The Daily Show with Jon Stewart Season 11 Episode 63 Francis Fukuyama

The Daily Show with Jon Stewart season 11 episode 63 features political scientist Francis Fukuyama as the guest. Fukuyama, who is known for his controversial theory on the "end of history," discusses his latest book, "America at the Crossroads: Democracy, Power, and the Neoconservative Legacy."

Stewart opens the episode with a comedic bit on George W. Bush's approval ratings and the media's obsession with tracking them. He then introduces Fukuyama and delves into his background and academic achievements. Fukuyama explains his previous belief that liberal democracy was the final form of government and why events such as the Iraq War have caused him to question that theory.

The conversation between Stewart and Fukuyama covers a range of topics, including the neoconservative movement, the role of religion in politics, and the challenges facing America's democratic institutions. Fukuyama defends his previous support for the Iraq War while also acknowledging the mistakes made by the Bush administration and the damage done to America's reputation on the international stage.

Stewart challenges Fukuyama on his assertion that the neoconservative movement was a well-intentioned but misguided attempt to spread democracy and freedom around the world. He questions the lack of accountability for the architects of the War in Iraq and the impact of their decisions on the lives of everyday Americans and Iraqis.

The conversation then shifts to the role of religion in politics and Fukuyama's belief that secularism is the only way to ensure democratic governance. Stewart pushes back on this idea, arguing that religion should not be completely divorced from politics and that there are religiously motivated people who can work within a secular system to promote the common good.

The episode concludes with Fukuyama discussing his concerns about the health of American democracy and his hope that future leaders will be able to address the challenges facing the country. Stewart thanks him for his insights and sends the audience off with a humorous segment on the latest in American politics.

Overall, The Daily Show with Jon Stewart season 11 episode 63 is a thought-provoking and engaging conversation between Stewart and Fukuyama on the state of American democracy and the challenges facing the country in the wake of the Iraq War.