The Nation Podcasts
The Secret Clubhouse for Reactionary Plutocrat | The Time of Monsters with Jeet Heer
May 4, 2025
Chris Lehmann, a colleague at The Nation and writer on plutocrat dynamics, joins the discussion to shed light on exclusive group chats where billionaires express their frustrations and strategize. They explore the growing discontent among elite figures regarding social media, the transformation of the ruling class, and the political ideologies shaping their echo chambers. The conversation also delves into the contradictions of contemporary monarchist thoughts and the complex relationship between wealth, media, and political discourse.
41:57
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Quick takeaways
- Exclusive billionaire group chats create echo chambers that discourage engagement with opposing views, undermining democratic discourse.
- The collaboration between Silicon Valley elites and the MAGA right reshapes public discourse and economic policies, reflecting a reactionary political shift.
Deep dives
The Emergence of Exclusive Group Chats
The rise of exclusive group chats among influential figures, particularly in Silicon Valley, is becoming notable. These spaces serve as private forums where like-minded individuals vent frustrations over perceived liberal biases in mainstream social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook. These group chats, such as Chatham House, allow members to connect and share ideas without the risk of outside scrutiny or dissenting viewpoints. This shift towards gated online communities reflects a desire among elites to create echo chambers that reinforce their views while avoiding public challenges.
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