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Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best IR thinker episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to IR thinker for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite IR thinker episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
Meritocratic Democracy: Confucian and Western Political Theory - Elena Ziliotti | 2024 Episode 26
IR thinker
10/15/24 • 58 min
In this interview with Assistant Professor Elena Ziliotti, we explore the contrasts between meritocratic democracy and traditional governance, drawing insights from both Western and Confucian political theories. Ziliotti discusses the strengths and weaknesses of political meritocracy, offering reflections on its applicability in diverse global contexts.
Elena Ziliotti is a tenured Assistant Professor of Ethics and Political Philosophy at the Delft University of Technology, the Netherlands. She works on Comparative political theory, focusing on debates in contemporary Confucian and Western political theory.
The latest book:
Meritocratic Democracy: A Cross-Cultural Political Theory https://academic.oup.com/book/57408
Content: (1) Meritocratic Democracy vs. Traditional Governance; (2) East vs. West: Understanding Meritocracy; (3) Epistemic Superiority of Democratic Rule; (4) Defining Public-Spirited Political Leaders; (5) Addressing Voter Manipulation Concerns; (6) Weaknesses of Political Meritocracy: A Confucian View; (7) Political Parties in a Cross-Cultural Context; (8) Democratic Institutions vs. Meritocratic Governance; (9) The Role of Partisan Juries in Candidate Selection; (10) Balancing Meritocracy and Democratic Equality; (11) Singapore and China; (12) Benefits of Confucian Insights for Western Democracy; (13) Bridging Western and Confucian Political Theories; (14) Influence of Eastern and Western Thought on Elena’s Research; and (15) Goals for Meritocratic Democracy in Diverse Contexts.
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12/28/24 • 57 min
In this engaging interview with Bill Emmott, former Editor-in-Chief of The Economist, we explore Japan's political uncertainty and its ripple effects on international relations. From the dominance of the Liberal Democratic Party to Japan's energy security challenges, Article 9 debates, and its role in the Indo-Pacific region, this conversation dives into the critical issues shaping Japan's global position in 2024. Watch as we discuss the US-Japan alliance, relations with South Korea, and Japan’s response to China's Belt and Road Initiative. Don't miss this insightful discussion on Japan's evolving role in a rapidly changing world!
Bill Emmott is a renowned independent writer, consultant, and expert in international affairs with a distinguished career spanning over four decades. A former Editor-in-Chief of The Economist, he spent 26 years at the publication, which he joined in 1980. Over this time, he worked as a correspondent and editor in Brussels, Tokyo, and London, covering a wide range of topics, including politics, finance, economics, and global business. In 1993, he was appointed Editor-in-Chief, a role he held for 13 years, during which he shaped The Economist’s voice on some of the world’s most critical issues.
Bill is a prolific author, particularly noted for his expertise on Japan. His first major book, The Sun Also Sets: Why Japan Will Not Be Number One (1989), sparked global discussions about Japan’s economic future. His latest work, Japan’s Far More Female Future, highlights the potential for a gender-balanced transformation in Japanese society. Published in Japanese by Nikkei in 2019 and in English by Oxford University Press in 2020, it underscores his continued relevance in analysing Japan’s evolving role in the world.
Bill’s leadership and contributions extend far beyond writing. He serves as the Ushioda Fellow at Tokyo College, University of Tokyo; chairman of the board of Trinity College Dublin’s Long Room Hub Arts & Humanities Research Institute; chairman of the Japan Society in the UK (until December 2024); and chairman of the trustees of the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS). His involvement in these institutions reflects his dedication to fostering academic, cultural, and strategic understanding on a global scale.
In recognition of his contributions to UK-Japan relations, the Japanese government awarded Bill the prestigious Order of the Rising Sun: Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon in 2016.
