PODCAST:Behind the Money
TITLE:TED Talks Daily: The next global superpower isn’t who you think
DATE:2023-12-27 00:00:00
URL:
MODEL:gpt-4-gizmo
In the "Behind the Money" podcast episode "TED Talks Daily: The Next Global Superpower Isn’t Who You Think," hosted by Mckella, political scientist Ian Bremmer discusses the changing dynamics of global power and influence. Bremmer's talk addresses how the world's power structure is shifting from traditional state-led dominance to a more complex and fragmented landscape, with technology companies increasingly playing a significant role.
Bremmer begins by outlining the historical context of global power, explaining how the world transitioned from a bipolar system during the Cold War, with the United States and Soviet Union as dominant powers, to a unipolar world where the U.S. was the sole superpower. He notes that about 15 years ago, the dynamics began to change as the U.S. showed less interest in being the world's policeman, other countries grew in power, and many citizens felt left behind by globalization.
He identifies three key factors behind current geopolitical tensions: Russia’s exclusion from Western institutions and its consequent decline and resentment, China’s integration into U.S.-led institutions without adopting U.S. ideologies, and the disenfranchisement of many citizens in wealthy democracies. These factors have led to a "leaderless world," according to Bremmer.
Bremmer predicts the emergence of three different global orders over the next decade: a unipolar security order dominated by the U.S., a multipolar economic order with shared power among several countries, and a new, significant digital order driven by technology companies. He emphasizes the growing influence of technology firms in shaping global events, including their role in Ukraine's defense against Russian cyber-attacks, the dissemination of information, and the manipulation of public opinion.
The digital order, Bremmer argues, is not governed by states but by technology companies, which have an increasing say in global affairs, from cybersecurity to political discourse. He raises concerns about the accountability of these companies as they amass unprecedented amounts of data and power over individuals' lives.
In a subsequent interview with Mckella, Bremmer elaborates on these themes, particularly the economic interdependence of the U.S. and China and the potential for a "techno polar order" if tech companies become the dominant global actors. He questions whether these companies will act responsibly and address issues like AI regulation, data privacy, and the promotion of hate and misinformation.
Bremmer concludes by emphasizing the need for tech leaders to become responsible global citizens and the urgency of integrating governance and democratic values into the rapidly evolving digital landscape. The episode highlights the complexities of contemporary global politics and the significant role of technology in shaping future world orders.
