Rev Left Radio

Adnan Husain, a medieval historian and Director at Queen's University, dives into the life of St. Francis of Assisi, exploring his profound spiritual legacy. They discuss Francis's radical transformation, commitment to peace with the Sultan of Egypt, and his deep connection to nature. The conversation highlights the ecological dimensions of Francis's teachings and the relevance of his virtues in today's social justice movements. With humor and insight, Husain reveals how Francis’s ideals challenge modern materialism and inspire ecological stewardship.

Dive into Marx's analysis of Louis Bonaparte's political ascent and the turbulence of 19th-century France. Explore how class struggles shaped revolutions and the alarming connections between Bonapartism and modern fascism. Discover the significance of historical narratives in contemporary movements, and the precarious state of democracy amid urban militarization. Unpack the complexities of the proletariat and peasantry, and examine the conservative nature of the American Revolution as a crucial chapter in the broader context of class conflict and identity.

J. Moufawad Paul, a philosophy professor at York University, dives into his book, 'Politics in Command: A Taxonomy of Economism.' He explores the pitfalls of economism, critiquing how it prioritizes economics over essential political engagement. Discussion includes Lenin's insights on labor dynamics, the significance of a communist vanguard, and challenges within modern China. Paul emphasizes redefining class consciousness and learning from past revolutionary failures to strengthen future movements.

Explore the Iraq War through the eyes of its people and the Western left, revealing striking narratives of imperialism. Delve into the aftermath of 9/11 and its cultural impacts, alongside a discussion on the tensions between American nationalism and global solidarity. Tackle the clash between reform and revolution within leftist politics, emphasizing the power of collective action. Debunk myths surrounding socialism and innovation while challenging the intersection of faith and capitalism in environmental issues. An engaging and enlightening dialogue awaits!

In this conversation, writer and literary critic China Miéville shares insights from his book, exploring the literary power and historical significance of the Communist Manifesto. He examines the gothic imagery used by Marx and Engels and its role in framing political discourse. The discussion highlights the manifesto's contemporary relevance and critiques outdated cultural stereotypes of class identity. Miéville advocates for ethical considerations in political action and encourages readers to engage critically with the text for a hopeful vision of the future.

In this engaging discussion, Nick Estes, a historian and co-founder of The Red Nation, sheds light on the American Indian Movement (AIM). He explores the pivotal 1973 Siege of Wounded Knee, symbolizing Indigenous resistance. Estes connects AIM's legacy to modern struggles for justice, including parallels with contemporary protests. He also delves into the impact of forced assimilation and the importance of grassroots activism. Additionally, the conversation highlights the movement's legacy in promoting sovereignty and international recognition for Indigenous rights.

Michael Brooks, host of The Michael Brooks Show and co-host on The Majority Report, dives into the fascinating intersection of meditation, materialism, and Marxism. He discusses how spiritual practices can shape political beliefs while critiquing the rigid categorizations of ideology. The dialogue explores the transformative power of meditation, the concept of 'dukkha' in Buddhism, and the challenges of performative politics on social media. Brooks emphasizes the need for collective responsibility and authentic emotional engagement to foster genuine political change.

Alyson Escalante, a Marxist theorist and organizer from the Pacific Northwest, joins the discussion to dissect Lenin's pivotal work, State and Revolution. They delve into Lenin’s views on the state as a tool of class oppression and the urgent need to dismantle the bourgeois system. The conversation highlights the historical context of 1917, critiques social democracy, and emphasizes the relevance of Lenin's ideas for contemporary socialism. They also touch on the interplay of state power and revolution, advocating for new strategies to face today’s challenges, including ecological collapse.

Kate Evans, author and illustrator of the graphic biography 'Red Rosa', discusses the impactful life of Rosa Luxemburg, a revolutionary Marxist thinker. They dive into Luxemburg’s radical politics, her fight against capitalism, and the challenges she faced as a Jewish woman in male-dominated socialist circles. Kate shares her creative journey in crafting a visual narrative that highlights Luxemburg's theories on social justice and the dangers of bureaucratic power. This conversation sheds light on Luxemburg's enduring legacy and relevance in today’s struggles.

Dr. Thoreau Redcrow, an academic with a Ph.D. in Conflict Analysis, dives deep into Che Guevara’s impactful life. He debunks many myths surrounding Guevara, especially the accusations of racism and censorship, revealing his true dedication to social justice and education. The discussion highlights Guevara's role in the Cuban Revolution, examines the socio-political dynamics of his time, and reflects on his enduring influence in modern revolutionary movements. Redcrow's insights challenge conventional narratives and shed light on Guevara's complex legacy.