Macro Hive Conversations With Bilal Hafeez

Ep. 236: Sean McMeekin on the Return of Communism

Oct 4, 2024

Sean McMeekin, a PhD and Bard College professor, delves into the roots of Communism and its historical impact. He discusses the influence of the French Revolution on modern ideologies and draws parallels between COVID-19 lockdowns and communist policies. The conversation highlights the philosophical connections between socialism and ancient thought, contrasting Lenin and Stalin's differing approaches. McMeekin also examines contemporary challenges to freedom of expression in the digital age and the evolving landscape for aspiring historians in academia.

01:17:36

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Sean McMeekin

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Quick takeaways

Sean McMeekin's academic journey was shaped by early inspirations in history, leading to a profound exploration of communism's historical roots.

The resurgence of radical ideologies today parallels historical revolutionary movements, reflecting a persistent human desire for societal transformation.

McMeekin highlights the necessity of political violence in Marxist thought, emphasizing its role in seizing and maintaining revolutionary power.

Deep dives

Sean McMeekin's Academic Journey

Sean McMeekin shares his academic background, illustrating a transformative journey from a math and sports-oriented youth to a dedicated historian. Inspired by enthusiastic history teachers in high school, he pursued history at Stanford, deeply influenced by the European historical tradition present at the university. His early studies revolved around the French Revolution, where his fascination with the period's drama and complexity fueled his intellectual pursuits. This foundational experience shaped his subsequent exploration into various historical themes, including communism, as he returned to earlier interests in his more recent work.

Intro

2min

Echoes of History: From Revolution to Today

7min

Communism's Echo in COVID-19 Policies

4min

Philosophical Foundations of Socialism

22min

The Rise and Fall of Communism

34min

Erosion of Freedoms in the Digital Age

4min

Navigating Career Paths in Academia and Media

2min

Influences of Historians on the Study of Communism

3min

Sean McMeekin PhD was educated at Stanford University and the University of California, Berkeley. Having visited American and European battlefields, libraries and archives, venturing as far east as Russia and Turkey, he now teaches at Bard College. His eight award-winning books include ‘Stalin's War: A New History of World War’. His latest book is ‘To Overthrow the World: The Rise and Fall and Rise of Communism’. In this podcast we discuss the early roots of Communism, Karl Marx and political violence, Lenin and how to seize power, and much more.

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