Jacobin Radio Confronting Capitalism: Are We Still in Neoliberalism?
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May 21, 2025 The conversation dives into the erosion of neoliberalism, questioning its sustainability amid rising economic inequality. It critiques the façade of 'pro-worker' conservatism and warns against superficial political gestures that merely reinforce corporate dominance. The impact of Trump's trade policies is examined, suggesting a shift in global power dynamics and an ongoing struggle against entrenched capitalist structures. The discussion also highlights the challenges of deglobalization, exploring the potential for grassroots movements to reclaim democratic representation for the working class.
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Defining Neoliberalism
- Neoliberalism marks a turn from the post-war social democratic capitalism to a market-driven economy.
- It revives a 19th-century capitalist ideal with minimal state intervention and market dominance.
Neoliberalism Lacked True Support
- Neoliberalism never enjoyed popular support; people tolerated it out of resignation.
- The recent shifts show a collapse in tolerance and a rise in anger, not true endorsement or collapse of support.
Electoral Resistance Beats Mobilization
- Mass social mobilizations against neoliberalism have not occurred; resistance is mostly electoral and lobbying.
- Political losses have prevented welfare state shrinkage, not organized popular mobilizations.