Greg Grandin, a Yale historian focused on US imperialism and Latin America, joins for a sharp critique of mainstream narratives about authoritarianism, particularly regarding figures like Trump and Putin. He discusses how liberal historians simplify complex global issues to fit a tidy narrative, often overlooking America’s own role in oppression. The conversation also challenges the concept of audience flattery in political discussions and emphasizes the need for a more nuanced understanding of history and governance, especially in the context of the upcoming 2024 election.

Quinn Slobodian, a historian known for his work on capitalism and democracy, discusses his book that critiques the rise of techno-authoritarianism and special economic zones. Greg Grandin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian, delves into American expansionism and its implications on national identity and democracy, linking historical narratives to contemporary political chaos. Both guests explore the tensions between capitalism and democratic values, raising questions about the future of governance in an increasingly unequal world.