In this enlightening episode, host Anirudh Suri and guest Helen explore the critical impact of energy on global geopolitics. They discuss why energy, rather than technology, has historically shaped power structures and political dynamics. Helen explains the pivotal role of oil and its influence from the 19th century through to the 21st century, touching on the US-China tech war, the strategic importance of shale oil, and the economic and geopolitical consequences of energy production shifts. This discussion provides clarity on the historical and current significance of energy in shaping global realities.**Helen Thompson** is an English academic who teaches politics at Cambridge University, where she is a professor of political economy and a fellow of Clare College, Cambridge, where she is also Director of Studies.She has been working in Cambridge since 1994 and is currently a member of the Department of Politics and International Studies. One of her recent research interests is the aftermath of the 2008 Financial crisis.

In this episode of the Great Tech Game podcast, Anirudh Suri talks to Prof. Helen Thompson, one of the leading experts on geopolitics and political economy. They discuss how the geopolitics is likely to shape the outcomes of national elections in 2024 (and vice versa), the worrying trends around populism, nativism and nationalism, and how climate and energy transitions are shaping the global order and the future of international relations.Prof. Thompson shares invaluable insights on key global topics. From the potential impact of the 2024 US presidential election on global power dynamics to the intricate interplay between domestic politics and foreign policy in major nations like the US and China, we delve deep into the forces shaping our world. Discover how Middle East dynamics, populism, and nationalism are reshaping political discourse worldwide, and gain a nuanced understanding of the evolution of these ideologies in the 21st century compared to their 20th-century counterparts. Drawing parallels between leaders like Trump and Julius Caesar and exploring the complex relationships between technological supremacy, energy security, and the transition to renewable energy, this discussion offers a comprehensive view of today's geopolitical landscape. From China's potential leadership in climate transition to Europe's uncertain future amidst Brexit and the rise of populism, we explore the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Don't miss this enlightening conversation on the geopolitical forces shaping our world's future. Subscribe now for more insightful content!**Helen Thompson** is an English academic who teaches politics at Cambridge University, where she is a professor of political economy and a fellow of Clare College, Cambridge, where she is also Director of Studies.She has been working in Cambridge since 1994 and is currently a member of the Department of Politics and International Studies. One of her recent research interests is the aftermath of the 2008 Financial crisis.

Chapters:00:00 Highlights 01:15 Introduction02:27 Impact of 2024 Election Outcomes on Geopolitics10:04 The Influence of Nationalism and Populism in Politics23:35 The Intersection of Energy, Technology, and Geopolitics34:40 The Future of Energy and Geopolitics39:36 The Importance of Climate Tech Mastery40:00 Historical Perspective on Resource Control41:52 The Role of Technology in Resource Extraction43:13 Geopolitics of Metals vs Oil & Gas 44:06 Future of Oil Producing Nations47:58 Similarities between Data and Metals 48:42 Bigger geopolitical forces at play in the Middle East 01:00:31 Europe's Future: The Big Picture 01:06:36 Africa: The New Scramble for its Resources 01:10:43 Helen Thompson's Book and Podcast Recommendations Book Links:#AnirudhSuri:**The Great Tech Game by Anirudh Suri:** [amzn.eu/d/1Su38My](http://amzn.eu/d/1Su38My)#HelenThompson**Disorder: Hard Times in the 21st Century**: https://amzn.eu/d/72bIz8J#climate #energy #geopolitics #disorder #oil #climatetech #climatetransition #europe #us #china #africa #middleeast #iran #russia #houthis #redsea #rareearths #lithium #cobalt #nickel #Electricvehicles #domesticpolitics #populism #donaldtrump #biden #nationalism #nativism