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John Anderson: Conversations

John Andersonjohnanderson.net.au

Former Deputy Prime Minister of Australia

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Episodes

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...

Sep 27, 20241 hr 17 min

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 ...

Sep 13, 20241 hr 3 min

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 leverag...

Aug 30, 20241 hr 20 min

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 mo...

Aug 16, 20241 hr 21 min

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 ...

Aug 02, 20241 hr 16 min

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 responsibil...

Jul 19, 20241 hr 13 min

Peter Hitchens, Journalist and Author III

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 co...

Jul 17, 20241 hr 11 min

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.

Jul 05, 20241 hr 27 min

Direct: Iain McGilchrist, Psychiatrist, Philosopher, Researcher and Literary Scholar

In this interview, John speaks with Iain McGilchrist about the differences between the left and right hemispheres of the brain and their impact on our perception and interaction with the world. Iain explains that the left hemisphere focuses on details and immediate tasks, while the right hemisphere maintains a broad, vigilant awareness of the environment. He discusses how modern society overemphasizes the left hemisphere's functions, leading to a loss of meaning, beauty, and wisdom.

Jun 21, 202456 min

Conversations: Peter Court and Walter Purio, Experts in Maritime Security

In this interview, John Anderson speaks with Peter Court and Walter Purio, experts in maritime security, about Australia's vulnerabilities in shipping logistics and maritime defence.They highlight Australia's lack of domestically registered international trading ships, leaving the country heavily reliant on foreign vessels. They also examine the economic and strategic risks posed by this dependency, especially during crises.

Jun 07, 20241 hr 5 min

Direct: Alexander Downer AC, Former Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia

In this conversation, John joins Alexander Downer to explore the significant geopolitical challenges of today, drawing comparisons to the dangerous period of the 1930s.Alexander warns of potential large-scale conflicts stemming from entanglements in Ukraine, the Middle East, and the South China Sea, emphasizing the need for a strong, principled approach to foreign policy.

May 24, 20241 hr 16 min

Direct: Dennis Prager, Commentator and Author

Dennis Prager joins John to explore the deepening divisions in America today. Concerned with the destructive tendencies of left-wing movements, Dennis points to growing difficulties for young men and women who are deprived of the structure and blessings of Western civilisation.He emphasises that while these issues are daunting, despair is not an option, echoing his belief that "despair is a sin.” Confronting the polarising shifts between red and blue states, which give little reasons for hope, D...

May 17, 20241 hr 5 min

Direct: With Victor Davis Hanson, Historian, Commentator and Author

Professor Hanson joins John to discuss his new book The End of Everything, as well as the considerable unrest across America in the lead up to the 2024 Presidential election. They unpack the recent turmoil in higher education and its aggravation due to the unchecked left-wing ideology of those in leadership. They also discuss the unassailable appeal of Trump among Republican voters due to his outsider status and thick skin.They finish on a discussion of his new book The End of Everything, examin...

May 10, 20241 hr 24 min

Direct: With Dr Albert Mohler, Author, Commentator and Theologian

In this interview, John talks to highly esteemed author, commentator and theologian, Dr Albert Mohler.Dr Mohler and John discuss the political history and landscape of America in the lead up to the 2024 presidential election.Dr Mohler explores Christian perspectives on American politics, including the difficult choice both President Trump and Biden present to voters due to their disqualifying ethical views and character traits.They also address the rise of Christian nationalism, and the misunder...

May 03, 202458 min

Direct: With Helen Joyce, Author and Journalist

In this interview, John is joined by author and journalist Helen Joyce to discuss the recent Cass review and its revelations that medical treatment for children with gender confusion has rested on ‘shaky foundations’.John and Helen talk about the history of transgenderism, where it stems from and where it is going. Helen explores the demographics affected by transgender ideology, namely, the large number of children that fall prey to it, and the struggles their parents face in trying to help the...

Apr 23, 20241 hr 16 min

Direct: with Dave Rubin, Political Commentator and Talk Show Host

In this interview, John talks to Dave Rubin, author, TV personality and political commentator. John and Dave discuss the current political landscape of America, commenting on the upcoming US election in a time of deep polarisation.Dave examines the ineptitude found in the political class, and the contrasting roles of Generation X and Z for securing a hopeful future in America.

Apr 12, 20241 hr 4 min

Direct: With Molly Worthen, Christian Historian and Journalist

In this interview John speaks with Molly Worthen, a highly acclaimed religious historian and journalist. They explore religious liberty, separation of church and state, and the impact of Christianity on America.Molly also speaks about her journey from thoughtful pragmatist to Christian convert, which has only occurred in recent years.

Mar 28, 20241 hr 3 min

Conversations: Konstantin Kisin, Podcaster, Comedian & Commentator IV

John sits down with Konstantin Kisin to discuss a variety of topics, from the war in Ukraine, to multiculturalism and the gradual decline of the West, as well as what it's like to grow up on a farm.Raised in the Soviet Union, Konstantin is not persuaded by leftist visions of utopia, and exhorts reasonable people to speak out against the 'woke mob'. He also argues that multiculturalism should be rebranded as multi-ethnic societies with a 'mono-culture', uniting everyone from different backgrounds...

Mar 15, 20241 hr

Conversations: With Danny Kruger, British Politician and Author

In this interview, John sits down with Conservative MP Danny Kruger at the recent ARC conference to discuss his role in the rise of 'New Conservatism'.Danny argues that over time the UK government has drifted away from the will of the people, eroding traditional values and focusing on global over domestic interests. This shift has provided an opportunity for conservatives to unite the country, appealing to basic traditional values people still possess, even in typically safe labor seats.This cha...

