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Newsroom FeedNewsroom
Romney's presidential prospects
31 August 2012
ABC News 24 The World
Lecturer in US politics Adam Lockyer analyses Mitt Romney’s presidential prospects and his performance at the Republican National Convention. Did he do enough to convince Americans to vote in him into the White House? Watch Online
Romney plays to the middle in Tampa
31 August 2012
SBS TV World News Australia
With many voters already decided on who they will vote for in November, Mitt Romney's speech at the Republican National Convention this week played firmly to the small section of undecided voters in the middle of America's ideological spectrum. Lecturer Adam Lockyer says despite a good performance by Romney, structural factors will decide this election. Watch Online
Obama and Romney on foreign policy
31 August 2012
Student News Radio Panorama
Lecturer Adam Lockyer compares the foreign policy credentials of President Obama and Republican nominee Mitt Romney, including thier attitudes to Iran, Israel and China. Listen Online
Mitt Romney maybe?
31 August 2012
The Conversation
Hey, you just met him. And this is crazy. But here's Mitt Romney. Next POTUS, maybe? Lecturer Adam Lockyer gives you the low down on how the 2012 campaign might play out with the spotlight on Mitt. Read more
Republican convention wraps up
31 August 2012
Sky News Lunch Agenda
Clint Eastwood may have stolen the show in Tampa but what messages will voters be taking away from the three day spectacular? Honorary professor Edward Blakely joins a panel of experts to discuss the issues thrown up by the convention. Watch Online
Will Australian troops in Afghanistan shake resolve?
31 August 2012
77WABC Radio New York
In the worst day of losses for Australian troops since Vietnam, Australia has lost 5 soldiers in attacks in Afghanistan. Research associate Tom Switzer asks whether this will shake the resolve of Australians to stay the course in Afghanistan or our enthusiasm for future American-led military efforts. Listen Online
Convention circus wraps up in Tampa
31 August 2012
2SER The Wire
As the curtain lowers on the Republican National Convention for 2012, research associate Nicole Hemmer runs through key talking points from the event, including the battle to humanise Mitt Romney and attract female voters. Was it a win for the GOP? Listen Online
Ryan serves up red meat in Tampa
30 August 2012
ABC Radio National Drive
Vice presidential nominee Paul Ryan has addressed the Republican National Convention in Florida, slamming Obama's record and attacking him on his vision for the future. Research associate Nicole Hemmer says the speech will tap into disappointment in both conservative and non-conservative voters about the last four years but there is more to the story. Listen Online
Rising Asia requires rethink on US-Australia alliance
30 August 2012
ABC Radio Australia Connect Asia
A leading US foreign policy analyst says the United States and Asia's democracies must ensure China does not become the only dominant power in the region. Former US deputy secretary of state for political affairs, Nicholas Burns is in Australia for the Centre's two-day Emerging Asia workshop in Canberra and says our approach to China requires engagement and nuance. Listen Online
Ann Romney wows Republican convention
30 August 2012
ABC Radio Australia Connect Asia
It's been a stormy week for the Republicans in the US, literally, as Tropical Storm Isaac forced a 24-hour delay in proceedings at the party convention in Tampa, Florida. But the bounce provided by strong speeches by Ann Romney and Paul Ryan may help steady the ship looking forward says research associate Tom Switzer. Listen Online
Hurricane Issac threatens New Orleans
29 August 2012
ABC Radio National Drive
New Orleans is preparing to take the full force of Hurricane Isaac, seven years to the day since the city was devastated by Hurricane Katrina. Recovery 'czar' after Hurricane Katrina Edward Blakely discusses the storms' physical and psychological impact on the besieged residents of the city. Listen Online
Notes on America: Stormy days, Emerging Asia, and High culture
29 August 2012
In this week's edition:
- Stormy days for Republican convention
- Emerging Asia and the US-Australia alliance
- When US culture became high culture
- Events and commentary Read more
Romney confirmed as Republican nominee
29 August 2012
Sky News
Voting by delegates on Day 1 of the Republican National Convention in Tampa Bay, Florida, has confirmed Mitt Romney as the Republican presidential candidate for 2012. Lecturer Adam Lockyer explains the symbolism of the vote as well as the significance of the conference in the race to the White House. Watch Online
Pomp and circumstance confirms Romney in Florida
29 August 2012
Sky Business
Mitt Romney has been confirmed as the Republican candidate to run against Barack Obama for the American presidency in the first day of proceedings in Tampa, Florida. Associate professor Brendon O'Connor separates the ceremony from the reality and looks ahead to Romney's chances in November. Watch Online
A stroke of genius
29 August 2012
ABC News Online
The 1973 purchase of Blue Poles for $1.3 million divided public opinion then but four decades later, the purchase of Jackson Pollock's painting is regarded as a masterstroke. Former recipient of the Centre's World Press Institute media fellowship, Siobhan Heanue reports on the Centre's Abstract Expressionism Symposium and the legacy of Blue Poles. Read more
Voting is in the genes
29 August 2012
CNN Online
