The Good Fight

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.

In this enlightening conversation, Jonathan Haidt, a Professor of Ethical Leadership at NYU, tackles why reasonable people can turn into angry mobs. He delves into emotional fragility in today's culture and the tribalism stemming from political ideologies. Haidt highlights the psychological distinctions between the left and right, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue. The discussion also touches on the nuances of nationalism versus patriotism and how positive group identities can foster cooperation in an increasingly divided society.

Arlie Hochschild, an author and sociology professor, dives into the emotional landscape of American politics. She discusses the pride and disillusionment felt by white working-class communities and how this impacts their support for Trump. Hochschild also explores the shifting allegiances of Latino voters, particularly in Miami, shedding light on their motivations. The conversation emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding diverse political perspectives to bridge divides.

Join Sabina Ćudić, a Bosnian politician; Steven Pinker, a Harvard psychologist; and Francis Fukuyama, a political scientist, as they tackle pressing political issues. They delve into Trump’s firings and their implications for civil service. The group also discusses the need to rejuvenate liberalism in a populist age and how AI is reshaping society. The conversation ventures into the intersection of governance and ideology, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in addressing contemporary challenges.

David Enoch, a prominent philosophy professor at Oxford and the Hebrew University, dives into the fraught landscape of liberalism and its moral foundations. He argues that liberalism needs to shed its neutral facade, advocating for moral objectivism to regain public trust. The discussion touches on complex issues like the implications of current global conflicts and the importance of speaking out against oppressive practices. Enoch emphasizes the need for a principled stance on autonomy and the intricate balance required in navigating political realities.

Christine Rosen, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and columnist for Commentary magazine, joins Yascha Mounk to tackle the unsettling impacts of the digital age. They discuss the downsides of online dating and the heightened anxiety surrounding face-to-face interactions. Rosen highlights how constant online presence complicates relationship development and diminishes meaningful connections. They also explore the societal ramifications of public shaming and the challenge of forming authentic identities in a world dominated by digital surveillance.