Season 7 Episode 15: Nathan Robinson on His Book w/Noam Chomsky (+ Jordan Peterson's Jubilee)

Jun 12, 2025

Nathan J. Robinson, editor of Current Affairs and co-author with Noam Chomsky, dives deep into their book 'The Myth of American Idealism.' They dissect the moral implications of U.S. foreign policy, particularly during the Vietnam War, challenging conventional narratives and revealing the darker undercurrents of military interventions. The discussion also touches on the complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict and critiques surrounding democracy. With humor interspersed, they navigate the ethical dilemmas of warfare and the importance of free speech in political discourse.

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ANECDOTE

Ellsberg's Vietnam Realization

Daniel Ellsberg realized the U.S. supported French colonialism in Vietnam, undermining claims of defending democracy.
After learning this, he saw the Vietnam War as a morally wrong conflict, not a noble cause.

INSIGHT

Vietnam War's Hidden Complexity

The war in Vietnam was largely a conflict against South Vietnamese peasants, not just North Vietnamese aggression.
The U.S. fought an unpopular South Vietnamese government, complicating the pro-freedom war narrative.

INSIGHT

Afghanistan War's Counterproductive Impact

U.S. occupation of Afghanistan harmed anti-Taliban opposition by bombing villages and ignoring negotiation offers to hand over Bin Laden.
The invasion created the Taliban as a resistance movement and propped up a corrupt, unpopular government.

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The White House years

Ollie Atkins

Published in 1977, 'The White House Years: Triumph and Tragedy' by Ollie Atkins offers insights into pivotal moments in U.S. history, highlighting both successes and setbacks. The book provides a historical perspective on the White House during a significant period, though specific details about the content are limited.

The Hell of Good Intentions

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Stephen Walt

Dans "The Hell of Good Intentions", Stephen Walt analyse les erreurs de la politique étrangère américaine, notamment l'hégémonisme libéral. Il critique les interventions militaires et les politiques néo-conservatrices, soulignant leurs conséquences négatives. Walt met en garde contre les dangers de l'interventionnisme et de la promotion de la démocratie par la force. Il plaide pour une approche plus réaliste et pragmatique de la politique étrangère, axée sur les intérêts nationaux et la coopération internationale. L'ouvrage est une critique acerbe de la politique étrangère américaine et une invitation à une réflexion plus profonde sur les relations internationales.

I'll Burn That Bridge

Heretical Thoughts on Identity Politics, Cancel Culture, and Academic Freedom

Norman Finkelstein

This book delves into the complexities of identity politics, cancel culture, and academic freedom. It explores the challenges faced by those who dare to challenge prevailing narratives and examines the impact of these forces on intellectual discourse and academic freedom. The book offers a critical perspective on the limitations of identity politics and the dangers of cancel culture, while advocating for a more open and inclusive academic environment. It is a thought-provoking read for anyone interested in the intersection of politics, culture, and academia. The book's insights are relevant to a wide range of readers, from academics and students to anyone concerned about the state of public discourse.

Infinite jest

wit and humor in Italian Renaissance art

Paul Barolsky

In this book, Paul Barolsky examines the role of wit and humor in Italian Renaissance art, providing insights into the artistic and cultural context of the period. The work delves into how artists of the Renaissance used humor and wit in their creations, reflecting the broader cultural and social attitudes of the time.

Citizen Marx

Bruno Lepold

The Myth of American Idealism

How U.S. Foreign Policy Endangers the World

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Noam Chomsky

In "The Myth of American Idealism," Noam Chomsky and Nathan Robinson dissect the history of US foreign policy, arguing that it has consistently prioritized strategic interests over democratic ideals. The book examines numerous interventions, revealing how the pursuit of power has led to devastating consequences worldwide. Chomsky and Robinson challenge the narrative of American exceptionalism, exposing the hypocrisy and violence inherent in many US foreign policy decisions. They offer a critical analysis of the justifications used to legitimize these actions, highlighting the human cost of these interventions. The book ultimately calls for a fundamental shift in US foreign policy, advocating for a more just and equitable approach to international relations.

Capital's Grave

Neofeudalism and the New Class Struggle

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Capital Volume 1

Karl Marx

In 'Capital Volume 1', Karl Marx provides a comprehensive analysis of the capitalist system, focusing on the process of production and the exploitation of labor. He argues that capitalism inherently leads to contradictions such as technological unemployment and crises of overproduction. The book is a seminal work in understanding the historical development of capitalism and its social implications.