

Ep 218: The Siren Song of Rallying Around a 'Common Enemy' to Promote Progressive Causes
17 snips Apr 16, 2025
Joining the discussion is Greg Grandin, a Yale historian and author known for his insightful analysis of American history. He delves into the age-old tactic of rallying around a 'common enemy'—specifically China—and how this narrative is shaping progressive policies. They explore the militarization of climate change responses, critique anti-China rhetoric, and question the necessity of competition over collaboration. Grandin urges a reevaluation of narratives that prioritize unity over division, advocating for a focus on improving lives rather than defeating an adversary.
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Common Enemy Justifies Policy
- The US often justifies costly policies by framing them as necessary to defeat a common enemy, usually China.
- This premise overshadows the idea that policies could simply aim to improve people's lives without adversarial framing.
Progress and Guns Linked in US
- The US political structure is deeply bound to national security liberalism, promoting both military spending and social progress.
- Progressive policies are often framed via national security to gain support, merging 'guns and butter' approaches.
Climate Change: Cooperation vs Competition
- Two climate change narratives compete: cooperative global action versus survivalist competition.
- The competitive race approach undermines genuine cooperation needed for effective climate solutions.