Jacobin Radio

Patrick Blanchfield, a writer and associate faculty at the Brooklyn Institute for Social Research, dives into the chilling realities of assassination and political violence. He explores the powerful emotions behind violence, and how American society grapples with human disposability. The conversation touches on the repercussions of gun violence, public attitudes toward health insurance executives, and the often twisted perceptions of resistance versus sanctioned violence. Blanchfield also contextualizes political assassinations across cultures, questioning the morality behind state-sanctioned violence.

Vivek Chibber, an NYU sociology professor and editor of Catalyst Journal, dives into the evolution of socialist politics in contemporary America. He distinguishes between social democracy and socialism, while reflecting on the Bernie Sanders movement's impact. Chibber emphasizes the need for a cohesive leftist agenda focused on real economic issues, critiques capitalism’s role in perpetuating inequality, and highlights the importance of labor movements in shaping social welfare. His insights provide a roadmap for the Left moving forward.

Vivek Chibber, a sociology professor at NYU and editor of Catalyst, dives into the shifting political landscape where many workers, regardless of race, are turning away from the Democratic Party. He discusses how this trend reflects changes since Trump’s 2016 victory and critiques the party’s detachment from the working class. Chibber highlights the detrimental impact of NAFTA and the need for the Left to rethink its approach to grassroots organizing and class analysis to reconnect with alienated voters.

Larry Bartels, a political science professor renowned for his work on voting behavior, analyzes the rise of right-wing populism in contemporary politics. Sopo Japaridze, a Georgian-American journalist, sheds light on the democratic crisis in Georgia, revealing the aftermath of questionable elections and public protests. They discuss how local and global dynamics shape voter sentiments and the complex relationship between Georgia’s government and its aspirations for EU integration amid rising tensions with Russia.

Gilbert Achcar, a Professor at SOAS University and an expert on Middle Eastern politics, dissects the recent upheaval in Syria and the origins of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. He connects the dots between Israel's conflicts and the collapse of Assad's regime while critiquing the global rise of far-right movements. Achcar warns about the implications of another Trump administration for the Middle East and highlights the precarious balance of power in France amidst discontent with neoliberalism, showcasing the interconnectedness of these global crises.

Vivek Chibber, a sociology professor at NYU and editor of Catalyst Journal, engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Bhaskar Sunkara about the connections between capitalism and the recent political landscape. They delve into why Trump’s election was a wake-up call for socialists and the need for strategic alliances with liberals. Chibber critiques the Democratic Party’s disconnect from the working class, advocating for a focus on economic issues over identity politics as they explore navigating a united front against capitalism.

Brooke Harrington, a sociology professor at Dartmouth and author of "Offshore: Stealth Wealth and the New Colonialism," exposes how the wealthy cleverly evade taxes through offshore wealth management. She discusses the unexpected rise of U.S. states as new financial havens and the ethical implications of hidden wealth. Mahendran Thiruvarangan, a lecturer at the University of Jaffna specializing in Sri Lankan politics, analyzes the recent political changes in Sri Lanka, including the emergence of a new leftish government and the country's economic struggles.

Quinn Slobodian, a Boston University history professor, focuses on neoliberalism and far-right politics, while Wendy Brown, a social science expert from Princeton, critiques anti-democratic trends. They delve into Trump’s complex political resurgence, exploring the contradictions within the MAGA movement, from economic policies to the rise of Christian nationalism. The conversation also touches on Project 2025, shifting youth dynamics, and the role of capitalist structures in modern governance and culture, highlighting the interplay between politics, media, and combat sports.

In this discussion, John Reynolds, a law professor at Maynooth University and expert on international legal challenges regarding Israel, shares insights on recent arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court for Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Netanyahu. He elaborates on the U.S. backlash and Israel's tactics to undermine the ICC. The conversation navigates the complexities of international law, the geopolitical ramifications for Palestine, and the selective nature of justice applied by Western powers, revealing a critical perspective on current events.

Marc Cooper, a veteran journalist and former USC journalism professor, dives deep into the complexities of Trump's presidency and its impact on democracy. He discusses the precarious nature of Trump's electoral win and the vulnerabilities lurking beneath his perceived strength. Cooper also critiques the Democratic Party’s disconnect and ineffective strategies, emphasizing the need for grassroots organizing. The conversation raises alarms about authoritarianism in the political climate and stresses the importance of collective action to defend democratic institutions.