Sean McMeekin, a Bard College professor and Cold War expert, dives deep into the murky waters of government secrecy. He argues that Donald Trump has the chance to reform the intelligence community's secretive practices. The discussion touches on declassification efforts related to JFK and MLK, advocating for greater transparency and oversight by Congress. McMeekin critiques current U.S. policies compared to the UK and expresses the need for modernizing archival practices in the digital age, emphasizing how secrecy impacts public trust.

Join Michael Moynihan as he chats with Sean McMeekin, a Bard College professor and author of 'To Overthrow the World.' They delve into the captivating history of communism, from its philosophical roots in Plato to its global consequences. McMeekin discusses the paradox of intellectuals drawn to totalitarian ideologies and the inherent coercion tied to communism. The conversation also touches on the role of communism in American politics and the complexities of McCarthyism, revealing the multifaceted nature of this controversial movement.

In a captivating discussion, historian Sean McMeekin from Bard College sheds light on the intricate history of communism, drawing from his book, *To Overthrow the World*. He delves into the surprising connections between Christianity and Marxism, exploring their shared themes of social equality. The conversation critiques the authoritarian tendencies of Marxist vanguards and their parallels to revolutionary leaders like Robespierre. Additionally, McMeekin contrasts the tensions between communism and anarchism during the Russian Revolution, highlighting the violent struggles for power.