Talking with Max Read about our Tech-Fash Overlords

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Dec 20, 2024

In this engaging discussion, Max Read, an expert in the interplay of technology, culture, and society, tackles pressing issues like Elon Musk's influence on American politics and the chaotic landscape of cryptocurrency. The conversation dives into the impact of AI on democracy, the allure of unmediated governance, and the complexities of modern cultural identity. They explore the notion of amoral familialism in the digital age, critiquing the superficial social connections fostered by technology and the ramifications for younger generations.

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INSIGHT

Tech Influence in Politics

Elon Musk's influence on Donald Trump's decision to scuttle the continuing resolution demonstrates a shift in political power.
This exemplifies a move towards a post-constitutional system where tech billionaires influence governmental decisions.

INSIGHT

Twitter as Sentiment Meter

Twitter functions as a real-time sentiment meter, influencing financial markets and political discourse.
Elon Musk leverages this to manipulate public sentiment, blurring the lines between tech, finance, and politics.

INSIGHT

Class War on PMC

Silicon Valley's elite are waging a class war against the professional managerial class (PMC).
Their strategy involves manipulating platforms, securing government funding for tech projects, and utilizing AI.

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Welcome to Unpopular Front’s second crossover podcast extravaganza with Max Read of Read Max, who provides the best coverage of technology, culture, and society anywhere today. We went all out on this one: our conversation ranges from the news of Elon Musk turning “X” into a way to manipulate Congress, theories of venture class war against the professional-managerial class, the financialization of everything, surfing the endless vibe shifts, what the tech oligarchs are trying to get out of D.C., what is crypto-currency even, what is A.I. about, the crisis of institutions, new forms of subjectivity being created on the internet, commodity fetishism. Marx, Hegel on cybermobs, male loneliness, the culture of perpetual adolescence, Who Framed Roger Rabbit?…you name it! It was a lot of fun and even a little scary at times as we let ourselves go very speculative—if not to say, a little paranoid and out there. I’m not sure if we have any of the answers, but I think we do some adventurous and irresponsible theorizing. If you like either of our writing, I think you’ll enjoy this a lot. And if you do like it, please do let us know, so we can make it a regular thing.

You’ll also be able to find this on external podcast players.

I’m not sure what the posting schedule will be like the week of Christmas, so I’ll provide a couple of little updates now:

* When The Clock Broke was nominated for the 2024 National Book Critics Circle Award.

* If you can’t get enough of Max, also check out his recent appearance on the TrueAnon podcast.

* This week marked the 7th anniversary of my piece on Murray Rothbard for The Baffler, which started the research project that resulted in the book.

* Check out my friend political theorist Steven Klein on the What’s Left of Philosophy podcast with a very helpful overview of the work of critical theorist Jürgen Habermas.

* On the Gnocchic Codices Substack, some interesting observations on what I guess you could call neo-neoconservativism.

* In the new year, I’ll have a bunch of writing in other publications, including some exciting announcements.

If you don’t hear from me, have a Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, and Happy New Year!

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