supporters argue for bodily autonomy and potential financial benefits, while opponents raise concerns about exploitation, especially of low-income individuals. Global examples, like Iran's compensation model, shed light on the complexities and potential consequences of such a market.
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Sep 13, 2024 • 53min

Is the ICC’s Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu Justified?

Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, discusses the ICC's arrest warrant linked to war crimes in the Israel-Hamas conflict. He debates the legitimacy of the ICC's actions, questioning their jurisdiction and the political motivations behind the warrant. Perspectives shift as Kenneth Roth argues for accountability, while Eugene Kontorovich highlights legal complexities. They touch on civilian casualties in Gaza, the implications of urban warfare, and the intertwining of antisemitism with international law. The conversation navigates the intricate landscape of international justice.
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Sep 6, 2024 • 53min

Wokeness in Public Schools: Helping or Hurting Students?

Delve into the heated debate surrounding wokeness in public schools. Explore the polarized opinions on its role in fostering social awareness versus potential drawbacks in student upbringing. Engage in discussions about systemic racism and educational disparities, highlighting the complex dynamics at play. Unpack the challenges of incorporating historical narratives like the 1619 Project while navigating diversity initiatives amidst political resistance. The conversation emphasizes civil discourse and the importance of understanding diverse perspectives.

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