Jeffrey Sachs: Economics, Conflict, and Real-World Diplomacy

A note from Lawrence:

Jeffrey Sachs was the youngest tenured professor in Harvard’s history when he was promoted only a few years after receiving his PhD. And for good reason. He is one of the most remarkable intellects I know. I have always been amazed and the breadth of his reading and knowledge, and when I give him one of my physics books, he reads it in a day, and comes back with great questions.

Jeffrey has not been content to stay within the confines of academia, and for 17 years served as a senior advisor to the head of the UN, and has worked, sometimes controversially, with numerous governments to help them out of economic hardships. His interest in world affairs has caused him to write a great deal about power politics, global conflict, and diplomacy, and I wanted to sit down and talk to him about two conflicts about which he has written recently, Ukraine and Gaza.

But first, we talked about his own career, his interest in economics, and also his thoughts about the UN, an agency which of late has dropped considerably in my own estimation.

I agree strongly with Jeffrey that only diplomatic solutions to military conflicts have any hope of lasting, and that nationalist politics that sustain military adventurism inevitably only causes the people within both warring countries undue hardship. But how to extricate countries from the cycle of violence is a difficult challenge, and Jeffrey doesn’t mince words in that regard. I have to say that I agree with him wholeheartedly about Ukraine. Not as completely on the Middle East, though our disagreements are subtle. We both agree that a two state solution in the middle east is essential, and detest many policies of the current Israeli government, especially on the west bank (although no more than I think we both detest the policies of the terrorist lunatics governing Gaza, who seem intent on inflicting as much or more hardship on their own populace as any external government does, most often to score political points on the world scene) I am less sanguine about the likelihood that UN troops and Arab nations could or would realistically and fairly implement and police such a situation, but I sympathize with his views that the UN may be the last resort.

I expect I may read some angry feedback about some of Jeffrey’s suggestions, but once again, reasoned discussion, especially about disagreements, is essential if we are to make progress, in science, and in the real world. As a result I feel particularly lucky to have people like Jeffrey to have such discussions with. I hope you are as stimulated and educated by the discussion as I always am when I talk to him.

[iluvmuusic]

Sachs is a rare honest and knowladgeable voice. Takes a lot of courage, these days. Kudos for inviting him.

[sarahfern]

The truest sign of intelligence is constant eagerness to learn.

[knbkbt]

Best guest ever. I long for a day we see more sane voices like Jeffery Sachs, the world need people like him.

[Kafkaesque]

Mr Sachs reaffirms one's belief in human ability to do good against all odds. Respect.

[alekanal]

I can't stop admiring Professor Sachs for his knowledge and humanity. I'm listener from Czech republic that joined " the world " in 1989. Mr. Sachs understanding of countries without prejudice makes him qualified to introduce background of today's politics. Thanks for the great programm.

[richardfabrinnielsen]

I can not thank you enough, Lawrence, for bringing Jeffrey Sachs on. The world needs to listen to what he has to say. He is the definition of "making sense".

[slimone]

Thank you for this interview. Professor Sachs is priceless.

[evapaparisteidou]

I don’t understand why you said you expected negative comments! Jeffry Sacks is always the

[sgturner]

Thank you for interviewing Prof. Sachs. Much appreciated.

[Mattsretiring]

THANK YOU, Professor.
Finally, "an adult in the room" to borrow a phrase from another well-known public intellectual.
Imagine a world where diplomats discuss problems rather than just carpet bomb.

[fjordhellas]

I’m such a privileged human being to have been a student of Professor Jeffery Sachs! What an exceptional brilliant intellect, economist and world citizen he is! We need Leaders like him. I was so honored to have seen him in ‘an eye opener ‘ conference in Brussels about six years ago. Thank you for inviting Jeffery Sachs on your podcast!

[hunsbuck]

Thank you, Lawrence, for this stellar moment. It is refreshing to see such a profound and enlightening discussion with one of the most remarkable intellectuals of our time, Jeffrey Sachs. His extensive knowledge and commitment to global diplomacy and economic solutions are truly inspiring. The topics covered in this video – from conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza to global diplomacy – are of immense significance to the global community.

Lawrence Krauss, your interview with Jeffrey Sachs not only showcases his impressive career and contributions to economics but also his unwavering dedication to finding sustainable solutions through diplomatic means. This is a much-needed call for reason in a time when military confrontations often take center stage.

The open and respectful nature of the discussion, even in the face of disagreements, underscores the importance of clear and analytical approaches to solving global issues. A special thanks to both of you for engaging in such conversations and making them accessible to the public. May this video inspire many and contribute to the promotion of peace and understanding.

[GeoDevine]

Jeffrey Sachs, a true bright mind, a perfect guest for your podcast.

[jennyrokeach]

I never get tired of listening to Dr Jeffrey Sachs

[thomasrutledge]

Dr. Krauss, your introduction to this conversation was excellent. It was very thoughtful and articulate.

[JB-lovin]

I hadn’t known Jeffrey Sachs day job was with the UN. Now I understand how he survives as such a singular voice of rationality in geopolitics. Thanks for the sanity.

[merfymac]

Good conversation. Sachs is an honest well-informed fellow. More guests like this. Don’t fear the haters. Text can’t find you when the phone’s off!

[mediuscura]

Thank you for sharing this much needed interview with Jeffrey Sachs!

[ollyr_]

One of my favourite public speakers, experts and human beings

[amunra]

Oh wow I would never have expected Jeffery Sacks to be on this podcast!