Matt Kennard, an investigative journalist and author, delves into the complex relationship between U.S. imperialism and corporate power, arguing that the state undermines democracy globally. He critiques mainstream journalism for failing to challenge these narratives. Kennard discusses the radicalizing effects of recent events in Gaza, emphasizing the urgent need for informed action. His insights expose the lies surrounding American foreign policy and highlight the courageous journalism emerging from conflict zones, calling for greater awareness and support.
The United States operates as a counter-revolutionary force that prioritizes its imperial ambitions over genuine democratic support for other nations.
The complicity of both state and corporate power in undermining democracy creates a cycle of exploitation that benefits American interests globally.
Growing global awareness and grassroots activism in response to crises, such as the situation in Gaza, are crucial for challenging the narratives of imperialism.
Deep dives
The United States as a Counter-Revolutionary Power
The discussion emphasizes the view that the United States acts as a major counter-revolutionary force rather than a progressive ally on the world stage. This perspective suggests that the U.S. primarily prioritizes its imperial ambitions and corporate interests over genuine support for progressive movements globally. The assertion is made that the U.S. government, alongside entities like the IMF and World Bank, creates a global system that favors American corporate power at the expense of local governance and reform efforts. This is evident in various geopolitical crises, particularly in areas like the Middle East and Latin America, where U.S. actions often undermine local movements for democracy and progress.
Interconnection of Geopolitical and Corporate Control
The interplay between state power and corporate influence in the context of imperialism is analyzed, highlighting that both elements serve to reinforce each other. The idea is presented that once a nation falls under U.S. geopolitical sphere, American corporations gain access to its resources and markets, thereby furthering exploitation. The historical context includes examples such as the CIA-backed coups in Guatemala and Chile, which demonstrate direct U.S. intervention to protect corporate interests, particularly in resource-rich regions. This creates a cycle where local economies become structured to enrich foreign corporations rather than cater to the needs of their own populations.
Challenges of Discussing Imperialism and Corporate Power
The difficulty of openly discussing the realities of U.S. imperialism, particularly within the liberal left, is addressed. The podcast suggests that there exists a pervasive orthodoxy that frames the state and corporate interests as adversarial, while in reality, they often act in concert to sustain the prevailing power structures. This notion is exacerbated by a fear of being labeled conspiracy theorists, which dissuades critical conversation about imperial dynamics. Successful critiques of power often stem from grassroots movements that recognize the cooperation between state and corporate entities to suppress true democratic governance.
The Role of Education in Dismantling Myths of Power
Education is posited as a crucial tool for dismantling the pervasive myths surrounding power dynamics and imperialism. It is argued that a comprehensive understanding of these systems encourages individuals to question the narratives propagated by establishment media and corporations that falsely present themselves as champions of democracy. The importance of building alternative institutions capable of spreading anti-imperialist ideas is highlighted, alongside the necessity of grassroots movements in catalyzing awareness and change. The podcast suggests that people must recognize the sophistication of the systems they are fighting against to effectively challenge and dismantle them.
Emerging Hope Amidst Global Crises
The conversation delves into the shifting global landscape, particularly in relation to rising powers like China that offer alternative avenues for international cooperation. While acknowledging China's own imperialistic tendencies, there is a recognition that a multipolar world provides more space for oppressed nations to assert their sovereignty. The panel highlights increased awareness and activism among global populations in response to crises such as the genocide in Gaza, representing a potential awakening to the realities of imperialism. Ultimately, the discussion points toward the necessity of sustained activism informed by knowledge in order to challenge the status quo and impact global politics for greater justice.
Journalist Matt Kennard would argue the most powerful nation in the world exists to undermine democracy, deny national sovereignty, and funnel wealth to the financial elite. His book, The Racket, exposed the true nature of the American Empire, a nature the mainstream on both the Left and Right refuse to acknowledge.
Matt’s first appearance on Planet: Critical saw him exposing How Corporations Overthrew Democracy. Today, he reveals the complicity and active participation of the American State as a counter-revolutionary force in the world, giving numerous examples from almost every continent as to how the United States has sought to undermine the rule of law and democracy in order to secure resources, security and power for itself. We also discuss how difficult it is to broach these topics in the mainstream, with Matt giving a searing critique of major journalism outlets who take up space as seemingly leftist publications without ever challenging imperialism. We also discuss the nightmare in Gaza and how bearing witness to a genocide is radicalising people all around the world to take action. This is an episode about the lies we have been told—and how to fight the information war while we can.
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