Melinda Cooper

Melinda Cooper, a sociologist at the Australian National University and author of 'Counter-Revolution', dives into the intricate relationship between fiscal austerity and the rise of asset-focused monetary policies. She explores how welfare reform has disciplined labor and led to significant asset inflation, particularly in housing. The conversation touches on the Tea Party's emergence post-housing bust, the complexities of tax expenditures, and the implications of Greenspan's monetary strategies. Cooper argues for the power of organized labor to reclaim fiscal levers, paving a potential path to socialism.

Melinda Cooper, a Professor of Sociology at the Australian National University, delves into the paradox of neoliberal public finance in her new book. She explores how austerity is often paired with extravagant financial policies favoring asset holders. The discussion reveals the evolution of supply-side economics and its mixed impact on the working class. Additionally, Cooper critiques the Republican Party's historical ties to fiscal conservatism and examines the shifting class alliances that challenge traditional labor dynamics. It's a profound analysis of capitalism's complexities.

Melinda Cooper, a Professor in Sociology at the Australian National University, dives into the complex dance of austerity and extravagance shaping neoliberal monetary policy. She illuminates how the crises of the 1970s birthed a counterrevolution against Keynesian economics, affecting wealth distribution and public finance. Discussing the regressive nature of capital gains tax cuts, she critiques their benefits for the wealthy. The conversation also touches on how reproductive rights debates reflect changing social dynamics amidst these ideological shifts.

In this engaging discussion, sociologist Melinda Cooper delves into the intricate relationship between fiscal austerity and neoliberal policies. She explains how balanced-budget conservatism emerged to control marginalized political power and how welfare reforms were used to discipline labor. Cooper highlights the tension between asset inflation and public welfare, revealing the powerful monetary tools at our disposal for potential socialist futures. Listen as she connects historical events to today's economic landscape and calls for a labor-driven transformation of fiscal policy.

Melinda Cooper, a sociology professor at the Australian National University, dives deep into the complexities of public finance in her latest insights. She reveals how neoliberalism balances austerity with extravagant government spending, especially for the wealthy. The discussion includes a critical look at supply-side economics, its impact on American policy, and the manipulation of working-class narratives. Cooper also reflects on the evolution of class dynamics and the political strategies that have reshaped fiscal policy since the 1970s, urging for a nuanced understanding of modern economic challenges.