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No middle ground: Iran’s dangerous division

No middle ground: Iran’s dangerous division

Economist Podcasts · Jan 29, 2026

Iran descends into a 'quiet civil war,' America's founding contradictions are revisited, and a Russian song goes viral in playgrounds.

Iranian Protests Are Polarizing Society into Regime Supporters and Royalists

The intense violence from Iran's regime has eliminated political middle ground. The conflict is increasingly framed as a binary choice between the current Islamic Republic and a restored monarchy, marginalizing moderate voices who advocate for a democratic republic.

No middle ground: Iran’s dangerous division thumbnail

No middle ground: Iran’s dangerous division

Economist Podcasts·21 days ago

Iran's Post-Mortem Humiliation of Protesters Intentionally Fuels Public Radicalization

The Iranian regime's strategy extends beyond killing protesters; it actively dishonors their memory. By piling up bodies, charging families for their return, and limiting funerals, the state is purposefully humiliating the public, which in turn exacerbates anger and hardens opposition.

No middle ground: Iran’s dangerous division thumbnail

No middle ground: Iran’s dangerous division

Economist Podcasts·21 days ago

Vague Language in U.S. Founding Docs Was a Compromise That Fuels 250 Years of Debate

The U.S. founding documents, like the Constitution and Bill of Rights, contain intentionally vague language. This was not an oversight but a necessary compromise to unify disparate interests, creating a built-in ambiguity that is the primary reason for 250 years of legal and political argument.

No middle ground: Iran’s dangerous division thumbnail

No middle ground: Iran’s dangerous division

Economist Podcasts·21 days ago

Modern Russian Propaganda Is 'Vibes-Based' to Promote Feelings, Not Facts

Russia's propaganda strategy has evolved from disseminating alternative narratives to promoting 'vibes-based' content. Using viral media like the 'Sigma Boy' song, the aim is to foster specific feelings and ideas, such as patriarchal dominance, making it difficult to distinguish from organic trends.

No middle ground: Iran’s dangerous division thumbnail

No middle ground: Iran’s dangerous division

Economist Podcasts·21 days ago

Removing Iran's Supreme Leader via U.S. Intervention Would Empower Other Hardliners

A U.S. military strike to remove Ayatollah Khamenei is unlikely to help protesters. Analysis suggests it would more likely result in the Revolutionary Guard seizing control or other regime remnants continuing the fight, ultimately failing to satisfy the opposition and potentially worsening the civil conflict.

No middle ground: Iran’s dangerous division thumbnail

No middle ground: Iran’s dangerous division

Economist Podcasts·21 days ago