Jacobin Radio

The podcast dives deep into the complexities of the Cold War, challenging the narrative that positions the U.S. as a pure defender of democracy. It examines America's imperial strategies to spread capitalism globally, often using the Soviet threat as a cover for expansionist goals. The hosts break down the historical rivalry between the U.S. and the USSR, revealing contrasting approaches to influence. They also discuss current geopolitics, suggesting fears of a new Cold War with China and Russia may be exaggerated as the world shifts towards multipolarity.

Guests Tufik Haddad, Palestinian academic, and Saverio Leopardi, historian of the Palestinian left, delve into the Intifada's transformative impact on left-wing movements in Palestine. Haddad highlights the grassroots activism resisting Israeli occupation while discussing the decline of the Palestinian left. Leopardi examines how political Islam emerged as an alternative. Author Sarah Irving reflects on Leila Khaled's revolutionary role and the evolving participation of women in the PFLP, showcasing the intertwined narratives of resilience and resistance.

Joining is Derek Guy, menswear writer and author of Dye Workwear, known for his insights on style and fashion's socio-economic ties. He delves into the complex history of menswear, revealing how the industry mirrors capitalism and cultural shifts. The conversation travels through the evolution of dandyism within the Black diaspora, the influence of fast fashion, and the changing ideals of masculinity through tailoring. Derek critiques the commercialized landscape of menswear blogging, emphasizing authenticity and personal expression amidst overwhelming consumer choices.

In a compelling discussion, Mouin Rabbani, a Middle East expert and co-editor of Jadaliyya, and Meron Rapoport, a journalist and co-author of an investigation for +972 Magazine, dive into Israel's escalating military operations in Gaza. They detail the systematic destruction of infrastructure and essential services, the implications of extreme political shifts in Israel, and the repercussions for Palestinians. The conversation also addresses the troubling humanitarian crisis and the evolving U.S.-Israel relations amidst shifting global dynamics.

Journalist John Dinges, a Professor Emeritus at Columbia University, discusses his new book, Chile in Their Hearts. He probes the chilling cases of Americans Charles Horman and Frank Teruggi, who were executed after the 1973 Chilean coup. Dinges challenges the popular narrative shaped by the film Missing, revealing a web of disinformation and U.S. complicity. The conversation also touches on the dangers journalists face today and the importance of uncovering historical truths about U.S. involvement in human rights abuses in Chile.

Barry Eichengreen, an esteemed economics professor, discusses the significance of dollar fluctuations and their impact on global finance. Courtney Rawlings and Alex Jordan from the Quincy Institute delve into the U.S.'s relentless military spending and the political ties to defense contractors. They explore the motivations behind constant warfare, critique the military-industrial complex, and examine the contradictions in U.S. foreign policy, raising questions about budget priorities and ethical implications surrounding military actions.

The conversation dives into the erosion of neoliberalism, questioning its sustainability amid rising economic inequality. It critiques the façade of 'pro-worker' conservatism and warns against superficial political gestures that merely reinforce corporate dominance. The impact of Trump's trade policies is examined, suggesting a shift in global power dynamics and an ongoing struggle against entrenched capitalist structures. The discussion also highlights the challenges of deglobalization, exploring the potential for grassroots movements to reclaim democratic representation for the working class.

Juan Cole, a leading historian from the University of Michigan and founder of Informed Comment, joins to dissect Trump's sweeping changes in Middle Eastern policy. They discuss how Trump has distanced himself from Israel while forging ties with Gulf monarchies. Cole highlights the chaos intertwined with billion-dollar deals and back-channel diplomacy in the region. The conversation also touches on the implications of U.S. sanctions on Syria, potential corruption in Trump's dealings, and the nuances of a shifting U.S. foreign policy landscape.

Quinn Slobodian, a professor of international history at Boston University and author of 'Hayek's Bastards', dives into the unsettling ties between neoliberalism and far-right politics. He reveals how movements like MAGA embody an extremist neoliberal ideology while promoting divisive concepts like IQ and hard borders. The conversation highlights the historical roots of today's political landscape, the complexities within the Mont Pelerin Society, and critiques the evolving narratives around nationalism and immigration shaped by economic ideologies.

Saverio Leopardi, a historian focused on the Palestinian left, joins Joel Beinin, an expert on Middle Eastern history, to dissect the vibrant yet tumultuous legacy of Palestinian radical movements. They explore the Palestinian left's significance during the First Intifada, the complexities of the PLO's internal dynamics, and the experience of Palestinian communism in Lebanon. The discussion illuminates how this rich history continues to shape cultural and political identities while revealing the socio-economic injustices faced during Lebanon's civil war.