It Could Happen Here

Dana El Kurd, a political science associate professor and expert on Palestinian politics, delves into the recent moves by countries like France and the UK to recognize Palestine as a state. She highlights the skepticism among Palestinians about these declarations, noting they often fail to lead to genuine sovereignty. El Kurd critiques the superficial nature of such recognitions, discusses the complexities of the Oslo Accords, and emphasizes the disconnect between leadership and public sentiment in the Palestinian quest for true statehood.

Garrison talks with Cooper Quinton, a Senior Staff Technologist at the Electronic Frontier Foundation, who digs into the troubling implications of Paragon’s Graphite spyware. They discuss how this technology invades the privacy of activists and journalists, the misinformation surrounding its capabilities, and the ethical concerns of government contracts with surveillance firms. Practical digital security measures are shared, emphasizing the need for enhanced protection in an age of invasive technology.

The discussion dives into the Abundance movement, revealing its ties to influential figures like Peter Thiel and the Koch Brothers. A critical exploration of technology's role as a 'Trojan horse' for advancing ideologies unfolds, questioning its ethical implications. The podcast critiques how landlords exploit algorithms to manipulate rental prices, despite market fluctuations. It also examines the rise of 'network states' and their potential threat to democracy, advocating for collective action against privatized governance.

Prop, a rapper and commentator passionate about social justice, dives deep into the issues surrounding crime in urban America. He argues that crime is often a pretext for targeting marginalized communities. The conversation highlights successful crime prevention strategies inspired by Black leadership and emphasizes the need for community engagement over punitive measures. Prop discusses the intersections of race and crime, challenging prevailing narratives and advocating for systemic change to address the root causes of violence.

Explore the thought-provoking themes of philosophy, mysticism, and alchemy within a generation ship's gripping narrative. Delve into the complexities of isolation and shared identity in a dystopian setting, where societal collapse and technology commodify personal realities. Unpack the darker reflections of historical injustices and the brutal dynamics of power. Navigate the tension of autonomy in a controlled society while confronting the oppressive systems shaping individuality. These discussions provide a rich tapestry of insights into the human experience.

Raven, a journalist from the independent outlet Unraveled in Chicago, dives into the intricate world of conspiracy theories and misinformation surrounding the 2024 election. She discusses the rise of ‘BlueAnon’ and its emotional impact on communities, as well as the deployment of federal forces in Chicago and local responses to immigration enforcement. The conversation also sheds light on the challenges of independent journalism in an age filled with unreliable sources and the complexities of maintaining public trust in electoral integrity.

The discussion kicks off with speculation about Trump's health and the mayor of D.C. agreeing to federal police presence. Tensions rise with plans for National Guard deployment in crime-ridden Chicago, raising questions about federal vs. local authority. The hosts humorously dive into political conspiracies surrounding recent White House events, addressing misinformation in the media. They also touch on the messy crossroads of domestic tariffs and the ongoing Ukraine conflict, all while emphasizing the importance of critical political engagement.

Raven, a keen journalist from Unraveled, dives into the tense atmosphere of Chicago as the National Guard and ICE prepare for deployment. She sheds light on community resistance and the vibrant cultural celebrations that are under threat. Discussions reveal the chilling effect of law enforcement on gatherings, the historical context of police resistance, and the importance of solidarity among marginalized groups. Raven emphasizes the challenges journalists face in spreading accurate information amidst propaganda, highlighting fierce community activism against oppressive forces.

Explore the rise of a viral social media account impersonating National Park Service employees, deftly critiquing the political landscape. Delve into the concept of BlueAnon, a left-leaning counterpart to QAnon, and its impact on societal perceptions. Discover ingenious strategies used to engage followers and monetize content while addressing the psychological effects of misinformation. The podcast delves into how these conspiratorial narratives shape activism and public discourse on environmental issues.

The hosts dive into the intriguing world of liberal conspiracy theories, particularly the rise of 'BlueAnon.' They examine absurd claims surrounding events like the Trump assassination and Elon Musk's alleged election interference. The discussion unveils how these narratives mirror right-wing conspiracies, affecting political discourse and trust in elections. Misinformation on social media plays a crucial role, and the hosts reveal how these theories can distort reality, leaving audiences questioning the integrity of democratic processes.