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.
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insights INSIGHT
US Imperialism Fuels Crises
The US, the most powerful empire in history, obstructs the rise of people-centric governments.
This imperial system fuels major crises like climate change and wars, hindering human progress.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Smedley Butler's "Racket"
General Smedley Butler admitted to protecting corporate interests, not national ones, during his military service.
He called war a "racket," comparing his role to a "high class muscle man for big business."
insights INSIGHT
Intertwined Power
State and corporate power are intertwined, with corporations influencing state decisions through lobbying and infiltration.
Governments, especially in the Global South, often facilitate corporate entry and operations on favorable terms.
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In 'War Is a Racket,' Smedley D. Butler offers a searing indictment of the true, profit-driven nature of warfare. Having seen the gruesome realities of combat firsthand, Butler unveils a shocking exposé on how wars are deliberately fomented to line the pockets of the elite. He challenges the noble façades often wrapped around military conflicts and invites readers to question the motives behind global battles. The book highlights how the business of war thrives on the sacrifices of soldiers and taxpayers, benefiting powerful industrialists and corporations. Butler also examines the intricate connections between government officials and major corporations that drive war policies for financial gain[1][3][4].
The racket
Matt Kennard
Silent Coup
Claire Provost
Matt Kennard
What is the United States for?
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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