Jacobin Radio

Thea Riofrancos, a political scientist and author of "Extraction: The Frontiers of Green Capitalism," shares insights on the complex dynamics of lithium mining essential for green energy. She discusses the ecological destruction and community struggles in places like the Atacama Desert and the impacts of colonialism on resource extraction. The conversation explores the connection between mining and capitalism, the rise of anti-mining protests, and the global challenges in balancing climate action with local environmental concerns.

In this engaging discussion, Alex Press, a labor organizing expert, and Luke Savage, a political analyst, dive into Zohran Mamdani's groundbreaking New York City mayoral campaign. Press shares on-the-ground experiences with late-night workers, highlighting Mamdani's connections with taxi drivers and healthcare staff. Savage critiques the elite backlash against Mamdani's socialist agenda, which includes affordable transit and wages. They explore how this unexpected campaign feared by the establishment could spark similar movements nationwide.

This discussion features Gabriel Hetland, an Associate Professor of Latin American history, who delves into municipal socialism in Venezuela, highlighting participatory budgeting and community empowerment. Lea Ypi, a political theory professor, shares her insights on Albania's complex history through her grandmother’s experiences, exploring themes of archival research, ethnic identity, and the effects of nationalism. Both guests connect past struggles to present challenges, emphasizing dignity, social justice, and the lessons learned from history.

Fernando Haddad, Brazil’s Finance Minister and former presidential candidate, dives into the complexities of Brazil’s political economy. He links the crisis of neoliberalism to the rise of the far right, discussing the PT's strategies in response to Bolsonaro. Haddad advocates for a reconnection of the left with social class issues and emphasizes the importance of coalitions. He critiques global dynamics, particularly concerning BRICS and China’s role in development. He also calls for green industrialization and effective regulation of big tech as part of Brazil’s progressive future.

Vivek Chibber, a sociology professor at NYU and editor of Catalyst, dives deep into the dynamics of neoliberalism. He outlines how neoliberal ideas overshadowed Keynesianism, driven more by class forces than appeal. The conversation highlights how elite institutions shape idea influence, arguing that academic debates had little role in adopting these policies. Vivek emphasizes the importance of social organization for the left to regain political relevance and proposes that misdiagnosing causes leads to misguided solutions. A thought-provoking discussion on power and ideas!

Jacob Silverman, a journalist and author of Gilded Rage, delves into the rightward shift of Silicon Valley elites, citing COVID-era grievances and the culture wars as catalysts. He critiques their anti-democratic instincts and ties to Trump, exposing a troubling blend of self-interest and disdain for outside expertise. Meanwhile, historian Forrest Hylton takes listeners on a political tour of South America, discussing U.S. influence on elections, regime change efforts in Venezuela, and the complexities of narco-politics. Together, they unravel the intricate connections between technology, politics, and global dynamics.

Eoghan Gilmartin, an Irish journalist based in Madrid and co-host of the Sobremesa podcast, delves into the complex landscape of Spanish politics under Pedro Sánchez. He discusses Sánchez's confidence in leading the PSOE into the next elections and the coalition's early achievements in social policies. Gilmartin highlights the tensions with Unidas Podemos, corruption scandals affecting the PSOE, and Sánchez's bold stance on Gaza and NATO. He also critiques the challenges facing left unity and reflects on future electoral scenarios as Spain navigates a fragmented political arena.

Walden Bello, a scholar-activist and co-chair of Focus on the Global South, joins Jane Nalunga, executive director of SIATINI, to delve into the impact of neoliberalism on Global South movements. They discuss the defeat of the New International Economic Order and explore how civil society networks are rebuilding solidarity. The conversation highlights the historical context of African socialism, the role of debt as leverage, and the potent protests at Seattle. Bello and Nalunga also examine the evolving dynamics of neoliberalism and propose paths for deglobalization.

Margaux MacColl, a tech and government reporter, dives into the world of Gen Z tech founders, exploring their health-obsessed habits and the alarming ease with which they create military tech like AI drones. Meanwhile, Susannah Glickman, a historian, critiques the emergence of new defense contractors like Palantir and Anduril, pointing out the pitfalls of privatization and the reliance on government funding. Together, they reveal a troubling intersection of technology, profit motives, and military power in today's society.

Join Paul Adlerstein, associate professor and expert on global inequality, Gonzalo Berrón, a seasoned advisor in labor-led coalitions, and Alexandra Wandel, a trade justice advocate, as they unpack the 1999 Seattle WTO protests. They discuss the origins and diverse tactics of global activism against neoliberal policies, the critical role of unions, and the powerful impact of their coalitions. Dive into how the movement sparked regional responses across Latin America and shaped trade justice discussions in Europe, while exploring its lasting legacy amidst evolving political landscapes.