Novara Media

In this engaging discussion, Tareq Baconi, a Palestinian scholar and author of 'Hamas Contained' and 'A Fire in Every Direction', delves into the intricate history and evolution of Hamas. He examines its origins in the Muslim Brotherhood, the dynamics of governance under blockade, and the misconceptions around its use of violence. Tareq also reflects on the miscalculations surrounding the October 7 attacks and their implications on regional politics. With keen insights, he articulates how Israel's ongoing actions impact resistance and shape future possibilities.

Cory Doctorow, a digital rights activist and the author of 'Ensh*tification', discusses the alarming decline of the internet due to monopolistic practices. He reveals how companies like Google intentionally degrade services for profit, leading to a rise in surveillance and conspiracism. Doctorow outlines the stages of 'ensh*tification', highlights Amazon's tactics against sellers, and emphasizes the urgent need for competition and regulatory reform. He argues for Europe to seize the opportunity to create open alternatives to US tech dominance.

Dive into a lively debate on what 'mainstream' means today. The hosts tackle whether 'woke' is at the forefront or an opposition. They explore cultural fragmentation due to streaming and how norms of femininity are shaped. Unearth insights on the Overton Window and shifting political landscapes. Pop culture icons like Taylor Swift stir conversations about liberal feminism and the emergence of unusual cultural forms. Finally, they celebrate the joy of radical ideas that subvert the mainstream and reclaim public spaces.

Roger Hallam shares insights from his unique perspective as an activist and co-founder of Extinction Rebellion. Fresh from prison, he discusses the potential for a global revolution and the importance of membership momentum. Hallam emphasizes using Zoom as a tool for mobilization, transitioning online energy to local action through door-knocking and community organizing. He highlights the significance of emotional engagement over rational arguments and introduces sortition as a way to empower ordinary people within political structures.

Zack Polanski, the dynamic leader of the Green Party, discusses his rapid success, with membership soaring from 70,000 to 150,000. He explores the party's strategy to challenge the Labour Party while preventing the rise of Reform. Polanski emphasizes inclusivity, anti-racist principles, and a commitment to socialism, all while prioritizing living standards and community issues. He also tackles climate policy through systemic changes and advocates humane immigration reforms. Throughout the discussion, he envisions a compassionate society with a focus on creativity and sustainability.

Branko Milanovic, a former World Bank macroeconomist and expert on global inequality, dives into the shifting geopolitical landscape. He discusses how the rise of China compares to the Industrial Revolution, the implications of the new elite class, and the declining social mobility in the West. Branko critiques neoliberal globalization and explores the potential for conflict between the US and China. He also touches on the factors behind the USSR's collapse and examines the economic forces driving Russia's pivot towards Asia.

In this insightful discussion, investigative journalist Paul Holden reveals shocking details behind Keir Starmer's ascent in the Labour Party. He delves into leaked documents exposing Morgan McSweeney's influential role and secret operations within Labour Together that sabotaged Corbyn. Holden discusses how McSweeney strategically weaponized the party bureaucracy, manipulated media narratives, and orchestrated public unity while executing covert agendas. His work uncovers a deeper crisis in British democracy and the implications of undeclared funds that threaten transparency.

Serhii Plokhy, a Harvard scholar specializing in Ukrainian history, delves into the historical roots of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He explains why Russia is viewed as a declining empire and how its perceptions of Ukraine shape current policies. Plokhy also critiques Putin's narrative around 'de-Nazification' as a means to erase Ukrainian identity. The discussion touches on nuclear proliferation risks and the geopolitical landscape, underscoring the implications of Russia's military strategies amid a resurging multipolar world.

Vali Nasr, a prominent professor of Middle East Studies at Johns Hopkins and author of Iran's Grand Strategy, dives deep into Iran's complex foreign and domestic policies. He discusses the historical roots of Iran's resistance to Western imperialism, the evolving debate over sovereignty versus economic development, and the challenges of the 'Resistance Economy.' Nasr also explores Iran's military adaptations and the duality of its support for Palestine, while questioning the implications of its nuclear ambitions in the shifting geopolitical landscape.

Kieran Andrieu, a political economist and activist, shares his gripping experience of being intercepted by the Israeli military while attempting to deliver aid to Gaza as part of the Global Sumud Flotilla. He recounts the harrowing details of the nighttime abduction, the psychological tactics used against him, and the impact of solidarity among detainees. Kieran also discusses the geopolitical triumphs of the flotilla, the response from consular officials, and the broader implications for humanitarian efforts in the region.