Behind the News: The State of Trans Politics w/ Erin Reed
Aug 21, 2023
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Erin Reed discusses the state of trans politics in the US, including anti-trans legislation, protective laws, and the migration of transgender individuals. Public opinion on transgender issues shows support for non-discrimination protections and opposition to criminalizing gender affirming care.
Private corporations exert control and coercion in people's lives, necessitating collective action and a reimagining of American political economy.
Conservatives are increasingly aware of private actors' coercive practices, but this awareness has not translated into cohesive political reform.
The worker-as-capitalist ideal in American political thinking is detached from the realities of power imbalances and limited opportunities in the modern economy.
Deep dives
Saurabh Amari discusses his new book 'Tyranny Inc.' and the critique of private power in America
Saurabh Amari, co-founder of Compact Magazine, discusses his new book 'Tyranny Inc.' which critiques the power of capital in American society. He argues that traditional notions of liberty are insufficient in a world dominated by private corporations that exert control and coercion in people's lives. Amari highlights examples like forced arbitration agreements and the limitations of worker rights, emphasizing the need for collective action and a reimagining of American political economy.
The conservative movement's thinking on private coercion and private power
Amari reflects on the conservative movement's views on private coercion and power. While the movement traditionally emphasized free market principles and equality of opportunity, there has been a growing awareness among some conservatives of the potential for private actors, like big tech and corporations, to engage in coercive practices. However, Amari notes that this awareness has not translated into a cohesive political program to address these concerns, often resulting in cultural battles rather than meaningful reforms.
Lincoln's view of labor and the persistence of the worker-as-capitalist ideal
Amari delves into Abraham Lincoln's view of labor and the enduring influence of the worker-as-capitalist ideal in American political thinking. He highlights Lincoln's belief that every worker has the potential to become a successful capitalist and how this notion has shaped American perceptions of labor and class conflict. However, Amari argues that this vision is detached from the realities of the modern economy, where most workers face power imbalances and limited opportunities for self-employment.
The impact of the Lochner decision and the return of neo-Locknerism
Amari discusses the significance of the Lochner decision in 1905 and its implications for labor law. He explains how this Supreme Court ruling, which invalidated state laws limiting work hours, championed the concept of liberty of contract and undermined worker protections. Amari argues that neo-Locknerism, which favors a hands-off approach to labor regulation, has made a resurgence in recent years, further exacerbating power imbalances between employers and employees.
The importance of labor power and potential political routes for change
Amari examines the significance of labor power in addressing issues of private coercion and advocating for labor rights. He highlights the current wave of labor militancy and its potential for generating greater worker awareness and power. Amari also discusses the role of the Biden administration's post-neoliberal rhetoric and its industrial policy proposals in fostering a more favorable environment for workers' rights. While recognizing the challenges in achieving a social democratic agenda, he explores the possibility of a new bipartisan consensus that prioritizes worker empowerment and challenges neoliberal orthodoxies.
Behind the News, hosted by Doug Henwood, covers the worlds of economics and politics and their complex interactions, from the local to the global. Find the archive online.
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