Critical Race Theory, And How To Effectively Fight Back, with Kmele Foster and Rich Lowry | Ep. 128

In 'Radical-in-Chief,' Stanley Kurtz presents an exhaustively researched exposé of President Obama's political history and policy agenda, exploring his connections to radical groups and how these have shaped his political views. The book argues that Obama's youthful infatuation with socialism was not just a phase but a foundational aspect of his political strategy.

Glenn D. Lowry is a notable figure in the art world, known for his work as the director of MoMA. He has contributed to various art-related publications but does not appear to have written a book titled 'Glenn Lowry by Glenn Lowry'.

National Review is a monthly magazine that has played a significant role in shaping American conservatism since its founding in 1955. It features news, commentary, and analysis on domestic and international politics, cultural trends, and more.

This book is a comprehensive analysis of Xenophon's dialogue Hiero, in which the tyrant Hiero and the poet Simonides discuss the advantages and disadvantages of exercising tyranny. The work includes a translation of the dialogue from its original Greek, Strauss's commentary on it, a critique of Strauss's commentary by Alexandre Kojève, and the complete correspondence between Strauss and Kojève. The discussion delves into the nature of tyranny, the distinction between tyrants and kings, and the philosophical implications of these concepts. The book also explores the debate between Strauss and Kojève on the role of philosophy in ruling the world and the concept of the Universal Homogenous State.

Vox is a novel by Nicholson Baker that delves into the realm of sex through a phone sex conversation between two strangers. It is an all-dialogue book that explores themes of intimacy, desire, and the complexities of human connection. The novel was a national bestseller and received mixed reviews for its unique approach to erotic literature.

In 'One Billion Americans: The Case for Thinking Bigger', Matthew Yglesias makes a compelling case for why the United States needs to significantly increase its population to remain a global leader. He argues that supporting parents and children, welcoming immigrants, and implementing policies such as more housing, better transportation, improved education, revitalized welfare, and climate change mitigation are crucial for national prosperity. Drawing on examples and solutions from around the world, Yglesias presents a radical but well-reasoned challenge to traditional thinking on population growth and national greatness.

In this book, Christopher F. Rufo uncovers the hidden history of left-wing intellectuals and militants who captured America’s institutions, including universities, corporations, and schools. He profiles key figures like Herbert Marcuse, Angela Davis, Paulo Freire, and Derrick Bell, showing how their ideas have profoundly influenced American culture. The book argues that these activists aim to replace constitutional equality with a race-based redistribution system overseen by bureaucratic ‘diversity and inclusion’ officials. Rufo’s work is both an historical analysis and a call to action against critical race theory and its implications on American society.

In 'Self-Portrait in Black and White: Unlearning Race', Thomas Chatterton Williams delves into his personal struggle with racial identity, prompted by the birth of his daughter. The book examines the fluidity of racial borders and challenges the notion that race is an absolute identity. Williams reflects on his experiences as a biracial man, questioning the legitimacy of racial categories and advocating for a more nuanced understanding of identity.

In 'Divided We Fall,' David French examines the growing tensions and divisions within American society that are leading to increased discussions about secession. The book delves into the historical, cultural, and political factors contributing to these divisions and offers a compelling argument for why national unity is crucial. French provides practical suggestions and strategies for rebuilding a more cohesive and resilient American society.

The Souls of Yellow Folk is a collection of essays by Wesley Yang, published in 2018. The book includes thirteen essays written between 2008 and 2017, which cover a range of topics including the experiences of Asian-Americans, the concept of recognition and dignity, and reflections on American pop culture and politics. Yang delves into themes such as racial identity, sexual frustration, and the 'model minority' status of Asian Americans, drawing parallels with other thinkers like Francis Fukuyama and W.E. B. Du Bois. Despite its eclectic nature, the book provides insightful commentary on the complexities of being an Asian-American in contemporary America.

In this book, Jason Stanley identifies and analyzes the ten pillars of fascist politics, which include exploiting a mythic version of a nation’s past, using propaganda to twist democratic ideals, promoting anti-intellectualism, and implementing law and order policies that target minority groups. Stanley draws on historical and contemporary examples from various countries, including the United States, Hungary, Poland, India, and Myanmar, to illustrate how these tactics create and reinforce divisions and make societies vulnerable to authoritarian leadership. The book emphasizes the importance of recognizing and resisting these fascist politics to protect democratic values.

In this memoir, Shirley MacLaine details her experiences with self-discovery and spirituality, sparked by an intense, clandestine love affair with a prominent politician named Gerry. The book follows her travels from southern California to various locations including New York City, Europe, Hawaii, and the Andes Mountains in Peru. MacLaine explores themes of reincarnation, meditation, mediumship, and spiritual awakening, which were both acclaimed and criticized upon its release. The book is a revealing portrait of a woman in crisis who finds a path to self-awareness and peace.

In *Our Magnificent Bastard Tongue: The Untold History of English*, John McWhorter delves into the fascinating history of the English language, examining its development from Germanic roots through Celtic and Norman influences. The book highlights the unique features of English, such as the use of 'do' and progressive tenses, and discusses how these elements reflect cultural and historical contexts.

Between the World and Me is a personal and literary exploration of America's racial history. Written as a series of letters to his 15-year-old son, Samori, Ta-Nehisi Coates reflects on his own experiences growing up in Baltimore, his education at Howard University, and his career as a journalist. The book delves into the realities of being Black in America, including the historical and ongoing impacts of slavery, segregation, police brutality, and mass incarceration. Coates shares personal anecdotes and historical insights to prepare his son for the challenges he will face as a Black man in America, while also offering a broader critique of American society and its treatment of Black bodies. The book is a powerful and emotional exploration of identity, history, and the struggle for racial justice.

Through deeply personal conversations, Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Bruce Perry explore how traumatic experiences in early life shape behavior and identity. The book emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing past traumas to clear a path for future healing and resilience. Winfrey shares stories from her own past, while Dr. Perry provides scientific and emotional insights, highlighting the need to ask 'What happened to you? ' rather than 'What’s wrong with you? ' to foster a deeper understanding of human behavior and promote healing.

This compilation includes selected works from Frederick Douglass's extensive writings, such as his autobiographies, speeches, and essays. It provides a comprehensive view of his life, from his experiences as an enslaved person to his rise as a leading abolitionist and civil rights advocate. The editors, Philip Sheldon Foner and Yuval Taylor, have curated these works to showcase Douglass's powerful oratory and literary skills, as well as his significant contributions to the fight against slavery and for equal rights.