Disorder
Ep105. Neoliberalism: The Ultimate Disorderer? With George Monbiot
Mar 11, 2025
George Monbiot, a Guardian columnist and environmental activist, dives deep into the shadowy world of neoliberalism in this thought-provoking discussion. He analyzes how it has commodified public services, leading to a powerful oligarchy while undermining democracy. Monbiot critiques centrist politicians’ failures to propose viable alternatives and explores the psychological motivations behind the extreme wealth of today’s billionaires. The conversation calls for unity among the working and middle classes to confront these challenges and strive for a fairer society.
55:40
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Quick takeaways
- Neoliberalism's emphasis on privatization has weakened governments' capacity to address societal needs, leading to a rise in income inequality and oligarchic power.
- The podcast argues for a new political narrative centered on collective action and local engagement to combat the disorder caused by neoliberal policies.
Deep dives
The Rise of Neoliberalism and Its Impacts
Neoliberalism has fundamentally transformed governmental functions and societal structures since its emergence in the late 20th century. This ideology, rooted in the works of thinkers like Friedrich Hayek and Ludwig von Mises, advocates for minimal state intervention in favor of free-market principles. As a result, the capacity of governments to address key issues such as public welfare, infrastructure, and income inequality has significantly diminished, leading to a growing reliance on private entities for services traditionally provided by the state. This shift has contributed to pronounced income inequality and the empowerment of private oligarchs who possess more influence than governments in certain domains.
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