The Good Fight

In this enlightening discussion, Steven Pinker, a Harvard psychologist and acclaimed author, delves into the vital role of common knowledge in society. He explains why it's the psychological cornerstone often overlooked, and how it shapes social dynamics through examples like the Emperor's New Clothes. Pinker also reveals why authoritarian regimes fear public acknowledgment and how shared outrage can ignite collective action, using poignant historical events. His insights spark critical reflections on communication, cooperation, and societal resilience.

Damon Linker, a senior lecturer in political science at the University of Pennsylvania and author of 'Notes from the Middleground,' dives into the chilling implications of Charlie Kirk's assassination. He discusses the rise of political violence fueled by divisive narratives, especially on social media. The conversation highlights distressing parallels with historical conflicts, emphasizes the urgent need for civil discourse, and explores pathways to heal an increasingly polarized America. Linker warns of the consequences of extreme rhetoric and the vital importance of civic responsibility.

David Brooks chats with Yascha Mounk, founder of Persuasion and author of The Identity Trap. They dive into how Yascha's family history influences his views, shedding light on the impact of the Berlin Wall on his Jewish heritage. The discussion navigates the evolution of identity politics and its role in today's political landscape, examining how left ideologies can inadvertently support right-wing populism. They emphasize the necessity for a renewed political narrative for the Democrats to inspire voters as they critique prevailing trends in progressivism and cultural discourse.

In an engaging discussion, Ivan Krastev, a noted Eastern European politics expert, Amanda Ripley, conflict resolution innovator, and Mike Pesca, host of The Gist, tackle crucial issues. They analyze the implications of Russian drones in Poland for NATO stability, explore the Supreme Court's immigration decisions, and debate how Democrats can effectively address Trump's influence. Additionally, they delve into troubling declines in literacy among U.S. students and share potential educational innovations that could provide a brighter future.

Tom Ginsburg, Leo Spitz Distinguished Service Professor of International Law at the University of Chicago, discusses the future of constitutions and democracy. He explores the challenges of political polarization and the importance of pluralism. Ginsburg highlights the advantages of both written and unwritten constitutions, as well as the unique governance models across democracies. The conversation also focuses on safeguarding free speech in universities and the implications of potential constitutional reforms, emphasizing the need for open discourse in political dialogue.

Daron Acemoglu, an Institute Professor of Economics at MIT and the 2024 Nobel Laureate, dives into fascinating insights on economic disparities shaped by history. He critiques colonial legacies and their lasting effects on creativity and governance. The conversation pivots to China’s rapid economic rise, balancing achievements against systemic challenges and the evolving ambitions of its youth. Acemoglu also addresses the future of AI in the labor market, emphasizing the need for policies that promote human welfare alongside technological advancement.

Join political scientist Francis Fukuyama, columnist Mona Charen, and government professor Russell Muirhead as they dive into the ‘Trump is dead’ conspiracy and its implications for American politics. They discuss how social media fuels such rumors, the recent summit among Xi, Putin, and Modi, exploring new global alliances. The conversation shifts to leadership changes at the CDC, drawing alarming comparisons to authoritarian regimes, and emphasizes the urgent need for reform in public health amidst political chaos.

Cass Sunstein, Robert Walmsley University Professor at Harvard, discusses the intricacies of liberalism and its critiques from both ends of the political spectrum. He explores John Stuart Mill's 'experiments in living' and argues that liberalism's battle is often against the misperceptions that undermine it. Sunstein contrasts economic theories from Hayek and Mill, emphasizing freedom over regulation. Delving into the core principles of liberalism, he advocates for a moral discourse to reclaim its virtues and values in an era of growing illiberalism.

Tyler Cowen, an influential economist and co-author of the blog Marginal Revolution, joins Yascha Mounk to discuss the future of global economies. They explore the transformative effects of AI and the challenges posed by declining birth rates. Cowen shares insights on how young adults should navigate personal finances amid evolving job landscapes. The conversation also touches on the US-China competition and the vital role of education in adapting to technological changes. Expect intriguing perspectives on economics and societal evolution!

Musa Al-Gharbi, an assistant professor at Stony Brook University and author of 'We Have Never Been Woke,' engages in a thought-provoking discussion about the elite's claims to oppression. He critiques the concept of 'wokeness,' emphasizing the disconnect between elite activists and the wider communities they claim to represent. The conversation tackles the complexities of asymmetric multiculturalism and suggests the need for a more consistent approach to social identities, all while advocating for shared values to foster inclusivity.