Then & Now: Philosophy, History & Politics

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Delve into the significance of history in today's world and why it's experiencing a resurgence. Explore Fukuyama's 'end of history' thesis and its implications as recent events like Brexit and populism challenge this notion. Discover how historical narratives shape actions, fueling misunderstanding and conflict. The hosts emphasize the importance of learning from the past, offering moral guidance and practical wisdom for contemporary issues. Ultimately, they argue for personal engagement with history to enrich individual and civic life.

Dive into the intriguing world of the deep state, where hidden powers and unaccountable influences shape policy. Discover historical precedents from ancient empires to modern bureaucracies. Explore how concentrated wealth and corporate lobbying steer national decision-making. Delve into the military-industrial complex and the overlap between intelligence agencies and tech giants. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the necessity for reform and transparency to hold these shadow networks accountable.

Paul Taggart, a leading expert on populism, dives deep into the complexities of this political phenomenon. He discusses how populism interacts with democracy, drawing on historical examples like the American People's Party and charismatic figures such as Huey Long. Taggart highlights the shift of populism from the fringes to mainstream politics and its implications for democratic values. He also unpacks the nuanced relationship between populism and media, emphasizing both the threats and enhancements it poses to democratic governance.

The podcast dives into the internal battles people face with cravings, advocating healthy alternatives. It explores how AI is reshaping job markets, emphasizing human creativity and personal branding. Decisiveness is highlighted as vital in contrast to AI's analytical abilities. The discussion moves to the societal effects of technology, urging a balance between human needs and advancements. Finally, it showcases the versatility of on-demand services like Uber Eats, encouraging new habits while managing cravings.

Explore the rise of monopolies and authoritarianism and their impact on individual freedoms. Delve into historical perspectives, from early anti-monopoly sentiments to the evolution of corporatism. Discover how economic crises and consolidation fuel inequality and examine the significance of key legislation like the Sherman Antitrust Act. Analyze the risks monopolies pose to innovation and how past corporate behaviors echo in today's markets. Finally, discuss the challenges of breaking up major tech companies and fostering competition in media.

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Discover Karl Marx's profound impact on modern society and politics, especially his views on commodities and human experiences. Dive into the naturalistic fallacy he critiqued, challenging fixed ideas about society. Explore his revolutionary thoughts against capitalism and the alienation that arises from it. Uncover the dual nature of commodities and labor, the clash between technology and workers, and the importance of proletarian unity. Engage with Marx's flexible philosophy that invites critical thinking and community participation.

Dive into the fascinating evolution of media, from the printing press to today's online personalities. Explore how early diversity gave way to commercialized, sensationalist journalism. Discover the shift from broadcasting ethics to entertainment, and how partisan media emerged amidst conservative critiques. The discussion unveils the rise of new elite figures and their anti-establishment appeal. Finally, consider what a healthy media landscape requires to prioritize truth over profit, focusing on everyday issues that matter.