Uncomfortable Conversations with Josh Szeps

PREMIUM: Noam Chomsky's Co-Writer Nathan Robinson on America in the World

Dec 5, 2024

Nathan Robinson, co-author of "The Myth of American Idealism" and editor-in-chief of Current Affairs, dives into the critical flaws of U.S. foreign policy. He contrasts Trump’s populism with Bernie Sanders' vision, explores the implications of America’s approach in Ukraine, and discusses the pressing need for Medicare-for-all. Robinson also critiques the hypocrisy of promoting democracy abroad while ignoring local voices and argues for a more accountable international law system. This dialogue challenges listeners to rethink America's role on the global stage.

20:49

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Episode guests

Nathan J. Robinson

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Nathan Robinson highlights the dichotomy in views on American foreign policy, challenging the narrative of U.S. interventions as morally justified actions.

The conversation explores the ideological shift from traditional neoconservatism to a more populist rhetoric within the Republican Party, stemming largely from Trump's approach.

Deep dives

Contrasting Views on American Foreign Policy

American foreign policy elicits conflicting opinions, with some viewing it as a force for good while others label it as harmful global tyranny. The conversation highlights this dichotomy and underscores the influence of recent political shifts, particularly with the emergence of Trump and his nationalist declarations. Questions are raised about whether a future Trump administration will follow a more isolationist approach or revert to traditional neoconservative strategies. As this debate unfolds, the consistent critique from figures like Noam Chomsky adds depth to the discourse, challenging prevailing narratives surrounding U.S. interventions.

Intro

3min

Navigating Political Promises

6min

Shifting Republican Rhetoric on Foreign Policy

3min

The Contradictions of Democracy Promotion

8min

The Hypocrisy of International Accountability

3min

What should the role of America be? In their new book, "The Myth of American idealism: How U.S. Foreign Policy Endangers the World", Noam Chomsky and Nathan Robinson present a litany of American foreign policy missteps.

Nathan is the founder of Current Affairs magazine, of which he is the editor-in-chief, and the author of Why You Should Be a Socialist.

Here, Josh picks Nathan's brain... on the contrasts between Trump's populism and Bernie Sanders', the Ukraine War, Medicare-for-all, and the role of the United Nations in world affairs.

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