Bungacast

Jamie Doucette, a scholar of Korea's political economy at the University of Manchester, explores the tense political landscape in South Korea. He discusses the implications of the recent coup attempt by Yoon Suk-yeol and questions if he seeks a dictatorship. Doucette also examines South Korea’s rapid economic growth under authoritarian regimes like Park Chung-hee's, the dynamics of the post-developmental state, and the legacy of the Candlelight movement. His insights unravel the complexities of Korea's development and political strategies amid global capitalism.

Daniel Bessner, a historian and podcaster renowned for his insights on American foreign policy, joins the discussion to dissect the implications of a potential second Trump term. They explore how Trump's 'America First' approach might reshape relationships with Ukraine and China, assess his rapport with the deep state, and analyze generational divides regarding U.S. imperialism. The conversation also examines the changing dynamics in the Middle East, the ongoing U.S.-China tensions, and whether peace in Ukraine is plausible, all while reflecting on shifting paradigms in foreign policy.

Delve into the impact of capitalism on social interactions in urban life. The discussion navigates the decline of public figures and how elite segregation has shaped modern democracy. Reflecting on nostalgia, the speakers lament the absence of heroic figures over time. They tackle profound questions about community, civility, and the implications of intimacy on societal relations. Ultimately, the dialogue confronts the cyclical nature of alienation and the longing for a more connected society.

Did Jimmy Carter actually set the stage for neoliberalism? Writer Tim Barker delves into this provocative question, examining how Carter's presidency intertwined decency with austerity policies. The conversation explores the implications of appointing Fed Chairman Volcker and what alternatives existed to neoliberalism in the late 1970s. Was Carter a noble loser for the Democrats, aligning with the wealthy elite? Find out how his humanitarian legacy contrasts with the complexities of his political maneuvers.

Michael C. Williams, a University research professor and expert in radical conservatism, delves into the global dynamics of the radical right. He explains the significance of embracing a serious academic approach to the Right and distinguishes between radical right factions. The conversation explores how the radical right critiques the liberal managerial elite, reveals its unexpected engagement with Gramsci, and contemplates the implications of its rise for the Left and the traditional liberal order. Williams' insights challenge preconceived notions and provoke thought on modern political ideologies.

The discussion dives into Edgar Berger's film about a Papal election, pitting sacred authority against earthly power. Amidst a humorous take, the speakers examine the film's political characters and question its Oscar-worthy intentions. They ponder the allure of Papal themes in modern media and reflect on historical inquiries into the complexities of authority. Juxtaposing personal anecdotes and literary references, the conversation touches on freedom, identity, and the peculiarities of contemporary politics, all infused with wit and cultural critique.

Dive into the intriguing concept of 'non-places' as the hosts explore how airports, malls, and corporate hotels shape modern society. They question the implications of these spaces on politics and identity in a post-political landscape. Is Augé's view too limiting? Can non-places foster culture and community? This conversation challenges listeners to think critically about the nature of place and its relevance in an increasingly globalized world.

Anna Kornbluh, a Professor of English and author, dives into the concept of 'immediacy' as a defining feature of contemporary culture. She explores how self-disclosure in digital media amplifies alienation while critiquing the anti-representation trend in arts and politics. The discussion touches on how shows like Fleabag reflect societal isolation despite seeming intimacy. Kornbluh also questions the impact of privatization on authentic expression and links cultural immediacy to the capitalist framework, emphasizing the struggles of maintaining authenticity in a data-driven world.

On your questions, comments & criticisms. [Patreon Exclusive] We're back with a final letters to the editor episode of 2024 in which we discuss: the universalisation of 'anti-fascism' as a kind of politics whether there are any actual 'family abolitionists' out there humanitarian intervention in Palestine the hard and less hard facts of US imperial decline the legitimacy of 'existential' politics whether anti-corruption politics are good, actually and why Phil loves Hillary

On Taiwan, semiconductors, and war. [Full episode for subscribers only] James Lin, Assistant Professor of International Studies at the University of Washington at Seattle, talks to Phil about Taiwanese politics and the country's place in the world, in terms of the global economy and Sino-American geopolitical rivalry. We talk about Taiwanese history and politics, from Japanese occupation and colonisation across the Cold War, to the present day, including:  Taiwanese politics in the shadow of the geopolitical crisis The paradox of political divergence and economic convergence between China and Taiwan since the 1980s How did Taiwan corner the market for manufacturing computer chips?  How successful is the ongoing US reshoring of chip production? Will there be a Marco Rubio/Elon Musk divide on China in the Trump White House?  How might a war over Taiwan play out?  Links: In the Global Vanguard: Agrarian Development and the Making of Modern Taiwan, James Lin, UC Press What Works in Taiwan Doesn’t Always in Arizona, a Chipmaking Giant Learns, John Liu, NY Times Will Trump take the Musk path or the Rubio path on Taiwan?, Lev Nachman, Nikkei Asia