We talk to the historian Niall Ferguson about the politics of catastrophe, from pandemics and famines to world wars and climate change. Have we been worrying about the right things? Why have some countries done so much better than others with Covid? And what can history teach us about the worst that can happen? Plus, how likely is it that a cold war between the US and China turns hot?
Talking Points:
Niall argues that COVID is more like the Asian flu in ‘57/’58 than the 1918/1919 Spanish flu.
When we’re trying to assess the political impact of a disaster, the body count is not the most important thing.
What did we get wrong about the COVID response?
The distinction between natural and manmade disasters is a false one.
Mentioned in this Episode:
Further Learning:
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The Coup in Burma
What is the Union?
History of Ideas S2 E1 : Rousseau on Inequality
Germany, Italy, Coalitions and Vaccines
Biden Begins
The Long-term Legacy of Brexit
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Looking Back, Looking Forward
Where is the Opposition?
What's Next for France and Italy?
From Brexit to Scottish Independence
Young People vs Joe Biden
James O'Brien
Post-Covid Economics
War: What Is it Good For?
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