American Prestige

Bob Wright, the founder of Nonzero Newsletter, joins the hosts for a compelling discussion on the evolving narratives around Gaza amidst rising humanitarian concerns. They examine the shifting political landscape and critique U.S. support for Israel, especially within younger Democratic circles. The role of think tanks in shaping foreign policy is explored, highlighting the influence of funding and transparency issues. The conversation also navigates disillusionment with liberalism while hinting at a potential resurgence, making for a thought-provoking dialogue.

A deep dive into global groundwater depletion reveals alarming findings about unsustainable aquifer use. Tensions rise with the breakdown of a ceasefire in Gaza, sparking a humanitarian crisis and renewed violence in the West Bank. Meanwhile, geopolitical maneuvering unfolds as European leaders consider recognizing a Palestinian state. Trade dynamics shift as the U.S. strikes new deals with the EU and South Korea, implements tariffs on India and Brazil, and navigates complicated relations with China and Canada.

Michael Brenes, historian and co-author of 'The Rivalry Peril', dives into the complex dynamics of U.S.-China competition. He critiques both Biden and Trump’s strategies, suggesting they're fostering an unwarranted existential threat. The conversation highlights the detrimental impacts of rivalry on American society, warning against societal division and violence. Brenes also discusses lost opportunities for cooperation, like climate action, emphasizing the need for a more respectful engagement with China to address global challenges.

A fascinating discussion unfolds around the dynamics of great power competition, highlighting the shift from liberal hegemony to a multipolar world. Stacie Goddard breaks down the historical context, including the legacy of the Concert of Europe and the implications of U.S. policy under Trump and Biden. The podcast explores how perceptions of great powers, like China and Russia, continue to evolve and stresses the need for a nuanced understanding of competition versus collusion in international relations. Key themes include financialized capitalism and the challenges faced by declining societies.

Daniel Bessner, a University of Washington professor and host of the American Prestige podcast, joins Courtney Rawlings and Alex Jordan to dissect the nuanced concept of 'imperialist realism.' They explore how American perceptions of military intervention have evolved alongside the complexities of U.S. foreign policy post-9/11. Amid lighthearted anecdotes, they delve into the cultural reflections of American hegemony in media, challenge narratives of militarism, and advocate for critical engagement with domestic and international policies.

The International Court of Justice emphasizes the responsibility of wealthy nations in tackling climate change. Tensions escalate on the Thai-Cambodian border and Gaza faces severe starvation as ceasefire talks continue. In Ukraine, protests erupt over cuts to anti-corruption agencies, highlighting ongoing challenges. A complex prisoner exchange involving the U.S., Venezuela, and El Salvador raises serious allegations of torture. Meanwhile, Japan undergoes political shifts with significant election outcomes affecting trade deals.

Hugh Wilford, a history professor at California State University, Long Beach, and author of 'The CIA: An Imperial History', dives deep into the CIA's multifaceted legacy. They discuss figures like Edward Lansdale and his counterinsurgency tactics, highlighting the tension between noble intentions and violence. The conversation covers the agency's surprising role in modernist art as a counter to Soviet influence, and how the War on Terror has reshaped the CIA’s strategies. Wilford also examines the agency's complex narrative strategies and the unintended consequences of its cultural policies.

In this discussion, Erich Schwartzel, a Wall Street Journal reporter and author of 'Red Carpet,' delves into the complex relationship between the U.S. and Chinese film industries. He highlights the booming opportunities for Hollywood in the mid-90s, driven by China's economic opening, and how this led to self-censorship among studios. The conversation also touches on the shift from collaboration to tension, illustrating how political dynamics have reshaped the cinematic landscape. Schwartzel sheds light on the lasting implications of this evolving partnership.

In this discussion, Alex Jordan from the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft shares insights on pressing global issues. He analyzes Israel's bombing of Damascus amidst Netanyahu's corruption trial and the broader implications for regional stability. The talk highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Haiti, where violence has surged, and examines the recent U.S. military expansion in the Philippines. Lastly, Alex comments on France's withdrawal from Senegal, indicating significant shifts in colonial dynamics across Africa.

Historian Erik Baker, a lecturer at Harvard and associate editor at The Drift, discusses his book on America’s entrepreneurial work ethic. He dives into the evolution of this ethic from the Protestant work ethos to its impact on marginalized communities. The conversation covers key figures like Henry Ford, the role of Harvard Business School in shaping leadership, and how America’s entrepreneurial spirit changed post-World War II. Baker also addresses the racial disparities in entrepreneurship and the future challenges within the gig economy.