The Mailbag Show: The GoodFellows Answer Your Questions

[@TDP-w3j]

Well done HR McMaster for being the voice of reason on Trumps appointments. ‘A mixed bag’ to say the least.

[@robertmize327]

That was a great mailbag. Thanks, guys! Merry Christmas

[@petercrew761]

Thanks Gents for answering my question

[@RN-lo6xc]

Amazing episode - i love seeing these three engage with the audience’s questions

[@metrx330]

51:14 Animal Farm is a brilliant book for children too. But get them to read it twice, once aged 8-9, and again around age 17.

[@oerjanlothe2369]

- [00:00] The show begins with an introduction, setting the context for the discussion, featuring hosts Bill Whalen, Niall Ferguson, John Cochrane, and H.R. McMaster addressing social, economic, and geopolitical issues. - [00:30] The hosts are introduced, and the format for the show-a Q&A session with viewer questions-is explained. - [01:01] A question about Africa's geopolitical significance and China's and Russia's influence on the continent is raised. - [02:10] Niall Ferguson discusses China's increasing involvement in Africa through infrastructure projects and resources, highlighting cultural clashes and governance challenges. - [04:22] John Cochrane critiques Western focus on climate change rather than infrastructure and market solutions as the real needs of Africa. - [06:50] H.R. McMaster highlights China's exploitative practices in Africa and stresses the importance of private sector engagement and investment. - [10:48] Ferguson emphasizes the difficulty of Western private investment due to governance failures in major African economies like South Africa and Nigeria. - [12:49] A transition to the next question about Russia's use of North Korean troops and implications for its military and economic stability. - [13:29] McMaster critiques Russia's unsustainable war losses and emphasizes strengthening Ukraine for future negotiations. - [15:52] Cochrane and Ferguson discuss economic pressure on Russia and the Biden administration's inconsistent support for Ukraine. - [19:47] The discussion shifts to Taiwan, with a question about Taiwanese apathy toward China's threats. - [20:39] Ferguson draws historical parallels, noting complacency in Taiwan could be dangerous, and emphasizes the strategic threat posed by China. - [24:00] McMaster underscores the urgency of countering China's military buildup and global ambitions, emphasizing economic and strategic challenges. - [28:08] Cochrane discusses the balance between economic deterrence and warfare with China, highlighting the need for strategic use of economic tools. - [32:13] Questions on Argentina's reforms under Javier Milei and lessons for the U.S. are addressed. - [34:12] Ferguson praises Milei's bold economic reforms, including fiscal tightening and deregulation, as transformative. - [37:18] A question on Trump's understanding of the Constitution prompts reflections on presidential leadership and organizational skills. - [40:28] Ferguson defends Trump's use of tariffs as geopolitical tools and highlights his administration's strategic planning. - [45:25] A question on instilling morality and patriotism in children prompts book recommendations, including Tolkien's works for their universal values. - [51:37] A PhD student asks for career advice in academia, and the hosts encourage pursuing excellence, exploring alternative institutions, and building networks. - [57:20] A lightning round begins with discussions on Biden's pardon of Hunter, geopolitical shifts in Syria, and guest preferences for future episodes. - [1:11:51] The show concludes with a preview of the next episode featuring Wall Street Journal columnist Kim Strassel.

[@polvoazul]

This show is amazing. Please never stop. :)

[@samm6886]

I'm pleased HR at least raised concerns over some of Trump's appointments, notably Tulsi Gabbard. These guys have some valid criticisms of Biden's administration, but astonishingly, they frequently gloss over or ignore the real dangers of Trump (who has a track record of failure on foreign policy, such as North Korea). They often correctly outline what the United States should be doing internationally; if only Republicans would listen.

[@notlimey]

glad there'll be a Christmas present episode

[@kentbishop2635]

Ha, ha, my wife Genine apologises to Niall. Thanks to all goodfellows for deep answers to great questions.

