What's Left of Philosophy

For this very special 100th episode of the show, we set aside a few hours to answer questions submitted by listeners! We livestreamed the session on our YouTube channel, and this is the audio from that recording. Thanks so much to everyone who submitted questions, to everyone who came to the livestream, and really to any and everyone who’s ever supported the show. We really love doing this, and are so so grateful. Here’s to 100 more!leftofphilosophy.com | @leftofphilmusic:“Vintage Memories” by Schematist | schematist.bandcamp.com“My Space” by Overu | https://get.slip.stream/KqmvAN

Some news! We are going to livestream our 100th episode recording session at 1pm Eastern / 12 noon central standard time on our YouTube channel on Sunday October 27th.We will be answering questions! There's a form on our website's home page where you can submit yours. Tell us what you want to hear about!We're really looking forward to it. See you soon.https://www.leftofphilosophy.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@whatsleftofphilosophyMusic: Smoke by SoulProdMusic

Delve into Roy Bhaskar's critical realism, tackling the chasm between fact and value in the human sciences. Discover how knowledge can empower self-emancipation, especially amidst middle-class complacency. The conversation covers Spinoza’s insights on emotion and activism, exploring the interplay of trust and joy. The complexities of socialist movements are scrutinized, emphasizing the importance of working-class focus. Engaging philosophical discussions highlight the role of theory in fostering understanding and collective action.

In this episode we take on a Marxist classic, Rosa Luxemburg’s “Reform or Revolution,” in which she skewers Eduard Bernstein for being a feckless opportunist and for relinquishing the goal of socialism. Luxemburg takes on his argument that it’s possible for socialists to take increasing control of the capitalist state and progressively implement reforms that socialize the economy. Best diss track of all time. But don’t worry, we take Bernstein seriously, too. A ghost is haunting twenty-first century socialism, and it may very well be his – To rupture, or not to rupture? That is the question. This is just a short clip from the full episode, which is available to our subscribers on Patreon:patreon.com/leftofphilosophyReferences:Rosa Luxemburg, “Reform or Revolution,” in The Essential Rosa Luxemburg (Chicago: Haymarket Books, 2007), 41-104.Music:“Vintage Memories” by Schematist | schematist.bandcamp.com“My Space” by Overu | https://get.slip.stream/KqmvAN

Nicos Poulantzas, an influential Marxist theorist, dives into the complexities of the state and capitalism. He critiques traditional views of the state as neutral, emphasizing its deep ties to capitalism. The discussion navigates Poulantzas' conflict with Foucault's power dynamics and the pitfalls of economic reductionism. They also tackle the nuances of far-right politics and the role of class struggle in shaping history. The conversation offers a fresh look at state power, urging a deeper understanding essential for effective political action.

In this captivating discussion, the spotlight is on Francis Bacon, a foundational figure of the Enlightenment known for championing knowledge production. He explores the unfinished utopian novel, The New Atlantis, revealing his fascination with nature's diversity versus Platonic ideals. The conversation dives into the tensions between experimental science and community harmony, questioning the duality of progress and tradition. Bacon's ambivalence towards European rationality sparks intriguing insights about the quest for control over nature and the complexities of human behavior.

John Dewey, a pioneering American pragmatist philosopher known for his influential ideas on education, dives into the essence of learning connected to human experience. He critiques traditional methods, advocating for education that adapts to individual student needs and backgrounds. Dewey delves into the balance of autonomy and guidance in classrooms, highlights the importance of genuine engagement, and addresses the role of internal motivation in learning. The conversation also touches on the nuances of diversity in education and the relation between his philosophies and Marxism.

Norman Geras, a noted political theorist, brings his insights on revolutionary ethics and justice. He champions a right to revolution, distinguishing between political and social revolutions and their justifications. The discussion delves into the interplay of democracy and socialism, critiquing historical assumptions while advocating for ethical clarity in movements. Geras challenges the singular views of class interests and emphasizes the necessity of collective self-transformation and institution-building in achieving true social change.

The discussion revolves around Charles Mills' provocative insights on race within social contract theory. It challenges the notion of egalitarianism by exposing its ties to white supremacy. The tension between liberal ideals and the harsh realities of racism is scrutinized, revealing the complexities of modern liberalism. Historical interpretations from significant philosophers are evaluated, alongside the transformative effects of the racial contract on identity. The episode poses critical questions about whether genuine progress toward abolishing whiteness is feasible.

Robert Nozick's libertarian political philosophy from 'Anarchy, State, and Utopia' is discussed, challenging leftist thought and distributive justice. Topics include wealth distribution, state intervention, taxation, liberalism, coercion, and envy in hip-hop culture.