Todd McGowan

In this engaging discussion, Todd McGowan, a film studies professor and author, explores the deep links between capitalism and our psychology. He delves into commodity fetishism and how our desires often lead to existential dissatisfaction. McGowan highlights capitalism's illusion of fulfillment and the 'death drive' propelling relentless consumption. He also advocates for embracing lack and leveraging art as a means to critique consumerism, urging listeners to envision a life beyond capitalist confines.

Todd McGowan, a professor of film and theory and author of "Embracing Alienation," discusses the positive aspects of alienation and its significance in our lives. He critiques both Left and Right anti-alienation politics, arguing they're counterproductive. McGowan also explores how alienation can enhance creativity, identity, and personal freedom. He advocates for engaging with the public realm against therapy culture and emphasizes the transformative potential of embracing alienation for social change, drawing parallels with historical revolutions.

In this insightful discussion, Todd McGowan, a film and theory expert, and Ryan Engley, a media studies aficionado, dive into the fascinating interplay of psychoanalysis and film. They explore how constraints in classic cinema sparked subversion and the importance of viewing films as 'garbled messages.' From Barbarella’s unexpected feminism to the notion that 'kindness is punk,' they challenge conventional nostalgia. With practical tools for deeper interpretation, they urge listeners to engage with art on a transformative level that transcends mere entertainment.