Join economist Richard Denniss, climate scientist Joelle Gergis, former Greek Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis, and acclaimed author Tom Keneally in a thought-provoking discussion. They tackle the obfuscation of political language, emphasizing its impact on democracy. Gergis highlights Australia's climate crisis urgency, while Varoufakis critiques technofeudalism. The group also discusses the failures of trickle-down economics, advocating for clearer communication to bridge public understanding and reclaim our shared humanity amidst political division.
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insights INSIGHT
Climate Action
Joelle Gergis dislikes the term "climate action" as it often justifies "business as usual."
She emphasizes the need to stop burning fossil fuels, the root cause of climate change, rather than focusing solely on renewable energy.
insights INSIGHT
Rule of Law
Yanis Varoufakis criticizes the term "rule of law" when used by Western leaders.
He argues their actions often violate international law and human rights, making the term hypocritical.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Retrenchment
Tom Keneally dislikes "retrenchment" as it hides the human impact of job losses.
He highlights the "cruelty" and "dehumanization" behind this jargon.
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A Bloody Good Rant, My Passions, Memories and Demons
A Bloody Good Rant, My Passions, Memories and Demons
My Passions, Memories and Demons
Tom Keneally
This book is a collection of essays and reflections by Tom Keneally, exploring a range of topics from his personal life and experiences to broader social and political issues. The book is characterized by its honesty and vulnerability, offering intimate insights into the author's thoughts and feelings. It explores themes of memory, identity, and the complexities of human relationships. The book's style is engaging and thought-provoking, prompting readers to reflect on their own lives and experiences. It offers a unique perspective on the world, blending personal narrative with insightful commentary on contemporary issues.
Econobabble
Econobabble
How to decode political spin and economic nonsense
Richard Denniss
This book delves into the world of political and economic jargon, analyzing how language is used to manipulate public opinion and obscure important issues. It provides tools and insights to help readers understand and navigate the complexities of political discourse. The book is highly critical of the use of jargon to obfuscate self-interest and promote inequitable policies. It offers a clear and concise explanation of complex economic concepts, making them accessible to a wider audience. The book's analysis is relevant to anyone interested in understanding the power of language in shaping political and economic debates.
Three Famines
Tom Keneally
Three Famines is a study of the use of the word "inevitable" in relation to three major famines: the Irish famine, the Ethiopian famine, and the Bengal famine. The book analyzes how the term was used to deflect responsibility and excuse inaction in the face of widespread suffering. It explores the political and social contexts of each famine, highlighting the role of power structures and systemic inequalities in exacerbating the crises. The book's analysis is relevant to understanding the complexities of famine and the ethical implications of political rhetoric. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of complacency and the importance of taking decisive action to prevent human suffering.
Humanity's Moment
Humanity's Moment
A Climate Scientist's Case for Hope
Joëlle Gergis
This book presents a climate scientist's perspective on the climate crisis, offering a blend of scientific data and personal reflections. It explores the urgency of addressing climate change while also highlighting the potential for hope and positive action. The author shares her own experiences and emotions, connecting the scientific facts to the human impact of climate change. The book emphasizes the importance of collective action and the need for a shift in societal values and priorities. It offers a message of hope and empowerment, encouraging readers to engage in the fight against climate change.
Schindler's list
Steven Zaillian
Schindler's List, a historical drama, tells the story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved the lives of more than a thousand Jewish refugees during the Holocaust. The film is known for its powerful imagery, its unflinching portrayal of the horrors of the Holocaust, and its exploration of themes such as morality, compassion, and the human spirit. The film's impact on popular culture is undeniable, with its portrayal of the Holocaust resonating with audiences. The film's enduring appeal lies in its emotional power and its message of hope and resilience. The film won numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Picture.
Join host Natasha Mitchell and guests for some straight talk that cuts through spin and jargon. Has the way politicians speak ever made you shout at the television, feel bamboozled, helpless, or shut out of democratic debate over our shared future? Pollie-talk can make important issues opaque, the inequitable seem fair, and the fair seem inequitable. Hear from Richard Denniss (author of Econobabble: How to decode political spin and economic nonsense), Yanis Varoufakis (author of Technofeudalism: What Killed Capitalism), Joelle Gergis (author of Humanity's Moment: A Climate Scientist's Case for Hope) and Thomas Keneally (Schindler's List).
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