In 'The End of the Myth', Greg Grandin explores the historical significance of the frontier in American history, from its symbolic representation of limitless opportunity and grand ambition to its current manifestation as an isolating border wall. Grandin traces the evolution of this concept from the 18th century to the present, highlighting its impact on American identity, politics, and society. He critiques the myth of the frontier as promoted by historians like Frederick Jackson Turner and examines its darker aspects, including the treatment of Native Americans and African-Americans, and the influence of racism and imperialism. The book concludes by discussing how this myth has been replaced by a 'conspiratorial nihilism' and the building of border walls, reflecting a society that is 'losing the ability to channel extremism outward' and is 'imploding' due to finite resources and internal conflicts.
In 'Kissinger's Shadow', Greg Grandin explores how Henry Kissinger's policies have shaped America's imperial stance and contributed to ongoing conflicts. The book delves into Kissinger's worldview, revealing a blend of realism and idealism that has influenced U.S. foreign policy from Vietnam to Iraq. Grandin argues that Kissinger's legacy continues to affect contemporary America, with its never-ending wars and political polarization.
Published in 1949, '1984' is a cautionary tale by George Orwell that explores the dangers of totalitarianism. The novel is set in a dystopian future where the world is divided into three super-states, with the protagonist Winston Smith living in Oceania, ruled by the mysterious and omnipotent leader Big Brother. Winston works at the Ministry of Truth, where he rewrites historical records to conform to the Party's ever-changing narrative. He begins an illicit love affair with Julia and starts to rebel against the Party, but they are eventually caught and subjected to brutal torture and indoctrination. The novel highlights themes of government surveillance, manipulation of language and history, and the suppression of individual freedom and independent thought.
In "The Myth of American Idealism," Noam Chomsky and Nathan Robinson dissect the history of US foreign policy, arguing that it has consistently prioritized strategic interests over democratic ideals. The book examines numerous interventions, revealing how the pursuit of power has led to devastating consequences worldwide. Chomsky and Robinson challenge the narrative of American exceptionalism, exposing the hypocrisy and violence inherent in many US foreign policy decisions. They offer a critical analysis of the justifications used to legitimize these actions, highlighting the human cost of these interventions. The book ultimately calls for a fundamental shift in US foreign policy, advocating for a more just and equitable approach to international relations.
This panel was recorded on October 16th, 2024
A special event hosted by Current Affairs Magazine at The New School in New York City to celebrate the release of The Myth of American Idealism, the new book co-authored by Noam Chomsky and Nathan J. Robinson. The panel explores Chomsky’s lifelong critique of U.S. foreign policy—from Vietnam and Iraq to Ukraine and Gaza—and examines why his radical analysis of American power remains essential.
Joining Nathan are leading journalists, scholars, and close collaborators of Chomsky who reflect on his influence, his moral clarity, and the urgent relevance of his work today.
Nathan Robinson - Co-author of The Myth of American Idealism, Editor-in-Chief of Current Affairs Magazine
Amy Goodman - Host of the independent global news program Democracy Now! since 1996, author of six books, winner of the I.F. Stone Medal for Journalistic Independence and the Gandhi Peace Award
Bev Stohl - Ran Prof. Chomsky's office at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology for over 20 years and is the author of Chomsky and Me: A Memoir
Greg Grandin - Professor of history at Yale University, author of Kissinger's Shadow, Empire's Workshop, and Fordlandia: The Rise and Fall of Henry Ford's Forgotten Jungle City, which was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for History and the National Book Award
Victor Pickard - Media studies professor, Annenberg School for Communication at the University of Pennsylvania, author of America’s Battle for Media Democracy: The Triumph of Corporate Libertarianism and the Future of Media Reform and Democracy Without Journalism?
📖 The Myth of American Idealism: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/738224/the-myth-of-american-idealism-by-noam-chomsky-and-nathan-j-robinson/
📖 Chomsky and Me: https://orbooks.com/catalog/chomsky-and-me/
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