Rev Left Radio

Dive into the captivating fundamentals of Marxism as key concepts are unpacked. Explore the critical distinction between materialism and idealism, shedding light on historical materialism. Discover the violent origins of capitalism through primitive accumulation. Engage with the roles of dialectics and class struggle in societal transformations. Examine the relationships between Marxism, anarchism, and social democracy, and embrace the journey of understanding this influential ideology.

Dive into the core concepts of Marxist political economy with insights on the evolution of economic thought. Discover the clash between the capitalist class and the proletariat, and learn how contemporary economics often overlooks vital social contexts. Explore the distinctions between use value and exchange value and the implications for labor exploitation. Unpack the fascinating concepts of money, capital, and commodity fetishism, revealing how profit-seeking transforms social relationships and economic realities.

Ken Hammond, a Professor of East Asian and Global History, and Breht, host of Revolutionary Left Radio, explore the tumultuous 200 years of modern Chinese history. They unravel the Taiping and Boxer Rebellions and their pivotal roles in shaping China's revolutionary spirit. The discussion highlights Mao Zedong’s rise and the ideological shifts during the Great Leap Forward, as well as the Cultural Revolution's chaotic youth mobilization. Their insights provide a profound understanding of China's past struggles and its contemporary landscape.

David Swanson, a Marxist organizer and host of Radical Reflections, dives deep into the Irish Republican Army's history and its significant role in resisting British imperialism. He explores the evolutionary journey of the IRA, its guerrilla warfare tactics, and its connection to anti-colonial movements globally. Swanson discusses the impact of pivotal events like the Easter Rising and the moral dilemmas faced by the IRA. The conversation also touches on the legacy of revolutionary figures, illustrating the IRA's relevance in contemporary struggles for national liberation.

Explore the life of Yahya Sinwar, a pivotal figure in the Palestinian liberation movement. The discussion critiques mainstream narratives surrounding national liberation fighters, emphasizing their complex moral roles in the fight against oppression. His legacy is linked to broader anti-colonial struggles, underscoring themes of martyrdom and resilience. The podcast challenges listeners to understand the human experiences behind conflicts and to confront the narratives that often dehumanize resistance leaders.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Yueran Zhang, a PhD candidate from Harvard, delves into the complexities of the Chinese Revolution and the enduring legacy of Mao Zedong. They explore Mao's balancing act between authority and grassroots engagement during pivotal moments like the Great Leap Forward. The conversation also sheds light on Sino-Soviet relations and how Maoism continues to resonate within contemporary social movements in China. With her insights, Yueran connects past struggles to today's political landscape, illustrating the lasting impact of revolutionary ideas.

Dive into a thought-provoking exploration of mysticism, where the hosts unpack the relationship between spirituality and politics. They share personal journeys through various religious traditions and discuss the liberating power of inquiry and mystical experiences. The conversation highlights the transformative effects of psychedelics and the complexities of ego dissolution. Themes of suffering, love, and interconnectedness are interwoven, urging a deeper understanding of existence and the vital links between personal growth, empathy, and collective social change.

James Crossley and Robert Myles join to explore Jesus through a historical materialist lens. Crossley, a professor of religion and history, illuminates socioeconomic dynamics of the early Jesus movement. Myles, a New Testament expert, discusses the complexities of the Gospels and their historical context. The duo tackles Jesus’ radical politics, his crucifixion, and the socio-economic landscape of his time. They highlight the movement's revolutionary elements and its evolution post-crucifixion, bridging Marxist theory with religious history for deeper insights.

Dive into the revolutionary depths of Friedrich Engels’ Principles of Communism, exploring its foundational role in Marxist theory. Engage with discussions on class struggle, the historical evolution of the proletariat, and capitalism's structural crises. Discover Engels' sharp critiques of private property and the vital need for collective ownership. The conversation also weaves in Marxist feminist perspectives, underscoring the importance of class consciousness and collaboration in the fight against systemic oppression. This dialogue illuminates the urgency of revolutionary thought in today's context.

The discussion critiques the idea that Marxism is merely a form of religion. It highlights philosophical insights from Nietzsche on nihilism and explores how political movements parallel capitalist consumerism in seeking meaning. The intersection of Marxism and Christianity is examined, emphasizing Marxism's scientific approach to social evolution. The podcast navigates the relationship between politics and religion, promoting a balanced discourse. It contrasts radical action in Marxism with the intangible promises of religious ideologies.