Political Theory 101

Explore the fascinating rise of monasteries in late antiquity as centers of power and education. Discover how monks navigated their withdrawal from politics while still influencing urban life. Delve into the intricate relationships between monks, bishops, and political elites. Uncover the challenges faced by Christians maintaining virtue amid a loaded pagan culture. Additionally, reflect on the philosophical tensions monasteries faced in balancing spiritual identity with societal expectations.

Alex and Benjamin explore a debate G.K. Chesterton and George Bernard Shaw had a century ago concerning political economy, then we dive into their political writings.

Alex and Benjamin discuss Laclau's socialist strategy, populism, empty signifiers, and the relationship between Laclau's socialism and Marxism.

Alex and Benjamin discuss Jean-François Lyotard's critique of Marxism, his "evil book," intersections between politics, art, and science, and how Lyotard answered the charge of relativism.

Alex and Benjamin explore the agonistic political thought of Deleuze and Guattari, focusing especially on their ideas about territory, change, and flow.

Dive into the complexities of ideology with insights from Althusser and Foucault. Discover how ideological state apparatuses shape our identities, making us feel like we act freely. Examine the role of schools and families in reproducing societal norms. Explore Foucault's concept of governmentality and how it influences our everyday choices. The discussion critiques the limitations of individual agency and debates the possibility of escaping ideology's grasp. Enjoy a thought-provoking journey through power, knowledge, and societal structures.

Alex and Benjamin bring on Doug Lain to talk about free speech in the 21st century. Doug offers his take on why free speech matters, and we discuss the political economy of speech and the role the state and civil society play in shaping public discussion. They also discuss his critique of Noam Chomsky and his interest in the work of Guy Debord.

Alex and Benjamin discuss Nicole Oresme, a 14th century French bishop who took an interest in political economy. An advocate for limited monarchy, Oresme argued against the right of king to debase the currency and even to raise taxes. Yet, at the same time, he argued for major redistribution of wealth within the church. These seemingly conflicting positions were, for Oresme, reconciled by appeal to Aristotle.

Drawing on the work of G.E.M. de Ste. Croix, Peter Temin, and Walter Scheidel, Alex and Benjamin dig into the economy of the Roman Empire. They explore the role of markets, the level of social mobility, whether a core/periphery model applies, and the influence of contemporary concerns on Roman historiography.

We discuss Mou Zongsan's effort to combine Confucianism with other traditions, his response to Kant, the line he draws between morality and politics, and his qualified embrace of democracy.