A Historian of the Future: Five More Questions for Stephen Kotkin

Recorded on February 10th, 2023.
Historian Stephen Kotkin became the Kleinheinz Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution in 2022. He taught at Princeton for more than 30 years, and is the author of nine works of history, including the first two volumes of his biography of Joseph Stalin, Paradoxes of Power, 1878 to 1928 and Waiting for Hitler, 1929 to 1941. He is now completing the third and final volume. Since the war in Ukraine broke out a year ago, Kotkin has appeared regularly on Uncommon Knowledge with Peter Robinson to offer his unique perspective on the Russian aggression and answer five questions for us. This is the third installment.
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[@ActFast]

I wish you would have Stephen Kotkin on every week! The world needs him right now. 🌍

[@colt45acp1000]

I taught German language for 47 years. I tried to weave into it history and culture. As time progressed, I became aware of how political the teaching of history had become. How does one teach history honestly in the current hyper political environment?

[@noahway13]

Each era had its political environment that discouraged any opposition. The change is, this seems to be a headless monster. The whole of society has a phobia about anyone saying anything 'negative' about them. And there is not one person you can pin on this "McCarthyism"

[@ericposey-vt5ej]

very late reply, but I think it's a mistake to expect history to be seperate from politics, because politics is part of history (integral part). The key is to have the bravery (or foolhardiness) to speak honestly regardless of the political landscape. To speak truth to power. And that also requires the bravery to both be wrong and accept being wrong.

[@thor.odinson.]

Pesci *ahem* Kotkin is a true realist not a fatalist like Kissinger or Mearsheimer. The best thing about Stephen Kotkin is he can answer any question no matter how trivial or complex and the perspective from which he sees the world is always fresh and exciting, every answer has some golden nugget of knowledge that is an absolute pleasure to learn. I'd love to see him talking about Ukraine with Timothy Snyder, the brilliance and the IQ in that dialogue would be breathtaking...

[@warrenny]

Pesci. Nice. Was thinking same. This is one of my favorite interviews on this channel. Really like Stephen Kotkin.

[@michaelh3857]

He is a fan, advocate of military might as the exercised by the United States. He does not know who the Russians are....He says nothing of the Victoria Nuland power grab....He has never been to war...a historian full of hot air.

[@martijnlukas4225]

It's absolutely amazing to hear these great minds. The sheer knowledge of Professor Kotkin and the astonishing interviewing skills of Peter Robinson are a great joy to listen to. As someone else mentioned before; setting up the table, a warm cup of tea and a blanket of wisdom. I have shared the link with many friends and peers already.

[@ragged_claws_scuttling]

Ik ook!

[@davidfutcher9609]

I'm stunned! This is my first time listening to Kotkin, and what an amazingly insightful person he is. He doesn't come off as being left wing or right wing, just reality-based. I was fortunate enough to have had an amazing teacher who understood history and what its power really was, not memorizing dates, which installed a love of history that is still with me some 50 years later.

[@pondacres]

I could relate, I had a hs history teacher like that too.

[@izaryterska3024]

Talks with Stephen Kotkin, I always watch two to three times, savouring his understanding of the world. Absolute treat! Thanx for that.

[@teamheartpower442]

What I love about this guy is that he sounds exactly like Joe Pesci, it's like I'm getting a history lesson by the mob.

[@liechinmannorman5140]

He looks like Pesci's twin and his credibility is in doubt with his interpretation of the war in Ukraine.

[@johnpayne7873]

Peter Robinson's gift is he knows how to set a cozy table; how to make intricate topics go down smoothly with delicious confections and warm tea. Stephen Kotkins' talent is the knows how to work the announcer's box in a ballgame; how to read the man on the mound as outfield mills around, able to pick each one out and name what's distracting them. My complements to you both. A very satisfying visit. Please do it again, soon.

[@Bigspli]

I love this guy he explains complex ideas that can easily be digested

[@doscassette871]

If you cannot explain a complex concept in plain terns you don't understand it

[@davidlcaldwell]

I am a Huge Stephen Kotkin fan. Please have him on more often. We need his Wisdom and Humor.

