Politics Theory Other

Hannah Proctor joins PTO to discuss her book Burnout: The Emotional Experience of Political Defeat.  Amongst other aspects of the book, we discussed the practice of Maoist self-criticism and its influence on the American and European New Left, the accounts of women involved in the 1984-85 miners strike following its defeat at the hands of the Thatcher government, and about the Paris Commune of 1871 and the fate of the communards who were exiled to the French penal colony in New Caledonia.

Dive into the shifting alliances in American political resistance, exploring how society is reacting to the aftermath of the Trump era. The discussion critiques the Biden administration's challenges in unifying democratic factions. Key topics include the ongoing crises in Gaza and the rise of anti-immigrant sentiments, revealing the complexities of contemporary political dynamics.

Richard tackles pressing topics like the recent Gaza ceasefire and its implications. He delves into the controversial dynamics of Bible study in American schools, scrutinizing the rise of Christian nationalism. The discussion also explores what can be learned from Mexico's Morena party, offering insights into political strategies and movements. Join him for a thought-provoking analysis that connects education, politics, and global events.

This week features Muhammad Shehada, a Palestinian writer and analyst known for his insightful commentary on Gaza's complex dynamics. He discusses the severe humanitarian crisis resulting from ongoing conflict, shedding light on widespread suffering and Israel's military strategies. Shehada examines Hamas's unexpected resilience amidst significant losses. He also delves into the potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy under a future Trump administration, while highlighting the growing international solidarity movement's impact on shaping discourse and policy.

Will Davies joins PTO to talk about his recent article in the London Review of Books on the UK government's economic agenda. We discussed the policies that Labour has adopted in its attempt to break out of the low growth and low productivity rates that have characterised the UK economy in recent years. We also chatted about the extent to which the Starmer-Reeves project emulates and diverges from the Biden administration's economic policies, and the left de-risking critique of so-called 'modern supply side economics'.

Richard Seymour dives into the complexities surrounding the overthrow of Assad in Syria and the surprising public sympathy for Luigi Mangione, tied to the assassination of a healthcare CEO. The discussion explores the idea of the social bandit and its relevance to America’s class struggles and political challenges. Seymour also touches on ‘normie socialism’ and what fascinating books have caught his interest this year, providing a thoughtful reflection on contemporary political discourse.

Dive into a thought-provoking discussion about the complex dynamics behind the overthrow of Assad in Syria. The assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson sparks a conversation about class struggle and public sentiment for suspect Luigi Mangione. Richard Seymour examines the implications of these events through the lens of social banditry, drawing from Eric Hobsbawm’s ideas. Additionally, listeners are treated to insights on 'normie socialism' and a glimpse into Richard's current reading list.

In a deep dive into the US election, Richard Seymour dissects the ongoing strategies of Biden and Trump, revealing unexpected similarities in their approaches to China. The discussion also touches on the implications of the International Criminal Court's arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, adding an international perspective to the conversation. Listener questions guide the discourse, making the analysis both engaging and relevant.

Explore the emotional dynamics that shape political campaigns, as one candidate's aggressive appeal resonates with supporters. Discover how social media influences the election narrative and the implications of RFK Jr.'s nomination to the health department. Delve into the complex racial dynamics of Trump's voter coalition and consider what the new administration might bring. This engaging discussion reveals not just the mechanics of politics, but the deeper meanings behind voter motivations.

James Meadway, an economist and host of the Macrodose podcast, dives into the economic factors behind Donald Trump's election victory. He highlights how conventional economics contributed to Kamala Harris's defeat and explores why young white men rallied behind Trump. The discussion also addresses the Democrats' handling of inflation and responses to geopolitical crises, revealing a disconnect with voters. Meadway critiques the structural failures of political parties tied to neoliberal capitalism and emphasizes the need for the left to confront economic disenfranchisement among young men.