Martin Jay

Martin Jay, author of Immanent Critiques: The Frankfurt School Under Pressure, explores the continuing relevance of the Frankfurt School in the 21st century. He critically examines various ideas within the school, such as the pathologization of political deviance, the theological premises of Walter Benjamin's work, and the analysis of anti-Semitism and Zionism. The podcast also delves into the complexities of understanding authoritarianism, the support for authoritarian populism, and Walter Benjamin's integration of theology into historical materialism.

Join Martin Jay, a historian and expert on the Frankfurt School, as he delves into the relevance of Critical Theory in today's world. He explores the tension between immanent and transcendent critique while questioning the legacy of figures like Walter Benjamin. Jay tackles sensitive topics like antisemitism and the criticism of authoritarian personalities, and creatively connects these ideas to contemporary political narratives, even comparing them to Scorsese's 'The Irishman'. A thought-provoking discussion that challenges traditional views!