The Gray Area with Sean Illing Astra Taylor will change how you think about democracy
Aug 5, 2019
Astra Taylor, author and filmmaker known for her impactful works on democracy, dives deep into radical redefinitions of democratic principles. She explores extending democratic rights to animals, nature, and future generations, suggesting revolutionary ideas like selecting Congress by lottery. Taylor challenges conventional paths of citizenship and inclusion, advocating for cooperative governance in workplaces. By highlighting complex societal issues, she urges a rethinking of solidarity in democracy and the importance of compassion toward marginalized communities.
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Episode notes
Democracy's Evolution
- Astra Taylor emphasizes that democracy is an ongoing process, not a finished product.
- It's shaped by those excluded, demanding inclusion and expanding the "we".
Defining Democracy
- Taylor defines democracy as a system where the many, particularly the poor, hold power.
- She suggests the next step is extending democracy into economics.
Workplace Democracy Example
- Taylor discusses Opportunity Threads, a thriving democratic textile factory in North Carolina.
- Run by Guatemalan immigrants, it demonstrates workplace democracy's potential.
