Varn Vlog

What 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 YoutubeSend 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, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic

What does the dual legacy of Christopher Lasch mean for the left tradition? Join us in this fascinating conversation with young scholar Elijah Emery as we explore Lash's ambivalence towards the left and how his work influences contemporary political discourse. We delve into Lasch's struggle with communitarianism, his views on religion, populism, and American history, and the complexities of his changing perspectives over time.In this episode, we discuss Lasch's myth-making effort to create a unified history of populism and his critiques of the social democratic left. We uncover his seemingly contradictory opinions on racism within populism while also examining his views on law, politics, and neoliberalism. Elijah Emory expertly guides us through Lash's intellectual legacy, shedding light on the challenges and limitations of engaging with his work.Lastly, we explore the various interpretations of Lash's writings, from the New Right and Post-Liberal elements to the Front Porch Republic and the Populist Left. Our conversation touches on his impact on contemporary political thought and how the left is engaging with his intellectual legacy. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that demystifies the life and work of Christopher Lasch!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 YoutubeSend 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, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic

What if we told you that the political economy of Silicon Valley, the European Union's impact on big tech platforms, and Apple's recent victory against Epic Games are just the tip of the iceberg of a rapidly changing global economy? Join us for a thought-provoking discussion with our guest, Rob Larson, professor of Economics and author of books such as "Capitalism vs. Freedom" and "Bit Tire and Subpolitical Economy of Silicon Valley." We dive into topics like crypto bubbles, NFTs, and unexpected tech layoffs, as well as the potential recession due to inflation and the Russo-Ukrainian war.The conversation doesn't stop there; we also explore the complexities of the US debt ceiling and its possible implications for global leadership. Delve into the impact of a multipolar world, and the likelihood of the US dollar remaining the global reserve currency. Plus, we touch on the debt ceiling, bond market, and labor changes in the wake of COVID-19, and consider how automation and AI might replace entry-level white-collar work.Finally, we address climate change and demographic shifts, examining the ongoing credential weakening and the potential for removing labor restrictions, such as child labor, in red states. We discuss automation's implications for the developing world and the West's refusal to admit people, as well as the justice aspect of liberalizing immigration systems. We critique Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) and its limitations in transforming our economic system, and consider the challenges of institution building and labor militancy. Don't miss this engaging conversation with Rob Larson!Rob Larson is a professor of economics at Tacoma Community College and author of Bit Tyrants: The Political Economy of Silicon Valley, out now from Haymarket Books. He is the house economist at Current Affairs magazine. 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 YoutubeSend 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, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic

What happens when we merge the worlds of horror cinema and psychoanalysis? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Freudian cinephile and podcaster, Mary Wild, as we unravel the synergy between these two powerful forces. Delve into the realm of horror films and their connections to psychoanalytic theory.As we explore the depths of horror cinema, we also confront the controversial subject of free speech and fandom culture within the film industry. Uncover our thoughts on the growing trend of moral censorship and the pressures creators face to follow certain guidelines. Additionally, we discuss the potential political motivations behind right-wing claims of being 'pro-free speech' and the evolving landscape of sexuality in modern culture.Finally, join us as we dive into the intersection of film and literary theory, examining the works of iconic directors like Tarkovsky and David Lynch. Discover their unique approach to filmmaking and how they tap into the power of film to create immersive, dream-like experiences. We also touch on the unexpected success of Twilight and 50 Shades of Grey, considering the rare representation of female sexuality as the driving force of the stories, and how this has sparked analysis and discussion. Don't miss this captivating episode as we journey through the world of psychoanalyzing horror cinema with Mary Wild.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 YoutubeSend 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, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic

