Donald Cohen

Donald Cohen, co-author of "The Privatization of Everything" and founder of the Research and Policy Center in the Public Interest, dives into the intricacies of government privatization. He reveals how privatization often transfers public wealth to private entities, enhancing economic inequality. Cohen critiques the myth of privatization's efficiency and discusses its adverse effects on public services like healthcare. With a focus on the consequences of austerity, he emphasizes the urgent need for citizens to advocate for their community’s welfare amid growing privatization trends.

Donald Cohen discusses corporate propaganda and his book exposing corporate lies. Michael Lissner talks about the challenges of the American legal system and the fight for accessibility. They cover topics like corporate influence, holding corporations accountable, the costs of accessing public documents, and the power of corporate entities in controlling legal information. The podcast also explores the debate on social democracy versus unfettered capitalism and objections towards civil rights laws and licensing of professions.

Joan Walsh and Donald Cohen join the show to discuss their book "Corporate Bullsh*t," exposing the lies politicians and business interests tell to protect their power and profits. They explore the social and psychological dynamics behind arguments against progressive policies, including moral defenses of child labor. The podcast also delves into how industries create doubt and spread lies, as well as the motivations behind the authors' work. Listeners are urged to pre-order the book to uncover corporate manipulation.