Scientists have always wondered what drives our political behavior, and why some of us are passionate over some issues and not others. Now investigators, including Centre research fellow Peter Hatemi, have found that your genes could be influencing your political tastes. Read more
Richard Shiff on the work of Willem de Kooning
28 August 2012
In this interview, Regents Chair in Art History at the University of Texas-Austin Richard Shiff discusses the work of abstract expressionist artist Willem de Kooning. Professor Shiff was in Australia for the Action. Painting. Now. Abstract Expressionism Symposium, co-hosted by the Centre. He begins by discussing the qualities which made de Kooning a great artist. Watch Online
Slugfest
28 August 2012
The Atlantic
Mitt Romney isn't famed for his oratory like Barack Obama, but chair in US media James Fallows says the President underestimates his Republican opponent at his peril. The video record shows that Mitt Romney is a keen debater with a lot of strengths — and a few key weaknesses. Read article
Australian voters would deliver Obama landslide victory
28 August 2012
Sydney Morning Herald
A new online poll has found that if Australians could vote in the US elections this November, Barack Obama would win by a landslide unprecedented in modern times. Centre CEO Geoff Garrett says that Australia's liking of the current president began early, and was the result of negativity toward George W. Bush and the Iraq War. Read article
Australians deluded on meaning of US election
28 August 2012
Sydney Morning Herald
Australians overwhelmingly expect Barack Obama to beat Mitt Romney in this November's presidential election, even though American polling finds the two candidates are neck-and-neck. Centre CEO Geoff Garrett says Australians find it difficult to understand why the centre of gravity in the US is so far to the right. Read article
Republicans and the football double standard
28 August 2012
ABC The Drum
American football is one of the United States' most popular forms of entertainment — and one of its most profitable, says professor of legal policy David Weisbrot. But could the secret to its success be good ol' fashioned socialism? Read article
How genes influence politics
27 August 2012
Los Angeles Times
Could the Republican delegates in Tampa for their party's national convention have more in common than ideology? According to a new study by research associate Peter Hatemi, genetics can have an influence on your political beliefs — even if there isn't a gene predisposing a preference for Mitt Romney. Read article
Michael Leja on the work of Mark Rothko
27 August 2012
In this interview, Director of the Visual Studies Program at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Michael Leja discusses the work of abstract painter Mark Rothko. Professor Leja was in Australia for the Action. Painting. Now. Abstract Expressionism Symposium, co-hosted by the US Studies Centre. He begins by discussing the historical importance of the abstract expressionism movement. Watch Online
Taking nonalignment seriously
27 August 2012
Foreign Policy
Much to US displeasure, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon announced last week that he would attend the summit of the Non-Aligned Movement. Nonalignment, says postdoctoral fellow Rob Rakove, is something the US has a history of misunderstanding, but it should not view these countries as a kind of grand "Axis of Evil". Read article
Could your genes influence how you vote?
27 August 2012
HealthDay
Genetics has long been the basis for research into medicine and psychology, but decoding DNA is unusual practice for a political scientist. A new study by research associate Peter Hatemi, however, has found that your genes might well be influencing the way you vote. Read article
Inside America: GOTV tactics and anti-terror strategies
26 August 2012
ABC NewsRadio Inside America
On this week's Inside America, research associate John Barron talks to Centre guest Don Green about the challenges parties experience in getting out the vote, and discusses terrorism, Syria, and drone strikes with Admiral Dennis Blair, also a Centre guest. Listen online
Why do we watch the US?
25 August 2012
The Canberra Times
In 2012, the first Tuesday in America won't just mean Melbourne Cup day for Australians — they'll also be watching the finish of another horse race. Associate professor Brendon O'Connor considers the reasons why people all over the world become engrossed by an election held in a foreign nation. Read article
Backslapping belies the trouble in Tampa
24 August 2012
ABC News 24 Planet America
Not even the fanfare of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Florida, this week will be able to gloss over some serious issues that the Mitt Romney campaign has been fighting this week, says Centre CEO and Dean of the Sydney University Business School Geoffrey Garrett. Can Romney turn it around? Watch Online
US presidential elections hit top gear
24 August 2012
SBS News Online
The United States presidential campaign is about to kick into high gear as the Republican National Convention puts the November 6th election front and centre in the American conscience. Lecturer Dr David Smith explains what's at stake and why the conventions matter. Read Online
How a centre-right politician wins
23 August 2012
The Spectator Australia
Any Australian viewers who tune in to Romney's speech at the Republican National Convention next week may be struck by his similarities to former Opposition leader Malcolm Turnbull. But as Centre research associate Nicole Hemmer explains, their divergent attitudes towards conservative media may explain their differing levels of success. Read more
Obama v Romney: who is better for Australian business?