[@JagadanandaDas]

Excellent questioning. I like that quotations and asking a succinct question that requires a broad base. And then lets him talk. Peter Robinson is one of the best interviewers.

[@JagadanandaDas]

And Kotkin is so clear in his explanations.

[@bigtone667]

I love the fact that Stephen describes current situations in a basic descriptive way (no word olympics). The 10 bedroom house versus the 1000 bedroom house just makes sense. A lot of great questions as well.

[@ukraina91]

I'm a simple man, I see a Stephen kotkin video, I automatically like it!

[@ay2052]

What a marvelous human being- learned, sensible, rational, decent, humility

[@socrates6870]

Aa a Central European I have much respect for this man...we need more man like him on both sides of the Atlantic to make Atlanticism work for future generations...

[@SnowBalling]

I could listen to Stephen Kotkin speak for 10 hours straight. What a brilliant person he is.

[@tdschetzle6898]

Okay, it took me 2 days to absorb this presentation. I have to say it's one of the best presentations I have ever seen on several subjects: Ukraine, Russia, China, Taiwan and a quick reference to the American system's self correcting abilities. Well done, gentlemen, and thank you so much!

[@hamburgerjoe4401]

He really breaks it down in a clearer way than I think anyone else.

[@aryaasya546]

This is one of the best political interviews I have ever seen. Thanks Prof. Kotkin.

[@davidcollins7556]

Excellent survey of the Ukrainian situation. This Chanel is the jewel of KZbin.

[@Mr.Altavoz]

I wish he had a KZbin channel... it's such a pleasure to hear this professor talking about any subjects✌️🇨🇱

[@user-xh4ql9sl3m]

This is the most enlightening interview I’ve seen in a very long while. Thank you to you both.

[@Pie-qs4yg]

Wow what a brilliant mind, this man needs to be an adviser to our political leaders.

[@edwardwong654]

Stephen kotlin is wonderful to listen to, His son is a fellow high school alum.

[@Ravenflight104]

A fine display of balanced, rational intelligence. Thank you, gentlemen.

[@purplesheep99]

Always great to see Kotkin. Stephen is a superb guest. He should get his own show.

[@Qcqful]

Stephen is a diamond. Polished one at that. Trully rare.

[@lynngilbert1596]

When I went through Stanford, Western Civ was a required course lasting 9 months. It was largely intellectual history, readings of important writers. My idea today would be to require a year of SOME area’s history but allow choice among the Americas, Asia, Africa, or Europe. We need a wider view than just the US or Europe.

[@stevefrayne]

Thank you SO much for having THE BEST GUEST EVER on again. During the Ukraine war I really suggest you have him on every 1-2 months. His insight into everything Russia is peerless. He is a national treasure. Thank you, Dr. Kotkin for everything you do. We love you.

[@cecillekinnear4585]

I'm fascinated by the topic of authoritarian governance. Steven gets to the heart of the matter.

[@malsietah9403]

I always love and enjoy to listen to Stephen Kotkin

[@billhayward1585]

I'm less worried about our world after watching this interview. Thank you.

[@bogdanbaudis4099]

The cost of the reconstruction of Ukraine may be also measured against the FUTURE size of Ukrainians economy. After all, not many expected post-WW2 Germany to end up as the economic powerhouse of Europe and many questioned the wisdom of the Marshall's Plan.

[@cichociemny247]

Stephen Kotkin is an intellectual badass. Best wishes from Poland ;)

[@aftabnaveed]

It is always a pleasure to listen to such a great intellectual and Peter Robinson is such a great host who never will interrupt his guest.

[@nealljones]

Let's do an interview twice a week with Kotkin. He's so terrific!!!

[@Djaybird]

I remember watching these interviews a year ago. They are what kicked off nearly an entire year of watching and reading literally everything i can on russia/ukraine and geopolitics. Thank you!

[@danielramon962]

Such an extraordinary, deep and substancial interview... really grateful indeed!

[@UNATCOHanka]

Another great interview with Kotkin. I didn't even notice that 1½ hours have passed so thumbs up to Peter and Stephen.

[@duggi4]

the problem is that the more you swipe and scroll through Social Media, the more you train your brain to FORGET instead of reading and imagining and training our brain to remember. The more people are hooked on Social Media the more they swallow whatever the screen feeds them not having the ability to remember the policies or world events of History.

