Intelligence Squared Intelligence Squared

Francis Fukuyama on the New World Order (Part Two)

Sep 12, 2026 · 39m

Summary

In this live event at Union Chapel, Francis Fukuyama discusses the crisis of liberal democracy with Martin Wolf, drawing on his memoir *In the Realm of the Last Man*. They explore how generational complacency, social media, and technological disruption have fueled populism and authoritarianism. Fukuyama argues that while liberal democracy faces severe challenges, its resilience lies in the poor governance of its alternatives. The conversation also addresses the threat of concentrated wealth, the collective action problem of climate change, and the geopolitical rivalry with China.

Topics discussed

Sponsor: Indeed Sponsored Jobs Introduction: Fukuyama and Wolf on Liberal Democracy The Democratic Recession and its Causes Critiques of Liberalism and Generational Cycles Technology, Information, and Democratic Practice Pessimism vs. Hope: The Weakness of Alternatives Populist Governance Failures and US Checks and Balances Election Integrity and the 2026 Midterm Outlook European Safeguards and Proportional Representation Sponsors: Indeed, Checkout.com, Ozempic, Instagram, Visible Vitocracy: Fixing Bureaucratic Gridlock AI: Economic Impact and Existential Risks China's Economic Model and Geopolitical Future US-China Comparison and Public Perception Q&A: Wealth Concentration and Tech Oligarchy Q&A: Antitrust and Tax Enforcement Q&A: Ukraine Support and Iran Conflict Q&A: Climate Change and Collective Action Conclusion and Book Promotion Sponsors: Checkout.com, Disney+, Carvana, SimpliSafe
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