22 August 2012
BRW
Mitt Romney’s choice of small government champion Paul Ryan as his VP running mate has put the focus of the campaign back on the candidates’ economic credentials, but which candidate would be better for Australian business? Sydney University Business School dean and Centre CEO Geoffrey Garrett says Romney's tough words on spending cuts and China raise troubling issues. Read more
Jackson Pollock, Blue Poles, and Abstract Expressionism
22 August 2012
ABC Classic FM
With the 40th anniversary of the Australian government's purchase of Jackson Pollock's Blue Poles and 2012 marking 100 years since Pollock's birth, interest in this giant of American art is as strong as ever. Centre visitor Ellen Landau talks to Margaret Throsby about Pollock's importance, influence, and relationship with his wife, Lee Krasner, one of the few female artists in the predominantly male New York school. Listen online
Notes on America: The conventions, Jackson Pollock, and Open Day
22 August 2012
In this edition:
- Conventional drama
- Abstract Expressionism: Action. Painting. Now.
- Open day battle over the President's future
- Events and commentary Read more
Could Akin's "legitimate rape" disaster cost Romney the election?
22 August 2012
The Conversation
When Missouri Republican Senate candidate Todd Akin claimed that women rarely get pregnant from a "legitimate rape," condemnation from both sides of politics was swift and without reservation. But the comments have reignited debate about the "war on women," and research associate Nicole Hemmer says the controversy could even cost Mitt Romney the election. Read article
Romney in trouble after Akin rape remarks
21 August 2012
ABC News 24 The World
Mitt Romney faces a huge setback this week after comments this week by Republican Senate candidate Todd Akin about rape put his campaign into damage control. Professor of political science at Columbia University and Centre guest Donald Green discusses the effects it will have in key swing states and how up to $2 billion will be spent before November 6. Watch Online
Critical Republican convention looms
21 August 2012
Sky News The Perrett Report
With both the Republican and Democratic conventions rapidly approaching, both parties will be using their events as a chance to put forward a defining vision for their 2012 campaigns. But as lecturer David Smith notes, after a bruising week, the onus will be on Mitt Romney to make the most of the star-spangled moment. Watch Online
Donald Green on the art of modern elections
21 August 2012
In this interview, Professor of political science at Columbia University and Centre guest Donald Green talks about the intricacies of modern campaigning, from financing to online data gathering. With a low turnout expected and many voters already saying they have already made up their minds, how much will the campaigns matter? He begins by explaining microtargeting in the 2012 campaign. Watch Online
Gold rush runs out of steam
21 August 2012
The Age
The flow of fee money from overseas students, who are turning in their tens of thousands to other countries may finally be drying up, suggests a report written by Centre COO Sean Gallagher and Centre CEO and Dean of the University of Sydney Business School Geoffrey Garrett. Read more
Is Paul Ryan Jack Kemp, Model 2012?
20 August 2012
History News Network
Paul Ryan, Mitt Romney’s running mate, owes a debt of gratitude to right-wing media similar to that of 1996 Republican vice-presidential pick Jack Kemp and 2008 VP hopeful Sarah Palin. Research associate Nicole Hemmer explains how conservative media have become, if not kingmakers, at least princemakers. Read more
Assange breaks his silence in England
20 August 2012
SBS World News Australia
In a speech to supporters from the balcony of the Ecuadorian embassy in London, Julian Assange has accused the US government of conducting a witch hunt against him for his Wikileaks activities. Lecturer David Smith says that it remains unclear whether any plans exist to extradite Assange to America. Watch Online
Can the super-rich buy US elections?
