

Gabriel Rockhill
Philosopher, author, and cultural critic specializing in Marxist theory and the political economy of knowledge production, known for the book Who Paid the Pipers of Western Marxism? and for work on archives, critical theory, and anti-imperial analysis.
Top 10 podcasts with Gabriel Rockhill
Ranked by the Snipd community

58 snips
Nov 18, 2024 • 1h 13min
Western Marxism is not anti-colonial w/ Gabriel Rockhill
Gabriel Rockhill, a philosophy professor and director of the Critical Theory Workshop, shares his insights on the limitations of Western Marxism in addressing anti-colonial issues. He discusses his journey from rural Kansas to radical thought, critiquing the disconnect between academia and real-world struggles. Rockhill emphasizes state power's role in revolutionary efforts, draws parallels between Vietnamese resilience and Indigenous struggles, and advocates for a revival of anti-colonial Marxist perspectives to confront current imperial challenges.

39 snips
Oct 12, 2023 • 1h
Episode 29: Western Marxism & Anti-Communism with Gabriel Rockhill
Gabriel Rockhill, a scholar specializing in the history and theory of Marxism, dives deep into the evolution of leftist thought and its diverse interpretations. He explores how historical contexts gave rise to various forms of Marxism in the global South during decolonization. The conversation also highlights the intertwining of Hollywood and anti-communist propaganda during the Cold War, illustrating how cultural narratives shaped ideological perceptions. Additionally, Rockhill critiques the totalitarian discourse that has historically conflated communism with fascism, challenging contemporary understandings of these ideologies.

36 snips
Jan 14, 2026 • 1h 29min
Western Marxism and The Imperial Theory Industry
In a compelling discussion, Gabriel Rockhill, a philosopher and author known for his Marxist insights, delves into his book on Western Marxism's ties to imperialism. He argues that U.S. power created a 'compatible left' that distorts socialism. Rockhill reveals how the Frankfurt School and various intellectuals were co-opted into promoting ideologies that sidelined genuine Marxist struggles. They explore the implications of current events, including U.S. interventions in Venezuela, and stress the importance of reconnecting Marxism with anti-imperialism to foster a more authentic left.

17 snips
Nov 21, 2025 • 2h 6min
Episode 208 - The Western Court Jester Left (Ft. Gabriel Rockhill)
Gabriel Rockhill, a philosopher and Marxism expert, sheds light on the complexities of Western left intellectualism. He argues that liberalism and fascism collaborate to maintain capitalism while critiquing prominent figures like Zizek for their anti-communist leanings. Rockhill discusses the U.S. Empire's postwar strategies, media biases, and the ways intellectual elites are positioned by class interests. He emphasizes the challenges facing anti-imperialist voices and shares insights from his work at the Critical Theory Workshop. Tune in for a provocative discussion on contemporary leftist thought!

13 snips
Jan 5, 2026 • 1h 55min
Who Paid the Pipers of Western Marxism? w/ Gabriel Rockhill
Gabriel Rockhill, philosopher and cultural critic who researches Western Marxism, guides a deep dive into the politics of intellectual production. He traces funding, foundations, and the military‑industrial‑academic complex. He examines media and cultural intervention, contested legacies like Che and Marcuse, and calls for collective ideological remaking.
10 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 21min
[TEASER] China Pt. 6: The Long Transition Towards Socialism w/ Gabriel Rockhill
Gabriel Rockhill, a philosopher and activist from Villanova University, discusses the complex transition towards socialism in China. He highlights the gradual journey, marked by socio-economic reforms and anti-imperialist strategies. The conversation navigates the impact of imperialist propaganda on socialist movements, emphasizing the need for clarity in leftist discussions. Rockhill also scrutinizes the CIA's historical influence on global narratives, particularly regarding China, and critiques how U.S. foreign policy shapes perceptions and tensions within the country.
Oct 15, 2024 • 18min
[TEASER] Western Marxism w/ Gabriel Rockhill
Gabriel Rockhill, a philosopher and cultural critic, delves into the intriguing critiques of Western Marxism from Domenico Losurdo's work. They explore the ideological schism between Western and Eastern Marxism, emphasizing the practical versus theoretical approaches in their evolution. Rockhill emphasizes the influence of anti-communist sentiments and the need for redefining anti-imperialism in leftist movements. The discussion highlights how a re-examination of Marxism can reshape contemporary discourse and invigorate political practice.

Jul 9, 2024 • 1h 3min
Understanding Siege Socialism w/ Gabriel Rockhill
Gabriel Rockhill, the Founding Director of the Critical Theory Workshop and a leading scholar in Marxism, delves into the provocative concept of 'siege socialism.' He explains the dynamic interplay of historical materialism and dialectics, highlighting how socialist movements navigate external threats. Rockhill critiques Western misunderstandings of the Soviet Union and the complexities of socialist state-building amid imperialism. He draws lessons from history and emphasizes the need for deeper comprehension within the Western left to evolve socialism effectively.

Jan 12, 2026 • 8min
Episode 541 Promo - Calling Out "The Compatible Left" (w/ Gabriel Rockhill)
Gabriel Rockhill, a keen scholar and director of the Critical Theory Workshop, dives deep into the pitfalls of the 'compatible left' in this engaging conversation. He critiques intellectuals like Slavoj Žižek and Noam Chomsky for their ties to imperialist agendas, revealing how the Democratic Party aligns with capitalism. Rockhill also emphasizes the tension between tactical and strategic approaches in leftist organizing, and discusses the limitations imposed by state power on true democratization. It's a thought-provoking exploration of modern political dynamics.

Feb 10, 2023 • 1h 14min
The People vs. Slavoj Žižek w/Gabriel Rockhill
Returning guest Gabriel Rockhill discusses Slovenian philosopher Slavoj Žižek. They explore Žižek's background, the relationship between fascism and capitalism, Žižek's rise as a celebrity intellectual, and the nature of influence and controversial statements. They also discuss the lack of accountability in online spaces and the power of popularity.


