Rev Left Radio

A gripping conversation unfolds around the recent successes of Omaha Tenants United in organizing tenant unions, despite facing legal threats from the landlord lobby. The discussion highlights how these challenges represent a significant struggle for tenant rights, akin to a feudal hold in a capitalist context. Listeners learn about the importance of collective action and solidarity among tenants, as well as the implications of recent shifts in public perception towards landlords. Activism emerges as a pivotal focus, urging support for tenant advocacy initiatives.

Too Black, a poet, scholar, and organizer known for hosting the Black Myths Podcast, discusses the pitfalls of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. He argues that DEI often launders genuine Black rage into superficial reforms that fail to challenge systemic oppression. The conversation delves into the historical roots of DEI, its co-optation by capitalist interests, and the backlash against it. Too Black also highlights the need for meaningful action beyond tokenism and critiques the failures of Black leadership in addressing community needs.

Margaret Kimberley, a senior columnist at Black Agenda Report and leader in Black Alliance for Peace, delves into the decline of U.S. empire and late-stage capitalism. She provides critical insights on U.S. foreign policy, including military support to Ukraine and the implications of Gaza's situation. Kimberley discusses the evolution of American fascism and the disconnect within the political system. With firsthand accounts from delegations to the Global South, she highlights resistance against U.S. domination while inspiring hope for grassroots movements amid rising challenges.

Dive into the compelling ideas of Friedrich Engels’ 'Dialectics of Nature', where the intersection of nature and Marxist philosophy is explored. The discussion highlights how internal contradictions drive evolution and societal change, linking historical events to contemporary issues like ecological crises and class struggles. With a focus on labor's role in shaping consciousness and critiques of Darwinism, the hosts argue for a dialectical approach to understanding reality and advocate for transformative change in both personal and political realms.

Dive into the fascinating evolution of labor and its profound impact on humanity! Explore how our ancestors transitioned from clever apes to intelligent beings through the use of their hands. Uncover the intertwined development of labor and language that shaped both our brains and civilization. Discover the vital role of early collaborative efforts in forming human consciousness. Marvel at how Marxist materialism can appreciate aesthetics, alongside a poignant reflection on prehistoric cave art and the emotions of our early ancestors.

Alyson and Breht tackle the recent uprisings in LA against ICE and mass deportations. They discuss how these actions serve as labor discipline within a decaying capitalist system. The podcast highlights grassroots resistance, the dark legacy of deportation, and how scapegoating marginalized communities feeds into fascist tactics. They also delve into the disruptive role of AI in labor markets and critique the challenges of capitalism in addressing these issues. Ultimately, there's a hopeful focus on solidarity to resist state repression.

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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.