Single Best Idea with Tom Keene: Richard Portes
Digest
This podcast covers a range of international relations and economic topics. It begins with discussions of the Euro's risk to the dollar, an analysis of the post-Fourth of July American economy, and previews of upcoming books by Kenneth Rogoff (on global economics and finance) and Rick Atkinson (on the American Revolution). The discussion then shifts to the legacy of Joseph Nye and the decline of soft power in a chaotic international environment, highlighting the challenges to multilateralism. Finally, the podcast analyzes UK domestic politics under Prime Minister Starmer, focusing on his difficult balancing act between the EU and the US, and exploring the complexities of the US-UK "special relationship."
Outlines

Global Economics and Political Analysis
The podcast opens with economic discussions: the Euro's risk to the dollar, post-Fourth of July US economy, and previews of books by Kenneth Rogoff (global economics and finance) and Rick Atkinson (American Revolution).

Soft Power and Multilateralism in Decline
Richard Portis discusses Joseph Nye's death and the decline of soft power due to the current chaotic international environment and the weakening of multilateralism.

UK Politics and Transatlantic Relations
Analysis of UK domestic politics under Prime Minister Starmer, focusing on his balancing act between the EU and US, and the complexities of the US-UK relationship.
Keywords
Soft Power
The ability to influence others through cultural attractiveness and ideological appeal. Joseph Nye's work is central to this concept.
Multilateralism
A system of international relations where multiple countries cooperate. The podcast discusses its current challenges.
Transatlantic Relationship
The political and economic relationship between the US and Europe, particularly the EU. The podcast explores its complexities.
Kenneth Rogoff
Prominent economist whose upcoming book on global economics and finance is discussed.
American Revolution
The war between Great Britain and its thirteen American colonies (1775-1783). Rick Atkinson's book on this topic is mentioned.
Joseph Nye
Influential scholar known for his work on soft power.
UK Politics
Discussion of the political landscape in the United Kingdom and Prime Minister Starmer's leadership.
US-UK Relationship
Analysis of the complex and evolving relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom.
Global Economics
Discussion of global economic trends, including the Euro and the US economy.
Q&A
What is the current state of soft power in the international arena, and why is it declining?
Soft power is struggling due to the chaotic international environment and the decline of multilateralism, making its effective use difficult.
How is UK Prime Minister Starmer navigating the relationship between the EU and the US?
Prime Minister Starmer faces a difficult balancing act between maintaining good relations with both the EU and the US.
What are some of the key themes explored in Kenneth Rogoff's upcoming book?
The book will cover global economics and finance, touching upon Russia, Europe, Japan, and the future of the dollar.
Show Notes
Tom Keene breaks down the Single Best Idea from the latest edition of Bloomberg Surveillance Radio.
In this episode, we feature a conversation with Professor Richard Portes.
Watch Tom and Paul LIVE every day on YouTube: http://bit.ly/3vTiACF
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.






