Another Way, by Lawrence Lessig

Explore the thrilling journey of grassroots mobilization in Maine as locals rally to gather signatures against Super PACs. Discover the exciting challenges of securing funding and the intense focus on political reform. Hear how a passionate campaign gained overwhelming public support, even from disillusioned conservatives. Experience the strategic planning and community engagement that empowered residents, uniting them in the fight for electoral integrity.

Lawrence Lessig, a prominent advocate for campaign finance reform, discusses the fight against Super PACs. He shares insights on the grassroots efforts and legal challenges led by Free Speech for People, a Massachusetts nonprofit. Lessig highlights a proposed initiative in Maine aimed at curbing Super PAC influence. The conversation emphasizes the significance of mobilizing communities and navigating the complex landscape of election laws in pursuit of reform. Tune in for an engaging exploration of civic activism and the power of collective action!

Lawrence Lessig, a prominent legal scholar and advocate for campaign finance reform, delves into the historical battle against SuperPACs. He discusses the decline of billionaire support for political reform and the implications of the Citizens United decision. Lessig critiques originalism as a tool to redefine corruption beyond quid pro quo, advocating for a comprehensive understanding rooted in the Constitution's vision. He emphasizes the need for citizen mobilization to challenge the current political landscape and push for meaningful change.

Dive into the troubling role of Super PACs in undermining democracy, where a few wealthy donors shape political influence. Explore the damaging disconnect between rising productivity and stagnant wages, fueled by harmful government policies. Uncover how economic inequality is politically manipulated, with tax systems favoring the rich. The conversation also emphasizes the need for community mobilization to combat Super PAC dominance and restore fairness in the democratic process.

Lawrence Lessig, renowned legal scholar and campaign finance reform advocate, dives into the intricate legal landscape of campaign finance. He breaks down the pivotal Citizens United ruling and its effects on corporate speech. Lessig explains how this decision paved the way for Super PACs, dissecting the misconceptions surrounding it. He emphasizes the urgent need for reforms to combat the growing influence of money in politics and calls for a reassessment of existing regulations to mitigate corruption.

Discover Maine's bold initiative to abolish SuperPACs and reshape political funding. A compelling personal encounter at a polling station reveals the potential for unity amid division. Explore the legal framework aimed at capping contributions to independent committees, highlighting grassroots activism and community mobilization. The conversation underscores the implications for democracy and the hope for a favorable Supreme Court ruling. Tune in for a deeper understanding of how local movements can challenge money's influence in politics.

For this final episode of Season 5, Lessig speaks to TedX Berlin about AI, democracy, and the future. You can watch a video recording of this TedX talk here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zYHqg1PwoQ

An exploration of a global citizen assembly addressing climate crises through innovative methods, diverse representation, and collaborative decision-making. The podcast delves into the challenges and successes of forming a diverse assembly, developing proposals for a sustainable future, and empowering global citizens to take climate action. Reflecting on personal histories and environmental data, the conversation reimagines governance and democracy for a global future.

David Farrell, an academic who has studied the Irish example of citizen assemblies addressing national issues in a new and edifying way, talks with Lawrence Lessig about the success of citizen assemblies in Ireland, the impact of deliberation on attitudes, constructing and organizing a citizen assembly room, the use of citizen's assemblies in addressing various topics, the development and success of Belgian citizen assemblies, and the lack of innovation and implementation of democratic processes in the United States.

Lawyer and troublemaker Katrín Oddsdóttir, founding mother of the still-not-ratified Iceland Constitution, discusses the extraordinary story of drafting a new constitution in Iceland. The podcast covers the financial crisis that led to grassroots movements for reform, women's advocacy efforts, the fight for control over natural resources, campaigning to stop whaling, creating a new statute, and the court ruling exempting people from paying their debts.