Upstream

Nairuti Shastry, a racial and economic justice researcher, and Zac Chapman, Resource Mobilization Director at the New Economy Coalition, dive into the challenges of funding revolutionary movements. They discuss the contradictions in philanthropic practices and emphasize the need for funding alternatives that truly support anti-capitalist efforts. The conversation also touches on community-led initiatives that promote economic transformation and solidarity, envisioning a future where governance and economic structures are radically reimagined.

Eric Wycoff Rogers, a community organizer and author of the Critical Hedonist Manifesto, joins Zarinah Agnew, a neuroscientist and guerrilla scientist, to delve into the politics of pleasure. They discuss how capitalism manipulates desire, promoting unsustainable consumption. Both guests advocate for critical hedonism as a transformative approach to pleasure that fosters community collaboration. They challenge current economic values and encourage a reimagining of pleasure to enhance well-being, social ties, and collective joy.

In a riveting discussion, investigative journalist Abby Martin highlights the pervasive impact of U.S. imperialism on global issues, from climate change to social justice. She sheds light on her upcoming documentary, 'Earth's Greatest Enemy,' revealing the military's major role in climate degradation. Abby shares her experiences in Jerusalem and challenges media narratives around the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The conversation wraps up with a call for grassroots activism against the backdrop of the military-industrial complex's environmental consequences.

Adam Hanieh, an expert on oil and capitalism, delves into the intricate relationship between oil, monopoly capitalism, and imperialism. He discusses how oil influences global geopolitics, especially in the Middle East, highlighting its role in resource extraction and environmental challenges. Hanieh emphasizes the connection between oil wealth and societal structures, revealing the complexities beyond simple narratives. He also explores the historical transition from coal to oil and its significance in shaping modern energy consumption and capitalist growth.

In this discussion, Jason Hickel, a professor and author focused on global inequality and degrowth, challenges the myth that poverty is necessary for sustainability. He presents compelling research revealing that only 30% of current global production is needed to meet everyone's basic needs. Jason advocates for a transition from capitalism to eco-socialism, emphasizing human well-being and democratic planning. They also explore the transformative potential of reimagining economic systems to prioritize community, equity, and ecological health.

In this teaser, Carlee, who appears in Nathan Fielder's latest work, dives into the intricacies of 'The Curse.' They discuss how the show blurs the lines between reality and fiction, revealing uncomfortable truths about modern media and capitalism. Carlee shares insights on the series' unique characters and the moral dilemmas they face, highlighting themes of identity and power dynamics. They also contemplate the emotional balance between humor and discomfort, demonstrating how Fielder masterfully encapsulates these contradictions.

In this engaging conversation, Scott Sehon, a philosophy professor at Bowdoin College and author of 'Socialism: A Logical Introduction', dives into the logical foundations of socialism. He critiques capitalism while discussing the philosophical paths that shaped his beliefs. The dialogue includes a fascinating analysis of moral arguments for socialism, the importance of rights in society, and the tension between reform and revolution. Sehon emphasizes the necessity of reasoned discourse and presents compelling cases for universal healthcare and equitable resource distribution.

Johann Hari, an acclaimed author and journalist, takes a deep dive into the weight loss industry and its ties to capitalism. He explores the rise of popular drugs like Ozempic, questioning their true effectiveness and the societal pressures surrounding body image. Hari discusses the unregulated food industry's impact on health and the complexity of obesity as it intersects with personal narratives. The conversation also touches on body positivity and the need for compassionate dialogue about health, challenging conventional solutions to our food and weight crises.

Explore the concept of liberalism as a 'virus' that has spread across centuries, reshaping societies and identities. Delve into the historical crises that showcase liberalism's legacy, highlighting its role in contemporary political landscapes. The podcast critiques the tension between capitalism and democracy, emphasizing how current institutions often prioritize capital over democratic values. It also tackles the dangers of unchecked capitalism and monopolies, referencing Lenin's insights to challenge libertarian deregulation arguments.

D. Musa Springer, a Pan-African Marxist scholar, and Charisse Burden-Stelly, an expert on underdevelopment, dive deep into Walter Rodney's powerful legacy. They discuss how Rodney's theories on global capitalism and education remain relevant today. His critiques of colonialism and imperialism are explored, showcasing their impact on current struggles for liberation. The conversation highlights the need for integrating African perspectives within Marxist theory to address ongoing socio-economic inequalities.