20 August 2012
ABC Radio PM
The battle for the US presidency this year will cost over a billion dollars, an amount exacerbated by a Supreme Court decision which has made it easier than ever for large donors to give money to candidates. Professor of political science at Columbia University and Centre guest Donald Green explains how the influence of the wealthy is growing and how it will affect the contest. Listen Online
Obama's immigration laws take effect
20 August 2012
SBS Radio News
US immigration authorities have begun accepting applications for deferred deportations from undocumented immigrants brought to America as children, in line with President Obama's announcement earlier in the year. Associate professor Brendon O'Connor says this program will have serious implications, not only for those affected, but for the elections in November. Listen Online
China investment elephant is well and truly in the room
20 August 2012
The Australian
Chinese foreign investment is fast becomes a defining feature of the global economy, says Centre CEO and dean of the University of Sydney Business School Geoffrey Garrett. But do the tough challenges facing Western governments surrounding this influx of capital mean such interests are not in Australia's interest? Read article
Maybe Mitt just likes the guy
20 August 2012
The Australian
Mitt Romney's selection of Paul Ryan as his running mate looked like it might have shaken up this year's presidential contest, but US election analyst Luke Freedman, who runs the Centre's Election Watch 2012 website, says the pick might not be as significant as it seems. How much will the addition of Ryan actually change the Romney campaign? Read article
Ryan plus one week: No bounce
20 August 2012
The Huffington Post
Visiting professor Simon Jackman has been working on a tracking model for polling firm Pollster, and with election day less than three months away, he's found that Barack Obama maintains a small but persistent lead over Mitt Romney. And according to Jackman's formula, Romney's announcement of Paul Ryan as his running mate has done nothing to change the equation. Read article
The challenges for American defence
17 August 2012
ABC TV Planet America
In a unique insight into the inner workings of the American defence network and the Obama administration, Admiral Dennis Blair talks to John Barron about his time as director of US national intelligence, including the Christmas Day underwear bomber, drones and the future of security in the Asia Pacific. Watch Online
Romney continues to sway in bruising week
17 August 2012
Sky News Lunchtime Agenda
While Mitt Romney's taxes continue to dog his campaign, his vice-presidential pick, comments about China and a tour of Ohio this week all put the presumptive Republican nominee firmly in the spotlight, not always for the right reasons. Research associate Tom Switzer joins a panel to discuss the events of a tough week on the campaign trail. Watch Online
Paul Ryan pick surprises many, shocks none
17 August 2012
2SER Friday Daily
The Paul Ryan vice-presidential pick may have surprised some with it's timing, but with some big editorials and articles on the Wisconsin congressman appearing in papers such as the Wall Street Journal in the preceeding weeks, it was hardly shocking. Ed Blakely explains the pick and how it might change the campaign. Listen Online
Anti-Americanism in focus
16 August 2012
ABC Radio National Late Night Live
Since the attack on the World Trade towers, much has been written about anti-American sentiment around the world. Associate professor Brendon O'Connor who is currently working on a book on the concept, joins a panel to discuss where the notion comes from, how if affects geo-politics, and whether, in fact, it's a myth. Listen Online
Mixed reviews for Republican VP pick
16 August 2012
Radio Australia Connect Asia
Republican vice-presidential candidate Paul Ryan is a Republican Pary reformer says research associate Tom Switzer, not a conservative who wants to maintain the status quo. But will Ryan's contentious plans for the US economy help or hurt the GOP ticket? Listen online
Assange's fate hangs in the balance
16 August 2012
ABC News 24 Midday Report
Julian Assange and his legal team are trying to get the Wikileaks founder to Ecuador before he can be extradited to Sweden, which they believe may lead to the US demanding his return to their shores to face a potential espionage charge. Centre lecturer David Smith explains the intricacies of the case and the chance he could be brought to America. Watch Online
Devastating storms in the Philippines
16 August 2012
Philippine Daily Inquirer
After the devestating recent floods, the Philippines is bracing for two or three more tropical storms before the month is up. The Centre's honorary professor of urban policy Edward Blakely says destruction caused by natural disasters like these is the result of poor urban planning as well as adverse weather. Read article
US flexes its muscle on investment
16 August 2012
The Australian
With the US government's Export-Import Bank announcing it will make a record $5 billion in cheap loans in Australia this year, Australians are being reminded of the strength of its economic ties with America. CEO of the US Studies Centre and dean of the Unvieristy of Sydney's Business School Geoffrey Garrett says the bank's move was a symbolic one, showing that though China has trading partners, the US still has a lot of friends. Read article
Thomas Schwartz on the legacy of Kissinger
15 August 2012
In this interview, professor of history at Vanderbilt University Thomas Schwartz discusses his latest work on the Nixon-Kissinger revolution in foreign policy. Professor Schwartz suggests that Kissinger's legacy continues to be felt in the foreign policy stances of President Obama and Mitt Romney. He begins by discussing the importance of the Nixon-Kissinger relationship, not just in foreign policy but also in how we perceive the role of the president. Watch Online
Notes on America: Ryan's race, Blair on China & Senator Slade Gorton
15 August 2012
In this edition:
- Romney's running mate set to lead the policy race
- US-Australia relationship outweighs China: Admiral Blair
- Observations from the Candy Desk
- Events and commentary Read more
Media briefing: 2012 US presidential elections
15 August 2012
With the race to the White House for 2012 ramping up, the United States Studies Centre will provide a briefing to media representatives on all aspects of the current US presidential campaign. Read more
The many hats of Tom Switzer
15 August 2012
Honi Soit
How does a staunch conservative marry his twin lives as an irreverent journalist and dispassionate academic? Michael Koziol talks to Tom Switzer, research associate at the United States Studies Centre and editor of the Spectator Australia. Read more
Why Romney picked Ryan
15 August 2012
The Drum Online