[@charlesdavis3802]

Agree on David Hume and recommend his History of England- the edition with the Preface by his friend Adam Smith

[@donnacarlson8960]

Niall is SOOO right about Tolkein!

[@johnweiner]

Chuck Bednarik...YES!!! Tough and hard...I think his family came from the anthracite region of Pennsylvania.

[@recitalspringfmc]

Great show, so informative

[@magellan500]

These guys are the best. I religiously follow them.

[@fs5775]

Love love love H.R.'s Philly pride. He represents us so well !!

[@richardsuttie8287]

Awesome suspenders, Niall!

[@oliverjamito9902]

For all who are 1st! Will be last! And who is Last "least" will be 1st!

[@christelwilliams1675]

As always many thanks

[@nancyjimeno7001]

I’ve taught the Declaration and the Constitution to undergrads for 20 years. But there’s no way I could survive this last campaign and election, let alone run the country. And don’t forget that Trump’s late sister was a federal judge. Surely she had some educational influence in his life.

[@Iwantalloftheinformation]

Tariffs on Mexico and Canada and China? People like me will be even less able to afford basic things...how does it help all low and even middle class people who won't even be able to afford your crap?

[@bsmithhammer]

Tariffs aren't going to happen on Mexico and Canada (at least not as described thus far). These are negotiating tools. As for China, I have no problem with it. For every silly little retaliatory measure they enact, it will just make it that much easier for us to wean ourselves of of them, which is absolutely in our interest, and not at all in theirs.

[@tapsavteline4568]

Trump tariffi are sort of paradoxical. Its a negotiation tool that will fix everything for economy. So not optional negotiation tool

[@StrugglesWithWords]

How do you get another country to do what you want? One way is to threaten them. Trump is using tariffs as a weapon not as an economic tool. It's his pattern to bluster and blow at the start. That way when the deal is done the other party thinks "That's better than what it could have been"

[@williammcadoo8685]

I'm left as can be , but I always enjoy The discussion, These Public Figures and intellectuals have, on this channel Always Find an insight/prospective/idea, I hadn't had before, and learn something.

[@tau3457]

Same here. I enjoy listening to this strange neocon think tank as my monthly dose of contrasting views.

[@bambi7154]

finally very nice visual quality😊

[@casey203]

With Marco Rubio's appointment as foreign secretary the neo conservative interventionists shouldn't need to worry. The America First crowd definitely lost the battle for foreign policy.

[@kevinjenner9502]

Blinken served as Netanyahu’s criminal defense attorney. I expect the same from Rubio.

[@oliverjamito9902]

Yes, many making decisions alive yet dead as far to point fingers nor to find blame!

[@BobSmith-fx9sz]

48:43 HR's book recommendation is intense for a 7 year old 😂

[@oliverjamito9902]

Remember can change nor not change!

[@VincentFulco]

The factions in Lebanon, many screwing each over even if on the "same side" (Christian, Muslim, etc.) is an unreal topic matter of history.

[@danielhall3105]

To the question about exposing children to books. Blow up your TV. I grew up rural. We didn't have one. I hung out at our small library and read everything. My parents subscribed to Book of the Month and Readers Digest condensed books. I was way better prepared than my fellows when I got to college.

[@rosethorns1893]

R u 1 of my kids? lol

[@ace-oo8ho]

I once called out an executive with USAID who was presenting for a global health student association. I said how is our system actually promoting market competition and equal treatment as equal nations. His answer was essentially that we will always need to provide US taxpayer aid because of these issues and that they would never develop their own agriculture... Let alone other kinds of goods... There are careers built on this kind of aid. It's money

[@andrewlm5677]

Did Trump learn - a pretty low bar. My money is on him being the same undisciplined and ego-driven person he was last time. These traits will serve him as badly in office as it did last time

[@b.alexanderjohnstone9774]

We are 'decolonising' the curriculum, museum, the canon etc while China is actually colonising whole continents.

