Michael Burns

Garrison welcomes Michael Burns, a philosopher and comedian known from the YouTube channel Michael O. Burns, to delve into the concept of 'nihilist violent extremism.' They unpack this new classification term that could shift focus from right-wing militias to extremists aiming for societal collapse. The conversation ranges from the philosophical roots of nihilism and its exploitation in extremist ideologies to real-life cases, like a Wisconsin teen's violent plot, shining a light on the troubling normalization of these beliefs today.

Join historian Mike Duncan, known for his engaging podcasts on revolutions and Roman history, and philosopher-comedian Michael Burns as they discuss the unsettling parallels between fiction and reality, particularly in the context of a Martian revolution. They unpack the implications of corporate dominance, the role of community organization in overcoming systemic challenges, and explore the rise of authoritarianism and online extremism. With a mix of humor and critical insights, they examine how today's political climate mirrors historical upheavals and the importance of collective action.