Content: (1) International Impact of the Liberal Democratic Party’s (LDP) Dominance; (2) LDP: A Conservative Party in Liberal Clothing?; (3) Energy Security Amid Domestic Political Uncertainty; (4) Public Opinion on Reopening Nuclear Plants; (5) Can Japan Lead the Energy Transition Despite Lagging in Renewables?; (6) Article 9 and Its Role in Japan’s Contemporary Security Strategy; (7) Prospects for Modifying Article 9; (8) The State of the US-Japan Alliance in 2024; (9) Opportunities for Japan-South Korea Relations Amid Indo-Pacific Tensions; (10) Prime Minister’s Vision of an Asian ‘NATO’; (11) Japan’s Role in Taiwan Strait Tensions; (12) China’s Economic Leverage Over Japan; (13) Japan’s Response to the Belt and Road Initiative; (14) Achievements and Challenges in Japanese Economic Diplomacy; and (15) The Role of Japan Society in the UK in International Relations
Note: At 5:09 min, the following sentence was said by Bill Emmott during the interview: ‘That a full consensus has not really successfully built up and become shared across the whole of society.’
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02/10/25 • 67 min
Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with Dr Christopher Mott on the shifting landscape of global hegemony, with particular attention to East Asia’s strategic and economic dynamics. We also examine the roles of middle powers, non-state actors, and evolving US foreign policy in shaping the future of international relations.
Content: (1) Defining Hegemony: Historical Roots and Growth; (2) The Post-Hegemonic Age: Myth or Reality?; (3) China’s Hegemonic Ambitions: Emerging Strategies; (4) Hegemony in Decline: Systemic or Cyclical Shifts?; (5) US Hegemony: Erosion or Evolution Ahead?; (6) Global Multipolarity: Adapting to New Power Centres; (7) Middle Powers: Bridging Gaps in Global Governance; (8) Misplaced Fears: Unpacking US Foreign Policy; (9) Non-State Actors: Shaping the Future of Power; and (10) Realism and Dr. Mott: A Research Perspective.
Dr. Mott is a Washington Fellow at the Institute for Peace & Diplomacy and an international relations scholar specialising in geopolitics, strategy, and the intersection of defensive realism and sovereignty.
Selected Publications
The Rise of a Multipolar West Asia: Why the Middle East Resists Hegemony
Turkey: A Middle Power Pioneer
Middle Powers in the Multipolar World
The Formless Empire: A Short History of Diplomacy and Warfare in Central Asia
Polycentrism and the Eurasian Balance of Power
Christopher’s Blog
The Trickster’s Guide to Geopolitics https://geotrickster.com/
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08/14/24 • 62 min
In this interview with Professor Chandran Kukathas, we explore his groundbreaking ‘Theory of Diversity and Freedom’ and its implications for state sovereignty, multiculturalism, and democratic governance. Learn how his ideas challenge traditional perspectives on citizenship, tolerance, and state intervention, offering a fresh approach to managing societal diversity. This conversation is essential viewing for anyone interested in the intersections of liberalism, pluralism, and international relations.
Professor Chandran Kukathas, a distinguished political theorist renowned for his contributions to liberalism, multiculturalism, and the philosophy of freedom. His seminal work, ‘A Theory of Diversity and Freedom’, offers profound insights into managing societal diversity through the principles of liberal pluralism and minimal state intervention.
Chandran Kukathas is Lee Kong Chian Chair Professor of Political Science at School of Social Sciences, Singapore Management University. He was Head, Department of Government at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) from 2015 to 2019. Before his appointment at LSE, Chandran was Neal A. Maxwell Professor of Political Theory, Public Policy and Public Service at the University of Utah and has taught at the University of New South Wales, Oxford University and the Australian National University.
He is a highly regarded political theorist best known for his contributions to multiculturalism and to the understanding and assessment of Hayek’s political philosophy. Chandran is a prolific writer and has published extensively in leading academic journals.
Content: (1) Inspiration Behind Professor Chandran Kukathas’ Theory of Diversity and Freedom; (2) Key Characteristics of the Theory of Diversity and Freedom; (3) The Theory’s Position within International Relations Theories; (4) Perspectives on State Sovereignty; (5) Concept of the Minimum State; (6) The Theory’s Relationship with Democratic Governance: Challenge or Complement?; (7) Implications for Multiculturalism; (8) Examination of Universal Values; (9) Freedom of Association vs. Citizenship; (10) Perspectives on Migration; (11) Understanding Tolerance within the Theory; and (12) Role of State Interventions.