[@annakrystynastankov3781]

More of Kotkin as often as possible pls. .. so so sane and thoughtful!!

[@MagnusElpron]

Couldn't click faster ! Can't get enough of Professor Kotkin, thank you

[@Octaviamorris77]

This man explained this war in almost 2 hours in detail and for a layman to understand. The media, newspapers and the US Government are still trying too explain it and make it make sense. This man is brilliant.

[@mikisileoni]

Kotkin is so amazing, thank you!

[@michaelross2107]

A truly fascinating discussion. I could have listened to several hours more of this. Thank you.

[@Drumsgoon]

Always epic to hear him speak. Hope he finishes the triology!

[@swham1]

This really is a special show. Uncommon Knowledge is a treasure.

[@geopietro]

Great discussion. Intelligent. Insightful. Thought provoking. Thank you.

[@randomcommenteronyoutube1055]

Stephen Kotkin? Drop everything in my life and watch as soon as possible.

[@motorhead4446]

You know ... I could sit here all day listening to Professor Kotkin. A big thanks to everyone who make clips like these possible

[@carolgiangreco6548]

Bravo to an expert educator. Thank you.

[@clairebaum]

Please invite Professor Kotkin soon,we need him badly at the moment !

[@lennyFeb01March04]

Absolutely amazing! Nothing short of phenomenal. Thank you.

[@iggle6448]

Excellent interview Mr Robinson; excellent answers Prof Kotkin. You both have such erudition and insight.

[@briancase6180]

This show / interview series has both delighted me and infuriated me. That's just the way it should be! More Kotkin; I'm always interested in his perspective. Thanks!

[@jordomayor5224]

I think that these type of shows should be broadcasted all over the world and in every language possible.

[@vdove605]

Brilliant conversation gentlemen! Many thanks for sharing it with us!! ✨️

[@nathanngumi8467]

Very profound discussion! Prof. Kotkin is a rare breed of scholar and intellectual. I am not sure that with education standards dwindling in USA and elsewhere in the West another Kennan or Kissinger or Kotkin will be produced anytime soon.

[@MrMarccj]

Steven Kotkin often leaves me gasping for breath.

[@user-lj2hd8in6t]

The best interview I ever see and hear in my life time. I am 75 this year. Thanks to both, as well as HT & CR.

[@evaburnz]

Kotkin is a marvel.

[@denillefleming2942]

Kotkin has an astounding knowledge of history, and can weild it effectively!

[@assonancex]

This was a truly awesome interview. Thank you chaps.

[@paulmilligan3007]

Thank you. I find it hard to watch more than 15mins of anything on the internet and I watched all 1 hour 30 mins. Thank you both.

[@tualastancil8534]

It's always a joy listening to this great man of history thankyou professor best regards from Samoa.

[@burnsloads]

His hindsight is 20/20 but boy is he contemporarily 100% blind.

[@frommeralfred]

It is not true that Germany sends only a single digit number of tanks. They will send 14 Leopoard 2 A6 and 178 Leopard 1 A5 (together with Denmark and Netherlands). German contributions to the war effort are usually misrepresented and undervalued. This is mainly due to the German government being terrible at communication. If you look at the numbers, Germany is, in fact, second biggest supporter of Ukraine after the US (miliatry, financial and humanitarian aid).

[@littlebirdie2]

Excellent! Bring him back for another enlightening round!

[@user-fs7df1xg9v]

Stephen is the Joe Pesci of geo politics.

[@shad00w239]

OK first of all - if you don't invite this man back I'm full on rioting 😂. On a more serious note, I've been watching a lot of geopoliticians and historians lately but this conversation has reminded me why I need to go back to being a full on - book reading and consuming - student of history. It's not for everyone, God knows its not for everyone, but for those of us that have a love for it, we cannot lose that. In whatever capacity we can muster, we are going to have to be the stewards for future society to steer away from the mistakes of past millennia. Technology and industry has changed and evolved at break neck speeds, but the human condition has remained constant throughout a remarkable span of time. We have to remember that we can give humanity new toys to play with, but they will always remain human. That is our greatest strength and our greatest weakness, and those of us who can study the human condition across history, can shepherd us into a future worth protecting. God Bless these Titan's of intellectual thought sharing their wisdom with the masses. These episodes are criminally under watched for such a crucial moment in history, but the information is nevertheless a breath of fresh air in a chaotic world where history is afoot, and times are changing. Thank you for these questions, thank you for committing to more, please come back soon, we are patiently waiting for the next episode. Until next time.