Mitt Romney's selection of Paul Ryan as his running mate makes little difference to his chances of winning the election but the Ryan pick will make Romney's life a lot easier if he actually wins the election, says Centre lecturer David Smith Read more
New course is rockin'
14 August 2012
MX Sydney
Rock 'n' roll has long provided an opportunity for people with limited options, but a new US Studies Centre course, Sex, Race & Rock in the USA looks at the subject through an academic lens. Lecturer Rebecca Sheehan explains how gender, sexuality, and race relate to popular music. Read article
Global problems for the new gilded age
14 August 2012
Foreign Policy In Focus
Rising inequality and crony capitalism have sparked fears of a return to the "Gilded Age" of the late 19th century. But postdoctoral fellow Marc Palen says the populist remedies for the shift repeat many of the mistakes of that era's ruling Republican Party and reformers should look elsewhere for inspiration. Read article
Approaching the rise of China
13 August 2012
Australia Network Newsline
How the United States approaches the rise of China as a strategic superpower is a matter of debate across the Asia-Pacific region and Australia will play a crucial role. Former director of US national intelligence and Centre guest Admiral Dennis Blair offers his thoughts on maintaining stability in the region. Watch Online
Romney makes bold pick for 2012
13 August 2012
Sky News Showdown
Mitt Romney has chosen the relatively inexperienced but radical rising star Paul Ryan to join him on the Republican ticket against Barack Obama and Joe Biden in the race to the White House for 2012. Tom Switzer says the decision puts the focus firmly back on Republican ideas rather than a referendum on Obama. Watch Online
Game on in the US presidential elections
13 August 2012
Channel 10 The Project
The US presidential election is shaping up to be a very close race, with Republican challenger Mitt Romney close on President Barack Obama's heels. Centre experts James Fallows and Brendon O'Connor explain what issues will shape the campaign in the coming months and the key events to look out for. Watch Online
Asia-Pacific remains a top priority for the US
13 August 2012
SBS World News Australia
By looking at the Asia-Pacific region from the perspective of mutual benefit rather than a win-lose transaction, both America and China can move into a prosperous new Pacific century says the former director of US national intelligence and Centre guest Admiral Dennis Blair. And Australia will play a key role in this new relationship. Watch Online
Who is Paul Ryan?
13 August 2012
ABC Radio National Drive
The Republican Party's vice presidential candidate, Paul Ryan, is a deer hunter who uses a bow and arrow, a Catholic married with three children and enjoys catching giant catfish with his bare hands. Dr David Smith talks through Mitt Romney's choice of running mate and what Paul Ryan will bring to the ticket. Listen Online
Paul Ryan - necessary or crazy?
13 August 2012
ABC Radio The World Today
Republican Mitt Romney has named his vice presidential running mate as Wisconsin senator and chairman of the House Budget committee Paul Ryan. Ryan has been variously described as a "numbers man", a brave economic ideologue and a poster boy for the Tea Party movement but Chair in US Media James Fallows wonders whether this is a crazy move, a brave choice or both. Listen Online
Taliban pragmatists hedge their bets
13 August 2012
The Australian
The withdrawal of Western ground forces from Afghanistan in 2014 could well result in the disintegration of political order in the country, says Anatol Lieven, which is why a possibility of a peace settlement with the Taliban would be a better outcome than might be supposed. But why would the Taliban be interested in talks? Read article
Ryan conjures memories of Hewson v Keating
13 August 2012
Sydney Morning Herald
The 2012 contest is a difficult one for President Barack Obama — much like the 1993 Australian election was for then–Prime Minister Paul Keating, says research associate Tom Switzer. And just as Keating found opponent John Hewson's Fightback! agenda a juicy target, Obama will be tempted to zero in on Romney's running mate Paul Ryan's economic proposal. Read article
Play it again, Mitt: Another running mate from the fringe
13 August 2012
The Age
As a vice-presidential pick, Paul Ryan is pitched perfectly to appeal to the Republican Party's base. But, Centre blogger Jonathan Bradley says, Mitt Romney's choice of running mate is a risk that could backfire on him among swing voters. Read article
Running mate for Romney announced
12 August 2012
SBS World News Australia
The race for the White House has stepped up another gear with Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney announcing his running mate as Wisconsin congressman Paul Ryan. Research associate Tom Switzer says that the pick will put some big ideas on the table in the November election. Watch Online
Remembering Nixon
12 August 2012
ABC News Radio Planet America
The Watergate scandal and the spectacular failure of George McGovern in the 1972 presidential election have tended to overshadow the foreign policy achievements of the Nixon administration in it's first term. Professor of history at Vanderbilt University Thomas Schwartz has been studying the Nixon-Kissinger relationship and says that it offers fascinating insights for today's diplomats. Listen Online
Paul Ryan announced as Romney's running mate
12 August 2012
ABC Radio National Sunday Extra
US presidential candidate Mitt Romney has selected Republican Congressman Paul Ryan as his vice-presidential running mate. Sunday Extra was joined by Tom Switzer to discuss who Ryan is and why he was chosen by Romney after a long search. Listen Online
Romney picks polarising congressman for VP
12 August 2012
ABC TV News 24
Mitt Romney has picked Wisconsin congressman Paul Ryan, most famous for his controversial budget plan, as his vice presidential running mate. Research associate Tom Switzer speaks to ABC News 24 about the pros and cons of the pick. Listen Online
Gaffes aside, Romney has a new running mate
12 August 2012
Sky News
Despite accidentally calling him the next president of the United States, Wisconsin congressman Paul Ryan has been named by Mitt Romney as the Republican Party's vice-presidential candidate. Research associate Tom Switzer dissects the decision and the man who could be the next VP. Watch Online
Obama v Romney heats up
11 August 2012
2SER Razor's Edge
In less than 3 months Americans will go to the polls and vote in the US Elections. President Barack Obama may currently have his nose in front but will his biggest challenger, Mitt Romney gain momentum this week in the important swing states with his pick of running mate. David Smith runs through the campaign to date and the race to come. Listen Online
How exceptional is American nationalism?
