Open to Debate

Michael Doran, Senior Fellow and Director of the Center for Peace and Security in the Middle East at the Hudson Institute, along with other experts, debate Iran's global threat, its nuclear ambitions, the impact of Iran's proxies in the Middle East, and Biden's Iran diplomacy in a thought-provoking discussion. Topics include offensive measures against Iran, Israel's survival in the face of a nuclear Iran, Iran's behavior challenging the global order, and its regional impact through proxy wars.

Psychotherapist and relationship expert Esther Perel discusses how conflict in relationships can lead to growth and a stronger bond. She shares strategies for transforming conflict into constructive dialogue, the importance of validating both perspectives, and explores the impact of technology on relationships.

Debate on the fiscal responsibility of the Republican Party's refusal to raise taxes, exploring the impact on economic growth and the federal deficit. Discussions on the relationship between tax cuts, spending, and economic growth. Arguments for tax cuts to stimulate the economy and counterarguments on excessive spending. The negative consequences of refusing to raise taxes on the economy, working Americans, and individual freedom.

Debate on solar geoengineering, discussing feasibility, desirability, and potential impacts. Concerns raised about intentional harms, power control, and involvement of military and intelligence agencies. Benefits and risks of engineering solar radiation, including impacts on the atmosphere and solar-powered devices. Urgency of studying solar geoengineering as a potential solution to reduce climate change risks emphasized. Winner of the debate revealed and gratitude expressed to debaters and listeners.

The podcast debates the decline of the American Dream, with arguments about healthcare, education, and housing costs affecting financial stability. Speakers discuss the presence of mobility versus the decline in progress and rising inequality. The conversation also explores healthcare affordability, life expectancy, wage growth, political organization for revival, immigration impact, and a hopeful outlook for the future.

Retired U.S. Army General David Petraeus and historian Lord Andrew Roberts discuss conflict, war, and debate. They explore topics like proportionality in conflicts, information warfare, Brexit and Ukraine, NATO's role, and the moral obligations in future warfare. The podcast highlights the importance of understanding historical frameworks for gaining insights into ongoing conflicts and the vulnerability of democracies.

Lanny Davis, Attorney and Sara Azari, Criminal Defense Lawyer debate whether Trump is guilty in the January 6th case. The prosecution argues criminal intent, while the defense claims Trump acted under legal advice. Topics discussed include conspiracy, Trump's belief in election irregularities, presidential immunity, and the First Amendment's protection of speech.

David Brooks, New York Times columnist, discusses his book 'How to Know a Person' and shares strategies for fostering connections with people who have different perspectives. He emphasizes the importance of listening, understanding, and making others feel seen and appreciated. The podcast explores the decline of social trust, the joy of truly knowing others, and the impact of loneliness on political activism. It also provides techniques for engaging with people who lack curiosity and strategies for keeping debates as learning exercises. David Brooks reflects on his personal journey of emotional growth and overcoming defensive architecture.

Peter Diamandis, Founder and Executive Chairman of an organization, debates with Peter Zeihan, Geopolitical Strategist, on whether the future will be abundant. They discuss advancements in technology, globalization, demographics, and concerns about inequality. They also explore the impact of technology on prosperity, the concept of time, and potential risks. The chapter concludes with a discussion on the challenges in unlocking abundance.

Jessica Vaughan, Director of Policy Studies at the Center for Immigration Studies, argues in favor of the Secure the Border Act. The podcast discusses the implications of the act on border security, immigration, and the asylum system. It also explores the economic benefits of legal immigration, flaws in the eVerify system, and concerns about the negative impact of illegal migration on American workers. The hosts highlight the limitations of the Secure Border Act and the need for bipartisan discussions in the immigration space.