[@jesuslovesaves2682]

Its no contest. I would pick Jesus for my guest pick.

[@JessiPowell-w9d]

Where is John? Who is the artist? :)

[@oliverjamito9902]

Students will say, beloved look from within!

[@gurugolf7438]

Reminds me of the fictional Eloi " Books, yes we have books".

[@nuqwestr]

Historical Fiction: Upton Sinclair's Lanny Budd series. Still relevant today.

[@roberthumphreys7977]

One question about Presidential power, gentlemen: do Presidents unilaterally take power or are they allowed to take power by a very ineffective and timid legislative branch? Don't Presidents take what they are allowed to take? Isn't this what got us into this mess in the first place? Where has that strong legislative branch been and when might we see it again? From my vantage point, the legislative branch has abdicated or simply neglected it most important role, which is government oversight. Isn't it about time they reigned in the so-called fourth branch, particularly their regulatory over-reach and kangaroo court system? The mess our government is in and lies primarily at their feet, not the feet of Presidents. How about starting by demanding all government spending conform to GAP accounting standards, like those of us in the private sector that fund this mess are required to do? How about a Department of Defense that has a clue where it spends public monies, HR, and can actually pass an audit? Once Defense learns, they can run training courses for the remainder of the government.

[@oliverjamito9902]

Riches nor wealth liken unto the highest mountains melted in front! For this New Riches nor wealth.

[@oliverjamito9902]

What is Aim nor aims renowned?

[@oliverjamito9902]

Lord grace surrounding Thee!

[@Iwantalloftheinformation]

Do you want to be surrounded by sanctuary cities, or perhaps permanent camps where the people will live as they do slave work for the rich?

[@oliverjamito9902]

Remember going around the mountains ENDS HERE!

[@pedrinhograna443]

Talk about the censorship in Brazil 🇧🇷

[@kevinjenner9502]

The Hill 5/24/24. “Israel’s censorship of the AP is a cautionary tale for the US”

[@covidity114]

Bad hair day, except for HR.

[@timothyhopper4956]

I can't hope for the fall of Assad. As much as I dislike the dictator, the likely human consequences and loss of life from the inevitable resurgence of civil war in Syria is appalling.

[@mulen-x8u]

The world must be returns to its natural geopolitical configuration with the traditional policy of deterrence each other. It seems to me the geopolitical balance can be restore by way of reviving the political significance of Japan and Germany.

[@oliverjamito9902]

Professors bring all showering thee with riches in front!

[@oliverjamito9902]

Thank you pops for attending! Love you

[@oliverjamito9902]

In a blink nor a twinkle of an eye

[@oliverjamito9902]

Unto unfamiliar unto many! For many have NOT KNOWN HIM? Yet, ye know HIM?

[@1526andrews]

Put these three in charge of the US as a triumvirate. Hell, bring them 0:50 to the UK and get rid of the clowns we hsve in charge

[@peterreiss5937]

Austin University as an alternative? Why do you have Roy Casagranda on the faculty who by his own statement is a radical?

[@gastelumantonio]

Was that GAD SAAD?

[@oliverjamito9902]

In the midst of DAY and NIGHT?

[@andrewfulrich]

Aw man, books for kids 7-10 and mentioned road to serfdom but not Tuttle Twins?! Would have been the perfect segway

[@oliverjamito9902]

Media will say, who's that in the "mid"?

[@oliverjamito9902]

N.E.W.S will say, good News! Good News!

[@oliverjamito9902]

Students will say, elite can't hold this book nor cup!

[@oliverjamito9902]

Beloved remember YE are not the only ones looking at HIM? Remember Who's is looking at thee all to cast judgment unto thy Lord!

[@oliverjamito9902]

Obviously ye have to be LIVING 1ST!

[@Iwantalloftheinformation]

May we have Allies Trump?