10 August 2012
ABC TV Planet America
American exceptionalism is an often talked about concept both domestically and abroad, but how different is American nationalism to other countries around the world? Centre guest Anatol Lieven talks to John Barron about the challenges US nationalism faces from internal and external threats from China to the Tea Party. Watch Online
Domestic terror on the rise in middle America
10 August 2012
ABC TV Planet America
The targeting of Sikhs in Oak Creek this week by a man described as domestic terrorist may be a manifestation of an increasingly violent fringe growing in American politics. Professor of legal policy David Weisbrot discusses the implications of the attack and the worrying trend simmering below the surface. Watch Online
Saudi Arabia and Iran pick sides in Syria
9 August 2012
Australia Network Newsline
Tehran has declared Syria a fellow member of what it terms "the axis of resistance" to US influence, meaning American hopes for an end to President Assad may prove premature. Professor of war studies at King's College London and Centre guest Anatol Lieven says the conflict reflects the underlying struggle for the hearts and minds of the Middle East between three major geopolitical forces. Watch Online
Increasing US military presence checks China advantage
9 August 2012
ABC Radio PM
The rise of China threatens to change the power balance in the Asia-Pacific region, but Admiral Dennis Blair, who is visiting Australia as a guest of the Centre, says Australia's security relationship with the US is more important than its economic relationship with China. However, the admiral says, conflict can be avoided if China plays by current rules and doesn't try to extract unilateral advantage. Listen online
Major earthquakes will threaten our cities
9 August 2012
Channel 10 The Project
Renowned geologist Iain Stewart has suggested that it is only a matter of time before a devastating earthquake strikes a major city causing an unprecedented death toll. Honorary professor in urban policy Edward Blakely says many cities are already preparing for these catastrophic events. Watch Online
Australian universities losing ground to Asia
9 August 2012
ABC Radio Australia
Over the past two decades, Australian universities have come to rely on the income from international students, many from Asia. But a new report finds that Australian institutions are becoming less attractive, and Centre chief operating officer Sean Gallagher warns competing universities in Asia are investing quickly to achieve world class standards. Read article
Guantanamo must go
9 August 2012
Radio Australia Connect Asia
The former director of the US national intelligence and Centre guest Admiral Dennis Blair says Guantanamo Bay should be closed down. In this extended version of his earlier interview, he deals with the controversies surrounding the prison as well as the US military strategy in Pakistan, China and East Timor. Listen Online
Smith defends US-China approach
9 August 2012
The Australian Financial Review
Defence minister Stephen Smith has rebuffed suggestions that US power is waning and it should cede authority in the region to China or that the Gillard government has become too close to Washington. Centre CEO and Sydney University Business School dean Geoffrey Garrett says that rather than caught in the middle, Australia is currently in the sweet spot. Read more
Philippines flooding highlights dangers of fast urbanisation
9 August 2012
World Politics Review
The east Asian region has been hit hard by floods recently, with deadly storms in the Philippines the latest disaster to strike. Ed Blakely, the Centre's honorary professor of urban policy, says the devastation has been caused by more than the rainfall — poor urban planning is also to blame. Read article
Nuclear sparks could fly in Asia-Pacific
9 August 2012
The Sydney Morning Herald
It doesn't take any classified piece of information to let you know that countries like Iran and China are boosting thier defense forces, says former director of US national intellegence Admiral Dennis Blair. What this means for US military operations however is more complicated. Read more
Australian universities must adapt to new global realities
8 August 2012
Australia Network Newsline
Australia has long been considered one of the top education destinations for international students but a flurry of new education students and providers could spell the end of the nations education boom. Centre COO Sean Gallagher and President of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Tony Chan discuss the changing global realities of higher education. Watch Online
Is the Taliban ready for a role in Afghan government?
