Authors Ruth Ben-Ghiat and Arthur Goldwag discuss Trump's disturbing interviews, America's susceptibility to conspiracies, and the battle over mail-in ballots. The podcast explores the dangers of rising fascism, Trump's vision for an 'Imperial America,' and the need for a pro-democracy movement against autocracy in the US.
Trump's authoritarian vision for America under Project 2025 involves repressive measures and mass repression, aiming to remove checks on executive power.
The gradual erosion of democratic norms by Trump's autocratic practices demands heightened awareness to prevent a full-fledged authoritarian regime post-2025.
Trump's influence has normalized authoritarian tendencies within political discourse, requiring a critical assessment of the democratic fabric of the nation.
Deep dives
The Time Magazine Interview Reveals Trump's Vision for Imperial America
The Time Magazine interview with Donald Trump sheds light on his vision for America, portraying a transformation into an autocracy through Project 2025. Trump marketed authoritarianism and depicted repressive measures, such as mass repression and overriding the Posse Comitatus Act, as necessary for the nation's freedom. This interview serves as a blueprint for a rapid authoritarian takeover that aims to remove checks on executive power and ensure impunity for crimes and violence.
Gradual Unfolding of Authoritarianism and the Need for Vigilance
Authoritarian takeovers and crackdowns often occur gradually, shaping public perceptions over time. Trump's marketing of autocratic practices and dehumanization tactics, like labeling undocumented immigrants as non-civilians, pave the way for a drastic transformation post-2025 if he regains power. The gradual erosion of democratic norms and values demands heightened awareness and vigilance among Americans to prevent a full-fledged authoritarian regime.
Media Domestication and Systemic Changes Under Trump's Regime
Trump's influence has led to the domestication of media channels and the erosion of democratic institutions. By narrating the debate on issues like presidential immunity for criminal actions, Trump has normalized authoritarian tendencies within political discourse. The subtle yet profound changes in media ownership and legal considerations reflect a broader shift towards autocratic governance, necessitating a critical assessment of the democratic fabric of the nation.
American Identity Conflict: Religion vs. Secularism
In the podcast episode, it is discussed how the conflict between America's foundation as a refuge for religious freedom and an Enlightenment-inspired secular state creates tension within American identity. The podcast highlights the compatibility of Puritanism with capitalism and the clash between a religious state and a secular state. This conflict is portrayed as ongoing, especially evident in current debates such as abortion, showcasing the unresolved nature of America's founding ideological struggle.
Erosion of Democracy and Conspiracy Theories
The podcast also delves into the persistence of conspiracy theories in American society, examining their roots in fear and anxiety. It explores how conspiracy theories offer a sense of control and explanation in uncertain times, appealing to individuals' psychological needs. Additionally, the discussion touches on how conspiracy theories are often propagated from the top-down, exploiting societal fears and uncertainties to maintain power. The episode mentions QAnon as a modern example, highlighting its Gnostic narrative structure and predicting its endurance despite its inherent falsehoods.
This week on The New Abnormal, co-hosts Andy Levy and Danielle Moodie discuss the battle between the RNC and mail-in ballots—and the debate over what constitutes a democracy versus a republic. Then, author and historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat talks about one of Trump’s latest horrifying interviews. Plus! Author Arthur Goldwag on his new book and America’s susceptibility to conspiracies.
