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The Innovation Civilization podcast hosted by Waheed Nabeel, and friends of Empasco, features conversations with domain experts on the topics of civilizational progress, technology, history, philosophy, and the first-principles of the ideas that shape our world.
Episodes
Saturday Nov 02, 2024
Saturday Nov 02, 2024
We welcome Faisal Ali Rashid, Sr. Director at the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, to learn from Dubai's ambitious drive toward achieving net zero by 2050. Faisal, a leader in energy strategy and sustainability, oversees programs transforming Dubai’s approach to energy, water, and waste management, setting a new standard for urban sustainability in the region.
We were also joined by our friend on the podcast, Tushar Narula - a sustainability advisor and a climate change expert whose work has spanned different continents, industries, and top institutions like UC Berkeley, MIT, Harvard, & Imperial College London.
In this episode, Faisal shares Dubai’s comprehensive strategies for renewable energy and demand-side management, revealing key milestones like achieving 25% renewable energy in the total energy mix and aiming for 100% renewable energy by 2050. He explains not only the WHAT but HOW Dubai plans to achieve these in detail.
We also discuss the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy’s regulatory framework, incentive programs, and innovative public-private partnerships (PPPs) that fund green projects, including the groundbreaking Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. Faisal highlights the role of community involvement and youth leadership in advancing sustainability, describing how the Advancing Net Zero initiative empowers the next generation to contribute to Dubai’s climate goals.
All the topics covered in the episode:
-Dubai’s Renewable Energy Goals: Achievements and future targets toward 100% renewable energy.
-Demand-Side Management: Reducing consumption and increasing energy efficiency.
-Policy and Financial Incentives: How Dubai fosters sustainable development through strategic regulations and PPPs.
-Innovation and Technology: Cutting-edge projects in solar, smart metering, and energy storage.
-Community and Youth Engagement: The role of education and volunteerism in driving net-zero progress.
Join us as we dive into Dubai’s pioneering efforts to build a sustainable, net-zero future with one of its leading energy strategists.
Follow our host, Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets.
Timestamps:
(00:00) - Intro
(02:30) - Faisal’s background and Dubai’s sustainability journey
(03:58) - Demand-side management and green building initiatives
(05:47) - Dubai’s renewable energy milestones and 2050 goals
(09:38) - Policy and incentives driving green transition in the middle east
(18:43) - The role of PPPs in funding sustainability projects
(24:12) - Dubai’s innovation in energy storage and technology
(32:33) - Key lessons for global cities on climate action
(38:33) - Youth and community involvement in net-zero goals
(41:28) - Outro
Friday Sep 27, 2024
Friday Sep 27, 2024
We're joined by Dr. Denis Noble, Professor Emeritus of Cardiovascular Physiology at the University of Oxford, and the father of 'systems biology'. He is known for his groundbreaking creation of the first mathematical model of the heart's electrical activity in the 1960s which radically transformed our understanding of the heart.
Dr. Noble’s contributions have revolutionized our understanding of cardiac function and the broader field of biology. His work continues to challenge long-standing biological concepts, including gene-centric views like Neo-Darwinism.
In this episode, Dr. Noble discusses his critiques of fundamental biological theories that have shaped science for over 80 years, such as the gene self-replication model and the Weissmann barrier. He advocates for a more holistic, systems-based approach to biology, where genes, cells, and their environments interact in complex networks rather than a one-way deterministic process.
We dive deep into Dr. Noble's argument that biology needs to move beyond reductionist views, emphasizing that life is more than just the sum of its genetic code. He explains how AI struggles to replicate even simple biological systems, and how biology’s complexity suggests that life’s logic lies not in DNA alone but in the entire organism.
The conversation covers his thoughts on the flaws of Neo-Darwinism, the influence of environmental factors on evolution, and the future of biology as a field that recognizes the interaction between nature and nurture. We also explore the implications of his work for health and longevity, and how common perspectives on genetics might need rethinking.
