Jacobin Radio

Confronting Capitalism: Why We Don’t Revolt

Jun 18, 2025
Vivek Chibber, a sociology professor at NYU and editor of Catalyst, dives into the subtle mechanisms keeping capitalism afloat. He questions the common notion that media persuades consent, suggesting instead that economic pressures dull dissent. The conversation also unveils the complexities behind workers' acceptance of neoliberalism and their historic struggle for rights. Moreover, Chibber highlights the rise of collective worker anger, pointing to the urgency for organized resistance amid ongoing economic challenges. It's an enlightening discussion on the real dynamics of power and consent.
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INSIGHT

Capitalism's Stability: Consent or Coercion?

  • Capitalism's stability is often explained by consent or coercion, but stability mostly comes from workers' grudging acceptance due to lack of alternatives.
  • The left mistakenly believed media and ideological hegemony fully secured consent when it was really resignation to harsh conditions.
INSIGHT

Neoliberalism's Grudging Acceptance

  • Neoliberalism imposed unbearable conditions on workers who never wanted its rollback of protections.
  • Workers accepted neoliberalism grudgingly because trade unions were broken or domesticated, removing means to fight back.
INSIGHT

Media vs Politicians on Persuasion

  • Media outlets mainly express their own pro-capitalist views rather than actively duping workers.
  • Politicians deceive voters due to corporate masters' demands, not because media genuinely convinces workers.
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