Varn Vlog

As we wade through the turbulent waters of political advocacy, our latest episode brings to the forefront the passionate voices Clarissa Cunningham, Dr. Elektra Kosopoulou, and Maryam Syed. These dynamic women, whose lives are steeped in academia and activism, share their powerful narratives surrounding the Uncommitted Campaign and its crusade for Palestinian solidarity. Grappling with the profound complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict, our conversation unearths the potential of grassroots movements to influence U.S. foreign policy and the moral imperative of confronting humanitarian crises head-on.Amidst the echoes of political disillusionment, this episode lays bare the challenges confronting vulnerable communities under the current U.S. administration. From the nuances of transgender rights to the battleground of abortion laws, our guests dissect the Democratic Party's stances, questioning the sincerity of its commitments. The discussion traverses the terrain of post-9/11 America, capturing the generational shifts in attitudes towards activism and civil rights, and illuminating the intersection of human rights issues with broader political themes like immigration.Our dialogue culminates in a critical analysis of the Democratic Party, with a focus on the disillusionment stemming from unfulfilled progressive promises and controversial war policies. The narrative does not shy away from confronting the stark realities of inequality, education gaps, and the economy; instead, it spotlights the urgency of political change. As we conclude, we draw inspiration from historical figures and encourage our audience to recognize the power within each action—no matter how small—to catalyze a revolution for true change. Join us as we share invaluable insights and equip you with the determination to raise your voice in the name of justice and solidarity.For more information: https://uncommittednj.org/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

Do you ever wonder what binds our society together in the pursuit of something greater than ourselves? Elijah Emery joins me on an intellectual expedition to dissect the layers of political philosophy, scrutinizing the enigmatic notion of the common good through the critical lens of Michael J. Sandel. Together, we venture into the historical intricacies of democracy, expertise, and the challenges that arise when professional politicians and a growing bureaucracy claim to represent our collective interests. We confront the conservative and reactionary stances on the 'good' and delve into the prevailing currents of legal originalism and leftist hermeneutics, all while tracing the conundrums of meritocracy and the evolving identities within the American political landscape.As we navigate the societal upheavals of our time, from the redefinition of traditional marriages to the rise of ideological incels, we illuminate the critical shifts in community dynamics and the therapeutic roles that have emerged to fill the voids of modern life. The conversation turns to the replication crisis in psychology, the tangled web of gentrification and political allegiances, and the undercurrents of dissatisfaction that course through the veins of meritocratic institutions. Witness how our discussion cuts through the complexity of these social issues, shining a light on the intertwined strands of class, identity, and ideology that shape the fabric of contemporary America.Our journey culminates in a provocative examination of the paradox that lies at the heart of democratic governance: how do we reconcile the necessity of expertise with the foundational principles of democracy? We grapple with the role of randomness in societal sorting, consider the shifting perceptions of the military's place in our society, and reflect on the role of political dynasties in shaping our nation's narrative. Join us for this compelling foray into the labyrinth of governance, meritocracy, and the relentless quest for a fair and just society, as we lay bare the paradoxes and possibilities that define our collective search for a common good.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

Prepare to have your views on meritocracy and society's fairness fundamentally challenged as Elijah Emery and I dissect Michael Sandel's "The Tyranny of Merit." We don't just skim the surface; we penetrate deep into the cultural and political implications of a system that rewards credentials over genuine talent. Our discourse ranges from the cultural weaving of meritocracy in different societies to the pointed issues of elite education and nepotism. By questioning the foundations of opportunity and success, this conversation promises a fresh perspective on the ideals we've long held as self-evident.As the world grapples with the realities of globalization and its effects on local and international politics, our episode takes a sharp turn, scrutinizing how American cultural trends leave indelible marks on global elite institutions and immigration policies. The dialogue unfolds to reveal the intricate dance of minority voting patterns in the U.S., shaped by historical shifts post-1965 immigration reform. These insights are paralleled by a critique of current labor laws and unionization, painting a sobering picture of stagnation and the need for change.Closing with a hard-hitting critique of political philosophy, we question whether nationalism can adequately address the daunting global issues we face, such as climate change and economic development. Elijah's expertise shines as we navigate through the complexities of power dynamics and the role of elite institutions in shaping societal outcomes. This episode is an intellectual feast, providing listeners with a comprehensive exploration of the challenges and myths surrounding meritocracy, power, and representation in today's 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, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic

