What if decadence reveals the truths about our societal structures? The hosts dissect Samir Amin's unfinished work, examining the intersection of Marxism and critiques of decadence theory. They tackle alarming literacy rates in elite education, reflecting on broader societal decay. The discussion pivots to cultural narcissism and the complexities of historical narratives across empires. From anti-imperialist ideologies to modern warfare in North Korea, they navigate through political intricacies and challenge traditional frameworks that shape our understanding of history and society.

In this insightful discussion, Joshua Citarella, an author and creator focused on political ideologies, dives deep into how fandom culture is reshaping political activism. He emphasizes the rise of young activists leveraging their passions for social change and the challenges they face with superficial engagement. The conversation highlights the need for genuine connections in activism, the impact of digital narratives on political identities, and the intricate link between fandoms and contemporary ideologies. It's a fascinating exploration of how culture and politics intertwine in today's digital landscape.

Katherine Dee, the writer behind the "Default Blog" on Substack, joins us to explore the unexpected legacy of Art Bell and how his non-political, free-form radio style contrasts with today's charged conspiracy culture. Discover the intriguing intersections between Bell's approach and modern figures like Joe Rogan and Alex Jones, and how these dynamics have shaped contemporary internet culture. We reflect on the transition from Bell's open dialogue to a more politically saturated landscape, offering insights into how these shifts impact cultural narratives.Our conversation navigates the evolving world of internet fame, where politics and media collide, shaping a new breed of celebrity akin to fan communities. Katherine provides a fresh perspective on the younger right-wing culture, drawing parallels between political affiliations and fandoms that drive emotional engagement in today's discourse. We discuss the transformative role of social media platforms like X in molding public opinion, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how these platforms reveal the ever-changing American zeitgeist.From gender dynamics to parenting challenges, we tackle a wide array of social phenomena affecting our cultural landscape. We probe into the shifting perceptions of "wokeness," the complexities of dating culture, and the commodification of mental health. We also delve into the unique dynamics within religious communities, the contrasting experiences of different generations, and the unexpected resistance to traditional political spaces. Whether it's examining the aspirational aspects of therapy culture or the rise of unconventional cultural trends, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the ever-evolving interplay between politics, media, and society.Send us a text Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeSupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan

In this discussion, scholar Matt McManus dives into the fascinating intersection of liberalism and socialism. He examines the nuanced principles like moral equality and solidarity that bridge these ideologies, challenging traditional skepticism. McManus also highlights historical influences, notably John Stuart Mill's impact on socialism, and critiques Marxist views on liberalism's limitations. With a fresh perspective, he explores the future potential of liberal socialism in today's political landscape, advocating for a cooperative economic model centered on worker ownership.

Dr. Chris Knight, author of "Decoding Chomsky," delves into the intriguing duality of Noam Chomsky as both a pioneering linguist and a committed activist. He uncovers the tensions between Chomsky's revolutionary theories and their social implications. The discussion explores the ethical dilemmas of applying linguistic models in military contexts, critiques modern interpretations of equality, and highlights the influence of gender dynamics in linguistic discourse. Knight's insights provide a captivating lens through which to view Chomsky's legacy and its relevance today.

Join law student Elijah Emery, who dives deep into the constitutional implications of Trump's presidency. He discusses controversial topics like the attempts to remove birthright citizenship and the challenges of executive power over civil rights. The conversation highlights the judiciary’s critical role and the potential for a constitutional crisis. Emery underscores the importance of civic engagement and accountability in preserving democracy, drawing parallels to America's historical political crises while emphasizing the risks posed by executive orders.

This episode navigates the intricate relationship between poetry and politics, featuring insights from poet Bianca Stone. We discuss the nuances of non-didactic poetry, the historical implications of literary voices, and how poetry serves as a vessel for personal and collective experiences. Bianca Stone is a Vermont-based poet. Stone’s newest book is What is Otherwise Infinite, (Tim House 2022). She is the host of Ode and Psyche podcast. Stone’s poems, art, book reviews, and essays have appeared in a variety of magazines including The New Yorker, Poetry Magazine, American Poetry Review, The Brooklyn Rail, and many others. She returned to Vermont in 2016. Bianca houses the Ode & Psyche Podcast.• Examining the tension between political and poetic expression• The impact of didacticism on modern poetry• The philosophical discourse surrounding poetry through Plato's lens• Individual voices in poetry reflecting collective narratives • Analyzing Larry Levis's poem on Lorca• The importance of ambiguity and interpretation in poetry Explore this thought-provoking dive into the complex world of poetic expression and its implications for understanding our human experience.Send us a text Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeSupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan

The episode dives deep into the connection between capitalism and our digital identities, exploring themes of addiction, anxiety, and the pursuit of validation in the online realm. Mike Watson articulates the detrimental effects of social media on mental health while highlighting the need for authentic community engagement beyond mere digital expressions.  Mike Watson is an editor at Revol Press and the co-host of Theorize And Be Damned. He is the author of Hungry Ghosts in the Machine: Digital Capitalism and the Search for Self (Revol Press 2023) and many other books about capitalism and culture. • Examination of capitalism’s role in shaping digital identities • The emotional voids filled through social media engagement • Discussion of Mark Fisher’s concept of depressive hedonia • The intersection of addiction and spirituality online • How social media exacerbates feelings of loneliness • The perils of empty activism and horror posting • Call for genuine action and community building beyond digital platformsSend us a text Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeSupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan

What if the revolutions that shaped our world were never meant to begin in the most advanced nations? Join VarnVlog and Regrettable Century as we unravel the intricate tapestry of revolutionary decadence and world systems theory, exploring the profound insights of Samir Amin, Giovanni Arrighi, and Emmanuel Wallerstein. We embark on a journey through Amin's critical examination of Eurocentrism and his bold stance during the Egyptian revolution, where his support for the liberal side against Islamists served as a testament to his unique ideological position. Through probing discussions, we challenge traditional Marxist narratives and uncover the complexities of proletarian stratification and imperialism's ever-evolving definitions.This episode takes a deep dive into Marx's legacy, examining capitalism not just as a mode of production, but as a force that redefines societal structures. We tackle Marx's political integration into economic theories, appreciating Engels' contributions to anthropology and ecology, while offering a critical analysis of Baran and Sweezy's monopoly capital theory. Our conversation underscores capitalism's transient nature, urging a reconsideration of historical expectations and the need for theoretical adaptations to contemporary realities.From the mid-20th-century socialist revolutions to the rise of neoliberal economic restructuring, we map the shifting ideologies from Marxism to Islamism and the repercussions on global political landscapes. This episode critiques the evolution of developmentalist regimes and the reinterpretations of Lenin's theories, drawing parallels between the fall of ancient empires and modern capitalist crises. As we navigate these historical transitions and systemic oppressions, we invite you to question established paradigms and engage with the ever-changing narrative of global political ideologies.Send us a text Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeSupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan

Benjamin Studebaker unpacks the complexities of legitimacy and ideology in liberal democracies, revealing how these narratives shape our understanding of political engagement. The conversation emphasizes the need for constructive alternatives within political discourse and challenges listeners to confront the narratives they adopt and the implications of their political apathy. • Introduction to the concept of legitimacy in the context of liberal democracies • Exploring the relationship between legitimacy and ideology • Critique of the left's historical reluctance toward positive narratives • Discussing legitimacy stories and their role in political acceptance • The metaphor of the hydra representing competing political interests • Impact of fear on political engagement and discourse • The need for genuine political action in lieu of insincere rhetoric • Reflections on the future of legitimacy and participation in democracySend us a text Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeSupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan