Rev Left Radio

Dive into the depths of Mao Zedong's 'On Contradiction' as the hosts unpack its revolutionary essence. They explore the law of contradiction within dialectical materialism, contrasting it with metaphysical views. The conversation highlights how internal contradictions drive change in both nature and society. Learn about the dynamic journey of knowledge acquisition and the critical role of community feedback in revolutionary theory. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding various contradictions for effective organizing and unity in leftist movements.

ORIGINALLY RELEASED Oct 21, 2023 In this critical episode of Guerrilla History, we bring on Max Ajl and Patrick Higgins to discuss some recent history and the ongoing situation regarding Palestinian resistance to the Zionist project and the ongoing bombardment on Gaza.  Max and Patrick provide some absolutely crucial information here, so be sure to tune in, and forward the episode along to anyone you think would benefit from it. Our guests recommend you to donate to the Middle East Children's Alliance, read the work of Electronic Intifada and Mondoweiss, as well as follow their respective social media pages @intifada and @Mondoweiss, and keep up to date with the Palestinian Youth Movement and Within Our Lifetime. Max Ajl is a postdoctoral researcher at the Ghent University, and is author of the fantastic A People's Green New Deal.  Read Max's other written work on his Researchgate page.  Max also has a twitter page, but you must find it yourself! Patrick Higgins is a researcher at the University of Houston's Center for Arab Studies.  You can find Patrick's writings on the internet by searching for his name and his affiliation, or with the keyword Palestine. ---------------------------------------------------- Support Rev Left and get access to bonus episodes: www.patreon.com/revleftradio Make a one-time donation to Rev Left at BuyMeACoffee.com/revleftradio Follow, Subscribe, & Learn more about Rev Left Radio HERE

ORIGINALLY RELEASED Aug 1, 2019 Chuka Ejeckam joins Breht to discuss the one and only Malcolm X. In this episode, we honor the life, legacy, and radical clarity of Malcolm X, one of the most fearless and honorable figures in the struggle for Black liberation. From his early years shaped by systemic racism and incarceration, to his rise as a powerful voice within the Nation of Islam, and finally to his global awakening and revolutionary vision in the last years of his life—we trace the evolution of a profoundly courageous man who refused to be silenced. We dive into his speeches, his politics, his personal life, and the enduring impact of his message: one of dignity, self-determination, and uncompromising truth. Find Chuka and his work here: http://www.chukaejeckam.com/ If you liked this episode, check out our other episode on Fred Hampton featuring Chuka here:  http://revolutionaryleftradio.libsyn.com/fred-hampton ---------------------------------------------------- Support Rev Left and get access to bonus episodes: www.patreon.com/revleftradio Make a one-time donation to Rev Left at BuyMeACoffee.com/revleftradio Follow, Subscribe, & Learn more about Rev Left Radio HERE Outro Beat Prod. by flip da hood

Joy James, an esteemed Professor of Humanities at Williams College and author of 'New Bones Abolition,' delves into the profound legacies of W.E.B. Du Bois and George Jackson. She highlights the crucial role of Black women in activism and critiques systemic oppression, connecting historical movements to contemporary struggles. James discusses the paradox of the 13th Amendment and its implications, as well as the importance of community resilience. The conversation emphasizes love, liberation, and the power of intellectual discourse in fighting for social justice.

In this compelling discussion, Alexander Aviña, an associate professor of Latin American history, sheds light on the Haitian Revolution—the globe's first successful slave revolt. He explores the brutal realities of plantation life in Saint-Domingue and the rise of monumental leaders like Toussaint Louverture. The conversation uncovers how this insurrection challenged colonial rule and served as a major inspiration for abolitionist movements. Furthermore, Aviña connects historical legacy to modern struggles for justice, emphasizing the importance of Black agency in revolutionary narratives.

Dive into the riveting world of ideology with discussions on Louis Althusser's groundbreaking insights. Explore how ideology shapes societal consent and the role of state apparatuses in maintaining the status quo. Delve into the interplay of consciousness, education, and activism in today’s political landscape. Unravel connections between ideology and oppression, while critiquing modern social media's impact on revolutionary efforts. This thought-provoking exploration highlights the significance of class struggle in sparking political consciousness.

Explore the compelling fusion of Buddhism and Marxism, where dialectical materialism meets the Four Noble Truths. Discover how the 'Bodhisattva revolutionary' archetype advocates for inner and outer liberation. Delve into concepts of interconnectedness, challenging fixed identities and critiquing capitalist structures. Witness the call for collective action that marries compassion with revolutionary change, offering a radical path toward societal and spiritual transformation.

David Parsons, a historian specializing in the Vietnam War and author of 'Dangerous Grounds', discusses the complex narratives surrounding the Vietnam conflict. He delves into Ho Chi Minh’s revolutionary journey and critiques American imperialism, highlighting formative anti-war movements. Parsons also sheds light on personal stories of veterans and the devastating consequences of the war, including events like the My Lai Massacre. This insightful conversation calls for a reevaluation of historical memory and the vital lessons that can be learned from Vietnam's struggle.

John, who helps run the Working Class History Project, dives deep into the intricate legacy of the Spanish Civil War. He shares personal memories from Guernica bombing survivors, illustrating the emotional weight of this tragic event. The discussion explores the heroic international efforts supporting the Republican cause, contrasts with fascism, and highlights the internal divisions within leftist movements. John emphasizes the lessons from this period for contemporary struggles against fascism and capitalism, making history resonate with today's social justice efforts.

Dive into a mind-bending discussion on the rise of artificial intelligence and its clash with capitalism. Explore the Silicon Valley Techno-Cult's quest for digital immortality and the philosophical quandaries of consciousness. The hosts unpack ethical dilemmas surrounding tech, critique a potential techno-feudal society, and reflect on the loneliness bred by hyper-connectivity. With a nod to Nietzsche and generational shifts, they tackle the need to embrace mortality while navigating the complexities of technology's role in our lives.