All the topics we covered in the episode:
-The critique of Neo-Darwinism and the future of evolutionary theory.
-Systems biology: Understanding life beyond the gene.
-The complexity of biology: Why reductionism falls short.
-Evolution and inheritance: The role of environment in shaping species.
-Health implications of Dr. Noble’s work: Longevity, lifestyle, and the limits of genome-based predictions.
Join us for a thrilling discussion on the future of biology, evolution, and the practical implications for health and science.
Follow our host, Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets.
Timestamps:
(00:00) - Intro
(03:04) - Why Was The Last 80 Years of Biology Wrong?
(08:17) - Where does Logic come from?
(13:03) - Is Evolution Truly Random or Driven by Purpose?
(22:05) - Is Nurture more important than Nature?
(29:06) - Denis Noble calls for a rewrite of all Biology textbooks
(32:48) - Is Neo-Darwinism Just a Model? Understanding the Difference Between Evolution and the Creationism Debate
(39:22) - Natural Selection vs. Lamarckian Evolution: How Darwin Changed Our Understanding of Survival Traits
(46:03) - Reductionism vs. Integrationism in Science: How the 'Third Way' Challenges Neo-Darwinism
(49:43) - What Does Epigenetics Mean for the Average Person? How Denis Noble's Paradigm Shift Impacts Everyday Health and Life?
(69:29) - Is Western Science Facing a Paradigm Shift? Rethinking How We Determine Truth and Health in Light of Eastern and Western Influences
(75:21) - Why Reductionism Dominates Science: The Political and Practical Challenges of Embracing a Systems Biology Approach
(82:49) - Can We Trust AI to Behave Ethically? The Need to Connect Philosophy with Technology in AI Development
(86:46) - Outro
Sunday Aug 25, 2024
Sunday Aug 25, 2024
We welcome Bryan Johnson, multi-millionaire visionary entrepreneur and founder of "Don't Die." Known as the most measured man in human history, Bryan is pushing the boundaries of human longevity by meticulously tracking his body's biomarkers in pursuit of an extended health span, not just lifespan. His 'Blueprint' protocols can be found here.
Bryan's journey from revolutionizing digital payments with Braintree Venmo, which he sold to PayPal for $800 million, to dedicating over $100 million of his fortune to extend human life reveals a deep commitment to humanity's future. Through his initiative Blueprint, Bryan is developing an algorithm that takes better care of our bodies than we can do ourselves, aiming for a world where "Don't Die" becomes a societal mantra.
In this episode, Bryan discusses his philosophy behind "Don't Die" and how it could reshape politics, economics, ethics, and more. He explores the potential of AI to revolutionize decision-making and extend human capabilities beyond our current limitations. Bryan also put forward the challenges of aligning AI with human longevity and the ethical dilemmas that arise when pursuing extended life spans.
The conversation spans topics such as the future of artificial intelligence, the exploration of human consciousness, and the need for societal shifts toward sustainable living. Bryan talks about the potential of technology to transform our understanding of life and offers a visionary perspective on what humanity might look like in the 25th century.
We also cover how Bryan’s work could redefine what it means to be human, the importance of mastering the basics of health, and the potential for algorithms to outperform human decision-making in every aspect of life.
All the topics that we covered in the episode:
-Health and Longevity: Bryan's quest to extend life through science and technology.
-AI and Human Potential: Artificial intelligence's role in shaping humanity's future.
-Societal Transformation: How "Don't Die" could redefine our approach to politics, ethics, and economics.
-Consciousness and Technology: Exploring the next frontier of human experience.
-Ethical Challenges: The dilemmas of aligning AI with human longevity.
Join us for a forward-thinking discussion as we explore the intersection of technology, longevity, and the future of civilization with one of the leading minds in the field.
Follow our host, Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets.
Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode:
(02:56) - Bryan's background and the origins of "Don't Die"
(07:57) - Living with a future-oriented mindset and connecting the dots retrospectively
(09:41) - Trust in science through the use of biomarkers and objective data as a source of truth
(11:15) - The philosophical motivations behind pursuing rejuvenation science and the desire to live forever despite not fearing death
(14:37) - Why might humanity's progress in decision-making and societal improvements not continue at the same rate despite past achievements?
(17:51) - Reflecting on the idea that 'Don't die' is the greatest virtue, contrasting it with the ethical teachings of philosophers like Socrates, Confucius, and Plato
(19:47) - How does the paradigm shift of 'don't die' impact all actions and social structures and confront the influence of AI-driven recommendation systems on personal behavior?
(21:54) - The contrast between inherent human nature, whether inherently good or bad and the internal conflict between different versions of ourselves, like 'evening Brian' and 'morning Brian?
(25:36) - Discussing whether the goal of the Blueprint is to achieve a consistently performing self across different times and situations
(27:54) - Reflecting on the overemphasis on material goals like financial success and questioning their true impact on long-term happiness
(29:40) - The mental orientation needed to optimize for longevity, balancing material gains with a higher purpose and finding the best mindset to subscribe to
(31:14) - How Stoicism and similar philosophies suggest that dissociating from base desires leads to personal freedom and an optimized self, including firing 'Evening Brian.'
Sunday Jul 28, 2024
Sunday Jul 28, 2024
We welcome Mark Boggett, CEO and co-founder of Seraphim Space, Europe's biggest Space tech fund and the world's first space-focused investment fund
Mark's journey from a career in technology investment to pioneering space venture capital reveals the transformative potential of space tech for our civilization.
Mark's expertise is rooted in his careful monitoring of SpaceX's revolutionary impact on the market, inspiring him to establish Seraphim Space. With significant investments in over 120 space tech companies, including cutting-edge startups like iSci and Hubble Network, Mark shares invaluable insights into the industry's future.
Mark discusses Seraphim's unique approach to investment, focusing on seed and Series A stages, and highlights their accelerator program, which has become the largest space tech accelerator in the world. He elaborates on how Seraphim supports startups, from early-stage university spinouts to scaling established companies, ensuring they are investment-ready and poised for success.
The conversation explores the evolution of space tech, the rise of miniaturized satellites, and the potential for space tech to revolutionize various sectors, including defense, climate, and sustainability. Mark sheds light on the economic and strategic importance of space tech, the role of government R&D, and the impact of global geopolitics on the industry.
We also cover the ethical considerations and regulatory challenges surrounding space tech, emphasizing the importance of sustainable development and the potential for space tech to create a healthier and more resilient planet.
All the topics that we covered in the episode:
* Tech Industry Evolution: Mark's journey from tech investment to pioneering space venture capital.
* Venture Capital Dynamics: Seraphim's investment philosophy and support for startups.
* Space Tech Innovations: Advancements in miniaturized satellites and digital infrastructure.
* Market Conditions and Job Impact: The economic and strategic importance of space tech.
* Future of Space Applications: The transformative potential of space tech in various sectors.
* Regulatory Environment: Challenges and opportunities in space tech regulation.
Join us for an enlightening discussion as we explore the future of space technology with one of the industry's leading investors.
Follow our host, Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets.
Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode.
(00:00) - Intro
(01:42) - Mark's background and career journey
(03:09) - Seraphim's investment philosophy and framework
(04:17) - Investment stages and focus areas
(07:35) - Supporting startups post-investment
(11:05) - Space tech innovation waves, market dynamics, and investment landscape
(14:59) - Large constellations of miniaturized satellites
(19:07) - Future potential of space applications
(23:27) - Future direction of space tech regulation
(27:30) - Innovative business models in the space tech industry
(35:15) - LLMs & Space Tech are revolutionizing modern applications & technology
(41:42) - Need for Government-funded R&D in space tech.
