Worker and Parasite

In this episode, Jerry and Stably discussed Stefan Borg's book, The Return of the Common Good: The Post-Liberal Project Left and Right, with Stably finding it enjoyable but wanting more and Jerry viewing it as a concise outline confirming prior beliefs, while both criticized its dense, academic style. A major talking point was the assertion that post-liberals offer a "fantastic critique" of liberalism's self-undermining nature but are "incredibly light on prescription," with participants exploring alternative post-liberal approaches like Michael Lind’s and the intellectual genealogy rooted in "radical orthodoxy." The conversation covered various facets of the post-liberal critique, including its US and UK contexts, its distinction from National Conservatism (NatCon), its theoretical core identifying liberalism as an ideology rooted in fear and violence, and its analysis of liberalism's internal contradictions, which erode social trust and necessitate state enforcement of radical individual freedom, alongside a critique of post-liberal feminism.

Jerry and Stably dive into Philip Roth's The Human Stain, unpacking Coleman Silk's tumultuous journey as a disgraced professor. They explore the themes of radical individualism and societal judgment, alongside Silk's secret life passing as white. Personal tragedies, estrangement from family, and the haunting presence of Fania add layers to Silk's identity struggles. The hosts analyze the impact of rumors and isolation on Silk's fate, all while marveling at Roth’s intricate prose that demands careful reading.

The fascinating journey through the 1970s radical underground reveals the chaos of groups like the Weather Underground and SLA. Discover the motivations behind their actions, from black militancy to ideological criminality. The discussion dives into Malcolm X's impact, the FBI's divisive tactics, and the Weatherman's Ivy League origins. Patty Hearst's notorious kidnapping and the SLA's cult-like behavior add dramatic flair. The podcast contrasts past radicalism with today’s extremism, exploring media influences and the dangers of silencing debate.

Dive into the complex evolution of morality with insights from early hominid cooperation to the cultural impacts of agriculture. Discover how punishment shaped social behavior and enabled cooperation beyond kin groups. Explore the rise of 'big gods' in managing societal norms and the Catholic Church's role in fostering individualism. The hosts tackle modern moral debates, from civil rights to contemporary social movements, leaving listeners curious about the future of moral expansion.

In this episode, Jerry and Stably discuss Andrew Preston's book, "Total Defense, the New Deal, and the Invention of National Security," which explored the evolution of "national security" from territorial defense to an ideological concept linked with the New Deal and global interventionism.

Dive into the world of flavors as hosts discuss Mark Schatzker's insights on how artificial tastes disrupt our nutritional wisdom. They critique processed foods and explore the quest for authentic flavors, revealing the challenges in sourcing quality ingredients. Anecdotes from history elucidate the impact of government policies on dietary habits. With a humorous spin, they tackle the confusion surrounding healthy food choices, and reflect on the profound effects of diet on cravings and satisfaction. Get ready for a tasty exploration of food authenticity!

A deep dive into the paralysis of modern progressivism reveals a clash between decentralization and expert governance. The hosts critique how this tension leads to institutional gridlock and public distrust. They highlight the shortcomings of governmental interventions in urban development and advocate for free-market solutions. The discussion also navigates the complex political landscape, touching on key figures and the challenges of reform. Ending on a lighter note, they recommend literature that bridges ideological divides.

Dive into the provocative world of Cynic philosophers like Diogenes, who challenged societal norms with outrageous acts. The discussion contrasts Cynicism with Epicureanism and Stoicism, questioning whether austerity can lead to virtue. Explore the complexities of cynicism in politics and personal fulfillment, along with humorous hypothetical scenarios pitting Diogenes against Plato. The hosts lightheartedly reflect on literary tastes in Stoicism while dissecting modern political ideologies, making for an engaging and thoughtful dialogue.

A lively discussion unfolds as the hosts dissect the themes of systemic failures in decision-making and societal discontent highlighted in a thought-provoking book. Humor blends with critique as they tackle the complexities of corporate accountability and the influence of neoliberalism. Cybernetics emerges as a proposed framework for better organizational management, while the intricate relationship between cybernetics and economics reveals deeper truths about modern governance. The conversation wraps up with insights on political shifts and a light-hearted look at future reading plans.

Dive into Epicurus's intriguing philosophy of happiness, where pleasure is seen as the absence of pain. The discussion navigates his views on death, asserting it shouldn't be feared. Explore ancient materialism and its challenge to religious beliefs, while contrasting Epicureanism with Stoicism. Examine social implications of his celibate lifestyle and the relevance of these ancient ideas in modern ethical discussions. The hosts balance humor with critique as they dissect Epicurus's influence on contemporary thought.