John Anderson: Conversations

John Anderson
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John Anderson: Conversations Podcast

Join Former Deputy Prime Minister of Australia John Anderson in conversation with some of the world's foremost thought leaders, to examine in detail the social, cultural and political landscape we live in today.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Tim Cross, British Army Officer and Military Logistics Expert

    Major-General Tim Cross joins John to discuss his experiences in the military amidst global security challenges. Reflecting on his involvement in the 2003 Iraq invasion, he acknowledges the failures of the post-war period, criticising the poor decisions that undermined lasting nation-building efforts. He also examines the growing threats from authoritarian regimes like Russia and China. Cross argues that the West is facing a leadership crisis and must embrace morally courageous decision-making to survive. He advocates for a strategic defence posture that enhances military capabilities to address modern threats, while also defending the core democratic values that are increasingly under pressure in the West.

    1h 17m

  2. SEP 13

    John Lennox, Professor of Mathematics, Oxford University and Author

    Join John as he speaks with Oxford Professor John Lennox about the intriguing connections between science, religion, and modern cultural shifts. Lennox reflects on how figures like Jordan Peterson have opened the door for renewed dialogue between Christianity and science. He argues that historical scientific pioneers were driven by their faith in a divine lawgiver, a perspective that has regained traction in modern intellectual discussions. The conversation also touches on the ethical challenges of artificial intelligence and society's growing struggle with truth in the age of deepfakes. Lennox emphasises the unique hope Christianity offers through the resurrection of Jesus, contrasting it with secular movements like transhumanism, which promises immortality but fails to address deeper human questions.

    1h 3m

  3. AUG 30

    Steve Tsang, Professor of China Studies, Author, Political Scientist

    John sits down with Professor Steve Tsang, a political scientist and historian of China, to discuss Xi Jinping and the Chinese Communist Party.   Professor Steve Tsang describes Xi Jinping’s leadership style as "Sinocentric Consultative Leninism": absolute control by the Communist Party. This control is maintained through surveillance, ostensible 'anti-corruption' campaigns, nationalism, and the educational 'shaping' of the people. Xi aims to expand China's global influence, using economic leverage and Taiwan to achieve his vision of national rejuvenation.

    1h 20m

  4. AUG 16

    Justin Brierley, Writer, Podcaster and Apologist

    In this episode, John sits down with Justin Brierley, an English academic, writer, podcaster, and Christian apologist. They explore cultural shifts in the West, particularly the rise and decline of New Atheism, and how recent years have seen a surprising resurgence of interest in Christianity, even among secular intellectuals. Brierley discusses his experiences hosting debates between Christians and atheists during the peak of New Atheism, noting how the movement eventually splintered and lost momentum as it became increasingly dogmatic. He highlights the rise of figures like Jordan Peterson and Tom Holland, who have challenged secular narratives and reintroduced Christian ideas into mainstream discourse. The interview also touches on suffering, the resurrection of Jesus, and Christian sexual ethics.

    1h 21m

  5. AUG 2

    Lord Mervyn King, Baron of Lothbury, Economist and Author

    John Anderson speaks with Lord Mervyn King about the shortcomings of modern economics, including its detachment from practical issues and over-reliance on modelling. They discuss the failures of economic forecasting during the COVID-19 pandemic and on climate change, stressing the importance of humility and honesty from policymakers. The discussion extends to socio-economic challenges like rising national debt and intergenerational inequality in Western democracies. The conversation also touches on modern monetary theory, quantitative easing, and the geopolitical implications of trade policies, especially with China. Lord King offers a critique of central bank digital currencies and cryptocurrencies, advocating against a completely cashless society.

    1h 16m

  6. JUL 19

    Konstantin Kisin, Comedian, Podcaster and Writer

    Konstantin Kisin returns to discuss his recent tour in America and analysis of the UK election: the decline of the Conservative Party, the rise of the Reform Party, and the structural challenges in Britain that now face the Labour Party. Reflecting on broader geopolitical issues, Kisin also shares his views on the Ukraine conflict and the need for decisive leadership. Drawing on his experiences touring with Jordan Peterson, Kisin highlights the public's hunger for messages of personal responsibility and the importance of maintaining cultural values, commending Australia's resilience in the broader Western world.

  7. JUL 17

    Peter Hitchens, Journalist and Author

    Join John Anderson as he interviews Peter Hitchens after the recent defeat of the Tories and the ascension of Keir Starmer. Hitchens offers a critical perspective on the Conservative Party and their gradual embrace of Tony Blair’s New Labour policies. He and John also explore the impact of public disengagement, the influence of public relations & advertising on politics, and the decline of traditional institutions like education, the family and local government. Hitchens also discusses the complexities of international relations, including Britain's alliance with the US and the situation in Israel. The discussion concludes with Hitchens' reflections on the diminishing role of Christianity in the West and the importance of a return to its moral principles in statecraft.

    1h 11m

  8. JUL 5

    Conversations: Andrew Kern, Author and Proponent of Classical Education

    In this interview, John is joined by classical education advocate Andrew Kern. They explore the transformative potential of classical education, highlighting its respect for humility, heritage, and the importance it places on cultivating wisdom and virtue. Kern addresses the challenges posed by modern technology, and the increasing trend of homeschooling, promoting the integration of Christian values with classical education principles to create coherent and harmonious learning environments.

    1h 26m
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Join Former Deputy Prime Minister of Australia John Anderson in conversation with some of the world's foremost thought leaders, to examine in detail the social, cultural and political landscape we live in today.

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