(51:52) - Space tech's role in planetary sustainability
(56:29) - Outro
Sunday Jun 23, 2024
Sunday Jun 23, 2024
We're joined by Toby Coppel, Founder and General Partner at Mosaic Ventures, who has been investing in the last multiple waves of AI.
Toby's extensive career spans iconic firms like Netscape, AOL, & Yahoo, leading up to his current role at Mosaic Ventures, a prominent venture capital firm. He has been instrumental in significant investments, including a billion-dollar investment in Alibaba that yielded an $80 billion return for Yahoo shareholders. Toby provides an insider's perspective on the tech landscape, sharing invaluable lessons from his experiences with industry giants like Jerry Yang, Jack Ma, and Richard Branson.
Toby elaborates on Mosaic's investment philosophy, highlighting their focus on Series A and late seed-stage investments. He explains how Mosaic supports startups post-investment, emphasizing their hands-on approach and commitment to founder success. Toby also discusses Mosaic's thematic investment strategy, particularly in the realm of machine learning applications, where they have been active since 2016.
The conversation navigates through various waves of AI innovation, from early computer vision applications to the current era of generative AI and large language models. Toby shares his views on the evolving AI landscape, the challenges of training models, and the competitive dynamics of the AI industry.
We also explore the potential impact of AI on the job market, the ethical considerations surrounding AI use, and the importance of regulation in fostering innovation while ensuring safety. Toby offers his insights on the future of AI applications, emphasizing the transformative potential of AI in consumer and enterprise contexts.
Below is a quick synopsis of all the topics we cover:
Tech Industry Evolution: Insights from Toby's career in tech, including significant investments and strategic decisions.
Venture Capital Dynamics: Mosaic's unique approach to supporting startups and their focus on Series A investments.
AI Innovations: A comprehensive look at the waves of AI advancements and the current state of AI technology.
Market Conditions and Job Impact: Analysis of AI's impact on the job market and the ethical considerations involved.
Future of AI Applications: Exploration of the potential for AI in consumer and enterprise applications.
Regulatory Environment: The role of regulation in the development and deployment of AI technologies.
Join us for an enlightening discussion as we explore the intersections of technology, venture capital, and AI with one of the industry's most experienced investors.
Follow me, (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets.
Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode.
(00:00) - Intro
(02:50) - Toby's background and career journey
(06:19) - Mosaic's investment philosophy and framework
(08:17) - Investment stages and focus areas
(08:53) - Supporting startups post-investment
(09:45) - AI innovation waves and market dynamics
(13:00) - Current AI landscape and competitive dynamics
(17:15) - AI Investment Landscape and Mosaic's positions
(23:30) - Large Language Model (LLM) - based Applications
(36:23) - Future potential of AI applications
(42:11) - Future direction of copyright protections for training data
(45:46) - How Generative AI might reduce the cost of building applications?
(49:31) - Impact of Generative AI on traditional job roles
(52:48) - Europe's current position on AI
(56:26) - Regulation in AI and its implications
(61:43) - Outro
Saturday May 25, 2024
Saturday May 25, 2024
We're joined by Ash Arora, a Partner at LocalGlobe leading their Web3 practice, to discuss the intricacies of venture capital, blockchain, AI investments, and market dynamics.
LocalGlobe, one of the leading early-stage venture capital firms in Europe, ranked #1 early stage fund in EMEA and #3 globally with highest number of unicorns in portfolio, with companies like SoRare, Copper, Robinhood, Wise, Figma, Twitter and LP in a16z, Sequoia etc. Ash shares insights into what sets LocalGlobe apart in the competitive VC landscape, including their comprehensive 52-parameter framework for evaluating investment opportunities and the unique support structure they offer to startups.
Ash takes us through the specifics of their blockchain investments, highlighting significant successes such as Sorare, Copper, and Improbable. She explains the importance of due diligence, the unique value-add LocalGlobe provides post-investment, and their strategic approach to both pre-seed and growth-stage funding.