Official website:
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07/18/24 • 67 min
In this engaging interview, Professor Lee Jarvis provides an in-depth exploration of Critical Terrorism Studies (CTS) and its main objectives. He contrasts CTS with traditional terrorism studies, highlighting the importance of power dynamics, reflexivity, and ethical considerations in research. Join us as we delve into the expanding scope of CTS, examining non-state actors, media representations, and the impact of technological advancements on the field.
Lee Jarvis is a Professor of International Politics at Loughborough University, England. His research focuses on how security challenges such as terrorism, radicalisation, cyber-threats, and pandemics are constructed and communicated.
Although much of his research is explicitly interdisciplinary, there are four main areas: (1) The politics of counter-terrorism, (2) Critical terrorism studies and critical security studies, (3) Social constructions and memories of terrorism, and (4) Cybersecurity.
Professor Jarvis also co-edits the journal Critical Studies on Terrorism.
Content: (1) Overview of Critical Terrorism Studies (CTS) and Its Main Objectives; (2) Defining ‘Critical’ in Critical Terrorism Studies; (3) Conceptualising Terrorism in CTS; (4) Comparison: Traditional Terrorism Studies vs. Critical Terrorism Studies; (5) Examining the Role of Power in CTS; (6) Emphasis on Reflexivity in CTS; (7) Notable Shortcomings and Criticisms of CTS; (8) Expanding CTS Beyond Western Scholarship; (9) Focus on Non-State Actors in CTS; (10) Media Representation of Terrorism in CTS; (11) Ethical Considerations in CTS Research; (12) State Practices and Their Impact in CTS; (13) Balancing Human Rights and National Security in CTS; (14) The Influence of Technological Developments on CTS; (15) Embracing an Interdisciplinary Approach in CTS; (16) Addressing Biases in Traditional Terrorism Studies Through CTS; (17) CTS Analytical Framework for Studying Radicalisation; (18) Utilising Prediction Analysis in CTS; (19) Debunking Myths Associated with CTS; and (20) Potential Research Areas Using CTS Perspectives.
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Virtue Eudaimonism: Ancient Wisdom for International Relations - Mark LeBar | 2024 Episode 37
IR thinker
01/03/25 • 64 min
In this insightful interview with Professor Mark LeBar, we explore how eudaimonism—a cornerstone of ancient ethics—continues to shape modern philosophical and practical discourse. Covering topics from virtue ethics and moral autonomy to AI ethics and global challenges, this conversation bridges ancient wisdom with contemporary issues, offering fresh perspectives on leadership, responsibility, and societal flourishing. Dive in to discover how eudaimonism remains relevant in navigating today’s ethical complexities.
Mark LeBar is an American philosopher and professor of philosophy at Florida State University. He is known for his works on moral philosophy and is the editor of Social Theory and Practice since 2015.
LeBar’s research interests encompass ethical theory, social and political philosophy, and ancient philosophy.
His notable publications include The Value of Living Well (2013), which integrates ancient Greek eudaimonism with contemporary ethical theory; Equality and Public Policy (2015), co-edited with Antony Davies, David Schmidtz and Fred D. Miller Jr.; and Justice (2018), an edited volume examining the virtue of justice from multidisciplinary perspectives.
Selected Publications:
LeBar, M. (Ed.). (2018). Justice. Oxford University Press.
LeBar, M. (2017). Eudaimonism (N. E. Snow, Ed.; Vol. 1). Oxford University Press. https://doi.org/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199385195.013.27
LeBar, M., Davies, A., & Schmidtz, D. (Eds.). (2015). Equality and Public Policy. Cambridge University Press.
LeBar, M. (2013). The Value of Living Well. Oxford University Press.
LeBar, M. (2008). Aristotelian constructivism. Social Philosophy and Policy, 25(1), 182–213. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0265052508080072
LeBar, M. (1999). Kant on welfare. Canadian Journal of Philosophy, 29(2), 225–249. https://doi.org/10.1080/00455091.1999.10717512
Throughout his career, LeBar has been recognised for his contributions to philosophy, including receiving an Earhart Foundation Fellowship and serving as a National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Fellowship Panelist.