8 August 2012
ABC Radio PM
After a decade at war, the Taliban could now be ready to accept a role in governing a future Afghanistan, renouncing Al Qaeda and even accepting a limited American military presence, says Professor of War Studies at King’s College London and Centre visitor Anatol Lieven. But Professor Lieven warns that radicals in the Haqqani Network could blow any peace process apart. Listen Online
Iran backs the Assad regime
8 August 2012
ABC Radio National Drive
From a dwindling pool of allies, Iran has emerged as the strongest backer of Syria's Assad regime. Professor of War Studies at King’s College London and Centre guest Anatol Lieven says that despite this, the Assad regime's days are numbered. Listen Online
Armando Carbonell on building resilient cities
8 August 2012
In this interview, chair of the Department of Planning and Urban Form and senior fellow at the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy Armando Carbonell discusses the challenges facing major cities in adapting to the challenges of climate change. Carbonell was in Australia for the Centre's UPE10 Symposium - Next City: Planning for a New Energy and Climate Future. He begins by explaining why, in the face of an increasingly volatile climate, Australian and American cities both have a lot to gain from better research, planning and law-making. Watch Online
Obama’s political inertia on domestic terror
8 August 2012
The Conversation
Even acts of domestic terror as shocking as the recent Oak Creek and Aurora shootings have left Obama unable or unwillinging to pursue a tougher line on gun control. Lecturer in US politics David Smith explains why Americans still seem prepared to live with the fact that the Second Amendment will protect the rights of fringe political and relgious groups to bear arms. Read more
Notes on America: Multinational education, Taliban negotiations & Start of semester
8 August 2012
In this edition:
- Innovation in higher education in govt sights
- Taliban may sanction US bases in Afghanistan: Lieven
- Students rush to learn US politics and culture
- Events and commentary Read more
What are China's regional ambitions?
8 August 2012
Radio Australia Asia Pacific
The former director of the US national intelligence Admiral Dennis Blair says China would be best served by using multi-lateral negotiations forums to put forward its ambitions in the South China Sea. Admiral Blair is in Sydney as a guest of the US Studies Centre and spoke to Karon Snowdon about the extent of China's ambitions in the Asia-Pacific region. Listen Online
Frederick Steiner on designing for an urban planet
8 August 2012
In this interview, Dean of the School of Architecture at the University of Texas in Austin Frederick Steiner discusses the challenges of designing cities in a world that is increasingly defined by dense urban populations. Steiner was in Australia for the Centre's UPE10 Symposium - Next City: Planning for a New Energy and Climate Future. He begins by explaing why an increased focus on city planning is essential to ensure sustainable global growth. Watch Online
US, Australian navies join on biofuel research
7 August 2012
Defense News
After signing an historic statement of co-operation aboard the aircraft carrier Nimitz last month, the US and Australian navies are set to co-operate on biofuel development. Susan Pond, adjunct professor with the Centre’s Dow Sustainability Program, says the agreement will stoke demand and foster development of this emerging industry. Read more
The rise of the multinational university
5 August 2012
University World News
A new report by Centre chief operating officer Sean Gallagher and chief executive Geoffrey Garrett has found that some universities are transforming from branch campuses into multinational universities that behave in many ways like multinational corporations. Is a changing market place threatening to undermine Australia's supremacy in exporting education? Read article
Foreign policy on the agenda as Romney stumbles overseas
3 August 2012
ABC TV Planet America
Whichever way you spin it, it hasn't been a great week for Mitt Romney overseas but the trip has put the differences between the two candidates on foreign policy into clearer focus. Centre research associate Tom Switzer spoke to John Barron and Chas Licciardello about the week that's been and the election to come. Watch Online
Romney fails to shine overseas
3 August 2012
Sky News Lunch Agenda
Romney's gaffes may have been blown out of proportion by the media but nevertheless he has failed to appear statesmanlike on his trip across Europe and the Middle East this week. Research associate Tom Switzer joins an expert panel to discuss whether it will affect his chances in November. Listen Online
Great American polemicist Gore Vidal dies at 86
3 August 2012
2SER Friday Daily
Outspoken American author and essayist Gore Vidal died this past Tuesday at the age of 86 and tributes have flowed in praising his often highly controversial work. Centre lecturer David Smith says that despite making many enemies on all sides of politics, many of his ideas on foreign policy and American politics remain influential today. Listen Online
Sydney can learn from international cities
3 August 2012
2SER Friday Daily
The Centre's UPE10 Symposium - Next City: Planning for a New Energy and Climate Future produced many lessons for policy makers, planners and governments to help improve Sydney's regional government and build on it's inherent strengths. Honorary professor in urban policy Ed Blakely talks about how some of these lessons can be put into practice. Listen Online
Drop in overseas students costs $1 billion
3 August 2012
The Australian