The conversation also explores the current market conditions, comparing them to past tech cycles and discussing the resilience of early-stage investments amidst broader market slowdowns. Ash provides her perspective on the impact of tech layoffs and the dynamics of acquiring talent in a fluctuating market.
In a detailed discussion on AI, Ash outlines LocalGlobe's broad investment strategy, covering everything from semiconductors to AI applications. She shares thoughts on the future of AI in the venture capital landscape, emphasizing the irreplaceable human touch in evaluating and supporting founders.
Ash's expertise in blockchain is evident as she discusses the state of the market, the potential of DeFi, and the future of blockchain technology. She also touches on the regulatory environment and the importance of innovation-friendly policies.
Below is a quick synopsis of all the topics we cover:
- Venture Capital Dynamics: How LocalGlobe maintains its edge with a unique evaluation framework and extensive founder support.
- Blockchain Investments: Key insights into successful blockchain investments and the future potential of blockchain technology.
- Market Conditions and Talent Acquisition: Analysis of current market trends and the impact on talent acquisition in tech.
- AI Investments: LocalGlobe's strategic approach to AI investments, from foundational models to application layers.
- Regulatory Environment: The role of regulation in fostering or stifling innovation in blockchain and AI.
Join us for a comprehensive discussion as we explore the intersection of venture capital, blockchain, AI, and market trends with one of the industry's leading experts.
Follow our host, Waheed Nabeel (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets.
Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode.
(00:00) - Intro
(02:39) - Ash Arora's background and role at LocalGlobe
(04:40) - LocalGlobe's unique investment criteria and framework
(10:23) - Supporting startups post-investment
(13:11) - Investment stages and focus areas
(15:24) - Current market conditions and tech layoffs
(23:12) - AI investment strategy and market mapping
(28:08) - The future of AI and its impact on VC
(34:07) - Blockchain market analysis and investment thesis
(38:29) - Layer 2 solutions and blockchain infrastructure
(46:25) - Meme coins and market dynamics
(48:46) - Regulation in blockchain and AI
(50:06) - Intersection of AI and blockchain
(51:45) - Outro
Full Disclaimer:
The views, opinions, and thoughts expressed by the guest in this communication are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosting entity or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. The hosting entity and its affiliates do not endorse, recommend, or assume any responsibility for any investment decisions made based on the information provided. Always seek the advice of a qualified financial advisor before making any financial decisions.
Saturday May 04, 2024
Saturday May 04, 2024
We're joined by tech billionaire and investor Christian Angermayer to discuss the 'Next Human Agenda,' i.e., the technological bets he's taking and how they will shape the future of humanity (in terms of computing, health, society, and governments).
Over the past 20 years, Christian has been involved in directly building a lot of unicorns and decacorns and has been involved in more than 50 IPOs or exits in the public stock market. Christian is an active thought leader himself, and is affiliated with the World Economic Forum as a Young Global Leader.
He's a partner of the Munich security conference and advisor to President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, and also a founding member of President Macron's scale-up Europe initiative.
Christian's family office, Apeiron Investment Group, has more than 3 billion US dollars of assets under management and invests across life sciences, fintech, crypto, future tech, experience, hospitality, and happiness. He runs the Angermayer policy initiative and innovation forum, which convenes international heads of State, investors, politicians, and scientists to come together to discuss global priorities.
Christian is also passionate about mental health and runs the Aurora Institute, which is the first nonprofit incubator of its kind focused on funding the world's leading individuals and NGOs related to solving the global mental health crisis.
We cover a wide array of topics:
-The Rise of AI and the Future of Society: What will society look like with full AI/AGI adoption, and how can we prepare for it?
-Revolutionizing Biotech and Psychedelics: Gain insights into the ground-breaking developments in biotech and psychedelics, exploring their potential to revolutionize healthcare and mental health treatment.
