Economist Podcasts

All about that base: Japan’s security policy

Dec 21, 2021
Noah Snyder, the Tokyo bureau chief for The Economist, shares insights on Japan's evolving security policy amidst rising geopolitical tensions in Asia. He discusses Japan's formation of new military bases and the complex dynamics of self-defense forces in response to threats from China and Taiwan. Alongside him, Daniel Smith, a rare voice from the civil rights era, shares compelling stories about his father's journey from slavery to resilience. They explore how historical narratives shape contemporary society and the significance of storytelling in preserving legacy.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

Japan's Preparedness

  • Japan is better prepared for geopolitical challenges than before, but the defense shift is ongoing.
  • Clear consensus on Japan's response strategies and red lines is yet to emerge.
ANECDOTE

Daniel Smith's Father's Stories

  • Daniel Smith, possibly the last living child of an American slave, shared stories his father told about slavery.
  • One horrifying account involved a man whose tongue was frozen to a wagon wheel for lying.
ANECDOTE

Smith's Civil Rights Involvement

  • Despite humble beginnings, four of Daniel Smith's siblings attended college.
  • Smith became involved in the civil rights movement after attending veterinary school.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app