The Good Fight

Norbert Röttgen, a senior leader of Germany's Christian Democratic Union and former cabinet minister, shares insights on Germany's geopolitical challenges. He discusses the nation's insufficient support for Ukraine amidst rising pro-Russian sentiments. The conversation highlights the need for Germany to redefine its role in European security, navigate political divides, and strengthen democratic values. Röttgen emphasizes the impact of economic dependencies and urges a more assertive foreign policy as Europe confronts global threats.

In this discussion, Yuval Levin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and author of 'American Covenant,' teams up with Ruy Teixeira, co-founder of 'The Liberal Patriot' and author of 'Where Have All the Democrats Gone?' They dive into America's razor-close elections, exploring why neither party can establish a lasting majority. They analyze the erosion of trust in institutions, the challenges of coalition building for Republicans, and the need for both parties to better align with voter concerns for a more unified political landscape.

In this conversation, Teresa Bejan, a political theory professor at the University of Oxford, dives into the nuances of free speech and the complexities of tolerance. She argues that true civility is essential for meaningful discourse and critiques the term 'problematic' for stifling deeper discussions. Bejan elaborates on how the culture of free expression should go beyond legal protections, emphasizing the need for virtue in society. The dialogue also explores the balance between social conformity and individual expression, particularly in academic settings.

Join James Robinson, a Nobel Prize-winning political scientist and economist, as he dives deep into how societies thrive. The discussion sheds light on the pivotal role of political institutions in shaping economic prosperity and human freedom. Robinson examines historical milestones, like the Black Death, and their profound impacts on societal structures. He also critiques slavery's economic implications, highlights the delicate balance between state power and individual liberties, and emphasizes the importance of citizen engagement in the face of inequality and populism.

In this discussion, Canadian philosopher Charles Taylor delves into the evolution of identity, contrasting modern and historical perspectives. He explores the crucial role of religion in today's society and examines how individual beliefs shape personal and communal identities. Taylor also critiques liberalism, discussing its impact on religious expression and the challenges of fostering inclusivity in a diverse world. His philosophical insights shed light on how we navigate our identities in the context of cultural exchange and societal expectations.

Yascha Mounk chats with Ruxandra Teslo, a PhD candidate in genomics at the Sanger Institute, known for her insightful writing on science and culture. They dive into the concept of luxury beliefs and how these status signals differ from traditional markers of wealth. The conversation critiques elite misinformation, emphasizing the disconnect between well-meaning ideologies and their real-world impact. They also explore how misinformation affects public perception on immigration and health disparities, urging a more nuanced discourse.

Amanda Ripley, an American author and journalist known for her exploration of disaster survival, joins Yascha Mounk to delve into human behavior during crises. They discuss the psychological dynamics that influence cooperation versus selfishness in disasters. Ripley highlights how community ties and trust can significantly enhance resilience. The conversation also tackles lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, examining varying global responses and the role of effective risk communication in building community preparedness.

In a thought-provoking discussion, listener questions spark insights on the potential for civil war in America. The host tackles the fragility of power transitions and the vital importance of free speech amidst political unrest. Concerns about a second Trump term raise alarm bells, yet there’s a glimmer of hope in the resilience of democratic institutions. Plus, practical tips on how to travel well are shared, adding a refreshing twist to the conversation!

Musa Al-Gharbi, an assistant professor at Stony Brook University and author of "We Have Never Been Woke," dives into the evolving meanings of 'woke' and the contradictions of elite groups claiming oppression. He discusses the complexities of identity politics and 'asymmetric multiculturalism,' highlighting the need for a consistent social analysis. Al-Gharbi critiques how privilege complicates advocacy and the dangers of moralistic tendencies in American culture, urging a focus on universal values to bridge divides.

In this engaging discussion, Alexandre Lefebvre, a Professor of Politics and Philosophy at the University of Sydney and author of "Liberalism as a Way of Life," delves into the essence of liberalism beyond just politics. He explores how liberal values shape personal identities and societal norms and critiques the hypocrisy within contemporary liberalism. The conversation also highlights the significance of John Rawls's philosophy, urging a more authentic embodiment of liberal principles, and discusses the importance of aligning personal choices with ideals of fairness and equality.