Send us a textGet ready to challenge your perspective as we embark on a journey through the intriguing world of economics, Marxism, and the nuances of Modern Monetary Theory (MMT). We're joined by none other than Jonathan Kadmon from Real Progressives, a progressive change advocate with a unique take on socialism, commodities, and state-based insurance initiatives. Jonathan shares his insight into these complex topics, weaving in fascinating perspectives on Marxism, MMT, and the inspiring work of esteemed researcher, Claire Matai.Strap in as we delve into the story of the Calcare debacle, shedding light on the forces protecting conservative ideals and the reality of advocating for progressive change. From the gradual privatization of Medicare Advantage to the momentum behind Medicare for All, our conversation takes a hard look at healthcare reform and its feasibility. We also explore the rich history of currency, the gold standard, and its implications in today's economy. Everything from the value of gold and the role of the US dollar in international markets to the challenges of understanding abstract money concepts is on the table.As the discourse builds, we examine labor discipline, inflation, and the economic factors that have contributed to inflation. We also touch on the complexities of fascism, its historical context, and its manifestation in contemporary American politics. The conversation concludes with an engaging analysis of neoliberalism, its critiques, and the potential of modern fascism. This episode is a treasure trove of knowledge, offering unique insights and thought-provoking discussions. So tune in, expand your understanding, and join us in this enlightening exploration of economics and beyond.The following articles are discussed: It Almost Happened HereThe Pied Piper of State-Based Single PayerThe Emperor's New Commodities  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

Send us a textWhile the introduction music is that of Varn Vlog on this podcaster, this series will be simultaneously released on both the Varn Vlog podcast feed and the Regrettable Century podcast feed.   This is a long-running series we are doing on understanding social technologies, relationships of production, and how we get here:  i.e. what is the social and class history of the past.   In this episode, we finish our discussion of Evgeny Morozov's "Critique of Techno-Feudal Reason." .Ever wondered how the state's role in the economy has shaped the modern business landscape and the rise of Silicon Valley? In this stimulating conversation, we embark on a journey through the complex web of capitalism, examining Marx's theories and the realm of techno-feudalism. From the intricate relationships between the tech industry and the security state, to the fascinating exploration of the state's role in protecting businesses from the necessity of monopsony power, this episode is ripe with insight and analysis.As we navigate through the murky waters of the tech industry's evolution, we shed light on the risks taken in funding projects by the federal government and the private sector. We also delve into the changing dynamics post-Cold War and the rise of neoliberalism, connecting the dots to the ascension of the American tech industry. Focal points of discussion include the Defense Innovation Board, Palatier, Eric Schmidt's relationship with DARPA, and Mark Zuckerberg's stand on Facebook's break-up. The episode concludes with a thoughtful debate on the final crisis of capitalism. Was Marx's prediction of the bourgeois revolution leading to the immediate end of capitalism accurate? Did he ever complete his theories and if not, what was lost? We dive into Morozov's perspective on the crisis and explore the concept of techno-feudalism for the future. This engaging discourse is sure to redefine your understanding of the capitalist system and its evolution. Buckle up for an enlightening exploration that promises to challenge your perspectives. 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

Send us a textDoug Greene is an independent communist historian from the Boston area. He has written biographies of the communist insurgent Louis Auguste Blanqui and DSA founder Michael Harrington. Stalinism has left a complex and controversial legacy throughout history. How have interpretations of Stalinism been shaped by debates between anti-communists, Soviet defensists, and various figures of Western Marxism? Join us for an in-depth conversation with our guest, Doug Green, as we navigate the tangled history of Stalinism and its influence on Trotskyist and Maoist movements, as well as the resurgence of interest in socialism today.We'll unpack the intricate web of anti-communist sentiment that has shaped interpretations of Stalinism in Soviet history, from the contributions of Trotsky's biography of Stalin and Marx's 18th Brumaire to the right-wing anti-communist arguments that don't hold up to current scholarship. Doug offers invaluable insights into the Sino-Soviet split, the role Stalin played in it, and the Maoist critiques of Stalin, which often lack historical details. We also explore the fascinating figure of Arthur Koestler and his seminal work Darkness at Noon, analyzing how his views on historical necessity evolved over time.Finally, we delve into the trajectories of controversial figures such as Victor Serge, David Horowitz, Tony Cliff, and Sydney Hook, discussing how their interpretations of Stalinism have been influenced by anti-communist sentiment. We'll examine the various interpretations of Neo Kowskyism, Lars Lee Leninism, Mike McNair's Marxian Republicanism, and Eric LeBlanc's Social Democracy, among others, to assess the potential for a revived Marxist approach to the Soviet Union and Maoist China. This episode will leave you with a deeper understanding of the many facets of the complex legacy of Stalinism and its ongoing impact on contemporary politics. 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

