George Packer
In ‘Our Man,’ diplomat Richard Holbrooke is both an egotist and idealist
Richard Holbrooke was an influential diplomat who’s ideas shaped US foreign policy in the late 20th century. Author George Packer spoke with Carol Hills about Holbrooke and his new book, “Our Man: Richard Holbrooke and the End of the American Century,” which explores the complex and often contradictory ideas and lifestyle of Hoolbrooke and gives us an intimate look at the major events and people in his life.
Roundtable: The March on Washington & The Future of the Civil Rights Movement
Today we’re recognizing the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington for what it was: A turning point in the civil rights movement that motivated Congress to take action on inequality. First came the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and then later the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Those who marched on […]
Is Silicon Valley Good for the World?
In his most recent New Yorker article, George Packer describes Silicon Valley’s biggest blind spot: namely, that its wealth and its youthful demographics has given way to a distinct political and social worldview that mimics libertarianism. He argues that the tech world’s aversion to government intrusion (and taxation) leaves the rest of us behind. But […]
George Packer on Richard Holbrooke
George Packer, staff writer for The New Yorker, knew Richard Holbrooke not only through his reporting but through many conversations with the diplomatic titan. Packer was supposed to have dinner with Holbrooke this Friday, and joins us now to remember not only Holbrook’s impressive career, but his personality and his humor.