Content: (1) How Eudaimonism Redefines What Is Good for Us in Modern Ethics; (2) Eudaimonism Today: Has It Evolved into a Modern Equivalent?; (3) Practical Rationality vs Rule-Based Ethics: Insights from Eudaimonism; (4) Rules vs Norms: Understanding Their Ethical Distinction; (5) Virtue Ethics vs Moral Relativism: Using Ancient Ideas to Argue Universality; (6) Eudaimonism and Modern Moral Theories: A Cohesive View of Facts and Reasons; (7) Balancing Individual Flourishing with Social Responsibility Through Eudaimonism; (8) Moral Autonomy and Social Obligations: Finding Harmony Through Virtue; (9) Eudaimonism and Emerging Technologies: Addressing AI’s Ethical Challenges; (10) Bridging Polarisation: Virtue Eudaimonism in Political and Ethical Conflicts; (11) Global Environmental Issues: Eudaimonism and Collective Responsibility; (12) Cultural Diversity and Globalisation: Evolving Eudaimonism for Modern Challenges; and (13) Philosophy Meets International Relations: Interdisciplinary Opportunities.
Official Website:
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09/19/24 • 58 min
In this interview with Dr Andrew Reddie, we explore the evolution of arms control from the Cold War era to the challenges of modern technological governance. Dr Reddie discusses key factors influencing treaty implementation, the roles of various global actors, and the implications of new and emerging weapons technologies. Join us to understand the complexities of contemporary arms control and the innovative ideas shaping its future.
Dr Andrew Reddie is an Associate Research Professor at the University of California, Berkeley’s Goldman School of Public Policy, and Founder of the Berkeley Risk and Security Lab. His research at the intersection of technology, politics, and security examines how technology shapes international order—with a focus on nuclear weapons policy, cybersecurity and AI governance.
Content: (1) Evolution of Arms Control: From the Cold War to Technological Governance; (2) Weapons Under Current Arms Control Regimes; (3) Key Factors in Successful Treaty Implementation and Contemporary Challenges; (4) The Impact of Non-State Actors and Non-Superpowers on Arms Control; (5) Global Oversight and Supervision of Arms Control Regimes; (6) Verification Processes in Arms Control; (7) Identifying Loopholes in the Verification Processes; (8) The Implications of New START and INF Treaties on Modern Arms Control; (9) Contemporary Fears of a Renewed Arms Race; (10) The Unique Case of the USA as the Only User of Nuclear Weapons; (11) Enriched Uranium Weapons: A Closer Look, (12) China’s Approach to Arms Control; (13) Sino-Russian Consultations on Arms Control; (14) India and Pakistan: Approaches to Arms Control; (15) Iran and Israel: Divergent Approaches to Arms Control; (16) The United Kingdom and France’s Role in Arms Control; (17) Potential New Nuclear Weapon States: Candidates and Risks; (18) Innovative Approaches and Ideas for Strengthening Arms Control; (19) Incentives for States to Abandon Nuclear Weapons; (20) Governance of Nuclear Weapons: Current Frameworks and Future Directions; (21) Emerging Weapon Technologies and the Need for New Arms Control Regimes; & (22) Prospective Areas for Future Research in Arms Control.
The official website:
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10/22/24 • 59 min
In this insightful interview with Philipp Ivanov, we explore the evolving dynamics of Australia-China relations amid shifting geopolitical landscapes. The conversation covers key topics such as Australia’s security strategies, the impact of alliances like AUKUS and the Quad, and the role of the Belt and Road Initiative. With Ivanov’s expertise in public policy and China, this discussion offers a nuanced perspective on trade, education, and energy ties shaping the Indo-Pacific region.
Philipp Ivanov is a public policy leader and China specialist. With extensive executive experience in government, universities and think-tanks in Australia, United States, China, Asia and Russia. He’s the Founder of Geopolitical Risks and Strategy Practice (GRASP) and a Visiting Scholar, Center for Australian, New Zealand and Pacific Studies, School of Foreign Service, Georgetown University.