Embark on a historical odyssey with us as we host Michael Baysa, postdoctoral history scholar from Washington University in St. Louis, who meticulously peels back the layers of early American print culture. His compelling narratives bring to light the selective democratization of print and the hidden struggles of figures like Santiago de Puglia in disseminating progressive ideas. Together, we uncover the complex interplay of language, identity, and power that defined the nation's earliest days and echoes into our modern era.Revelations abound in this episode, as we traverse the influence of religious establishments and linguistic diversity in shaping America's formative years. Michael Beza offers a critical perspective on the advantages Protestant groups held in leveraging printing for their benefit, alongside the restrictive societal undercurrents that curtailed voices like Puglia's. We dissect the role of anti-Catholic sentiment and explore how key figures of American history interacted with and were influenced by multilingual and multicultural dynamics.We wrap up with a look towards the future, featuring up-and-coming academic Michael Baysa whose insights into the religious history of America's printing press promise to spark fresh academic discourse. Follow his journey at @MichaelBaysa, and stay connected with the evolving conversation on the relationship between religion, culture, and politics. As we close this chapter, we leave you enriched with a deeper appreciation of the nuanced forces that continue to sculpt the narrative of American 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, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic

Embark on a journey through the complex landscape where climate economics meets indigenous sovereignty with our esteemed guest, K. Malulani Castro. This episode peels back the layers of carbon markets and environmental pricing, revealing the critical role of Indigenous stewardship and the clash with global economic frameworks. As K. Malulani Castro shares her scholarly insights, we uncover the challenges of land trusts, the nuances of property rights, and the future of tribal lands amidst the tension with fossil fuel interests. This conversation is not just about the numbers; it's an examination of the very fabric that intertwines culture, nature, and survival.K. Malulani Castro guides us through a tapestry of indigenous rights, environmental justice, and the precarious balance of sustaining communities while engaging with international policies. From the battlegrounds of carbon credit trading post-COP 28 to the frontlines of tribal land development, we scrutinize the effectiveness of current strategies in preserving both the environment and cultural integrity. Delve into the paradoxes faced by indigenous peoples, where maintaining biodiversity comes at the cost of commodification and where the fight for land sovereignty continues under the shadows of colonial law.In our final act, we reimagine our connection with the land and each other, envisioning a future shaped by indigenous values and kinship. We confront the pressing need for community resilience, particularly in the face of climate change that threatens to displace populations and disrupt traditional ways of life. K. Malulani Castro's vision calls for a radical shift, urging us to reconsider our educational systems, political dynamics, and the sustainability of our planet for generations to come. Tune in and be part of a dialogue that challenges the status quo and inspires a collective rethinking of our approach to a just and sustainable 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, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic

Kevin from Regrettable Century joins to discuss leftist politics and the DSA's post-Bernie growth. They analyze shifts in socialist groups, navigating internal challenges, and the balance between progressive values and political engagement. The conversation delves into Bernie's international policies, the influence of Michael Brooks, and the strategic pivot towards electoral politics post-Occupy.

Embark on a historical gallop with Joy of Zoognosis with Joy and Mimbres School, as she guides us through the monumental impact of horses on the formation of our societies. From the plains of ancient empires to the controversies of modern statues, our episode reveals the deep imprints left by these noble creatures. Expect to uncover how their roles extended beyond agriculture and warfare, touching on darker chapters of human history like the slave trade, and how their symbolism has evolved in today's competitive sports arenas and contentious public memorials. Tune in for a riveting discussion on the cultural nuances of our dietary choices, especially the polarizing topic of horse meat consumption. Joy unveils the historical roots of food taboos, dissecting how past practices, such as those during shackle slavery, still ripple into present-day biases. We don't shy away from the ethical dilemmas surrounding the treatment of animals as sentient beings, challenging deeply ingrained anthropocentric views. We'll also scrutinize the effectiveness of breed-specific dog legislation, questioning the supposed link between breed and aggression, and consider how our kinship bonds with animals reflect and inform human behavior.Our journey doesn't end there; we'll also contemplate the vast environmental footprint of industrial farming and the intricate dynamics of our domestication endeavors. From the ethics of animal rights movements to the crucial role of biodiversity, our conversation with Joy is a thought-provoking examination of the threads connecting us to the animal kingdom. We'll even touch upon our relationship with Neanderthals, and consider how our perception of human evolution informs our interactions with animals today. Prepare to reevaluate your stance on our fly, finned, and four-legged friends, and how they fit into the complex tapestry of modern 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, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic

