Which Side of History?

In this episode Stanford University professor and Common Sense Media founder Jim Steyer explores whether we're witnessing the end of the post-World War II global order.    Joining the debate are historian Sir Niall Ferguson, presidential scholar David Kennedy, and former U.S. Education Secretary Margaret Spellings. The discussion delves into America's response to the rise of China, the current state of U.S. institutions, the economic implications of the Trump administration's policies, and the enduring issues of income inequality and national debt.   The episode concludes with a very funny and important call-to-action.   00:00 Introduction: The Rise of China and Trump's Presidency 00:51 Welcome to the Podcast 01:10 The End of the New World Order? 02:09 Historical Context: Post-WWII America 02:55 America's Global Dominance in 1945 04:14 The Role of International Institutions 08:37 The Changing Geopolitical Landscape 12:48 Domestic Politics and the Rule of Law 16:00 Trump's Impact on American Politics 36:07 Trump and Nixon: A Historical Connection 36:57 Trump's Influence on the Federal Reserve 38:40 Trump's Strategy Against the Bureaucracy 40:28 The Disruptor in Chief: Polling and Public Opinion 43:25 State and Local Government Challenges 48:42 Economic Policies and Predictions 58:41 The Importance of Reading and Final Thoughts

Stanford University professor Jim Steyer leads a lively discussion on the influence of big tech on democracy and America's youth. As founder of Common Sense Media, Steyer moderates a debate that features prominent tech journalist Kara Swisher, Pinterest CEO Bill Ready and Zoom Communications CEO Eric Yuan. They explore the consolidation of power in major tech companies, the role of artificial intelligence, and implications for our kids. What are the potential benefits and dangers of AI technologies? Do we need better regulation? Does Big Tech have too much power? How do we balance innovation with safety? Find out more on this episode:   00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks 00:45 Big Tech's Influence on Democracy and Society 01:42 Panel Discussion: The Dominance of Big Tech 02:19 Kara Swisher on Big Tech Oligarchy 04:06 Bill Ready on AI and Youth Mental Health 09:13 Eric Yuan on AI Infrastructure 12:25 The Need for Regulation and Consumer Choice 24:58 The Impact of AI on Democracy 25:56 Decline of Social Media Usage 26:26 AI: A Creative and Abusive Tool 27:02 Teaching AI Literacy to Kids 27:51 Regulating AI for Safety 31:07 The Collective Action Problem of Social Media 33:33 AI's Role in Education and Society 39:25 AI and Democracy: A Double-Edged Sword 43:24 Words of Wisdom for the Future 46:34 Final Thoughts and Encouragement   Please note: Jim Steyer's opinions are his own and do not represent Common Sense Media.

Stanford University professor Jim Steyer tackles the critical issue of climate change, comparing the United States to China and other global players. His esteemed guests are climate change legend Bill McKibben, investor Saloni Multani, and Jim's brother Tom Steyer.   They debate the current state of the climate, the economic dynamics at play, and political influences shaping climate policies. They also discuss America's receding role when it comes to global climate leadership. Also, are America's youth really plugged into environmental activism? What are the broader implications of energy policies, the role of older generations in climate activism, and the changing dynamics of information in the digital age? Find out on this episode.   00:00 Introduction to the Global Car Market 00:44 Welcome and Episode Overview 01:29 State of the Climate: Bill McKibbon's Insights 05:49 Economic and Psychological Challenges of Climate Change 08:01 Tom Steyer's Journey into Climate Activism 10:46 Renewable Energy and Global Leadership 13:14 Political Dynamics of Climate Change 19:45 Renewable Energy Innovations in the US and China 29:42 California and Texas: Contrasting Approaches 34:54 Texas Legislature and Renewable Energy 36:02 Federal Barriers to Clean Energy 36:33 Global Energy Market Dynamics 38:08 California's Renewable Energy Leadership 39:29 The Importance of Policy in Energy 42:39 Youth Engagement in Climate Issues 51:06 Global Perspectives on Climate Action 54:12 The Role of the United States in Global Climate Leadership 57:49 The Attention Economy and Climate Narrative 01:01:27 Conclusion and Call to Action   Please note: This episode was recorded on October 6, 2025 before Tom Steyer announced his campaign for governor of California. His appearance should not be considered an endorsement. Jim Steyer's opinions are his and do not represent the Common Sense Media.

In the inaugural episode, Common Sense Media founder and Stanford University professor Jim Steyer gathers an all-star panel featuring Pulitzer Prize winners Tom Friedman and Nick Kristof as well as media businesswoman Laurene Powell Jobs. The episode opens with talk about unprecedented attacks on American democracy and constitutional values. The panel delves into the current state of U.S. democracy, both domestically and aboard, discussing the roles and failures of political parties, the impact of media, and the importance of standing up against fear and corruption. Jim and his guests also discuss the global role of the United States, dive into the Israel-Gaza conflict, and examine the significance of U.S. global leadership. More than ever, they say, America needs active and informed citizens at home.    00:00 Standing Up Against Bullies and Corruption 00:33 Introduction to 'Which Side of History' 00:50 Inaugural Episode: State of American Democracy 01:01 Meet the All-Star Panel 02:20 The Importance of Open Dialogue and Solutions 03:55 The Role of Common Sense Media 04:44 Challenges Facing American Institutions 06:03 Introducing the Guests: Laurene Powell Jobs, Tom Friedman, and Nick Kristof 07:30 Discussion on American Democracy and National Wellbeing 08:18 Tom Friedman's Insights on Autocracies and American Institutions 12:02 Nick Kristof's Perspective on Authoritarian Regimes 18:30 Laurene Powell Jobs on the State of the Country 22:02 The State of the Two Parties in America 26:07 Critique of Biden Administration's Corporate Stance 27:06 Political Identity and Media Influence 28:07 Social Media Abstinence and Public Perception 29:19 Division for Profit and Political Energy 29:46 Speaking Engagement in Trump Country 33:17 Rural America's Struggles and Democratic Disconnect 39:02 Global Leadership and Abandoning International Order 41:34 Middle East Peace Plan and Challenges 48:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Please note: The views expressed in this podcast are the personal opinions of Jim Steyer and do not represent the official views or positions of Common Sense Media.

Coming in January! The popular Stanford University class Which Side of History is launching a podcast. Join longtime professor Jim Steyer and his all-star guests as they discuss the state of American democracy, big tech, public policy, politics, and the impact on families today. The founder of Common Sense Media, Steyer offers a sneak peek of the first episode, dropping on January 6th.  Make sure you follow Which Side of History on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever your listen. And subscribe to the YouTube channel for more great content. Please note: The views expressed in this podcast are the personal opinions of Jim Steyer and do not represent the official views or positions of Common Sense Media.