This episode explores the tensions and contradictions of liberal democracy. What are some recent developments regarding opposing dynamics of economic globalization and the political sovereignty of the nation state? And why are universities, which have paved the way for upward mobility in most Western democracies, now under attack? Tune in to hear why there cannot be a free society without free universities.
Guest featured on this episode:
Michael Ignatieff is a professor of history at Central European University in Vienna. He proceeded Shalini Randeria as rector and president of CEU between 2016 and 2021 during the turbulent years that saw the university being forced out of Hungary by Viktor Orban’s regime. Prior to joining CEU, he served as Edward R. Murrow chair of press, politics and public policy at Harvard University Kennedy School of Government. Michael is a public intellectual, well known for his wide range of writings, including commentaries on contemporary issues. He’s the author of numerous award-winning books, such as his biography of Isaiah Berlin, followed by, in 2000, the “Rights Revolution”, and in 2001, “Human Rights as Politics and Idolatry”. Then a decade later, he published an autobiographical reflection on his years in active politics titled “Fire and Ashes Success and Failure in Politics”. Michael also served in the parliament of Canada, where he was for some years the leader of the Liberal Party.
