Novara Media

In this discussion, Philip Pilkington, a columnist and podcaster with a keen eye on geopolitics, shares insights on Europe's waning global influence. He delves into the decline of the political elite, criticizing their response to geopolitical shifts. The conversation highlights Europe's dependency on the U.S. for security, the ascent of China, and the implications of Russia's resurgence. Pilkington also questions the integrity of current leaders and calls for a new political generation amidst growing military and economic challenges.

James Schneider, former Director of Communications for Jeremy Corbyn, advocates for a new left party to address the challenges in British politics. Meanwhile, Zack Polanski, Deputy Leader of the Green Party, argues that the Greens are already a vehicle for socialist change. They delve into the importance of strategic coalitions, grassroots movements, and global solidarity. The conversation highlights the need for authentic political engagement to combat right-wing populism and empower marginalized voices in the quest for social and environmental justice.

Ash Sarkar, a prominent British left-wing journalist and author of 'Minority Rule', dives into the complexities of identity politics and its impact on progressive movements. She critiques how identity politics evolved from its anti-capitalist roots to a focus on individualism, questioning its effectiveness in fostering social change. Sarkar discusses the disconnect between elite education and working-class realities, alongside the media’s role in polarizing political discourse. With sharp insights, she addresses the challenges of navigating modern political landscapes and cultural movements.

Ellen Clifford, a prominent disability activist and author of "The War on Disabled People," discusses the contentious topic of assisted dying and its potential dangers for disabled individuals. She shares concerns over coercion and the fear of being pressured to choose death instead of receiving support. Clifford critiques the societal implications of eugenics, explores the activism landscape, and emphasizes the need for enhanced care rather than hastened end-of-life options. Their conversation sheds light on the intersection of disability rights and ethical considerations in contemporary debates.

In this discussion, Professor Will Davies, an expert in political economy and author of 'The Happiness Industry', shares his insights on the chaotic political landscape shaped by Trump's ambitions. They delve into 'libertarian authoritarianism' and the erosion of democratic norms, especially among youth disillusioned with political systems. Topics like the shifting perceptions of immigration in Britain and Silicon Valley's influence on politics underscore the intertwining of societal anxieties with economic realities. The duo also critiques environmental elitism amidst climate discussions.

Shon Faye, author of 'The Transgender Issue' and 'Love in Exile,' joins Ash Sarkar to tackle the complexities of love in today's world. They explore how societal norms have transformed marriage and relationships from past generations to now. Key topics include the crisis of loneliness among young men and the role of secularism in relationship breakdowns. Faye shares insights on the unique challenges faced by trans individuals and the nuances of love, identity, and compassion in a divided society.

Heidi Chow, the executive director of Debt Justice, dives into the complex world of sovereign debt, particularly affecting the Global South. She discusses how historical colonial legacies contribute to ongoing debt crises and sheds light on the detrimental role of international rating agencies. The conversation moves to the impact of the climate crisis on national borrowing, highlighting how high debt repayments hinder crucial climate action. Chow also advocates for systemic reforms and new frameworks to support debt-stricken nations, urging for immediate action against predatory lending practices.

Oliver Eagleton, an associate editor at New Left Review and author of "The Starmer Project," joins Rachel Godfrey-Wood, lead organizer at Momentum, and Joe Todd, founder of New Organisations Extraordinaire. They dive into how the left can reconstitute itself post-Corbynism. Topics include the potential for a new political party, the need for strategic coalitions, and the urgency of grassroots engagement amidst rising populism. There's also a discussion on the importance of labor unions and the vital role of activism in mobilizing disenfranchised voters.

Gary Stevenson, a former top trader at Citibank and author of "The Trading Game," dives into the troubling dynamics of today's economy. He discusses how rising housing prices during the pandemic have widened economic disparities and the potential for lifelong poverty amidst concentrated wealth. Stevenson critiques Elon Musk's influence on democracy and exposes how current political establishments might be nearing extinction due to their failure to address these pressing issues. His analytical insights raise urgent questions about the future of financial stability and inequality.

Debt isn't just a number; it's a powerful belief shaping society. The hosts dive into the psychological and cultural impacts of indebtedness, examining everything from credit scores to the moral implications of borrowing. They challenge the idea of debt as a mechanism of control and explore the historical connections between debt and systems of oppression. The conversation also touches on the concept of 'everyday communism,' proposing that social relationships should prioritize cooperation over transactional exchanges. It's a thought-provoking journey into the complexities of debt in modern life.