Content: (1) Current Diplomatic Landscape: Australia and China; (2) Domestic Consensus: Australia’s Internal Views on China; (3) Shifting Alliances: The Impact of Quad and AUKUS on Australia’s Strategy; (4) China’s Perspective: Reactions to Australia’s Security Partnerships; (5) The Belt and Road Initiative: Implications for China-Australia Relations; (6) Australia’s Strategic Response to the Belt and Road Initiative; (7) The U.S. Factor: American Influence on Australia-China Relations; (8) Trade Dynamics: Australia’s Economic Dependence on China; (9) Education and Espionage: Chinese Influence in Australian Academia; (10) Multilateral vs. Bilateral: Australia-China Engagement in the Indo-Pacific; and (11) Energy Ties: The Australia-China Energy Relationship.
Official Website:
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02/25/25 • 62 min
In this interview, Dr Christopher Lamont discusses key methodological developments in international relations research, reflecting on the evolution from the first to the second edition of his work.
He explores interdisciplinarity, mixed research methods, and the role of AI, offering insights into emerging trends and challenges in contemporary political analysis.
Christopher Lamont is Dean of E-Track’s International Relations program and Vice Dean of the Graduate School of International Relations at Tokyo International University in Japan.
Content: (1) Key Differences Between the First and Second Edition; (2) The Role of Interdisciplinarity in Research; (3) Interdisciplinarity: A Researcher’s Motivation or a Structural Pressure?; (4) Current Trends and Applications of Mixed Research Methods; (5) Dr Lamont’s Preferred Mixed Research Methods; (6) Causality and Complexity in Positivist Research Approaches; (7) Real-Time Data Analytics: Balancing Empirical Depth and Immediacy in Political Research; (8) Challenges of Accessibility: The Future of Electronic Sources in Research; (9) Constructivist and Postcolonial Critiques of Traditional Empirical Methodologies; (10) Bridging Local Case Studies and Global Generalisations: Methodological Innovations in IR; (11) The Potential of Multi-Level Network Analysis in Understanding Power Structures; (12) Methodological Challenges in Studying Informal Diplomatic Practices; (13) Research Methods That Need More Focus in the Second Edition; (14) The Role of AI in Research Methodology and Analysis; and (15) Which Research Methods Require Further Exploration for Better Understanding?
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02/17/25 • 63 min
The growing importance of critical minerals is reshaping global geopolitics, resource security, and international economic relations.
As the world accelerates its transition towards clean energy technologies and advanced manufacturing, the demand for critical minerals—such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements—has surged, raising new challenges for policymakers and industries alike.
In this discussion with Dr. Vlado Vivoda, we will explore the key issues surrounding critical minerals, focusing on supply chain vulnerabilities, the geopolitical implications of resource dependency, and the strategies needed to ensure secure and sustainable access.
Dr Vlado Vivoda is a renowned scholar and researcher affiliated with the Sustainable Minerals Institute at the University of Queensland, Australia.
His work addresses some of the most pressing global challenges, focusing on the geopolitics of critical minerals, sustainable energy policies, and the strategic impacts of global energy transitions.
He currently serves as Editor-in-Chief of Resources Policy, one of the world’s premier journals dedicated to the economics and policy dimensions of energy and mineral extraction, production and use.
Content: (1) Strategic Rivalries: Critical Minerals and the US-China Competition; (2) National Security Implications of Critical Minerals; (3) The Weaponisation of Critical Minerals; (4) Competition or Cooperation? State Dynamics in the Critical Minerals Race; (5) The Minerals Security Partnership: Objectives and Impact; (6) Can the Quest for Critical Minerals Spark Conflict?; (7) Neocolonialism in Mineral Extraction Practices; (8) Chinese vs Western Mining Strategies: A Comparative Perspective; (9) Non-State Actors and NGOs in the Critical Minerals Sector; (10) The Disinformation Campaign Against Rio Tinto in Serbia; and (11) Three Underexplored Areas in Critical Minerals Research.
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FAQ
How many episodes does IR thinker have?
IR thinker currently has 79 episodes available.
What topics does IR thinker cover?
The podcast is about Political Science, International Relations, Podcasts, Social Sciences and Science.
What is the most popular episode on IR thinker?
The episode title 'India-China Relations - Jagannath Panda | 2024 Episode 13' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on IR thinker?
The average episode length on IR thinker is 62 minutes.
How often are episodes of IR thinker released?
Episodes of IR thinker are typically released every 6 days, 23 hours.
When was the first episode of IR thinker?
The first episode of IR thinker was released on Jan 5, 2023.
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