Bungacast

Enikő Vincze, an academic and activist from Babes Bolyai University, dives deep into the turbulent waters of Romanian politics. She unpacks the recent annulled election, exploring how Romanian politics mirrors broader European trends of misinformation and populism. The conversation probes the dynamics of upcoming elections and the so-called 'anti-system' parties. Vincze also examines the conflicts influenced by the Ukraine War and questions the Right’s promises of sovereignty, all while highlighting the pressing housing struggles in Romania.

Pawel Kaczmarski, a literary critic and expert in modern Polish literature, dives into the transformative potential of video games alongside hosts George and Alex. They explore how games like Helldivers 2 aim to teach agency but ultimately miss the mark. The conversation shifts to the upcoming elections in Poland, reflecting on voter disillusionment and political rhetoric. Kaczmarski also critiques the current state of both video game and literary criticism, questioning their relevance and engagement in today's cultural landscape.

On the charges against France's Marine Le Pen. [For the full episode, subscribe at patreon.com/bungacast] Alex and George discuss some main stories from the past month. After the death of Pope Francis, what's behind left-wing sympathy for the late Pope – and more widespread appreciation for Catholicism? Why do we want a progressive Pope, and would a reactionary one be better for us? Why is the US deporting people to Nayib Bukele's Salvadorian prisons, and what makes this so dystopian? Then Alex calls up Jacobin's Europe editor David Broder to understand the charges against Marine Le Pen. Is Marine Le Pen a victim of lawfare, or has she been hoist by her own petard? What are the consequences for the Rassemblement National, and for French politics? What has the European radical right's response been to Trump II so far? And we respond to your questions and comments from the past month on: Holding politicians to account on free speech Listening to poetry Redistribution as the obvious solution to the crisis Clientelism and hyperpolitics

On the mass-production of loyalty. *** We are exceptionally making this episode of the Reading Club freely available. See the full syllabus here: 2024/25 Reading Club. If you'd like to join, subscribe at patreon.com/bungacast/membership. *** The second reading in this block on Inter/Nationalism in the 21st Century is The Invention of Tradition (eds. Eric Hobsbawm & Terrence Ranger, 1983), specifically Hobsbawm's chapter "Mass-Producing Traditions: Europe 1870-1914". How much did ordinary people buy into invented national traditions? Why did industrialisation allow for mass-producing traditions? Does the sense of belonging fostered then still exist today? If nation-states don't require active participation any more, what does this mean for the mass-production of loyalty? Are things like social media campaigns, national holidays for diversity, or even global events like the Olympics the new “mass-produced” traditions?

In this conversation with Walden Bello, a renowned public intellectual from the Philippines, listeners dive into the turbulent world of Filipino politics. Bello discusses the implications behind Duterte's arrest and the concept of 'lawfare.' He offers insights into the entrenched political dynasties, describing the Philippines as an 'anarchy of families.' The dialogue also touches on the challenges of left-wing activism, geopolitics in the South China Sea, and lessons for the future amidst changing global dynamics.

Corey Robin, a political theorist and professor at Brooklyn College, joins the discussion on Trump's administration and the evolving American political landscape. They explore whether Trump's reliance on executive orders signifies a lack of strength. The conversation dives into the complexities of oligarchy, questioning if the U.S. has transitioned into one, and how economic sanctions and immigration policies reflect deeper issues within democracy. The dialogues also touch on the fractures within the Republican Party and the implications of power dynamics in shaping governance.

The discussion dives into the tug-of-war between nationalism and internationalism, highlighting their evolving dynamics amidst today’s geopolitical tensions. Cultural aspects of internationalism are examined, raising questions about its perception in a post-9/11 world. Personal journeys reshape understandings of national identity, with experiences revealing the complexities of belonging. The tension between these ideologies is explored, emphasizing the transformation of nationalism from unity to division in contemporary society.

The discussion dives into Trump's tariffs, likening them to retro-80s economic strategies and questioning their effectiveness. Experts assess whether these policies signal a return to high tariff walls and simulate 19th-century economic models. Historical analogies play a significant role, as they explore how lessons from the past are either misguided or relevant today. The complexities of global trade dynamics and the potential impact on nations like China, Brazil, and the UK create an engaging debate about the future of American economic strategy.

Orlando Reade, a Professor of English at Northeastern University London and author of 'What In Me Is Dark,' dives into the revolutionary themes of Milton's 'Paradise Lost.' He explores whether the poem speaks of darkness and its relevance today, especially regarding the age of Trump. The discussion also highlights how figures like Malcolm X interpreted Milton's insights on freedom and rebellion. Reade challenges listeners to consider the moral complexities of disobedience as embodied by Satan and Eve, linking epic poetry to modern political discourse.

Djene Bajalan dives into the complexities of Erdogan's Turkey, examining protests and the dynamics of opposition against his long-standing rule. The discussion explores Erdogan's blend of repression and modernization, revealing why he remains a formidable figure in world politics. Insights into geopolitical shifts, including Turkey's pivot from traditional alliances, highlight its growing global influence. The rise in gold prices and its economic ramifications also come into focus, alongside reflections on the youth's discontent and the cultural divides shaping Turkey's future.