-The Middle Eastern Innovation Landscape: Christian shares insights into the burgeoning tech scene in the Middle East, particularly in countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, where governments are fostering environments conducive to technological advancement and biotech innovation.
-Geopolitical Realities and Multipolarity: Reflecting on the evolving geopolitical landscape, Christian discusses the strategic maneuvers of emerging powers like China and Russia, as well as the savvy diplomacy of smaller nations seeking to navigate the complexities of a multipolar world.
-Brexit and the Future of Europe: Offering astute observations on Brexit and its implications for the UK and Europe, Christian explores the missed opportunities and potential pitfalls in Britain's departure from the European Union while also reflecting on the broader trajectory of the European project.
-Harnessing Innovation for Global Challenges: Christian emphasizes the transformative potential of technological innovation in addressing pressing global challenges, from climate change to economic development, underscoring the importance of agile governance and strategic investment in fostering sustainable solutions.
Join us for an illuminating discussion as we explore the dynamics of technological disruption, geopolitical strategy, and the imperative of innovation in shaping the future of our interconnected world.
Follow our host, Waheed Nabeel (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets.
Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode.
(00:00) - Intro
(03:20) - What's the vision Christian has of the world 100 years from now?
(11:06) - Does the unprecedented speed of technological advancement today, exemplified by OpenAI's rapid user growth, amplify the risk of social dislocation during these transitions, given historical trends of slower adoption?
(14:08) - Can AI be perceived as both a catalyst for economic growth and a potential threat to traditional employment, considering its capacity to exponentially increase productivity and revenue, thereby prompting a discussion on the balance between efficiency and human labor?
(17:50) - What actionable steps are recommended for individuals who may not be deeply engaged in tech discussions to prepare for the impact of AI and automation on their professions over the next decade, and what role should governments play in facilitating this transition?
(22:39) - Use of Psychedelics for mental health problems
(39:31) - What is the 'Next Human Agenda'?
(47:47) - What breakthroughs can we expect in longevity research funding, and can we foresee substantial increases in human lifespan in the near future?
(52:25) - How does the concept of biological age influence Christian's research, especially in relation to the lifestyles of centenarians in blue zones, and what implications does this have for longevity strategies?
(56:51) - In the face of rapid technological disruption, what role do governments in the 21st century play?
(60:22) - How can we address the short-term focus of politicians, especially in democracies, to ensure effective long-term planning for the future?
(64:24) - How can we manage increasing debt in Western countries amidst the challenge of implementing unpopular but crucial policies for long-term fiscal stability?
(67:27) - Less government intervention, like libertarians versus more regulation, as seen in Europe's approach to innovation?
(69:00) - Do you think pharmaceutical innovation has been slowed by regulation compared to the faster progress seen in less regulated fields like computer science?
(74:13) - Are there any government models you've encountered that effectively balance stability with the disruptive nature of technology, ensuring stable infrastructure alongside technological progress?
(77:26) - Do you support the idea of city-states as a governance model reminiscent of the early United States, where states held significant governance roles, and do you see the potential for a revival of this approach?
(81:12) - How can governments adopt lean methodologies for faster decision-making?
(83:05) - Is there a burgeoning innovation hub in the Middle East, separate from Europe and the US, particularly considering your operations in emerging market countries like the UAE and Rwanda?
(85:18) - Does Christian see a move towards a multipolar world, with rising powers like China and Russia challenging US dominance, and how do you view the strategic actions of smaller nations navigating this shift?
(87:10) - What are Christian's thoughts on the trajectory of the European project, especially with the UK's exit from the EU and the challenges it poses, such as demographic aging and its impact on the tech landscape?
(90:28) - What fuels Christian's optimism amidst the prevailing dystopian views, leading you to believe that technology and innovation will be our salvation rather than our downfall?
