Varn Vlog

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

The episode explores the fragmentation of the left in America following the Bernie Sanders phenomenon. It examines the dissatisfaction with the Democratic Party, the struggle of third parties like the Green Party, and the rise of alternative political ideologies among disillusioned leftists.• Reflection on Bernie Sanders' impact and legacy • Analysis of the fragmentation within leftist movements post-Bernie • Critique of the Green Party's recent efforts and historical failures • Examination of disillusionment with the Democratic Party • Exploration of the role of cultural leftism in political identity • Discussion of potential paths forward amid political cynicism • Assessment of the future of leftist politics in AmericaWe refer to the following Substack articles:https://alexstrekal.substack.com/p/the-specter-of-alternative-politicshttps://alexstrekal.substack.com/p/the-specter-of-alternative-politics-78bhttps://alexstrekal.substack.com/p/the-specter-of-alternative-politics-78bSend 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

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with Chris Catron as we dissect the evolving dynamics of leftist movements, from the millennial wave to the emerging Zoomer left. We're making the bold statement that the recent Leninist turn intertwined with neo-Kautskyism is reshaping contemporary leftist politics. Exploring the rise of neo-Stalinist and Trotskyist tendencies, we also tackle the challenges faced by groups like the Democratic Socialists of America in integrating Trotskyist organizations.Our dialogue with Chris ventures into the heart of leftist ideological shifts, scrutinizing the friction between radical liberalism and Marxist-Leninism, especially in the wake of MAGA-Communism. There's an intriguing spotlight on historical figures such as Earl Browder and William Z. Foster, juxtaposed with modern platforms like the PSL and Monthly Review. The discussion critically examines the left's response to mainstream political figures, including the complexities of Bernie Sanders' and Jeremy Corbyn's influence on progressive politics.Finally, we unravel the layers of U.S.-Israel relations since the 1980s and the intricacies of the Israel-Palestine conflict. Chris offers insights into the paradoxes within leftist politics, from protest voting frustrations to the psychological barriers of breaking away from the Democratic Party. We also reflect on Marxist critiques, the frustrations with critical theory, and the cycles of generational shifts in political sentiment. This episode promises an enlightening exploration of historical memory, political norms, and the enduring challenges of building solidarity within leftist movements.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

Dr. Djene Bajalan joins us to unpack the intricate dynamics of alternative media and its influence on Middle Eastern politics. Ever wondered how alternative media might mirror the biases of its mainstream counterpart? Our conversation explores this fascinating intersection, focusing on the challenges pundits face in providing evidence-based analysis, particularly in the context of the Syrian conflict. We delve into the nuances of parasocial relationships within alternative media, contrasting it with the often insulated world of legacy media.Our discussion takes a critical lens to imperialism, anti-intervention discourse, and the misconceptions that often accompany Middle Eastern regimes. We shed light on how neoliberal policies have shaped the region's political landscape, challenging oversimplified narratives about countries like Syria and Iran. Dr. Bajelon and I critically assess the tendency to conflate anti-imperialism with regime defense, emphasizing the importance of nuanced analysis over black-and-white portrayals. From Iran's strategic foreign policy moves to the complexities of leftist journalism, we tackle the multifaceted issues that shape regional and global politics today.Finally, we explore the disconnect between Western public opinion and state actions, especially regarding Israel and Palestine. We critique the optimistic narratives surrounding Palestinian victories and reflect on the historical complexities that have shaped the region. The conversation broadens to address the frustrations surrounding the idea of a multipolar world and the challenges of achieving a stable global political order. By dissecting the pitfalls of radical discourse among American social democrats, we emphasize the need for realistic analysis and accountability in foreign policy discussions. Join us for an insightful journey through the complexities of Middle Eastern politics and media in an ever-evolving global landscape.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

Can copyright laws coexist with digital lending in libraries? Join us as librarians Jay and Justin offer their expert insights into the controversies surrounding the Internet Archive and its bold approach to controlled digital lending. The episode unravels the chilling effects of legal challenges on library innovation and casts a critical eye on the self-presentation of Brewster Kahle, the Internet Archive's founder, as a hero battling publishing giants. We engage with the complexities of copyright in the digital age and the intricate balance between market harm and increased accessibility.The episode further examines the daunting challenges libraries face with eBook licensing and the financial strain of maintaining digital collections. We explore how expensive fees and vendor restrictions limit access to digital content, especially for educational institutions. Our conversation brings to light the broader implications for digital preservation amid technological evolution, and how copyright laws influence these efforts. From the selective nature of digital archiving to the existential threat of data decay, this discussion provides a comprehensive look at the hurdles in safeguarding digital heritage.Authors Corey Doctorow and Chuck Tingle join us to share their perspectives on the impact of copyright on creators and the pressing issues of book bans and digital accessibility. We delve into the financial and administrative challenges libraries encounter, like the loss of internal expertise due to outsourcing. The episode closes with a call for international cooperation to preserve open access and the universality of science, with personal experiences underscoring the precarious nature of digital content ownership. Tune in for an enlightening exploration of the future of libraries and digital content in a complex, ever-evolving landscape.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

