What's Left of Philosophy

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.

Exploring Frantz Fanon's endorsement of revolutionary violence, the impact of violence on colonized and colonizers, and the dialectic of violence in decolonization. Emphasis on reclaiming agency, understanding the intersection of violence, land, and identity, and the transformative power of reason. Fanon's call for humanization and socialization in the decolonization process.

Dr. Jeff Diamanti delves into ecological materialism and logistical strategy, exploring terminals as spaces where capitalism abstracts matter. Discussions range from indigenous resistance to sustainable provision, blending Marxist theory with environmental concerns and emphasizing the relationships between materiality, Marxism, and environmental issues.

In this episode, we discuss essays from throughout G.A. Cohen’s philosophical career. Cohen is known as one of the founders of Analytical Marxism, so we talk about what this tradition in Marxist thinking is about and how it handles the problems of political let-down and disillusionment that affect us all. We also get into his polemics against the libertarians and John Rawls in his essays on exploitation, freedom, and justice.This is just a short clip from the full episode, which is available to our subscribers on Patreon:patreon.com/leftofphilosophyReferences:G.A. Cohen, Karl Marx’s Theory of History: A Defence (Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 1989).G.A. Cohen, “The Labor Theory of Value and the Concept of Exploitation,” Philosophy & Public Affairs 8(4)(1979): 338-360.G.A. Cohen, “The Structure of Proletarian Unfreedom,” Philosophy & Public Affairs 12(1)(1983): 3-33.G.A. Cohen, Rescuing Justice and Equality (Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 2008).Nicholas Vrousalis, The Political Philosophy of G.A. Cohen (London: Bloomsbury, 2015).Music:“Vintage Memories” by Schematist | schematist.bandcamp.com“My Space” by Overu | https://get.slip.stream/KqmvAN

Expert on contemporary far-right movements, Alberto Toscano, discusses late fascism, distinguishing it from past fascism. Exploring how Black and anti-colonial perspectives can help understand contemporary fascism. Critiquing liberal discourse's failure to grasp the specificity of fascism and highlighting the importance of anti-fascist thought.

Dr. Ajay Singh Chaudhary discusses climate degradation, colonial relations, and left-wing climate realism. They dispel apocalyptic fantasies and explore the role of temporality in addressing climate crises. The conversation emphasizes the need for systemic changes and broad coalitions for effective climate activism.

Dr. Matt McManus, an expert in right-wing political history and philosophy, delves into conservatism's roots, from Burke to De Maistre. They discuss right-wing rhetoric, conservatism turning extremist, and the aestheticization of politics. The guest emphasizes the importance of understanding conservative thought and strategies for engaging with opposing ideologies.

Delve into Judith Butler's exploration of subject-formation and ethics through post-structuralism, psychoanalysis, and critical theory. Can her concepts of 'relationality' and 'opacity' of the self support ethical claims? Explore the complexities of ethical violence, responsibility, and societal norms in crafting a meaningful ethical existence.