What does it mean to explore the depths of Western Marxism and uncover the complexities of capitalism's mutations? Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with musicologist and host of The Measures Taken, Stephan Hammel, as we take a deep dive into the ABCs of Communism and the importance of a maximum program for a just and prosperous future.Capitalism may have ended a decade ago, but its implications continue to reverberate through the global economy. We discuss the role of Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) and zero-interest rate lending as we navigate the uncertain future of capitalism and Western Marxism's current state. From the Chilean film about the day of the coup to the French Revolution, we examine the various factors that have shaped the world we live in today.Stephen Hammel guides us through the debates between Lenin and the ultra-left Bolsheviks and helps us unpack Lukacs' contributions to Western Marxism. Don't miss this insightful discussion that challenges conventional wisdom and invites you to reconsider your understanding of Marxism, capitalism, and the future of our world.Stephan Hammel is a co-host of The Measures Taken.  Stephan Hammel’s work is focused on developing a historical materialist framework for the study of music. His research encompasses the history of Marxist approaches to the subject—both “Western” and “Eastern” variants—as well as the role of music in the communist movement.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 YoutubeSend 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, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic

While 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 discuss Evgeny Morozov's "Critique of Techno-Feudal Reason." We specifically focus on the revisions to Marxist theoretical development that enables the thesis.Ready to challenge your perception of capitalism and neo-feudalism? Be prepared as we venture into the heart of Eugenia Morozov's critique of neo-feudal reason. Together, we'll grapple with the intricate workings of rents and fictitious capital as outlined in Cedric Durant's Fictitious Capital, turning the trope of predatory financial capital on its head. We'll also navigate the political landscape shaped by the dichotomy between China's industrial capital and the West's financial capital. Fasten your seatbelts as we confront the profit investment puzzle and the stagnation of capitalism and technological innovation. We’ll delve into the impact of monopolization, financialization, globalization, and digitization on firms and the rise of monopsony pricing. You'll be fascinated as we demystify the stagnation in computer technology, employing examples like Air Force One and the iPhone. And if you're starved for intellectual stimulation, you're in for a treat as we discuss the works of thinkers like David Graber, Mark Fisher, Tyler Cohen, and Rausoff.Still with us? Good, because we're not done yet. Let's roll up our sleeves and get into the nitty-gritty of Marxist theory. From the wisdom of tradition and epistolic succession to the alienation of labour and the fetishization of commodities, we're going deep. We'll question the true meaning of being a Marxist, examining the tendency of inverting liberal shibboleths to break away from that. A final word of caution: this episode might just make you question everything you thought you knew about capitalism and neo-feudalism. So, if you're ready for some intellectual heavy lifting, then let’s get started!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, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic

Please support our patreon.  For early and ad-free episodes, members-only content, and more.What if the key to addressing climate change lies at the intersection of labor and environmentalism? In this thought-provoking episode, we're joined by Matt Huber, author of "Climate Change's Class War: Building Socialism on a Warring Planet," to explore this relationship and how climate change is a class phenomenon. We challenge the mainstream analysis that focuses on consumption and lifestyle choices while ignoring the role of ownership and production in providing for those lifestyles.Together with Huber, we discuss the implications of green jobs and the challenges of industrial policy under the Biden administration. We explore how the Inflation Reduction Act incentivizes domestic manufacturing of solar panels and wind turbines, which could create more permanent, unionized jobs. Our conversation highlights the importance of considering the labor movement when addressing climate change and environmental policies.Finally, we delve into sustainable agriculture and socialist planning, examining the use of nitrogen fertilizer and the impacts of industrial agriculture. We consider the arguments for degrowth and eco-socialism, and how public transportation systems in other countries have enabled people to live without owning a car. Listen in to better understand how we can work together as a society to build a sustainable future, where the labor movement and environmentalism go hand in hand.Matthew T. Huber is Professor of Geography at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University. He is the author of Lifeblood: Oil, Freedom and the Forces of Capital (University of Minnesota Press, 2013) and Climate Changes as Class War: Building Socialism on a Warming Planet (Verso, 2022).  We talk about labor, the green movement, and the complications of degrowth.Abandon all hope ye who subscribe here.   Crew:Host: C. Derick VarnAudio Producer: Paul Channel Strip  ( @aufhebenkultur )Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesLinks and Social Media:twitter: @skepoetFacebookYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeSupport the showSend 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, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic

Please support our patreon.  For early and ad-free episodes, members-only content, and more.Chris Cutrone and Spencer Leonard are two of the founding and early members of the Platypus Affiliated Society.  What do the origins of the Platypus Affiliated Society, postmodernism's influence on Marxism, and the current state of the left have in common? Join us as we delve into these topics and more with Chris and Spencer, two of the three founders of Platypus. Their fascinating journey began with a request to intervene at a 2006 SWP UK Marxism Conference, and their friendship and intellectual connections have continued to shape their political philosophies since then.From the generational chasm between Gen X and Millennial Leftists to examining how postmodernism serves as a critique of the Enlightenment, our conversation covers a wide range of thought-provoking topics. We also discuss the controversial teaching of Foucault in universities, the impact of David Harvey's Condition of Modernity, Hardt and Negri's Empire, and Moishe Postone's Time, Labor and Social Domination course.As Chris and Spencer share their unique perspectives on the paths that led them into the Platypus organization, the influences of their undergraduate and graduate school experiences, and their exposure to different political ideologies, we gain a fresh understanding of the current state of the left. We also explore the impact of the Trump era on the DSA and Sanders left, and the role of political disappointments in shaping the politics of a new generation. Don't miss this engaging and insightful episode!Abandon all hope ye who subscribe here.   Crew:Host: C. Derick VarnAudio Producer: Paul Channel Strip  ( @aufhebenkultur )Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesLinks and Social Media:twitter: @skepoetFacebookYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeSend 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, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic

Please support our patreon.  For early and ad-free episodes, members-only content, and more. What if the university experience and the humanities education system are flawed at their core? Join us in our conversation with Maxximillian Seijo, ex-academic and former host of the Superstructure podcast and Money on the Left, as we unpack the perils of academia, the exploitation of graduate student labor, and the quest for novelty in the humanities.Together, we delve into the complexities of language proficiency in graduate school and its impact on teaching and reading. We also examine the structural identity crisis affecting universities, leading to the exploitation of academic labor, and the confusing incentives that contribute to this issue. Reflecting on the legacy of the medieval university, the German university of the 19th century, and the role of the humanities in modern society, we explore the purpose of education and the future of academic labor.As we discuss the geopolitical implications of the current academic model, we consider the potential impact of teaching the knowledge and skills learned in graduate school to everyday people, and how this could lead to a larger social project. Tune in as we navigate the complexities of university life and the contradictions that lie at its core, discovering the limitations of the humanities and how we can work toward a more stable and socially useful academic systemMaxximillian Seijo returns to talk about the problems with contemporary academic discourse. Abandon all hope ye who subscribe here.   Crew:Host: C. Derick VarnAudio Producer: Paul Channel Strip  ( @aufhebenkultur )Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesLinks and Social Media:twitter: @skepoetFacebookYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeSend 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, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic

Please support our patreon.  For early and ad-free episodes, members-only content, and more.Carl Eugene Stroud is a language educator and militant social anarchist.  Are you ready to explore the world of education, militancy, and multilingualism? Join me as I sit down with Carl Eugene Straude, language teacher and anarchist militant, for an eye-opening conversation on the challenges and importance of translating texts from other languages for English speakers. From examining unique discourse patterns of Spanish and Portuguese to understanding leftist terminology and ideology, we leave no stone unturned in this fascinating discussion.We dive into the complexities of coded language in leftist contexts, shedding light on how it can be alienating for those who aren't fluent in all aspects of the language. Carl and I also discuss the potential of left unity when it comes to strategic disputes and the concept of militancy in socialist education. Plus, don't miss our exploration of how language can shape our understanding of power dynamics and the role of multilingualism in fostering greater cultural awareness.Throughout the episode, we delve into the challenges of navigating leftist terminology and the importance of ideological unity in building a more robust left-wing movement. Carl shares his insights on the potential of international dialogue and local relevance when it comes to language learning and political analysis. As we wrap up, we discuss the need for continuous language learning and examine the implications of burnout cycles on highly educated and motivated individuals. So listen in, and discover the impact of language, ideology, and militancy in shaping our world! Work-related to the discussion can be found here: https://www.anarkismo.net/article/32701https://zabalazabooks.net/2022/12/18/a-companion-to-the-english-translation-of-social-anarchism-and-organisation/https://theanarchistlibrary.org/library/carl-eugene-stroud-the-tendency-to-learnAbandon all hope ye who subscribe here.   Crew:Host: C. Derick VarnAudio Producer: Paul Channel Strip  ( @aufhebenkultur )Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesLinks and Social Media:twitter: @skepoetSend 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, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic