Bungacast

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.

Jensen Suther, a junior fellow at Harvard specializing in philosophy and literature, dives deep into the intersections of art, culture, and socialism. He critiques the concept of immediacy in contemporary culture, juxtaposing it with Hegelian thought. Suther discusses the autonomy of art from society, tackles the implications of cultural forms tied to economic shifts, and examines the response to the historical defeats of the working class, emphasizing the necessity of collective responsibility and agency.

On class formation, fragmentation, pessimism and optimism. George and contributing editor Leigh Phillips talk to Dan Evans, a writer and academic based in South Wales. We discuss his piece in the New Socialist, ‘Is the Working Class Back?’ and themes emerging from it. How important are definitions of class? If the working class remains weak and fragmented, and its politics increasingly chaotic, what is to be done? How does Gabriel Winant's pessimism about the industrial working class compare to Evans'? What are the class contradictions of the contemporary Left? Who is the real oppositional class today? Should we be more positive about the petite bourgeoisie? Links: Is the Working Class Back?, Dan Evans, New Socialist A Nation of Shopkeepers: The Unstoppable Rise of the Petty Bourgeoisie, Dan Evans, Repeater Books /349/ The PMC & Their Politics ft. Dan Evans & Catherine Liu

Ben Bradlow, assistant professor at Princeton, dives into urban politics and inequality, drawing from his book on São Paulo and Johannesburg. He discusses the contrasting realities of slum conditions in rapidly urbanizing cities and reflects on the tension between democratic ideals and neoliberal outcomes since the 1990s. The role of social movements in shaping housing policies is explored, along with the global implications of China’s industrial influence and the rise of the radical right in both the Global North and South. A thought-provoking look at the future of urban living!

Todd McGowan, a professor of film and theory and author of "Embracing Alienation," discusses the positive aspects of alienation and its significance in our lives. He critiques both Left and Right anti-alienation politics, arguing they're counterproductive. McGowan also explores how alienation can enhance creativity, identity, and personal freedom. He advocates for engaging with the public realm against therapy culture and emphasizes the transformative potential of embracing alienation for social change, drawing parallels with historical revolutions.

In this discussion, Will Shoki, the editor at Africa Is A Country, delves into the impact of Elon Musk's upbringing in apartheid-era South Africa and its relevance to today's politics. He explores the growing global radical right's interest in South Africa's land reform debates and the complexities of race and privilege that shape these conversations. Shoki also critiques the political landscape, highlighting challenges within the ANC and the rise of populism, while shedding light on why international figures like Trump are focused on South African issues.

Dive into Gramsci's legacy with fascinating insights from sociologists Nathan Sperber and George Hoare. They explore how Gramsci's ideas resonate in today's politics, including his surprising influence on the political Right. Discover the significant shifts in Gramsci's reception across Europe and the cultural implications of his concept of the 'national-popular.' The conversation also critically addresses the misuses of Gramsci's thought by both Left and Right, shedding light on contemporary radical democracy.

Gregor Baszak, an independent researcher focusing on German politics, explores the tension in German centrism amid pressures from both the left and right. He discusses the remilitarization of public life and the implications of Sahra Wagenknecht's 'left-conservative' politics. The podcast delves into Germany's energy dynamics linked to the Nord Stream 2 pipeline and its evolving stance in the Ukraine War. Baszak also examines how populist figures like Marine Le Pen are reshaping national politics across Europe.

Tim Pendry, author of the Unstable Times substack and an international affairs consultant, discusses the political landscape shaped by Trump’s foreign policy and American nationalism. He explores how intra-bourgeois struggles have influenced politics and the UK’s extreme challenges as an ally. Pendry critiques current political ideologies and reflects on the Workers Party of Britain's strategy to engage the working class, examining the dynamics of traditional left-right politics and the practical challenges of launching a new party amidst rising populism.

Anton Jäger, an expert on European politics and a contributor to the New York Times, joins Alex and George for a gripping discussion. They explore Belgium's radical right government and why it succeeded despite strong unions and lower inequality. The conversation shifts to the concept of 'hyperpolitics' in the US and questions if it has truly ended. Jäger argues that Europe is imitating authoritarianism from the East while grappling with its own capitalist challenges, suggesting a dramatic shift in the continent's political landscape.