Economist Podcasts

Americans born at the bottom of the economic ladder find it harder than past generations—or their peers abroad—to climb to the top. The president has plans to change that. But he’s already having to scale them back. Concrete may be a super-spouter of carbon dioxide, but it can go green. And a new style of book review is flourishing on TikTok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over four days in Beijing, the political and military elite are meeting to recast the past. The revised version will depict Xi Jinping as a giant of the stature of Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping—and justify his continued rule. More Africans are migrating, mostly within their own continent. And Hollywood is examining its navel. It doesn’t like what it finds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Few imagined when Ethiopia’s civil war began a year ago that the capital, Addis Ababa, would come under threat from Tigrayan rebels. We explain why the tide has turned. At this time of year, India’s deadliest environmental problem—its toxic air—is at its worst. And the Chinese Comminust Party is cracking down on burning gifts for the dead.For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At the global climate summit, more than 100 countries have promised to end deforestation by 2030. Similar promises have been made before, but might this time be different? America’s Supreme Court dives into the thorny topics of abortion and gun rights. And we report on the peculiar economics of African cities where the UN has set up shop. For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For the first time since the end of white rule, South Africa’s governing African National Congress is set to win less than half the vote, albeit in local polls. We explain its slide in popularity. After a dreadful 2020, Italy has had a happier 2021; what’s prime minister Mario Draghi’s next move? And we check out the rhythm of Bangladesh’s underground club scene.For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More than a year after George Floyd was murdered by a Minneapolis policeman, the city votes on an overhaul of its force. We examine America’s shifting debate over police reform. Cryptocurrencies have taken off in Cuba; but the communist authorities want control. And light may be shed on the mystery of the reproductive habits—and extraordinary migration—of eels. For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

World leaders are gathering in Glasgow for the UN climate summit. Can they agree on the path to meeting the goals set in Paris six years ago, to stabilise global temperatures? We weigh up the chances. Sex work is illegal almost everywhere in America; a growing movement wants that to change. And why Britain’s TV-production industry is booming.For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Miles, The Economist's China editor, dives into the escalating tensions surrounding Iran's nuclear ambitions and the faltering diplomatic efforts to revive the nuclear deal. He tackles the paradox of women's rights in China, where despite governmental suppression, the Communist Party is adopting certain feminist themes. The conversation sheds light on the challenges faced by female activists, education disparities, and workforce issues amidst a complex political landscape. Lastly, a tribute is paid to Anne Saxelby, a pioneering cheesemonger who made a significant mark in the culinary world.

Ludwig Siegeler, US technology editor for The Economist, and Tim Judah, Balkans correspondent, dive into the tech industry's post-pandemic evolution. They discuss how major firms are facing downturns as smaller companies thrive. On the geopolitical front, Judah highlights Serbia's military buildup, stirring tensions in the Balkans. The conversation takes a fascinating turn with the rapid evolution of tuskless elephants in Mozambique, illustrating how human conflict can accelerate natural selection.

Max Rodenbeck, The Economist's South Asia Bureau Chief, discusses the dire humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan post-Taliban takeover, highlighting the urgent need for international aid as winter approaches. He delves into the moral dilemmas faced by global donors in supporting a regime criticized for its human rights violations. The conversation also shifts to India’s digitization efforts, revealing the gaps in accessibility for its vast population. Additionally, Rodenbeck touches on the innovative rise of Rent the Runway, exploring its sustainability amidst the changing landscape of fashion and consumerism.