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Lex Fridman Podcast

Conversations about science, technology, history, philosophy and the nature of intelligence, consciousness, love, and power. Lex is an AI researcher at MIT and beyond. Conversations about science, technology, history, philosophy and the nature of intelligence, consciousness, love, and power. Lex is an AI researcher at MIT and beyond.

Transcribed podcasts: 441
Time transcribed: 44d 9h 33m 5s

This graph shows how many times the word ______ has been mentioned throughout the history of the program.

Title:

Understanding Power: A Conversation with Steven Kotkin

Summary:

In this in-depth conversation, historian Steven Kotkin discusses the complexities of power, the nature of human ambition, and the historical context of authoritarian regimes, particularly focusing on Stalin and Putin. He delves into the psychological motivations behind the craving for power, the lessons history offers regarding governance and authority, the importance of institutional constraints, and the potential futures of Russia under Putin. Kotkin emphasizes the need for strong democratic institutions and the relevance of historical understanding in navigating contemporary political landscapes

Tags:

['History', 'Power', 'Authoritarianism', 'Stalin', 'Putin', 'Governance', 'Democracy', 'Russian History', 'Political Psychology']