[@cavscout888]

I liked this a lot. Definitely want to hear more from him!

[@kanweiwu7339]

The outcome of the Russia-Ukraine war has serious consequences on the peaceful existence among all Asian nations, especially between Mainland China and Taiwan.

[@lioicomestai3703]

Kotkin toppled my concept of hitory. When a talented historian display his narrative of main current affair, Kotkin lifted the topics with your intelligence and with pop culture taste that benefit the most. [谷歌翻譯] Kotkin 推翻了我的歷史概念。當一位才華橫溢的歷史學家展示他對主要時事的敘述時，科特金用他的智慧和最受益的流行文化品味來提升話題。

[@tonysaldana5866]

Amazing information about history and current events. Really enjoyed listening.

[@garbonomics]

Another great one Peter. Still up there with one of my favorite interview shows. Always fantastic guests with incredible insights.

[@briangaines3693]

Stephen’s house analogy sounds like a landlord’s worst nightmare

[@bofink5377]

Thank You for this, the most sofisticated political discussion, that I almost ever have heard.

[@suitnskull8255]

What a fulfilling talk. Just brilliant!

[@briancarl5566]

Huge fan - I've learned so much from Prof. Kotkin over the last year, and even read both of his Stalin books after being exposed to his work through these videos. Thank you and glad to hear he is with Hoover now full time!!!

[@6663000]

Wow! I just rewatched the two previous conversations with Stephen Kotkin yesterday, and now there's finally a new one after like 11 months! I must be pretty lucky.

[@mostlygreen1]

I think maybe Americans don't realise the lack of homogeneity in Europe. This chat treats Europe as if it's all the same, but with different languages. In fact there are huge differences in both political spectrum and their policy focus e.g. the UK is staunchly pro-Ukraine and looks to former colonies, France is ambivalent on Ukraine considers North Africa as part of its sphere, but Hungary couldn't care less about places out of Europe and is fairly pro Putin. A joint army would be crippled by a lack of consensus on foreign policy.

[@HarryOrenstein]

Prof. Kotkin articulates, what needs to be said ♡-felt Thank you

[@p.d.stanhope7088]

One of your best shows.

[@Alex.Kalashnik]

Thank you so much for the excellent analysis on Ukraine!

[@mr.majestic8713]

This was simply outstanding. 🤔🧐

[@MAM1000W]

Robinson sets up those questions so well!

[@eoinoconnell185]

Always one of my favourite guests

[@bobmathieson987]

I love this guy Steven Kotkin in the same way a happy plant loves the sun.

[@MarkM001]

That was really good! Thank you!

[@christinezaslavsky647]

So glad to see him joining the greats at Hoover!

[@ridethecurve55]

'They' are joining The Great (Stephen Kotkin)!

[@denzelamarus5259]

Marvelous discussion

[@rogeranderson8116]

Stephen Kotkin provides the most riveting analysis of the situation I've ever seen. Thanks to all for doing this! I hope someone would ask Mr. Kotkin to be Secretary of State.

[@lastshelter5550]

He’s an intelligent man & aware of a lot that he cleverly avoids pointing out but overall, very difficult to disagree with

[@bearcat729]

Thank you both. Spot on leaving us with a idea for a course of action of our own. Very well done both.

[@olya3391]

What a treat. Thank you very much.

[@ellenstoll7158]

Excellent!

[@johnl5316]

love this dude!

[@Alexander-ef5hb]

More like Stephen GOATkin - he is simply the best!! 🐐

[@tarek9513]

Awesome once again! #WeWantMore

[@homeschoolontheCroft]

Clicked the 👍🏼 button before I even began to listen… we just know it’s going to be a wonderful listen with Mr Kotkin!