Jacobin Radio

Quinn Slobodian, author of Hayek’s Bastards, talks about the IQ- and race-obsessed goldbugs of second generation neoliberalism. Behind the News, hosted by Doug Henwood, covers the worlds of economics and politics and their complex interactions, from the local to the global. Find the archive online: https://www.leftbusinessobserver.com/radio.html

Aziz Rana, a Professor of Law at Boston College and author, delves into the intricate relationship between American history and its constitutional framework. He discusses how hyper-nationalism from World War I and the Cold War shaped liberalism and anti-communism. Rana critiques the Supreme Court's role in protecting civil liberties and explores the psychological impact of McCarthyism. He also contrasts FDR's dynamic leadership with Obama's, while critically examining the legacies of racial and immigration policies within the ongoing struggle for rights in America.

For many years, Palestine had one of the strongest left-wing movements in the Arab world, represented by prominent figures such as Leila Khaled and Ghassan Kanafani. At the beginning of the First Intifada in the 1980s, Palestinian left groups were the main challengers to the hegemony of Fatah. Although the Palestinian Left has lost much of its influence since the 1980s, they still play an important role today. Red Star Over Palestine: Histories of the Palestinian Left is a six-part series from Long Reads exploring radical movements and progressive organizations of the region. We’ll be looking at the experience of Palestinian communism and the left-wing currents inside the PLO, the Palestine Liberation Organization. We’ll also be looking at the outsized impact of the Left on Palestinian cultural life. This second episode examines the left-wing movement that took shape under the banner of the PLO, the Palestine Liberation Organization, and the role of figures such as George Habash and Nayef Hawatmeh. Red Star Over Palestine is hosted by Daniel Finn and produced by Conor Gillies. Music provided by Fadi Tabbal.

Malcolm Harris, journalist and author of 'What's Left? Three Paths Through the Planetary Crisis', joins economic sociologist Charlie Eaton for a deep dive into today's pressing global issues. They discuss the growing influence of hedge fund executives on university boards and its implications for governance. Harris outlines three innovative political paths to address the climate crisis, emphasizing the need for collective international strategies and public power to tackle environmental challenges and advocate for sustainable solutions.

Join Aziz Rana, a Professor of Law at Boston College, as he delves into the making of the American settler empire and the complex legacy of the U.S. Constitution. He challenges mainstream narratives, showcasing the roles of abolitionists and labor movements in shaping American identity. Rana analyzes pivotal moments like the Dred Scott case and the ideological rifts among early elites, revealing how economic and political interests intertwine with constitutional development. Expect a thought-provoking journey through history's complexities and contradictions.

The discussion dives into the alarming surge in military spending across Europe, highlighting its links to waning social welfare and rising nationalism. Experts analyze the historical roots of NATO, revealing how it was shaped by post-World War II dynamics. The impact of U.S. leadership, particularly under Trump, and the shifting perceptions of security threats from Russia and China are explored. There's a call to revive peace movements, emphasizing the crucial need for prioritizing social welfare over militarization in these tense geopolitical times.

Jason Wade, a senior advisor to UAW President Sean Fain, shares insights on the union's surprising endorsement of Trump's auto tariffs. Sam Gindin, an economist and former advisor to the Canadian Auto Workers Union, dives into the complexities surrounding tariffs, arguing that they offer limited benefits to workers while obscuring broader economic issues. The conversation highlights the fragmentation within the labor movement and calls for increased solidarity and comprehensive strategies to address worker rights amid global trade tensions.

The podcast dives into the rich history of the Palestinian left, exploring the communist movement's rise and its pivotal role in shaping cultural identity. It highlights key figures like Leila Khaled and the impact of leftist factions on political dynamics, especially during uprisings. Personal stories intertwine with themes of resilience, as illustrated through folklore and literature. The transformation of Palestinian literature from realism to magical realism is celebrated, showcasing how storytelling preserves collective memory in the face of adversity.

Jeff Schuhrke, a Professor of Labor Studies and author of Blue Collar Empire, joins guest host Micah Utrecht to dive into the shadowy history of the U.S. labor movement during the Cold War. They discuss how organized labor became entangled in anti-communist strategies, undermining leftist unions both here and abroad. Schuhrke reveals the complexities of labor leaders aligning with imperialistic agendas, and how this legacy has shaped the current conservative state of workers' movements. They also explore contemporary implications for labor activism and the need for global solidarity.

Joy Neumeyer, a journalist and historian specializing in Russian affairs, shares her experiences corresponding with political prisoners in Russia. She highlights the harrowing stories of dissidents enduring severe repression, revealing their resilience and hope. Neumeyer discusses the chilling atmosphere for dissent following the war in Ukraine, the influence of propaganda, and the role of youth in opposing the regime. Her reflections on solidarity through letter writing emphasize the importance of personal connections in the face of authoritarianism.