Jacobin Radio

Join Sebastian Budgen, an expert on French politics and editor at Verso Books, as he dives into the recent upheaval in France following the fall of Prime Minister Bayrou's government. He discusses the vibrant 'Block Everything' movement uniting unions and activists against Macron's austerity measures. Meanwhile, Joe Allen, a former Teamster, sheds light on the complexities within the Teamsters Union and the implications of a near-strike at UPS, exploring how political ties influence modern labor dynamics in the U.S.

Émile Torres, a moral philosopher and AI ethicist, discusses the unsettling dreams of tech moguls who envision transcending humanity itself. He critiques how transhumanism might prioritize abstract goals over real human concerns. Daniel Wortel-London, a historian and author, explores New York City's economic strategies, condemning the reliance on wealthy residents for growth and exposing the social costs involved. Their conversation navigates dangerous ideologies and the historical lessons that can inform a more equitable future.

The podcast dives deep into the impact of populism on the Left, highlighting the success of candidates like Zohran Mamdani who center economic demands. It discusses the rise in popular anger towards elites and how this sentiment has reshaped political strategies. The conversation explores the need for political parties to revive their connection with working-class voters and addresses the paradox of polarization in contemporary politics. It emphasizes the importance of genuine representation to align candidates with the public's needs.

Join historian John Roosa as he unpacks the recent riots in Indonesia, tying them to a legacy of discontent and austerity measures. David Duhalde shares insights from his extensive work with the Democratic Socialists of America, exploring its historical roots and current challenges. The conversation reveals how past political struggles echo in today’s movements, highlighting the complexities of navigating socialism in modern America. Together, they dissect the links between economic inequality and political unrest, both domestically and abroad.

Ian Gavigan, Executive Director of HELU and a former graduate student worker at Rutgers, discusses the neoliberal challenges facing higher education. He highlights the importance of unionizing and uniting campus workers to combat rising privatization and political pressures. The conversation sheds light on the impact of the Trump administration's policies on academia and the vital role of public institutions in fostering resistance. Gavigan calls for a transformation of universities to prioritize social justice and economic equality.

Sam Tanenhaus, a noted author and former editor of the New York Times Book Review, delves into the life and impact of William F. Buckley. He discusses Buckley's Mexican roots and how they shaped his views on race, contrasting his earlier pro-segregationist stance. Tanenhaus explores the ideological foundations of American conservatism and Buckley's legacy, including controversies around racism and homophobia. He shares insights into Buckley's influential role in the conservative movement and his relationships with key political figures.

Tanya Vyhovsky, a Vermont state senator and democratic socialist, recently returned from Ukraine, where she engaged with trade unionists, feminists, and survivors of the ongoing conflict. She shares harrowing stories of resilience against Russian aggression, highlighting the vital role of grassroots movements. The discussion touches on the geopolitical implications of world leaders, the effectiveness of Ukrainian strategies, and the haunting parallels between Ukraine and Gaza. Vyhovsky emphasizes the urgency of international solidarity and collective action in the fight for justice.

Robin D. G. Kelley, a UCLA history professor and expert on social movements, revisits his interviews with Southern sharecroppers from the 1980s. He shares compelling stories about Alabama's Communist Party during the Great Depression, illustrating community resilience against oppression. Kelley emphasizes the power of oral history in connecting past struggles to today's social justice movements. Moreover, the discussion highlights grassroots organizing and the vital role of storytelling in fostering change and empowering marginalized communities.

Dive into the essence of Marxist class analysis and its crucial role in understanding capitalism. Explore the complex dynamics of the capitalist and working classes, and discover the unique position of the petty bourgeoisie. Learn about the evolving nature of class with technological changes and the importance of collective action among workers. The discussion emphasizes the need for clarity in capitalist discourse and the necessity of building coalitions in labor politics to enhance political organizing and worker rights.

Labor sociologist Barry Eidlin sheds light on the recent Air Canada strike, where 10,000 flight attendants defied a back-to-work order and negotiated a successful settlement. He discusses the implications of government intervention in labor rights and contrasts Canadian and U.S. labor laws. Eidlin highlights the historical struggles of workers, the importance of collective action, and the evolving expectations of labor movements. The conversation also emphasizes the critical role unions play in advocating for fair working conditions and compensation.