Aziz Rana, a Professor at Boston College Law School, dives deep into the evolution of the American project and its constitutional worship. He discusses the rise of nativism and authoritarianism in the U.S., linking it to neoliberalism's roots and cultural shifts of the 1970s. Exploring the complexities of gender roles, political norms, and the very fabric of American identity, Rana critiques the constitutional design while advocating for grassroots support to counter the far-right. The conversation highlights the urgent need for reform in the face of systemic inequalities.
The podcast highlights the historical unraveling of the American empire since the 1970s, correlating it with the rise of right-wing populism and economic inequality.
Aziz Rana explores the concept of originalism in constitutional interpretation, revealing its role in legitimizing conservative ideologies against progressive social changes.
The discussion emphasizes the intersection of gender politics and political narratives, particularly how traditional family structures have been weaponized against feminist movements.
The episode critiques the U.S. Constitution's counter-majoritarian features, stressing their contribution to contemporary political crises and the need for systemic reform.
Deep dives
The Rise of Teacher Strikes
In 2012, a historic teachers' strike led by Karen Lewis in Chicago challenged the authority of the city's mayor, signaling a significant challenge to established educational norms. This strike catalyzed a wave of teacher activism across the country, laying the groundwork for numerous subsequent strikes that sought to improve conditions for educators and students alike. The podcast mentions Lewis's book, 'I Didn't Come Here to Lie', which emphasizes her commitment to advocating for quality education and the rights of teachers. Her story serves as an example of grassroots activism inspiring national movements in the education sector.
Conflict and Quiescence in American History
This episode explores American history through the framework of alternating periods of conflict and stability, specifically around the evolving nature of the United States as a global power. It discusses how, following the Spanish-American War and the two World Wars, America shifted towards an imperial stance that justified its global dominance through ostensibly universal rights. The analysis provides insight into how these historical transformations correlate with the ideological battles regarding race, class, and national identity. A key takeaway is the ongoing tension between America’s self-image as a liberator and its historical practices rooted in colonialism and oppression.
The Unraveling of the American Empire
The podcast delves into the political and economic crises of the 1970s, which coincided with the rise of a radical right-wing movement and a neoliberal response to New Deal policies. This period marked a transition where constitutional Americanism re-emerged post-1960s turmoil, yet simultaneously, the systems began to unravel amidst deepening socioeconomic disparities. The aftermath of the Cold War, particularly the collapse of the Soviet Union, led to an era marked by an unilateral American foreign policy and an escalating 'War on Terror'. This complexities highlight how militarism, nativism, and economic inequality have shaped contemporary political landscapes.
Reassertion of the Right
The radicalization of conservative politics during the 1970s is highlighted, illustrating the dynamic shift in the political landscape where economic fears and cultural transformations prompted a reactionary resurgence from the right. The episode identifies the weakening of labor movements and declining unionization rates as leading to newfound power for conservative forces that sought to dismantle New Deal legacies. It underscores the close relationship between the economic dislocation of the working class and the rise of right-wing populism. This transformation illustrates the interplay between class conflict and political radicalization, reshaping American democracy in the process.
The Role of Originalism
Originalism emerges as a critical theme linked to the cultural and legal resurgence of conservative ideologies in interpreting the Constitution. This interpretive method, appealing to a predetermined historical context for understanding constitutional provisions, has historically been used to justify reactionary social policies. The podcast discusses how originalism garnered traction in response to civil rights advancements and was employed by figures who resisted social changes in race, gender, and class dynamics. Over time, this legal framework has helped unify various strands of the conservative movement, facilitating their agenda against progressive reforms.
Gender Norms and Political Movements
The episode examines how historical constructs of masculinity and femininity intertwine with political narratives, particularly regarding the family unit during the 20th century. It discusses the backlash against feminist movements and the resistance to policies like the Equal Rights Amendment, positioning these as attempts to maintain traditional gender roles and familial structures. The societal emphasis on a patriarchal family as a cornerstone for political participation highlights the ongoing struggle over the gendered division of labor. This narrative effectively illustrates how gender issues remain central to conflicts surrounding identity and politics throughout American history.
Counter-majoritarian Constitutionalism
The podcast critiques the counter-majoritarian features within the U.S. Constitution that contribute to chronic political crises and disillusionment. The structural characteristics of the Senate and other bodies create a scenario where majoritarian interests are often sidelined, leading to frustration among the populace. Historical references illustrate how this framework paved the way for autocratic tendencies exemplified by figures like Trump, who exploit these constitutional weaknesses to gain and consolidate power. The analysis presents a stark warning about the implications of such undemocratic structures on the political landscape, emphasizing the need for reform.
Reimagining Political Power
The episode concludes with a call for a resurgence of organized political power on the left, stressing the necessity of confronting both authoritarianism and neoliberalism. It argues for the importance of building institutional frameworks that connect communities to leftist ideas, which have become increasingly relevant in today's political climate. Highlighted are the efforts of grassroots organizations and the need to revitalize labor movements that can link class struggle with broader social movements. This perspective advocates for a future where genuine political transformation occurs through a united and empowered left coalition, which recognizes the interconnectedness of various struggles within the socio-political landscape.
Featuring Aziz Rana on the making of the American project and its legitimation through popular worship of the US Constitution. This episode, the final in a four-part series, traces the great unraveling of the American empire from the 1970s to our present MAGA 2.0 moment.
