Alan Friedman, cHow do you judge the current state of the world political system and what are the main challenges that await us in the coming years?
«In my latest book The End of the American Empire (The Ship of Theseus, 2024)), I tried to explain how today it is necessary to start from a situation of new global disorder, more dangerous and unstable every day, in which autocrats like Putin and Xi Jinping will increasingly challenge Western democracies head-on. But, on the other side of the Atlantic, the power vacuum determined by the weakening of the star-spangled leadership is evident, giving us with the presidency of Donald Trump a country divided as never before: consequently, in the coming years we will have to face the effects of the New World Disorder that will test the values of the West, in America as in Europe. The fate of one will determine that of the other, and of the entire world.
How do you think the United States, after the election of Donald Trump, is addressing internal political issues and new international geopolitical dynamics?
"I have repeatedly expressed my doubts, to put it mildly, about Donald Trump and his entourage, mostly made up of yes-men who do business by exploiting their political proximity and friendship with the current president. The intertwining of business and politics is the symptom of a malaise that has divided American society for decades. The damage already done to American democracy is evident and I fear it will take several generations to eliminate the waste that is accumulating."
What is your opinion on the growing influence of China on the global scene and how do you think the ongoing trade wars could evolve?
"Trump's Liberation Day strategy is to double down on tariffs by gutting the domestic scientific institutions and workforce that fuel American innovation. China's liberation strategy is to open more research centers and focus on AI-driven innovation to be free of Trump's tariffs for good. China's message to the world is this: we are not afraid to compete in every field of economics and politics."
What could be the short- and long-term consequences of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine for Europe and the world?
"The fundamental problem remains that of understanding what are the objectives and limits that Putin intends to place on his action. One thing is certain: America is sending unequivocal signals about its progressive disengagement on the European chessboard. Consequently, Europe must completely review its strategies, but for now, beyond the declarations of intent, we do not see any concrete actions that could alter the existing balance of power."
What led you to choose to live first in Tuscany and now in Lugano and which aspects of Ticino culture and life fascinate you the most?
"I consider myself a lucky man because if it is true that I spend a large number of days around the world, I can then enjoy the privilege of staying in some of the most beautiful and welcoming areas in the world. I have always appreciated the culture, the art, the landscape, the search for beauty that can be found even in small things. I moved to Lugano some time ago and I must say that this land continues to amaze me for what it offers in terms of security, privacy, quality of life: the ideal place to take the necessary distance from the disorder and aggression of contemporary society."
In an age where misinformation is so widespread, what do you think is the role of the media in shaping public opinion?
"Let's start with a necessary premise. In America, 70% and in Europe 50% of news passes through social media. This means that one of the fundamental requirements of information has now disappeared, that is, it is essential to exercise strict control over the reliability of the sources from which the news comes. Newspapers, at least the most prestigious ones, offer this guarantee, while on the web everyone seems to be authorized to publish what they deem most appropriate and this determines the proliferation of fake news. The false news published daily on ongoing wars are an eloquent example of the disinformation that is now rampant."