Saturday Apr 20, 2024
Saturday Apr 20, 2024
We welcomed the author of the new book "The Levelling", Mike O'Sullivan, who's spent 20 years thinking and writing on macro economy and politics. He also served as the Chief Investment Officer at Credit Suisse and is the CEO of Harvest Innovation Advisory. We cover the end of globalisation, the future of democracy, economics, finance, geopolitics, and nation-building in the post-globalisation era.
In the episode, we cover a range of topics:
-Assessment of Globalisation: Critical examination of the concept of globalisation, probing its evolution, successes, and shortcomings, particularly in light of mounting debt, economic dependencies, and democratic deficits.
-Geopolitical Realities: The shifting dynamics of global power & democracy, from the dominance of the West to the rise of multipolarity
-Rethinking Economic Paradigms: Importance of R&D, education, and a conducive regulatory environment for fostering organic economic growth and escaping debt trap
-Challenges of Development: Role of international institutions such as the IMF, leadership credibility, and effectiveness in managing financial crises (examples from Greece & Argentina)
-Navigating Technological Complexity: The profound impact of technology on every aspect of society, from AI and blockchain to the fragmentation of media and its implications for democracy and social cohesion.
Join us for this action-packed episode as we explore the growing backlash against globalisation and the future of global relations and economic growth potential.
Follow our host Waheed Nabeel (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets.
Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode.
(00:00) - Intro
(02:13) - Mike's background
(03:38) - How globalisation led to increased economic integration?
(06:54) - Why is the end of globalisation such a big issue?
(09:56) - What are the biggest challenges of the next 30 years?
(12:11) - Why is democracy under threat?
(14:02) - How can we revive democracies?
(17:18) - How can the effectiveness of governance in delivering tangible improvements to quality of life be assessed, particularly in contexts where traditional democratic norms may not be strictly followed, such as in Singapore or Rwanda?
(20:20) - Where did The UK went wrong?
(23:49) - How does Japan's economic performance challenge traditional notions of debt sustainability, especially in comparison to countries like the US and UK, and what implications does this have for the application of modern monetary theory (MMT) on a global scale?
(25:52) - Why are we obsessed with debt?
(28:31) - How do countries achieve organic economic growth?
(32:14) - What is the well-being economy?
(35:01) - How will this evolving digital landscape shape our societal values and political affiliations on a global scale?
(40:38) - How should nations think about development and economic growth?
(43:37) - Outro
Saturday Mar 23, 2024
Saturday Mar 23, 2024
In season 2, we kick-off with America's foremost foreign policy scholar, Dr. Joseph Nye, the former Assistant Secretary of Defense and former Dean of Harvard Kennedy School of Government, to talk about how the American Century has shaped our civilization and what lies ahead in the road.
Dr. Nye shares his profound insights on:
- His personal reflections from his latest released book
- The essence and impact of soft power, hard power and 'smart' power in shaping international relations, drawing from his extensive experience and academic work
- Analyzing the concept of the "American Century," its historical context, and its relevance in today's shifting global order
- Discussing the strategic challenges and opportunities presented by nuclear non-proliferation, with a focus on his contributions during the Carter administration
- Providing a forward-looking perspective on the rise of Asia, particularly China and India, and the implications for global economic and political dynamics
- Navigating through the complexities of U.S. foreign policy, from its triumphs to its missteps, and envisioning the path forward in an increasingly multipolar world
- His thoughts on contemporary wars: from Israel-Palestine to Ukraine-Russia
Accompanying Dr. Nye, we're privileged to have our very dear friend of the pod, Jon Cayzer who's a UK civil servant, adding depth to the conversation with his expertise and experience in public services and policy advising.
Join us as Dr. Joseph Nye artfully connects past influences with present challenges, offering a roadmap for understanding and navigating the future of international relations.
Follow our host Waheed Nabeel (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets.
Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode.
