Jacobin Radio

Laura Jadid is a journalist focused on American right-wing movements, while Mouin Rabbani specializes in Middle Eastern politics. They dive into the far-right's influence on education in Idaho, highlighting controversies at North Idaho College. Rabbani then explores Israel's military strategies in its ongoing conflicts, analyzing their aims to dismantle the Axis of Resistance. He discusses the resilience of groups like Hamas and Hezbollah amidst U.S.-Israeli relations, providing a nuanced perspective on the evolving dynamics in the region.

Hilary Goodfriend, a postdoctoral researcher at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, and Jorge Cuéllar, a professor at Dartmouth College, dive into the tumultuous history of Central America. They explore the rise of export-crop oligarchies and the consequences of constant U.S. interventions, including the infamous CIA-backed coup in Guatemala. The discussion also touches on revolutionary movements in Nicaragua and El Salvador, the impact of neoliberal policies, and the legacy of American imperialism, revealing a complex tapestry of struggle and resilience.

Mark Paul, a progressive economist and Professor of Public Policy at Rutgers, discusses California's Prop 33 aimed at enhancing rent control amidst a housing crisis. He challenges misconceptions about rent control and argues it is essential for providing relief to low- and middle-income families. John Nichols, National Affairs Correspondent for The Nation, reflects on the pivotal role of Wisconsin in the upcoming presidential election, emphasizing the need for a progressive platform to mobilize voters and counter business interests.

Dive into the enigmatic world of Andrei Tarkovsky's 'Stalker' as the hosts dissect its haunting themes and the elusive nature of 'The Zone.' Discover the surprising political struggles of Justin Trudeau and what they mean for Canadian politics. They also tackle the absurdities of U.S. elections post-pandemic and scrutinize Trump's campaign strategies alongside Elon Musk. With a blend of humor and depth, the conversation weaves between cinematic artistry and profound philosophical musings on existence and self-discovery.

Astra Taylor, a writer and filmmaker, co-founded The Debt Collective, the first union of debtors, while Leah Hunt-Hendrix champions progressive movements through Solidare Network and Way to Win. They dive into the essence of solidarity, tracing its roots and vital role in social justice. The duo highlights the dangers of individualism, critiques the taxpayer myth, and calls for a solidarity-driven approach to immigration. Education and collective activism are emphasized as key tools in confronting systemic issues and fostering true community connections.

William Hartung, a senior research fellow at the Quincy Institute, reveals staggering U.S. military aid to Israel, totaling $17.9 billion since October 7th, and discusses the implications of advanced military technologies like AI in warfare. Meanwhile, sociologist Scott Schieman shares surprising findings on job satisfaction, revealing that 79% of people actually enjoy their jobs, challenging common notions of workplace discontent. They also explore the disconnect between personal job satisfaction and wider societal perceptions.

In this engaging discussion, Martin Empson, a writer and historian about to release his book on the German Peasants' War, dives into this pivotal uprising. He highlights how the Reformation ignited popular resistance against feudalism. The conversation unveils the complex socio-economic divides of pre-Reformation Germany, Martin Luther's pivotal influence, and how he ultimately sided with the ruling class despite initial sympathy for the peasants. Empson also explores the lasting legacies of this revolt in shaping revolutionary thought and class struggle.

The hosts delve into the chaotic aftermath of the latest Joker film, contrasting its initial success with its dismal reception. They humorously recount encounters with celebrities and discuss their implications for public dialogue. Lively anecdotes about royal funerals spark discussions on modern democracy's relevance. A critical analysis of the film's musical elements showcases its unexpected strengths. The evocative courtroom scenes reveal profound themes of identity and betrayal, challenging the conventions of superhero narratives.

Anatol Lieven, Director of the Eurasia Program at the Quincy Institute, analyzes the aggressive tactics of the Biden-Harris foreign policy, touching on military entanglements in Ukraine and the Middle East. Writer Lily Lynch delves into the political chaos in the Balkans, examining the region's leadership decline and emigration trends. They explore the complexities of U.S.-China tensions and critique America's interventionist stance. Together, they highlight the historical factors shaping these geopolitical dynamics and the implications for global stability.

Naomi Klein, a renowned journalist and author of 'Doppelganger', discusses the pandemic's role in amplifying far-right conspiracies. She delves into political identity shifts, the rise of extremist rhetoric, and the complexities surrounding vaccine misinformation. Klein critiques right-wing strategies while calling for a leftist response rooted in community well-being. She also examines historical injustices tied to contemporary global politics and emphasizes the importance of collective histories in fostering meaningful change.