[@bigreddoggo]

wholesome

[@user-bt8vn3dj6o]

Energy is the key to social development in Africa. The Ukrainians have serious manpower issues. Troops are deserting in large numbers. Just how can Sir Ferguson possibly say Mr. Trump is assembling a good team. Just check the individuals Trump has selected to run the Department of Defense. CS. Forester and Douglas Reeman, great historical novels.

[@DieFlabbergast]

"Sir Niall" or "Niall Ferguson": the title "Sir" is NOT used before a man's surname.

[@lost.projects387]

Governance is fundamental though, just look at South Africa’s flailing energy sector.

[@hildork]

good Mike Hunt shoutout at kzbin.info/www/bejne/b2jPi4KYlt-tj68 i guess The General didn't really care for the question.

[@oliverjamito9902]

Wise and Scribes need not to marvel!

[@oliverjamito9902]

Obviously can see all the RENOWNED aims resting upon in front of the SON sitteth!

[@oliverjamito9902]

Students will say, LORD many professors can't stop eating thy documents resting upon sustained!

[@oliverjamito9902]

Recognize the very least!

[@matthewha8586]

What are with those pictures behind John Cochrane, is that him as a transgender man / woman ?

[@oliverjamito9902]

NORTH, EAST, WEST, AND SOUTH will say, HIS FEET!

[@Iwantalloftheinformation]

Don't they still force children to read books in school? What's the effect on children if the DOE is dismantled?

[@tacitus7408]

Yes, ‘they’ the bureaucrats force them to read LGBTQ propaganda. No more federal money for these corrupt people

[@oliverjamito9902]

Why choose the little New minds to reveal?

[@robertprawendowski2850]

⭐️⭐️

[@Tufas]

Okay I understand being against Joe Biden pardoning Hunter Biden for personal/political reasons but i only really take take that opinion serious if you were and are also against Trump pardoning for personal/political reasons, which he very much so did in his first term. Again, I dislike both, but if you are against Joe Biden doing it you are a deeply unserious person if you do not spend the same time and effort criticising Trump for it.

[@xiaohui5186]

Milei’s popular support is at 47%…

[@oliverjamito9902]

HIS FEET RESTING UPON!

[@paulelder6702]

Note to the moderator: Niall may have a title in Great Britain, but in the US use of titles are inappropriate.

[@Iwantalloftheinformation]

Removing hard working un-registered citizens helps the economy how?

[@tau3457]

The ironic thing is, it will hurt republicans / the 'plantation' owners the most. Illegals replaced slaves for them, and still make up more than 50 or something % of factory and farm workers. Now they will have to pay actual minimum wage.

[@bsmithhammer]

What exactly is an "un-registered citizen?"

[@tacitus7408]

If by ‘hard working’ you mean robbing and killing people directly or via drugs, yes.

[@Iwantalloftheinformation]

@@bsmithhammer I get my words mixed up sometimes, I mean undocumented. Marijuana is legal in my state.😁

[@oliverjamito9902]

For this poor Woman have given more!

[@oliverjamito9902]

Shared "i" Am Hosts Meeks upon all dry grounds nor the world will say, if ye can't recognize the "least"!

[@Florence-o2l]

Hallelujah!!! I'm favored and blessed with $60,000 every week! Now I can afford anything and also support the work of God and the church.

[@oliverjamito9902]

Hello

[@xiaohui5186]

John Cochrane thinks Milei is doing great??

[@roberthumphreys7977]

Africa is all about the natural resources. Period. That's all the Chinese care about. The USA? Our policies are one administration long. That is not going to change. It's baked into the politics of democracies. We like to think of this as an advantage. At the moment, most democracies around the globe are focused on internal problems, most of which are of their own making. If Africans are to become prosperous, they will need to do it themselves because the West will be too busy trying to maintain their increasingly fragile and debt-ridden, low/no growth democratic systems. At the moment, it seems that the question that will define the 21st century is, are Western democracies antifragile or not?

[@zwatwashdc]

Tit for tat? Seems like it’s been pretty much one way.