Is capitalism the true culprit behind our environmental crises?" Join us for a thought-provoking episode featuring James from ProCult Films as we unravel the intricate connections between industrial capitalism, societal evolution, and ecological degradation. We challenge the conventional narrative that blames humanity at large for climate change and mass extinction, spotlighting instead the pivotal role of capitalistic dynamics. Our conversation takes you through the historical emergence of capitalism in Britain, contrasting it with other societies like ancient Rome, while also pondering the societal shifts that industrialization has precipitated.Our journey doesn't stop there. We navigate the complexities of constructing a feasible Marxist movement in the modern age, exploring alternative socio-economic models like eco-socialism. From illegal mining in the Amazon to the criminal underpinnings of early capitalist societies, we dissect the dark side of economic development. James helps us challenge the viability of eco-modernism versus degrowth, prompting listeners to consider how social dynamics intertwine with ecological transformation. Together, we scrutinize the political realities and ecological challenges that face our world, seeking to understand how historical precedents can inform future societal change.The episode is also a window into the behind-the-scenes efforts of documentary production. James shares insights into the labor-intensive process of creating content-rich documentaries that question the status quo and inspire critical reflection. Our discussion underscores the importance of understanding rural class relations and the need for educational movements that transcend ideological boundaries. With a focus on creating sustainable change, this episode invites listeners to rethink the pathways to a more equitable and environmentally sound future.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

Philosopher Daniel Tutt is with us, offering a unique lens through which to view the crossroads of psychoanalytic theory and Marxism. Ever wondered how intellectuals can navigate a depoliticized public sphere? We promise you'll leave this episode armed with strategies to engage meaningfully on compromised platforms and foster a vibrant counterpublic sphere. Join us as we explore the insightful works of Étienne Balibar and Hal Draper, dissecting their contributions to Marxist discourse amidst the tumult of the late 1960s.Our conversation maps the historical development and philosophical layers of the dictatorship of the proletariat within Marxist thought. Discover how figures like Lenin, Marx, and Engels shaped this concept and how the Paris Commune played into these revolutionary ideas. We'll guide you through the debates of Lenin and Kautsky, illustrating the intense class dynamics that shaped key revolutionary moments, and explore how revisionist Marxist theories influence our understanding of state power and class struggle.Intellectuals play a crucial role in Marxist theory, and we delve into their impact on societal structures, from traditional 'master intellectuals' to more organic forms. Shifting academic values and austerity have shaped theoretical struggles; we reflect on these changes while examining the interplay between dictatorship and democracy. Engage with us as we consider the adaptability of Marxist theory, analyzing varied interpretations and the continued quest for intellectual integrity in an ever-evolving world.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

Charles Dashings joins us for a fascinating exploration of the enduring relevance of Søren Kierkegaard. A teenage discovery of Kierkegaard's existential musings on anxiety and self-meaning sparked Charles's profound appreciation for this complex thinker. Despite his initial skepticism of Christian theology, Charles found that Kierkegaard's unique approach to individualism resonates with the broader questions of political ethics and community building. Together, we unravel how Kierkegaard's journey from royalist sympathies to ideas potentially aligning with Christian socialism provides fresh insights into the integration of individuality in leftist politics.Our conversation ventures into the personal and philosophical depths of Kierkegaard's life, from the haunting guilt of his father to the familial tragedies that fueled his literary fervor. We explore how these experiences, alongside his unique class status, allowed Kierkegaard the freedom to focus on the inward journey of self-discovery, inspiring later existentialists like Sartre and Heidegger. By delving into Kierkegaard's challenges to conventional faith and his skepticism toward systemization, we contrast his existentialist individualism with bourgeois individualism, prompting listeners to reflect on personal and communal transformations.As we traverse Kierkegaard's textual self-exploration, we draw intriguing parallels with Nietzsche, highlighting the intricate relationship between existentialism and ethics. The episode examines how Kierkegaard's existentialist ethos challenges moral realism's universal principles, offering a fresh perspective on ethics as a social construct. Through this dialogue, we aim to inspire a renewed interest in Kierkegaard's philosophical thought, encouraging listeners to explore beyond the typical perceptions and discover the richness of his contributions to existentialism and political theory.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 engaging conversation, Jonathan Korman, a noted radical liberal, shares his insights on the tensions between political ideologies, particularly the clash between liberalism and socialism. He critiques the appropriation of right-wing rhetoric in leftist circles, explores the complexities of identity politics, and discusses the evolving definitions of fascism. The dialogue also covers U.S. electoral politics, the intricacies of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the challenges posed by capitalism, shedding light on the moral responsibilities of today's political leaders.

Join us for a thought-provoking exploration into the intricate world of French philosophy and its significant impact on leftist thought, featuring insights from our esteemed guest, Jon Repetti of the Five Good Hours Substack and a PhD candidate at Princeton. What hidden influences shaped Althusser's theories, and how did Lacan's medieval Catholic roots contribute to his work? This episode promises to unravel these complexities, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of how French intellectuals like Lacan, Althusser, Deleuze, and others perceive and critique the state.Our conversation takes a fascinating turn as we delve into the complex relationship between Marxism, existentialism, and psychoanalysis, exploring the critiques and contributions of pivotal figures such as Althusser, Sartre, and Badiou. We question the left’s embrace of Lacan and investigate how Lacanian psychoanalysis intersected with Maoist ideologies, influencing French intellectual circles in the post-1968 political landscape. The discussion further explores how these ideas were transformed within American theory, highlighting the challenges of teaching and popularizing French theory within U.S. academic discourse.Unpacking the pedagogical challenges of presenting complex theories without oversimplification, we examine the cultural power and influence of French theorists like Foucault and Kristeva in the American academic scene. Listen as we reflect on the ongoing legacy of French theory, the role of educators in presenting these ideas effectively, and the intriguing cultural dynamics between French and American intellectual traditions. Whether you're a seasoned philosopher or new to the world of continental thought, this episode offers valuable insights into the enduring relevance and transformation of French theory across the Atlantic.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