The Glenn Show

In this discussion, historian and foreign policy analyst Daniel Bessner critiques American primacy and the flaws of realism in U.S. foreign policy. He highlights the downsides of interventions, particularly in Venezuela, and warns against the domestic effects of militarization. The conversation delves into the pitfalls of a massive defense budget and its potential to reshape society, increase inflation, and exacerbate inequality. Bessner questions whether a war-driven revival of the industrial sector is viable, ultimately advocating for a more nuanced understanding of U.S. global engagement.

Dive into the complexities of Jeffrey Epstein's ambiguous financial empire and his influence within elite circles. Explore the U.S.'s controversial involvement in Venezuela, unpacking the hidden motives of American foreign policy. The heartfelt discussion on the tragic shooting of Renee Good by an ICE agent highlights the urgent need for careful fact-checking amidst heated public responses. Thought-provoking insights on immigration, enforcement actions, and the nuances of resistance add depth to this compelling conversation.

David Beito, a historian and professor emeritus, dives deep into his critical perspective on Franklin D. Roosevelt. He discusses the myth of FDR as a heroic figure, arguing that power and reelection often took precedence over progressive ideals. Beito critiques the New Deal's long-term effects, internment of Japanese Americans, and FDR’s attitudes toward civil liberties and refugees. He advocates for a more nuanced understanding of FDR's legacy, urging educational reforms to present a balanced view of his policies and impact.

Patricia Agupusi, an assistant professor and expert on political violence in Nigeria, delves into the complex landscape of terrorism and corruption. She reveals that Boko Haram's attacks target both Christians and Muslims, challenging the idea of a simple religious conflict. Patricia highlights the failures of the Nigerian government, which neglects many communities and perpetuates tensions. She discusses the impact of U.S. military intervention and advocates for accountability and reforms instead of strikes, emphasizing local political dynamics as key to understanding the violence.

Join John McWhorter, a Columbia University linguist and insightful commentator, as he navigates weighty topics like the recent shooting at Brown University and the Hanukkah massacre in Australia. He explores the complexities of anti-Zionism and its possible links to America's racial narratives. The duo also reflects on how global conflicts, particularly the Israel-Palestine issue, draw public interest differently, and they touch upon Trump's incendiary comments regarding violent incidents. Lastly, John shares his reluctance to pen a memoir, diving into the burden of audience expectations.

A chilling conversation unfolds around recent shootings at Brown University and Bondi Beach. The hosts delve into the complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict, exploring whether antisemitism is primarily about race. There's a poignant discussion about the tragic losses of Rob Reiner and Michele Singer. The health of Trump ignites speculation, while one host shares intriguing insights on why he refrains from writing a memoir. Engaging subscriber Q&A brings an interactive twist to the dialogue.

Mark Sussman, an editor and regular contributor, teams up with Nikita Petrov, a creative director with a knack for insightful questions, to explore the impactful ideas of Thomas Schelling. They examine Schelling’s contributions to nuclear deterrence, battlefield credibility, and how his theories apply to modern conflicts like Ukraine and Gaza. The discussion delves into the dynamics of populist movements, U.S. national security strategy, and the quirks of symbolic signaling in war. Their analysis offers a fascinating lens on both history and today’s geopolitical landscape.

In a captivating discussion, the impact of Tom Schelling's work on battlefield strategy and the nuclear weapons taboo takes center stage. The guests explore the fascinating link between Schelling's theories and real-world conflicts like those in Ukraine and Gaza. A surprising look at how Schelling influenced the making of Dr. Strangelove reveals unexpected connections to doomsday machines. As they speculate on his thoughts about artificial intelligence, the team dives into strategies for self-discipline, showcasing practical commitment devices and everyday choices that shape our behavior.

Robert Patton-Spruill joins Glenn Loury for a deep dive into Larry Summers's controversial exit from Harvard and his ban from the American Economics Association. They explore the nuances of public disgrace, with Glenn reflecting on his own fall from grace and the implications of guilt and remorse. They tackle complex themes like self-regard, distinguishing it from self-respect, and discuss the impact of narratives in shaping personal truth. Emphasizing the importance of family and recovery, this conversation invites listeners to reconsider their perceptions of scandal and redemption.

Discontent in Nigeria takes center stage as a Nigerian development economist shares insights on the country's challenges. The discussion also dives into Trump's aggressive stance on Venezuela, coupled with various political dynamics. Bernie Sanders calls for regulation of AI, sparking debate about balancing innovation with ethical considerations. The show wraps up with reflections on public disgrace, citing the ramifications faced by Larry Summers after his controversial associations. It’s a whirlwind of current events and thought-provoking opinions!