[@michaelrichardson840]

Very disappointed in their responses about the founding documents. They might have well said “Whatever- don’t be so naive…”

[@proudtobeanamerican]

Syria should be warning for Iran, thats is their future if they do not repent, they will have similar mess.

[@vaultsjan]

Nepotism is the name of the game, both sides.

[@oliverjamito9902]

Remember, deprived of RICHEST nor wealth!

[@MyNguyenHa-f6j]

I'm favoured financially with Bitcoin ETFs approval, Thank you buddy.$28,600 weekly profit regardless of how bad it gets on the economy.

[@tacitus7408]

Africa? I remind you WE’RE BROKE1 People in hurricane ravaged North Carolina are living in TENTS! Americans first!

[@jacqquelinetackaberry5450]

SMFH 😜

[@andyjay5903]

I enjoy these shows but most Fix World shows are not that enlightening

[@nickgood8166]

Africa has governance, human capital, culture, crime and corruption issues. Africa has the same size population as India,1.4 billion. It has 9.2 times the area. I live in South Africa, it's a corrupt kleptocracy. This is by far the most developed economy on the continent. Its GDP per capita is US$6,500 pa. Africa is poor. This is not going to change in the forseeable future. Globally, Africa is largely irrelevant. It's at the lower end of the list of places to invest capital. South East Asia is a far better bet, in terms of risk, human capital, infrastructure, corruption, crime and governance. South Africa's per capita murder rate is 450 times that of Singapore. Yes really...45 verses 0.1 per 100,000 per year!

[@kingcrazymani4133]

The 7 minute or so discussion of Russia and Ukraine was hard to listen to, FYI. One (3rd) of my major criticisms of Putin’s 2022 invasion was that given all his rhetoric about exhausting all avenues before invasion was that he would not even discuss the elephant in the room. Neither would the US or NATO. Soon, the elephant may be hobbling around in places inconvenient for many (not all) on all sides to have to watch. 37:20. Plymouth? Crazyman’s activities seem crossed out again. Maybe I need to watch more sub 30 F Boston and NYC LiveCam for perspective I already know by heart. 42:30. Sorry John. In the US, politician has been a substitute noble calling. So much so that even the King of Pop and King of Basketball are more noble in the popular mind than the King. A story for another day. I laugh every day about the substitute royalty.

[@aaa777aaa]

Let's see, how good will be Trump to Ukraine 😉 ... and how bad he will be to his friend Putin.

[@kevinjenner9502]

He will make up for it with support for Netanyahu’s GNCD, Ethnic Cleansing, Lebensraum, in Gaza.

[@DieFlabbergast]

Haha. Putin does not have friends, he only has political and strategic temporary allies. Trump also does not have friends: he has business partners and business competitors.

[@tacitus7408]

‘His friend Putin’. Your TDS really does describe you, you’re deranged.😂😂😂

[@rebeccamcclellan5284]

Huge mistake to think it would be a good thing to make them massive agricultural producers. Look at our food system. GMOs are an issue for the environment and the people that eat them. Then you have the legal issue about not being able to use your own seeds to plant crops for the following year. They may need tractors, but they don't need chemicals and GMOs!😮😮😮

[@JXY2019]

Nothing is wrong with GMOs. In fact they offer many opportunities to reduce chemical use

[@rebeccamcclellan5284]

@@JXY2019 Many countries have banned or restricted the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), including: European Union: France, Germany, Austria, Greece, Hungary, the Netherlands, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Bulgaria, Poland, Denmark, Malta, Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia Other European countries: Switzerland, Russia Asia-Pacific: Australia, Turkey, Kyrgyzstan, Bhutan, Japan, and Saudi Arabia Africa: 43 countries in Africa have banned (partially) the growth of GMOs Americas: Belize, Ecuador, Mexico, Peru, and Venezuela

[@allauddin732]

If you run away from issue and discuss problems globally. Its pointless