Send us a textBen Lewis is the author of "Oswald Spengler and the Politics of Decline" and the primary translator at Marxism Translated ).  We discuss his recent book on Spengler and Spengler's complicated legacy. Are you ready to unlock the enigmatic mind of Oswald Spengler and his intriguing theories that have influenced modern discourse? Our esteemed guest, Ben Lewis of Marxism Translated, guides us through the intellectual labyrinth of Spengler's ideas, his surprising relevance in the 21st century, and his seismic impact on the conservative revolutionary movement. We peel back the layers of Spengler's admiration for August Babel, his complex relationship with National Socialism, and his critique of Marxism as well as his unique theories of utility and the marginist theory.Delving deeper into the perplexing world of Spengler, we take a magnifying glass to his controversial views on democracy and civilization and his idiosyncratic take on the relationship between Prussian socialism and his own work. Relying on Lewis's expert analysis, the twists and turns of Spingler's reception in Europe and the U.S are unraveled along with the ideological factors behind the works of Kautsky and Bernstein. Get ready for a deep dive into the ways in which Spingler's thought has influenced the likes of Nietzsche, Hegel, and others.To conclude this intriguing exploration, we'll shine a light on the challenges of interpreting historical figures, the ripple effect of Spengler's theories on American socialism, and the significance of accurate translations of German works. Delve into the fascinating role of hindsight in understanding history, and the multi-layered complexities of the SPD's relationship to Marxism. Whether you're a seasoned scholar or a curious newcomer, this conversation offers fresh insights into the life and work of a lesser-known but influential figure in contemporary discourse. Get ready for an intellectual voyage that's bound to ignite thought and stir curiosity. 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

Send us a textCan you imagine a city without a police presence? A world where activists face terrorism charges for simply voicing their opinions? This is the reality we explored with our guest, Ryan Zickgraf, as we delved into Georgia's local and state politics, examining the seemingly inconceivable "cop city" scenario and the unsuccessful attempt to make the no-cop city movement the next Standing Rock. The conversation unfolds into a wider discussion on city politics' complexities, affordable housing issues, and the impacts of gentrification.Our dialogue takes an even deeper turn as we unearth the homelessness crisis in Athens, Georgia. Ryan helps us analyze the opposition to multi-use housing and the destruction caused by Sherman's March to the Sea. We look at the realities of Atlanta, Salt Lake City, and Macon, Georgia, grappling with the need for adequate housing, the cycle of displacement created by gentrification, and the lack of public infrastructure to combat these issues. Finally, we voice our frustrations about the American left, "woke politics," and victimhood culture. We delve into the debates surrounding capital flight and reparations, the post-left's attraction to the census, and the dangers of making drag the center of our cultural universe. The episode concludes with an exploration of COVID death rates' correlation with social policy in the United States. Join us for this enlightening talk with Ryan Zickgraf 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

Send us a textIn this episode of Excavations--a show that I and Jordan Dubin do primarily for the youtube channel and the patron's podcast-- we pull back the curtain on the genius of Ingmar Bergman, one of cinema’s most acclaimed filmmakers, with the insightful Shalon Van Tine and Jordan Dubin. Shalon Van Tine, a cultural history PhD candidate, helps us unravel the man who mastered the art of creating cinematic masterpieces on a tight budget, his profound devotion to theatre, and his collaborations with some of the most talented individuals in the industry. We shine a spotlight on three themes that are woven into the fabric of almost every Bergman film - the silence of God, sex and guilt, and the artist's relationship with his craft.Our conversation meanders through specific Bergman classics like Wild Strawberries, as we dissect his introspective filmmaking style and his talent for amalgamating complex themes into a single narrative. We examine The Silence, a film that offers a novel viewpoint on the role of language in cinema and Bergman's use of music to overcome communication barriers. Shalon guides us in dissecting Bergman's portrayal of relationships, guilt, and femininity, and offers interpretations of his films like Through Glass Darkly and Persona that further illuminate the themes of masculinity and emasculation dominant in his works.We conclude our insightful journey with a reflection on Bergman's influences and the psychoanalytic elements embedded in his films. Learn about Bergman's impact on later directors and how his personal interactions with women shaped his narratives. We also ponder over the visually arresting aesthetics that are characteristic of Bergman's films and how they assist viewers in deciphering his cinematic universe. For movie buffs, this episode is a delightful exploration of a legendary filmmaker's body of work. 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

