Episode 678: JEAN GUERRERO(2020)-HATEMONGER: Stephen Miller, Donald Trump, & the White Nationalist Agenda

In this book, Arlie Russell Hochschild travels from her liberal hometown of Berkeley, California, to the conservative heartland of Louisiana to understand the rise of the Tea Party movement. She profiles individuals such as Mike Schaff, a former oil industry worker whose town was devastated by a drilling accident, and Lee Sherman, who suffered from toxic waste dumping. Hochschild seeks to overcome the 'empathy wall' between liberals and conservatives by exploring the deep emotional and social reasons behind their political views, including feelings of loss, anger, and a sense of betrayal. The book provides a nuanced understanding of why people might vote against their apparent self-interest and argues for the possibility of mutual compassion and understanding between the right and the left.

Jean Raspail's 'Camp of the Saints' is a controversial dystopian novel depicting a mass migration of impoverished people from the Third World to Europe. The novel explores themes of immigration, cultural identity, and the potential consequences of unchecked population growth. Raspail's provocative narrative and unflinching portrayal of societal upheaval have sparked considerable debate and controversy. The book's depiction of the breakdown of social order and the clash of cultures has resonated with readers on both sides of the immigration debate. 'Camp of the Saints' serves as a cautionary tale about the potential challenges of mass migration and the importance of managing population growth. The novel's enduring relevance stems from its exploration of complex social and political issues that continue to shape global discourse.

Tightrope: Americans Reaching for Hope delves into the struggles of working-class America, using personal narratives from Nicholas Kristof's hometown in Oregon to illustrate broader societal issues. The book critiques policy failures and emphasizes the need for systemic change to address poverty, addiction, and inequality. It also offers stories of resilience and potential solutions to these complex problems.

In 'The End of the Myth', Greg Grandin explores the historical significance of the frontier in American history, from its symbolic representation of limitless opportunity and grand ambition to its current manifestation as an isolating border wall. Grandin traces the evolution of this concept from the 18th century to the present, highlighting its impact on American identity, politics, and society. He critiques the myth of the frontier as promoted by historians like Frederick Jackson Turner and examines its darker aspects, including the treatment of Native Americans and African-Americans, and the influence of racism and imperialism. The book concludes by discussing how this myth has been replaced by a 'conspiratorial nihilism' and the building of border walls, reflecting a society that is 'losing the ability to channel extremism outward' and is 'imploding' due to finite resources and internal conflicts.