Quinn Slobodian, a Boston University history professor and expert in neoliberalism, dives into the complexities of Trumpism and its implications. He discusses whether Trump embodies neoliberal principles and elaborates on the three strands of DOGE-ism. Anatol Lieven, director of the Eurasia Program at the Quincy Institute, examines Europe's military response to the Ukraine conflict and the tangled dynamics of U.S.-European relations. Together, they unpack the contradictions of modern political discourse and the impact of neoliberalism on governance.
The podcast explores the complexities of Trump's political identity, suggesting he embodies elements of both neoliberalism and authoritarian capitalism amidst shifting conservative ideologies.
Quinn Slobodian discusses the rise of DOGE-ism, emphasizing its intersection with Wall Street and Silicon Valley, which threatens traditional democratic values and accountability.
Deep dives
Trump's Self-Identification as King
Trump’s announcement to cancel New York City's congestion pricing program illustrates his tendency to position himself as a ruler, which raises questions about the implications of his leadership style. This attempt to dismiss an important funding source for public transit draws attention to his broader political motivations and his manipulative rhetoric. His reference to a misattributed quote regarding law and the state underscores a concerning dismissal of legal frameworks, leaving many to wonder what he perceives as a threat to 'saving' the country. The core issue revolves around what Trump aims to protect, as he ironically claims to guard against concepts such as pronouns, reflecting his prioritization of personal narrative over public policy effectiveness.
J.D. Vance's Munich Speech and Its Implications
J.D. Vance's speech at the Munich Security Conference drew criticism for its condemnation of Europe’s response to far-right ideologies while simultaneously ignoring the troubling aspects of the American administration's record on free speech. This highlights a notable disintegration of the Western political unity, as Vance aligns with radical right parties across Europe at the expense of democratic values, reflecting the clashing narratives within the West. The debate surrounding his comments demonstrates a deterioration in traditional liberal norms, provoking alarm among European leaders who feel let down by America's shifting political stances. Vance's rhetoric initiated discussions about the authority of liberal institutions, igniting concerns over the future of transatlantic relationships amid rising populist sentiments on both sides of the Atlantic.
Perceptions of Trump: Fascist or Neoliberal?
The classification of Trump as either a fascist or a neoliberal is complex and requires a nuanced understanding of his political actions and alliances. Critics argue that framing him strictly as a fascist contradicts his administration’s partnership with capitalist oligarchs, creating a spectrum where his leadership resembles that of Latin American caudillos, marked by populism and corporate interests. This mixture signals a departure from traditional ideological benchmarks, introducing a form of governance that prioritizes wealth accumulation and economic elitism. As Trump’s agenda continues to unfold, it becomes increasingly necessary to analyze his administration’s approach through the lens of authoritarian capitalism rather than through conventional fascist models.
The New Strains of Conservatism and Capitalism
The evolving landscape of contemporary conservatism reveals an intersection of Wall Street interests with Silicon Valley ideologies, promoting a vision that favors corporate governance over democratic ideals. This coalition seeks to prioritize market demands while simultaneously undermining structures of accountability, reflecting a shift towards a more authoritarian and mercantilist style of governance. Authoritarian capitalism encompasses various factions, from vulture capitalists to right-wing think tanks promoting anti-democratic principles, indicating a broader existential threat to traditional liberal frameworks. As these groups advocate for a fragmented governance model, the implications for societal stability and the protection of individual rights become increasingly concerning, highlighting the urgent need for counter-narratives from progressive movements.
Anatol Lieven looks at the global dimensions of Trumpism. Quinn Slobodian, who wrote a recent article for the New York Review of Books, muses on whether Trump is a neoliberal and examines the three major strands of DOGE-ism.
Behind the News, hosted by Doug Henwood, covers the worlds of economics and politics and their complex interactions, from the local to the global. Find the archive online: https://www.leftbusinessobserver.com/radio.html
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