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IR thinker

IR thinker

Martin Zubko

'IR thinker' is a talk show delving into international relations and geopolitics. It features engaging interviews with leading experts. Founded and produced by Martin Zubko, an international relations lecturer. While primarily a video-based show on YouTube, it is also available as an audio podcast. Official website: https://irthinker.com/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Top 10 IR thinker Episodes

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.

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:

https://irthinker.com/



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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.


Official website:

https://irthinker.com/



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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:

https://irthinker.com/



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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:

https://irthinker.com/



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this insightful interview, Dr Gareth Mott explores the complex landscape of cybersecurity, discussing key challenges and strategies relevant to the UK’s national security. He explores topics such as the role of sovereignty in cyberspace, the UK’s cybersecurity strategy, and the balance between security and privacy. Whether you’re interested in the latest cyber threats or the evolving role of public-private partnerships, this conversation offers valuable perspectives.


Dr Gareth Mott is a Research Fellow in the Cyber team at The Royal United Services Institute for Defence and Security (RUSI). His research focuses on the governance of cyberspace, the evolving cyber risk landscape, and the strategic development of cybersecurity measures at both micro and macro levels. Additionally, Dr Mott is deeply engaged in exploring the challenges and potential of peer-to-peer technologies, contributing to the broader understanding of cybersecurity in a rapidly changing digital environment.


Content: (1) Exploring the Concept of Borders in Cyberspace; (2) Sovereignty and the Fragmentation of the Internet; (3) Cyber Threats Facing the United Kingdom; (4) Protecting the UK from Cyber Attacks: State and Private Sector Roles; (5) Key Institutions Managing UK Cybersecurity; (6) Overview of the UK Cyber Security Strategy; (7) Applying Traditional Deterrence Theory in Cyberspace; (8) The Role of Public-Private Partnerships in Cybersecurity; (9) UK’s Capabilities in Detecting and Responding to Emerging Cyber Threats; (10) International Cooperation in Cyberspace Security; (11) The Existence and Role of Cyber Law Enforcement, (12) Cybersecurity Education in the UK: Quality and Focus; (13) Balancing Cybersecurity with Citizens’ Privacy; and (14) Identifying Research Gaps in Cybersecurity.


Official website:

https://irthinker.com/



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In this insightful interview, Professor Timo Kivimäki delves into the concept of the “Long Peace” in East Asia, exploring its origins, challenges, and the role of key principles like non-interference and economic interdependence. He also discusses the unique dynamics between China, ASEAN, and other regional players, while addressing criticisms and potential research gaps in the field. Watch to gain a deeper understanding of East Asian peacekeeping and what the West can learn from it.


Professor Timo Kivimäki is a prominent scholar in International Relations, currently holding a professorship at the University of Bath (UK) and serving as a Senior Non-Resident Fellow at the Sejong Institute in Seoul, Republic of Korea. Since joining the University of Bath in January 2015, he has brought a wealth of experience from previous academic roles, including professorships at the University of Helsinki, University of Lapland, and the University of Copenhagen. In addition to his academic appointments, Professor Kivimäki has directed the Nordic Institute of Asian Studies (Copenhagen) and the Institute of Development Studies at the University of Helsinki, contributing significantly to the field of peace research and the study of East Asian international relations.


Content: (1) Inspiration for Studying Peace in the East Asia Region; (2) Challenges Faced in Researching East Asia; (3) Defining the Long Peace of East Asia; (4) Differentiating the Long Peace from Other Peace Periods in the Region; (5) The Principle of Non-Interference; (6) Origins of the Non-Interference Concept in East Asia; (7) Criticism: Non-Interference and the Perpetuation of Authoritarian Violence; (8) The Concept of Developmentalism; (9) China and ASEAN’s Role in East Asian Peace; (10) Face-Saving Strategies in Diplomacy; (11) Economic Interdependence in East Asia; (12) Exploring Other Forms of Interdependence; (13) Weaknesses in the Long Peace of East Asia Theory; (14) Balancing Non-Interference with Humanitarian Intervention in East Asia; (15) Diverse Regimes and the Notion of Democratisation in East Asia; (16) Lessons the West Can Learn from East Asian Peacekeeping; (17) Multipolarity vs. the Current West-Led International Order; (18) Explaining Current Security Threats in East Asia; (19) Potential Research Gaps in East Asian Peace Studies; and (20) Diversity of Researchers in Peace Studies.


The official website:

https://irthinker.com



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In this interview, Dr. Srabani Roy Choudhury discusses the evolving dynamics of India-Japan relations in the Indo-Pacific, covering strategic initiatives like SAGAR, Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific vision, and defence cooperation. Key topics include the impact of Taiwan, Japan’s defence policy, and critical minerals collaboration. The conversation provides insights into geopolitical trends shaping the future of India-Japan partnerships.


Dr. Srabani Roy Choudhury is a Professor of Japanese Studies Centre for East Asian Studies, School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, India.

Awarded Commendation for Promotion of Japanese Studies 2024 by Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tokyo Japan


Visiting Scholar at Policy Research Institute (2011), Kobe University (2014), Nagoya University (2019), Keio University (2022), University of Navarra (2024).