Send us a textWhat do artificial intelligence, consciousness, and the future of politics have in common? Join us for an insightful discussion with Nightmare Masterclass's Dave, as we explore these fascinating topics. We're breaking down complex ideas to redefine intelligence, examine the intricate world of AI and machine learning, and ponder the implications of artificial labor and scarcity in society.We don't shy away from the challenges of the digital age, as we delve into media literacy, neoliberalism, and deindustrialization, and compare the power of the EU to the US. Dave helps us navigate the potential consequences of AI in military technology, the impact on the ruling class, and the widening wealth gap. Discover how these developments shape our world and what it means for the future.As we delve into the realm of post-fascism and the fracturing left, we examine the effects of the Federal Reserve's inflation-fighting strategy on the economy. Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation, where we tackle pressing issues head-on and invite you to join the discussion on the complicated world of AI, consciousness, and the future of politics. 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

Send us a textWhat impact did the first revisionism controversy within the Second International have on the socialist movement? Join me and James from Prolekult Films as we untangle the complexities of this historical debate and uncover the lasting consequences it had on the socialist movement. We'll explore the origins of the controversy, the social and political conditions in Germany during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and the positions of key figures like Bernstein and Kautsky.Together, we'll navigate the twists and turns of this significant debate and its implications on the development of socialist thought. We'll examine the challenges faced by the socialist movement in both Britain and the US, discussing the dissolution of social democracy in the Labour Party, the rise of apologists for Bidenism, and the increasingly concerning migrant situation in Britain. James and I will also compare the debates and tensions in Marxist theory and the contradictions between the scientific method of inquiry and its mass ideological project.This insightful conversation will leave you with a deeper understanding of the first revisionism controversy and its lasting impact on the socialist movement. We'll also touch on the importance of building Marxist education and support in today's world, sharing our thoughts on reading groups, grassroots campaigns, and potential resources to help spread Marxist thought. Don't miss out on this unique and thought-provoking episode as we delve into the intricacies of socialist history and its modern implications.James of Prolekult films and I talk about the context of the Revisionist controversy and its long-term effects on socialist understanding.  You can support James' work here. 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

Send us a textWhat happens when we reframe our understanding of community and technology? Join us in a fascinating conversation with Dr. Erica Robles-Anderson, associate professor at NYU in Media, Culture, and Communication, as we explore this complex relationship and challenge our perspectives on cybernetics, Marxist theories, and the impact of historical and technological transformation.In this thought-provoking episode, we discuss the financial crisis of 2008-2012, its effects on the publishing industry, and how social organizations leverage technology to achieve their goals. We also touch on the unique challenges of leftist goals, the need for coordination between different actors, and the public culture required for success. Delve into topics such as organizing, representation, and social reproduction, and learn how access to arts education, sports education, and other services can benefit working-class communities.Finally, we examine the economic relations present in the service economy, the gender disparities in left media, and the need to cultivate the terroir of people who know a lot about music and other forms of art. Discover how churches and religious institutions play a role in providing social change, and how frameworks, models, and code-switching can bridge the gap between different language communities. Don't miss this eye-opening conversation that will broaden your understanding of the world and inspire you to think differently.Erica Robles-Anderson is a professor of media, culture, and communication, at New York University. focuses on the role media technologies play in the production of space. In particular, she concentrates on configurations that enable a sense of public, collective, or shared experience, especially through the structuring of visibility and gaze. Trained as both an experimental psychologist and a cultural historian she has employed a range of methodologies to explore the definition of media-space. She is currently writing a book about the 20th-century transformation of Protestant worship space into a highly mediated, spectacular "mega-church" (under contract, Yale University Press).Crew:Host: C. Derick VarnAudio Producer: Paul Channel Strip  ( @aufhebenkultur )Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @skepoetFacebookYou can find the additional streams on Youtube 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

Send us a textWhat if the key to understanding contemporary politics, society, and culture were hidden in our collective psyche? In this thought-provoking episode, we explore Christopher Lasch's influential book "The Minimal Self" and its implications for our modern world. Join us as we delve into the fascinating concept of narcissism, the intriguing idea of the "parties of the psyche," and the relevance of Freudian and neo-Freudian theories to politics and society today.Our conversation takes us through the evolution of psychoanalysis and its interaction with politics, focusing on the role of narcissism in shaping our understanding of the self and our relationship with the world. We also discuss the concept of the "liberal ego," the ways in which it has been influenced by various intellectual and cultural movements, and how these theories continue to shape the current American political climate. Along the way, we touch on the challenges faced by today's working and middle classes and the difficulty of creating a politics that fits with Lasch's ideal of selfhood.Don't miss this engaging and enlightening exploration into the depths of our collective psyche and its influence on the world we live in today. You won't look at politics and society the same way again.Crew:Host: C. Derick VarnAudio Producer: Paul Channel Strip  ( @aufhebenkultur )Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @skepoetFacebookYou can find the additional streams on Youtube 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