Embark on an intellectual exploration of the radical left with our scholar, Dr. Wayne Price, as we untangle the intricate tapestry of modern leftist ideology. From the resurgence of Marxist-Leninism to the adaptive strategies of the Democratic Socialists of America, this episode promises a comprehensive dissection of the ideologies that are shaping the future of socialism. We scrutinize the historical echoes in today's political tumult, ponder the delicate balance between revolutionary change and electoral engagement, and question how the rise of Marxism influences the anarchist discourse.As we navigate the ideological currents within leftist movements, Dr. Price offers his expert analysis on the evolution of socialist and Trotskyist factions. We confront the controversies that have shaken the foundations of these groups and track their shifting allegiances, especially in the wake of Bernie Sanders' campaigns. Uncover the reasons behind the unexpected allure of Marxist frameworks for anarchists and witness the robust participation in anti-war and pro-Palestinian activism, as we grapple with the shifts that are redefining leftist politics.The conversation culminates in a vibrant discussion on how class theory and anarchist perspectives intersect and diverge, revealing the potential for a radical reimagining of post-capitalist society. We juxtapose the revolutionary aspirations against the stark realities of rising fascism and the environmental crisis, stoking the embers of optimism for a united front against societal and ecological threats. Join us for a thought-provoking episode that promises not just insights, but also a clarion call for all who envision a transformative path beyond the status quo.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

Exploring the surprising alignment between Christian personalism and leftist ideologies, Julian Assele shares his journey from conservative Catholicism to Marxism, challenging conventional political and religious dichotomies. The discussion delves into Marxist humanism, Eastern Orthodox views on anthropology, and the nuanced interplay between personalism and Christianity. Connections are drawn between personalism, Christian Zionism, and societal structures, offering insights into the complex interweaving of theology, philosophy, and political economy.

Do you ever feel like ecological thinking is being misunderstood, or worse, misrepresented? Join me and the insightful Jules Delisle, from the member school for the humanities, as we dismantle these misconceptions and explore the nuanced interplay between humanity and our environment. We tackle the thorny issues of quantifiability versus validity in statistics, deconstruct the myth that ecological consciousness is a regression to primitivism, and celebrate the unrecognized intelligence and adaptability of hunter-gatherer societies. Our conversation takes you through the importance of dynamic ecosystems, the fragility of our technologically driven world, and the vital role of biodiversity in the future of human adaptability.As we navigate the complexities of environmental and cultural identity, we challenge you to consider the profound implications of land claims and societal priorities. We delve into the insights of indigenous perspectives, especially in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and emphasize the importance of precise language and dynamic cultural recognition in these sensitive discussions. This episode promises a compelling narrative that spotlights the intersection of environmentalism, cultural identity, and human development, pushing you to question how these issues impact the well-being of our most valuable asset – our children.We conclude this powerful exploration by reimagining the structure of our relationships with both technology and each other. Discover the potency of traditional kinship structures, the need for a nuanced approach in legal and philosophical debates, and the global responsibility that accompanies our collective struggle towards a sustainable future. Whether it's reflecting on the ethics of statehood and conflict or the role of reading in understanding our diverse world, this journey with Jules redefines the essence of progress and urges us to invest in the resilience and development of the younger generation. Prepare to be inspired, enlightened, and ready to contribute to the pivotal change our world so desperately needs.Jules Delisle is an organizer of the Mimbre's School, researcher, human ecologist, and nurse.  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