How To Academy Podcast Naomi Klein - The Mirror World of Conspiracists and the Far-Right
14 snips
Jun 19, 2024 
Author Naomi Klein explores the mirror world of conspiracists and the far-right, diving into the confusion between her and another author. They discuss the rise of conspiracy theories, far-right connections, and the impact of personal branding. Delve into shifts in beliefs, the exploitative nature of the far right, and the allure of conspiracy theories. Explore societal dynamics, movement-building challenges, and the importance of radical action in addressing urgent issues like climate change.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Brand Confusion Sparked The Investigation
- Naomi Klein discovered social-media mentions confusing her with Naomi Wolf during the pandemic, which sparked the book's investigation into conspiracy culture.
- She followed that confusion as a 'white rabbit' into a mirror world of conspiracy, wellness influencers, and the far right.
Personal Branding Became A Cultural Force
- Personal branding turned into a wider cultural force as smartphones made everyone a mini advertising agency for themselves.
- Klein links this self-branding and optimization to why movements feel short-lived and campaign-like.
The Far Right Mirrors And Hijacks Left Grievances
- The far right mixes populist anger about a rigged system with exclusionary identity politics and flips left critiques for its own ends.
- That fusion works when the left fails to address economic injustice and systemic rigging.