Mar 01, 202441 min

Direct: With Victor Davis Hanson, Historian and Writer

In this interview, John has an in-depth discussion with renowned historian and writer Victor Davis Hanson. They discuss a wide range of topics including immigration, the current state of tertiary education, the condition of the Biden administration, and the 2024 presidential election.John and Victor talk about changing demographics in politics, and how, against all odds, younger generations are tending towards independent, rather than institutionalised, views.Victor also addresses the conflicts ...

Feb 16, 20241 hr 8 min

Direct: with Mary Harrington

In this interview, John sits down with Mary Harrington for a discussion on a wide range of topics, from the advantages of conformity to transhumanism.Mary shares her journey from radical leftist and non-conformist, to discovering fulfillment in embracing traditional societal expectations. She uses her story to highlight our obsession with non-conformity, as is so often modelled in popular media.She also offers commentary on elitism and the current state of democracy, arguing that its current for...

Feb 02, 20241 hr 17 min

Direct: Matthew Goodwin, Academic, Author and Pollster

In this interview, John speaks with British political scientist, Matthew Goodwin.Matthew recounts the emergence of a new class of elites and the ways in which they have diverged from the more traditional British ruling class, and more importantly, from the general public.

Jan 12, 202459 min

Direct: Prof. Nancy Pearcey, American Evangelical Author

In this interview, John speaks with evangelical author Prof. Nancey Pearcey.Pearcey offers valuable insights into issues surrounding the concept of masculinity, from the importance of fatherhood, to the history of the nuclear family, and the impact of Christianity on marriage. She argues that the latest sociological research shows that faithful Christian men make the most stable marriages, loving fathers, and happy families despite claims Christianity makes men "toxic".Pearcey also critiques the...

Dec 20, 20231 hr 20 min

Direct: Prof. John Mearsheimer, American political scientist

In this conversation, John speaks with political scientist and international relations scholar Professor John Mearsheimer about the recent war in Ukraine, and the potential for conflict in Taiwan.Mearsheimer argues for what he calls 'offensive realism,' which holds that conflicts between states are driven by the need to maximize power in relation to other states. This is in contrast to the heterodox liberal framework, which Mearsheimer contends was only tenable under the recently ended ‘unipolar...

Dec 08, 20231 hr 7 min

Conversations: Dr. James Orr, A/Prof of Philosophy of Religion

John sits down with Cambridge University Associate Professor James Orr to discuss multiculturalism, religion, and the therapeutic nature of modern society.He contends that religious communities are ‘bunkers’ in the modern world, acting as places of refuge from culture. Moreover, Dr. Orr addresses his controversial tweet, ‘import the Arab world, become the Arab world’, unpacking the complexities of multiculturalism. He also discusses how our increasingly therapeutic culture has had serious ramifi...

Nov 24, 20231 hr 19 min

Conversations: Niall Ferguson, Historian and Author

John is re-joined by pre-eminent historian Niall Ferguson to analyse the latest conflict between Israel and Hamas. Ferguson argues that due to the nature of Hamas’ urban warfare, tunnel systems and civilian shields, Israel will have a long and difficult campaign ahead. He also points out that the decline in Western support for Israel, particularly in the younger generations, is due to a woke university system propagating Islamist and left-wing viewpoints, attempting to create a moral equivalence...

Nov 14, 202359 min

Conversations: Douglas Murray, Journalist and Author

In this conversation, John sits down with journalist and author Douglas Murray to discuss the war on Western culture in light of the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas.Murray argues that Western Civilisation is being eroded by the collapse of history, faith and moral clarity. This cultural decay, Murray suggests, has been caused by a variety of factors including illegal immigration, secularisation, identity politics and the rise of radical Islam. Nonetheless, Murray is encouraged by the gr...

Nov 08, 20231 hr 1 min

Conversations: Peter Hitchens, Journalist and Author II

John sits down with journalist and author Peter Hitchens to discuss the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. This conversation was filmed on the 26th of October.While Hitchens labels himself as 'pro-Israel' he argues against their current course of action as both politically and militarily disasterous. Moreover, Hitchens is a self-proclaimed 'free speech absolutist' which he discusses in the context of anti-Semitic speech and the ongoing political challenges facing Britain.

Nov 03, 202350 min

Conversations: Victor Davis Hanson, Historian and Writer

John is joined by military historian Victor Davis Hanson to discuss the escalating conflict in the Middle East. This conversation was recorded on Wednesday the 18th of October. Hanson argues that Israel is in a unique position to retaliate unencumbered by American opposition, due to the bi-partisan support it currently has in the US. However, he contends that conflicts like this, and others such as the war in Ukraine, would probably not have transpired had President Trump still been at the helm.

Oct 20, 20231 hr 10 min

Conversations: Glen Scrivener, Author, Minister and Director of Speak Life

In this interview, John sits down with author, minister and director of Speak Life, Glen Scrivener for a conversation on how the Christian worldview has shaped our society.Glen does a fantastic job communicating how thoroughly the Christian ethic has shaped and still continues to shape our culture today. Most remarkably, Glen highlights how even many of the arguments of Christianity’s biggest detractors are based on presuppositions that are fundamentally Christian in nature.

Oct 06, 20231 hr 6 min
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