Talking to Historian Quinn Slobodian with Max Read
Jan 24, 2025
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Quinn Slobodian, a Boston University history professor and author, dives into the intricate dynamics of capitalism today. He sheds light on Elon Musk's multifaceted role as a tech titan and cultural icon, dissecting his political influence and acceptance in Europe. The conversation also explores the evolution of right-wing ideologies, linking them to neoliberalism, and tackles the shift from software to hardware in tech investments. Slobodian discusses how these trends reflect deeper economic complexities, particularly within Silicon Valley.
Elon Musk's ambiguous role in politics reflects the complexities of modern influential figures, challenging traditional categorizations like libertarianism.
The interplay between Musk's personal relationships, particularly with Grimes, and his public persona demonstrates the impact of cultural dynamics on identity.
The evolving landscape of the political right reveals a radicalization of neoliberal thought, complicating our understanding of capitalism and governance.
Deep dives
The Shape of Elon Musk's Influence
Elon Musk has become a central figure of interest in various social and political conversations, often emerging as a common touchstone for people from diverse backgrounds. His unique persona has drawn attention even from international observers who are trying to understand his impact on global politics, particularly in countries like Germany where he was previously viewed as a benevolent figure. The podcast discusses how Musk is not necessarily a libertarian but represents a unique challenge for political theorists aiming to categorize modern influential figures. As a shapeshifter in public perception, Musk serves as a lens through which broader cultural and ideological transformations can be analyzed.
Musk's Cultural Connections
The discussion touches on the influence of Grimes on Elon Musk's public persona, illustrating how she has provided him access to a certain cultural cachet and image that aligns with contemporary trends. Their relationship seems to have significantly shaped his public identity, as evidenced by moments they shared in the media spotlight. The dynamic illustrates how personal relationships, especially with culturally influential figures, can impact an individual's public persona and political narratives. This points to the intertwining of personal and professional identities in shaping how prominent figures like Musk navigate broader societal contexts.
Comparing Tech Giants: Musk vs. Zuckerberg
A notable comparison is drawn between Musk and Mark Zuckerberg, highlighting how Zuckerberg has increasingly tried to emulate Musk's brash, instinctual approach in his public persona. While Musk's persona is characterized by a certain organic coolness, Zuckerberg's efforts appear more robotic and contrived, signaling a desperation to reclaim cultural relevance. This imitation suggests that Musk's style, whether genuine or performative, has created a model for other tech leaders, shifting the landscape of public relations in Silicon Valley. The conversation examines how this battle of images reflects deeper disparities in how these tech titans engage with the public and construct their legacies.
The Intersection of Capital and State in Silicon Valley
The podcast elaborates on the interplay between Silicon Valley's tech entrepreneurs and their relationship with state policies, asserting that many capitalists leverage the state to enhance their market positions. Elon Musk's engagement with government contracts and regulations highlights a cooperative rather than adversarial relationship with state institutions, countering the narrative of a purely neoliberal framework. This collaboration points to a redefined understanding of capitalism where the state is not merely an obstacle but rather a crucial partner in navigating market dynamics. The discussion ultimately calls into question the narratives surrounding tech entrepreneurship, illustrating the nuanced realities of economic power in contemporary America.
Neoliberalism's Evolution and the Right's Future
The evolving landscape of the political right is dissected, showing how many contemporary rightist figures draw from neoliberal traditions while simultaneously breaking away from their conventional frameworks. This complexity suggests that the current rise of anti-neoliberal sentiment is not a complete departure but rather a radicalization of certain strands of neoliberal thought. The conversation delves into how prominent figures within the GOP, like J.D. Vance and Peter Thiel, embody this duality as they straddle the line between traditional conservative values and more radical populist rhetoric. This examination indicates a shifting political paradigm where the definitions of capitalism and governance continue to morph within the American socio-political context.
This week on our untitled, occasional podcast, Max Read of Read Max and I hosted our first guest: the mighty Quinn Slobodian, professor of international history at Boston University.
So, it shouldn’t be too difficult to figure out why Max and I wanted to talk to Quinn, whose work I’ve followed and admired for several years now. We had a far-ranging and I think quite enlightening conversation about capitalism, speculation, technology, and the general state of things. Hope you enjoy!
During the show we also mentioned:
* Murray Rothbard’s 1992 “Right Wing Populism” essay, an important jumping-off point for both Quinn’s and my work
