Benjamin Studebaker

Today I talked to Benjamin Studebaker about his new book The Chronic Crisis of American Democracy: The Way Is Shut (Palgrave MacMillan, 2023)American democracy is in crisis. The economic system is slowly subjecting Americans of nearly all income levels and backgrounds to enormous amounts of stress. The United States lacks the state capacity required to alleviate this stress, and politicians increasingly find that if they promise to solve economic problems, they are likely to disappoint voters. Instead, they encourage voters to blame each other.The crisis cannot be solved, the economy cannot be set right, and democracy cannot be saved. But American democracy cannot be killed, either. Americans can’t imagine any compelling alternative political systems. And so, American democracy continues on, in a deeply unsatisfying way. Americans invent ever-more elaborate coping mechanisms in a desperate bid to go on. But it becomes increasingly clear that the way is shut. The American political system was made by those who are dead, and the dead keep it.Benjamin Studebaker speaks to Pierre d’Alancaisez about the runaway effects of globalisation, the false hope industry, cultural non-politics, and the very unlikely get-out scenarios.Benjamin Studebaker is a political theorist whose work focuses on notions of legitimacy. He hosts the podcasts Political Theory 101. The equality/equity meme The 1619 Project No Labels, the ‘commonsense majority’ party Pierre d’Alancaisez is a contemporary art curator, cultural strategist, researcher. Sometime scientist, financial services professional. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/critical-theory

Political theorist Benjamin Studebaker discusses the chronic crisis of American democracy and how hope is used to keep people engaged in a system that doesn't deliver. The podcast explores the challenges of US politics, the role of the professional middle class, the decline of America, and the futility of symbols in politics. It also delves into boredom and despair as catalysts for new ideas, and the politics of free time.

Benjamin Studebaker, an expert in political theory leading a course on 12 essential thinkers, dives into the intricate world of political thought. He discusses the significance of historical context and diverse perspectives in shaping political knowledge. The conversation emphasizes the need for community engagement in navigating complex political issues and reflects on educational reforms that make philosophical insights accessible. Studebaker also explores the impact of digital technology on identity and how alternative educational platforms can foster intellectual growth.

In this discussion with Benjamin Studebaker, a political theorist and PhD from Cambridge, listeners dive into the potential end of neoliberalism amid rising nationalism. Studebaker explores the transformation of neoliberal ideas post-2008 and critiques their relevance today. He reveals how liberal thinkers are pivoting towards neo-Keynesianism, and discusses U.S.-China relations, tariffs, and the implications for global trade. The conversation also touches on innovative educational alternatives like 'monasteries' and the controversial notion of 'vulture socialism'.

Benjamin Studebaker, a PhD holder in Politics from the University of Cambridge and author, joins in a thought-provoking discussion. They reflect on their experiences at the Platypus Affiliated Society convention, tackling what neoliberalism truly means. The conversation navigates the demise of Cold War ideologies and the evolving leftist discourse, emphasizing the need for proactive political engagement. Additionally, they explore the impact of automation on the workforce and question the millennial left's views on civil society, advocating for meaningful dialogue in today's political landscape.