Ep 7. Jeffrey Sachs
- January 20, 2015
Tavis Smiley season 9 episode 7 brings a fascinating conversation with Jeffrey Sachs, an internationally renowned economist, leader in sustainable development, and senior UN advisor. Sachs discusses his recent book "A New Foreign Policy: Beyond American Exceptionalism", which offers a roadmap for values-based cooperation and global security, in contrast to current US foreign policy driven by military force and unilateral leadership.
Smiley and Sachs delve into the wider implications of American exceptionalism, exploring how this narrative has shaped US foreign policy over the years and how it has driven negative impacts such as wars, interventions, and inequality. They argue that American exceptionalism essentially glorifies the US as the sole global power with unique moral values and history, while disregarding the perspectives and contributions of other nations and cultures.
The conversation also touches on the importance of addressing global inequalities and poverty, and the role of international cooperation and aid in achieving long-term sustainable development. Sachs discusses his experience working with various global organizations and governments, and highlights some successful models of cooperation and progress, such as the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Climate Accord.
Furthermore, Smiley and Sachs explore the potential of alternative models for foreign policy and global governance, such as regional alliances, multilateral diplomacy, and grassroots activism. They emphasize the need to foster a new kind of leadership that is based on empathy, dialogue, and shared values, rather than domination and power struggles.
Throughout the episode, Smiley and Sachs engage in an insightful and thought-provoking discussion on the pressing issues of international politics, economics, and social justice. As Sachs observes in the end, "we're not just talking about economics and politics, we're talking about the fundamental values of human life and dignity". The episode offers a refreshing perspective on how we can develop a more inclusive and humane foreign policy that transcends national borders and serves the common good of humanity.
