In an era defined by political polarisation, technological disruption, and global uncertainty, three of the world's most compelling voices came together for a rare conversation about one of humanity's oldest questions: how to live a good life when everything seems to be falling apart.
A Meeting of Extraordinary Minds
The groundbreaking discussion featured historian and author Yuval Noah Harari, former politician and podcaster Rory Stewart, and Nobel Peace Prize-winning journalist Maria Ressa. Each brought their unique perspective forged through years of navigating some of the world's most complex challenges.
Harari, whose books have reshaped how millions understand human history, explored the psychological dimensions of finding meaning. Stewart, having walked from political power to podcast fame with 'The Rest is Politics', offered practical wisdom about maintaining integrity in divided times. Ressa, who continues to battle authoritarian regimes through her journalism, shared hard-won insights about courage and resilience.
Confronting the Age of Overwhelm
The conversation didn't shy away from the daunting realities of our time. The panel addressed everything from artificial intelligence's threat to human agency to the erosion of democratic norms and the climate crisis. Yet remarkably, the tone remained hopeful rather than despairing.
"The challenge isn't to escape difficulty," one speaker noted, "but to find ways to remain fully human within it."
Practical Wisdom for Everyday Life
Beyond philosophical discussion, the conversation yielded actionable advice for ordinary people seeking to navigate these turbulent waters:
- Cultivate local connections while maintaining global awareness
- Practice digital mindfulness to protect attention and mental space
- Embrace productive uncertainty rather than clinging to false certainties
- Find small, meaningful actions that contribute to larger solutions
The Power of Conversation Itself
Perhaps the most powerful message to emerge was about the format itself. In an age of shouting matches and soundbites, this thoughtful exchange between three very different but equally committed individuals demonstrated that real conversation across differences remains one of our most potent tools for understanding and progress.
The event, hosted by Guardian Live, served as a reminder that while the challenges we face are unprecedented, human wisdom, courage, and connection remain our most reliable compass through the storm.
