The Global Bears

March 14th, 2023.

Across history, diverse civilizations and nations have wielded influence over their surroundings, giving rise to distinct empires that have indelibly shaped the course of the world. In this episode, we explore the notion of political hegemony and its historical import, spotlighting several great empires that epitomize this phenomenon. Additionally, we investigate the ramifications of these historical instances for ongoing discussions on global power and influence. Our exploration delves into how the lessons from the past can enrich our comprehension of contemporary geopolitical dynamics.

March 9th, 2023.

In this episode, we delve into various topics surrounding the controversies in international sports. Our discussion with fellow UC Berkeley students covers the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the Winter Olympics in China, the dual-nationality of players, and much more!

January 1st, 2023.

Do you think the United Nations should Exist? In the half-hour special episode, Berkeley students share their thoughts on the UN's past actions and future outlooks. 

November 1st, 2022.

In this episode, two team members provide insights into recent ground developments in the Russia-Ukraine War. We delve into the global reactions of other countries to the crisis and wrap up by discussing our predictions for the likely conclusion of the war.

October 16th, 2022.

A concise examination of the present landscape of contemporary cybersecurity reveals its growing militarization. Specifically, we explore the integration of cyberwarfare into the military and political strategies of China, Russia, and the US. The utilization of cyber capabilities varies significantly, shaped by the overall geopolitical practices of each nation.

October 11, 2022.

In this episode, three contributors from The Global Bears Podcast explore the rise of isolationist sentiments worldwide. Examining events such as Brexit and the withdrawal of American troops from the Middle East, nations grapple with finding a nuanced equilibrium between economic and political cooperation while safeguarding their individual interests. Concurrently, China extends its influence through the Belt and Road Initiative, a project that has been characterized by some as predatory.

In this episode, three members from The Global Bears Podcast discuss the spread of isolationist sentiments across the globe. From Brexit to the withdrawal of American troops in the Middle East, nations seek a delicate balance between economic/political cooperations and protecting their own interests. Meanwhile, China expands its influence through the Belt and Road Initiative, a project that some has been labeled as predatory.

May 1st, 2022.

Maintaining neutrality in global affairs is a proactive stance aimed at safeguarding a nation's citizens, irrespective of the geopolitical, moral, or ethical implications. In this discussion, we explore the examples of Switzerland during World War II, Mongolia in the 2000s, and India amid the Putin-Ukraine Crisis. 

Research and presentations by Lukas Leitzgen, Tiffany Liu and Maurice Ruttimann

Produced by Maurice Ruttimann

March 11, 2022.

The discussions today aimed to shed light on neighboring countries' perspectives regarding the Invasion of Ukraine. The goal was also to highlight the perceived hypocrisy of the West in strongly supporting Ukrainian victims against an oppressive force. Assertions that indifference is justified due to the persistent conflict in the Middle East, that victims of U.S. and NATO actions deserved their fate as alleged terrorists, and that the Middle East lacks economic and social ties with Europe are deemed misleading. These claims are viewed as propaganda employed to justify U.S. and NATO aggression while condemning that of their adversaries. The key takeaway, as articulated by Zachary, underscores the importance of vigilance and critical thinking in evaluating the presented narrative.

Podcast Produced by Maurice Ruttimann.

Voiced by Maurice Ruttimann

February 26th, 2022.

Embark on a new episode with our esteemed guest, Professor Michaela Mattes, an associate professor at UC Berkeley specializing in conflict management. Additionally, we feature insights from students on campus, sharing their perspectives on the present situation.

Podcast produced by Maurice Ruttimann

Voices include Maurice Ruttimann, Tiffany Liu and Kaitlyn Lenkeit