(00:00) - Introduction to Joseph Nye and his seminal contributions
(02:13) - Nye's background and defining moments in global politics
(07:04) - The American Century revisited: implications for global leadership
(12:50) - The evolution and significance of soft power in the modern era
(14:47) - Is the U.S.'s current foreign policy, particularly its support for Israel's actions in Gaza, leading to a decrease in its soft power, similar to the impact of the Iraq War?
(16:46) - Is the current perceived political polarization in the U.S. truly unprecedented, or is it a return to historical levels of division experienced in past eras like the FDR presidency?
(18:36) - Can the U.S. and China avoid the Thucydides Trap and prevent military conflict?
(23:56) - Should Ukraine join NATO?
(25:14) - Is China, despite its hard power, struggling to amplify its soft power on the global stage?
(28:05) - How can a small country effectively increase its soft power—is it through cultural promotion like the British Council and Confucius Institute, or are there other strategies?
(29:46) - In light of populism and Brexit, how can the UK rejuvenate its smart power and reestablish its international standing post-EU?
(32:16) - How do advancements in technology and AI affect a country's balance of soft and hard power?
(33:36) - Does the fragmentation of media through technologies like social media endanger the consensus-building essential to democracy in the 21st century?
(35:32) - How can America, known for its innovation, adapt its foundational principles and values for future generations to bridge to the next century, moving beyond the notion of American exceptionalism?
(37:35) - Discussing the shift in American values from 1998 to 2023, how has the perception of patriotism and other core values evolved over time?
(27:20) - Analyzing Asia's rise and its global ramifications
(33:35) - The interplay of technology, AI, and international relations
(36:50) - Envisioning the future of diplomacy and international cooperation
(39:07) - Outro
Saturday Dec 09, 2023
Saturday Dec 09, 2023
On this African development-focused episode, we're joined by Dr. Pádraig Carmody, a distinguished professor at Trinity College, University of Dublin, and the author of the book "The New Scramble for Africa."
Professor Carmody guides us through a thought-provoking discussion:
-Unpacking the historical context of African scrambles and their enduring impact on the continent
-Defining what a scramble is and how it shaped the socio-economic landscape of Africa
-Examining the parallels between historical scrambles and the contemporary challenges affecting Africa today
-Insightful analysis of the new scramble (e.g. with China) and its implications for the region's economic trajectory
-Exploring the potential future of African development and the key factors that will shape it
We were also joined by, Jon Cayzer, who is a British civil servant and has worked in Africa for several decades.
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Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode.
(00:00) - Intro
(01:35) - What drove Professor Carmody into writing a book on the scramble for Africa?
(04:43) - In delving into the first scramble for Africa and the influential Berlin Conference, what were the key motivations driving European powers?
(10:58) - Is the scramble for Africa solely driven by asset stripping for the benefit of the global economy in what we now term the global north, or are their elements of a transformative vision aiming to uplift and shape the continent in a different way?
(19:09) - Did the historical division of Africa during the scramble leave lasting consequences on the persistence of poverty and the trajectory of economic development in the region?
(25:13) - How did the historical dynamics affect the current state of institutions in Africa?
(27:55) - How does Professor Carmody envision African states overcoming the challenges of comparative advantage and distance to become potent catalysts for innovation?
(32:57) - How does Rwanda's success, characterized by policy certainty, stand out as a potential model for other Sub-Saharan African countries grappling with similar issues?
(40:59) - How are technological advancements impacting job markets across the continent, and what strategies can African nations adopt to navigate the potential challenges posed by the rapid integration of AI technologies?
(43:42) - What are China's vision for Africa and the strategies they are employing to realize this vision, providing insight into their approach and objectives in the region?
(50:55) - The role of industrial policy in fostering economic diversification and specialization and lessons African nations could glean from these examples in shaping their economic strategies.
(52:16) - Is there a unique role that Africa can play in reimagining the global economy, offering solutions that transcend the limitations of the previous neoliberal frameworks?
(58:46) - Outro