Content: (1) Complementary Visions: India’s SAGAR and Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP); (2) Reception of India’s SAGAR Initiative in Japan; (3) SAGAR: A Fixed Strategy or an Evolving Concept?; (4) Impact of Japan’s Increased Defence Spending on India-Japan Relations in the Indo-Pacific; (5) Reciprocal Provision of Supplies and Services Agreement (RPSS) Between India and Japan; (6) The Role of Taiwan in Shaping India-Japan Relations; (7) Comparing the Postures of Abe, Kishida, and Ishiba Towards India; (8) Ishiba’s Controversial Statement on an ‘Asian NATO’; (9) The Role of the USA in India-Japan Relations; (10) Japan’s Recognition of Arunachal Pradesh and Its Strategic Implications Against China; (11) India’s Limited Engagement in Minilateral Initiatives with Like-Minded Nations; (12) Strengthening India-Japan Collaboration in Securing Critical Minerals and Supply Chains Through SCRI; (13) Energy Cooperation Between India and Japan; and (14) The Future of India-Japan Relations.


Official website:

https://irthinker.com/



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Join us for an insightful interview with Quill Robinson as we explore the intricate dynamics of US-China energy relations and the solar industry.


This discussion covers key topics such as Chinese energy exports, US energy security, tariffs, environmental concerns, and the global energy transition. Discover the impacts of technological advancements, international institutions, and energy diplomacy on the evolving energy landscape.


Quill Robinson is a senior program manager and associate fellow with the Energy Security and Climate Change Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington, D.C. He is also a senior adviser with ConservAmerica. Previously, Quill served as the vice president of government affairs at the American Conservation Coalition.


Quill holds a BA in Political Science and International Studies from the University of Washington and an MA in Global Security Studies from Johns Hopkins University.


Content: (1) Chinese Energy Exports and Shifting Energy Geography; (2) US Energy Security and Its Link to China; (3) US Tariffs on Solar vs Investment in Solar Industry; (4) Competitiveness of the US Solar Industry; (5) US Support for Domestic Solar Panel Production; (6) Environmental Concerns about Imported Solar Panels; (7) Positive Implications of Sino-US Solar Panel Tariff Clash; (8) Lifespan Data of Solar Panels; (9) Chinese Battery Exports and Domestic Market; (10) US Progress in Energy Storage Installation; (11) China’s Position in US Energy Transition; (12) Impact of a 50% Tariff Increase on US Solar Panels; (13) Differences in Energy Transition Markets: US vs Europe; (14) Chinese Technological Advancements; (15) Role of International Institutions in Great Power Competition; (16) Potential for a Global Authority Regulating Energy Transition; (17) US Energy Diplomacy; (18) EU Energy Dependence on US LNG; and (19) Recommended Research Areas.


Official website:

https://irthinker.com/



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Explore the Afghan refugee crisis in Pakistan with Ido Raz, an expert in international relations. This interview covers key issues like the mass departure of Afghans, security risks, and Pakistan’s response. Raz discusses the geopolitical impact, Taliban’s role, and potential conflict escalation. Essential for understanding the complex dynamics of the Afghan-Pakistani relationship.


Ido Gadi Raz is a distinguished researcher specialising in the Afghanistan-Pakistan region, with a keen focus on terrorism, geopolitics, and international relations. Presently engaged in a fast-track Ph.D. programme in International Relations at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Ido blends his academic pursuits with practical experience. His background includes a notable role as a financial intelligence analyst in the Israeli government sector, lending a unique perspective to his regional expertise.


He holds a B.A. in Middle Eastern Studies and Arabic from Bar Ilan University, demonstrating a deep engagement with the cultural and linguistic subtleties of the region. Ido is actively involved in contributing to scholarly discourse, primarily through journal papers and analytical articles. Moreover, he is a recognised voice in Israeli media, where he shares his insights and perspectives on contemporary issues shaping Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the broader Middle East.


Content: (1) Afghan Displacement: Scale and Impact; (2) Security Concerns for Returning Afghans; (3) Border Dynamics and International Response; (4) Revisiting Pakistan’s Afghan Visa Policy; (5) Pakistan’s Response: Strategy and Tactics; (6) Taliban’s Crisis Management; (7) Pakistan’s Political Crisis and Afghan Exodus; (8) Terrorist Groups in Pakistan and Afghanistan; (9) Pakistan-Afghanistan Economic Ties; (10) Afghan-Pak Border: Colonial Legacy; (11) Diplomacy in the Refugee Crisis; (12) Need for Mediation in Pakistan-Afghanistan; (13) Cultural Aspects of the Crisis; (14) Pashtuns’ Role in the Situation; (15) Long-Term Policies for Crisis Resolution; (16) Conflict Risks: Pakistan vs Afghanistan; (17) Nuclear Factors in the Crisis; (18) Research Challenges in Pakistan-Afghanistan; (19) Afghan-Pakistani Scholar Collaboration; and (20) Suggested Research Areas.


https://irthinker.com/



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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.


Official website:

https://irthinker.com/



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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FAQ

How many episodes does IR thinker have?

IR thinker currently has 68 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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