Political Philosophy Podcast

Natasha Piano, an assistant professor at UCLA specializing in democratic theory, discusses the complexities of democracy in light of her book, Democratic Elitism. She critiques the conventional link between elections and democracy, urging for a broader understanding of representation. The conversation dives into Machiavelli’s thoughts on elite dominance and popular resistance, and the influence of right populism on voter behavior. Piano highlights the role of masculinity in political ideologies and the cyclical nature of institutional change, advocating for innovative reforms and trust between elites and the public.

Delve into the ancient context of biblical stories, tracing their roots back to 1850 BC Babylon. Discover how narratives like Atrahasis influenced the Genesis flood tale and reflect societal norms of the time. Uncover the vital role of Babylonian scribes in shaping literature and record-keeping that echoes today. Explore the evolution of flood myths and the sophisticated forces behind their storytelling, revealing a complex interplay of culture, religion, and literature in shaping ancient belief systems.

A shot preview of a new series I'll be doing on the podcast

I take a range of questions on all things British politics.

The rift between Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders during the 2016 Democratic primary has left a powerful legacy in American politics. The discussion reflects on the obstacles and successes of the American left, exploring the growing need for unity. Striking contrasts emerge between principled outsiders and pragmatic insiders in political identity. The influence of Sanders’ supporters reveals complexities in voting behavior, while the conversation advocates for acknowledging past political errors and fostering collaboration to combat rising extremism.

Crime and criminality are central concepts in American political discourse - fears of crime, crime as code for race, or illegal immigration are all common issues. Now we have a movement running the country that is obsessed with crime, but also led by criminals, how do we make sense of that? Why is that so appealing to so many, and how do we talk them out of it? I'm joined by one of the best writers on the criminal justice system - Josie Duffy Rice - to discuss.

Dave Karpf, a political scientist and insightful blogger on tech politics, dives into Silicon Valley's surprising rightward shift. He discusses how extreme wealth distorts reality for tech elites and critiques their absurd ambitions, like colonizing Mars. Karpf explores the intersection of self-awareness, social media, and branding among billionaires, and examines the implications of regulatory changes under the Biden administration on venture capital. He also highlights the rise of meme stocks and how ridicule plays a role in public accountability, particularly for figures like Elon Musk.

In this thought-provoking discussion, guest Samantha Hancox-Li, an associate editor at Liberal Currents, delves into the Democratic Party's current dilemmas and necessary reforms. She explores the lessons from military leadership failures and emphasizes the importance of moral courage and risk-taking in crisis situations. The dialogue also examines the disconnect between the party and its voters, urging a reevaluation of leftist activism to broaden appeal. Through historical parallels and innovative strategies, Hancox-Li envisions a transformative future for American governance.

In this engaging discussion, Kevin Elliott, a political scientist and Yale lecturer, tackles the urgent question of Trump's presidency as a potential fascist threat. He delves into modern political fascism, highlighting the need for clear definitions and critical analysis. The conversation uncovers the ties between American conservatism and historical fascism, exploring the emotional reactions that shape public discourse. Elliott emphasizes the importance of understanding diverse perspectives to grasp the complexities of contemporary authoritarianism and democratic resilience.

Simon Hix, a political scientist and professor at the European University Institute in Florence, dives into the intricate workings of the European Union. He discusses the EU's legitimacy and the so-called 'democracy gap,' emphasizing the disconnect between its institutions and member states. Hix also examines the tension between rising populism and liberal values in Europe, particularly post-Brexit. He reflects on Britain's evolving identity and the challenges of modern political discourse, providing insights into the EU's future amidst geopolitical shifts.