Political Philosophy Podcast

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.

Who was Rousseau? What is the 'general will'? What did he think was important when designing constitutions, and what does this tell us about freedom - and the possibility of freedom - today?

Moudhy Al-Rashid on the first kings in history - The origins of the institution, royal ideology & propaganda, & their use of violence & terror

How does the UK political system work, what role has immigration played in our politics, and are we at risk of a 'Trump moment' here?

Rebecca Buxton, a Lecturer in social and political philosophy at the University of Bristol, dives deep into the ethics of asylum and refugee policies in the UK. She critiques the disconnection between political philosophy and public sentiment, highlighting the dignity of refugees. The conversation also tackles the pervasive misinformation in politics and its impact on public perception. Buxton questions the expectation of gratitude from asylum seekers and addresses the challenges LGBTQ refugees face, advocating for a more compassionate and nuanced view of immigration.