Deep Dive with Shawn
Sea Tree Media
Welcome to Deep Dive, the podcast where politics, history, and queer lives intersect in engaging, in-depth conversations. I'm Dr. Shawn C. Fettig, a political scientist, and I've crafted this show to go beyond the headlines, diving into the heart of critical issues with authors, researchers, activists, and politicians. Forget surface-level analysis; we're here for the real stories, the hidden layers, and the nuanced discussions that matter.Join me as we explore the intricate world of governance, democracy, and global stability. Expect empathy, unique perspectives, and thought-provoking dialogue—no punditry, just genuine insights.Ready to dive in? Catch us on your favorite podcast platform, and don't forget to follow the conversation:Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/deepdivewithshawn.bsky.socialYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjZ9grY02HMCUR34qaWhNmQGot thoughts? Questions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com."Deep Dive" - Because the most important conversations happen below the surface.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 8, 2024 • 1h 10min
After America E11: Backsliding to the Brink - A Global Playbook for American Authoritarianism
The discussion highlights the alarming global trend of democratic backsliding and the rise of authoritarianism. It examines Hungary's shift from democracy to autocracy under Viktor Orban and draws parallels with leaders in India and Russia. The podcast delves into the erosion of civil liberties and the manipulation of democratic institutions. It also analyzes the challenges faced by the EU in addressing these issues and the implications for the U.S. political landscape, especially concerning the potential impact of a second Trump presidency.
Sep 1, 2024 • 45min
After America E10: The New World Disorder - Authoritarians and Global Chaos
Can American democracy withstand the rise of authoritarianism? The discussion delves into the global ramifications of democratic backsliding, analyzing institutions like the UN and NATO. It contrasts authoritarian regimes in Russia and China with democratic nations, highlighting the risks posed to global stability. Potential fallout from a diminished U.S. presence is scrutinized, raising unsettling questions about a second Trump presidency and its implications for international relations and peace.
Aug 25, 2024 • 1h 1min
After America E9: Strongmen, Weak Economies - How Authoritarianism Tanks Economies
This discussion navigates the clash between democracy and authoritarianism, emphasizing their economic impacts. It contrasts U.S. responses to COVID-19 under Trump and Biden, revealing societal and economic implications. Historical comparisons highlight the dangers of wealth inequality, drawing uneasy parallels with ancient Rome. Delving into the disillusionment of low-income groups and the resilience of marginalized communities, the conversation warns of how economic crises can fuel authoritarian tendencies, raising essential questions about America's future stability.
Aug 18, 2024 • 1h 8min
After America E8: Hate Thy Neighbor - Othering Democracy to Death
Explore the alarming rise of 'othering' in American politics, with a focus on anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and the divisive rhetoric of recent years. Discover how historical tactics of racial othering have been used to manipulate public sentiment, from McCarthyism to modern-day politics. The discussion also delves into the implications of demographic shifts and the dangers posed by authoritarian tendencies as the 2024 election approaches. This thought-provoking analysis highlights the urgent need to address societal divides threatening democracy.
Aug 11, 2024 • 55min
After America E7: Courting Disaster - Exploiting Judicial Power for Authoritarian Ends
Dive into the transformation of the U.S. Supreme Court and its implications for democracy. Discover the erosion of public trust spurred by ethical scandals involving justices. Reflect on landmark decisions like Roe v. Wade that illustrate the judiciary's power over societal values. Uncover the historical evolution of judicial independence and its role in safeguarding rights. Explore the chilling parallels between today's political climate and past authoritarian regimes, raising the alarm about civil liberties in jeopardy.
Aug 4, 2024 • 54min
After America E6: Lie Hard - How Authoritarians Weaponize Bad Information
Explore the insidious role of disinformation in undermining democracy, especially during the 2020 election. Discover the difference between misinformation and disinformation, and how these tactics hurt public trust and social cohesion. Delve into the psychological triggers that cause individuals to spread false information and the chilling effects of echo chambers in social media. Learn how authoritarian figures exploit these dynamics, raising concerns about the rise of polarization and authoritarianism as we approach the 2024 election.
Jul 28, 2024 • 60min
After America E5: Altar-ing the Constitution - Christian Nationalism's Rewrite
Mike Johnson, the newly appointed Speaker of the House, engages in a riveting discussion about the rise of Christian nationalism in America. He explores the potential threats of intertwining religious beliefs with governance, raising alarms about the erosion of church-state separation. The conversation covers the historical ties between evangelicalism and conservative politics and the implications of this alliance for democracy. They also delve into the disturbing rise of militant Christian nationalism and its radicalization effects on American society.
Jul 21, 2024 • 1h 6min
After America E4: White Supremacy, Red Alert - Right-Wing Extremism's Threat to Democracy
The troubling rise of white supremacy and right-wing extremism poses a serious threat to American democracy. Historical events like Ruby Ridge and Waco are examined alongside the alarming influence of political figures. The internet serves as a breeding ground for radicalization, while fringe theories like the Great Replacement permeate political rhetoric. Political endorsements empower extremist groups, leading to increased visibility and recruitment. A former militia group insider highlights the fragility of democracy and the urgency for civic action to combat these dangers.
Jul 15, 2024 • 6min
After America: Statement on American Political Violence (and How to Reject It)
The conversation dives into the alarming rise of political violence in the U.S., focusing on the dangerous rhetoric that fuels it. The host discusses the critical need for accountability in political language to prevent further incitement. It highlights how normalizing violence dehumanizes opponents and disrupts healthy discourse. A call for responsible engagement urges listeners to support candidates who advocate for peace instead of those promoting hostility. It's a thought-provoking exploration of restoring civility in politics.
Jul 14, 2024 • 57min
After America E3: The Rise of Nazi Germany, the Fall of Rome, and America's Future
Explore the chilling parallels between the rise of Nazi Germany and today’s American democracy. The discussion dives into the Reichstag Fire's historical significance and how it enabled the Nazis' dominance. Learn about the turbulent Weimar Republic's societal upheaval and the cultivation of extremist ideologies. Delve into Hitler's charisma and propaganda tactics, contrasting them with modern political figures. Finally, draw alarming connections to the gradual decline of Roman democracy and the subtle erosion of democratic norms in contemporary society.