Australia's highly profitable education export industry is in trouble, with international student numbers dropping and competition from American universities increasing. Centre chief operating officer Sean Gallagher, who co-authored a new report on internationalisation in higher education, says that the decline was likely to continue. Read article
Survival lessons from an ancient failed city
3 August 2012
The Atlantic Cities
The city of Angkor Wat, Cambodia, was a vibrant, growing metropolis in the late 17th century. Angkor was the New York, Paris or Rome of its time. Yet, Angkor collapsed almost totally in the 17th century, and the reasons behind its demise offer an important lesson for today’s cities. Read more
Syria becoming an ethno-religious war
2 August 2012
ABC Lateline
Videos posted on YouTube showing Syrian rebels in the commercial capital Aleppo executing government fighters have once again brought the war-torn country to the centre of international concern. Professor of War Studies at King’s College London and Centre guest Anatol Lieven discusses the progress of Syria's civil war and the likelihood of the Taliban in Afghanistan coming to an agreement with coalition forces. Watch Online
New US study suggests marine base in WA
2 August 2012
Sky News
A controversial new American defense study suggests that Garden Island in Western Australia could be used as a base for US marines. But whether the recommendations of this report are taken up are a difficult issue, says Centre lecturer Adam Lockyer Watch Online
Romney at risk with gaffes overseas
2 August 2012
Radio Australia Connect Asia
Mitt Romney has returned to lack-lustre poll results in key swing states, after a gaffe-prone world tour where he questioned Britain's state of readiness for the Olympics and unabashedly named Jerusalem as Israel's capital. Research asscoiate Tom Switzer critiques Romney's moves on foreign policy and asks whether it will cost him the election in November. Listen Online
The week in politics, here and abroad
2 August 2012
ABC Local Radio Sydney 702
It's been a big week in politics both in Australia and in the US, with Mitt Romney's gaffe-filled tour rolling through Europe and the Middle East, the Olympics kicking into gear and Wayne Swan admitting his love of The Boss. Centre research associate Tom Switzer joins a panel of media heavyweights to break it all down. Listen Online
New defence report proposes US marines near Perth
2 August 2012
ABC News 24
A report commissioned by the US Defense Department has recommended the deployment of a large marine task force to Australia to manage the threats of an emerging Asia. Lecturer in US foreign policy Dr Adam Lockyer says the suggested deployment is unlikely to happen, but it signals a continued pivot in the American-Australian alliance towards Asia.
Reflections on the life and work of Gore Vidal
2 August 2012
The Conversation
American author and essayist Gore Vidal died this past Tuesday at the age of 86. A panel of academics, including the Centre's David Smith and Paul Giles, reflect on Vidal's political, cultural, and literary legacy. Read more
Australian universities must innovate to attract Asia
1 August 2012
Radio Australia Asia Pacific
Three years ago higher education exports were worth 18 billion dollars - the third largest export earner after iron ore and coal. But Centre COO and co-author of a new draft report into Australian higher education Sean Gallagher says competitors from the United States and China now threaten to leave Australia's elite research universities in their wake. Dr Gallagher and president of Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Tony Chan discuss the need to innovate to survive. Listen Online
Whitlam v Nixon
1 August 2012
The Australian
In 1972, after the US had bombed the North Vietnamese cities of Hanoi and Haiphong, Australian prime minister Gough Whitlam sent Richard Nixon a letter urging the two sides to come to the negotiating table. In this extract of an essay to be published in The Monthly, lecturer in the history of the US-Australia alliance James Curran describes how Whitlam's letter nearly derailed the US-Australia alliance. Read article
Romney's trip shows a world view steeped in the Cold War
1 August 2012
The Canberra Times
Mitt Romney's first overseas trip as a presidential candidate has not offered the Republican much room to explicitly criticise President Barack Obama, but he has nonetheless sought to draw a sharp distinction with his rival. Centre election analyst Luke Freedman says Romney's destinations reveal a foreign policy outlook steeped in memories of the Cold War and American exceptionalism. Read article
Overhaul the export strategy or fall behind
1 August 2012
The Australian
Higher education is Australia's third largest export, but growing competition from big name US universities will require local institutions to rethink their approach. In a new report, Centre chief operating officer Sean Gallagher and chief executive officer Geoffrey Garrett find that Australian universities will have to adapt to the new environment or move down market. Read article
US universities see future in Asia
1 August 2012
The Australian
Australia's two decade success story in exporting higher education could be coming to an end, with the sector facing competition from high-quality but cash-strapped US universities. In a new report, Centre chief operating officer Sean Gallagher and chief executive officer Geoffrey Garrett warn that some big name institutions are adopting a global approach akin to that of multinational companies. Read article
Notes on America: Higher ed report, Admiral Blair on peace, and City renaissance
1 August 2012
In this edition:
- Higher Ed Report: Australian risk as US unis go international
- Former US intelligence head talks peace in the Asia-Pacific
- UPE10 marks international city renaissance
- Events and commentary Read more
