Best of the Left - Leftist Perspectives on Progressive Politics, News, Culture, Economics and Democracy #1500 America, A Beginner's Guide (Throwback)
Dec 24, 2025
Take a deep dive into the complex political landscape of America! Explore how Reconstruction shaped modern society and the impact of civil rights on party realignment. Discover the neoliberal shift under Reagan and the implications of money in politics. Examine the intricacies of race, privilege, and systemic racism. Unpack the nuances of language, empathy in policing, and the disorganized left. Finally, grapple with tech’s role in shaping perceptions and the risks of hyper-individualism. Get ready for a thought-provoking journey!
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Reconstruction's Lost Opportunity
- Reconstruction ended too soon, letting white supremacists regain power and entrench a century of oppression. Jay! Tomlinson argues the South "won the peace" and set lasting political and cultural consequences.
Neoliberalism Rewrote American Economics
- Neoliberalism replaced the New Deal, disconnecting corporate profits from wages and expanding inequality. Jay! Tomlinson highlights Reagan-era realignment and decades of policy that hollowed out shared prosperity.
The Money Primary Shapes Elections
- Campaign finance creates a "money primary" that filters which candidates can compete before voters decide. Jay! Tomlinson explains wealthy backers shape politics by funding aligned candidates rather than buying votes.