Scott Horton Show - Just the Interviews

Bob Murphy, an Austrian-school economist and Senior Fellow at the Mises Institute, dives into how the Federal Reserve finances wars through inflation and debt monetization. He critiques Modern Monetary Theory, arguing taxation remains crucial to curb inflation. They discuss the implications of dollar dominance, the potential for stablecoins, and the intricate geopolitical motives behind U.S. actions in Venezuela. Murphy also addresses the housing affordability crisis, influenced by Fed policies, and explores the trade-offs of monetary reform versus short-term pain in pursuit of stability.

Mark Thornton, a senior fellow at the Mises Institute and author of 'The Skyscraper Curse,' dives into the intricate dynamics of the economy. He highlights how the Federal Reserve's policies exacerbate wealth inequality, benefiting elites while harming the working class. Thornton explains the K-shaped recovery, the dangers of inflationary money, and advocates for a gold standard to promote sound money. He also warns of the looming market corrections and discusses the impact of domestic interventions on international conflict.

Brandt Burleson, former Strategic Outreach Director for the Israeli Consulate, shares his unique journey into interfaith outreach. He discusses the use of Christian theology to influence American communities politically. Brandt reflects on challenges engaging different denominations, revealing tactics like geofencing to target churches digitally. With candid anecdotes, he critiques the merging of faith and foreign policy, also contemplating the sincerity of pastors involved in these efforts. Finally, he hints at using his skills for anti-war organizing.

William Van Wagenen, a journalist and author with deep insights into Middle Eastern conflicts, discusses the grim realities in post-Assad Syria. He reveals horrifying accounts of Alawite women being kidnapped and enslaved, shedding light on the inadequate Western media coverage. Van Wagenen connects these abuses to broader geopolitical strategies, highlighting the roles of the U.S., Turkey, and Israel in the ongoing turmoil. His reflections on the ideologies driving violence against minorities and the systematic nature of recent atrocities paint a chilling picture of the current landscape.

Sangar Paykhar, host of the Afghan Eye podcast, offers a critical look at the current state of Afghanistan. He explores the rise of the Taliban and their tactics in negotiating power, revealing rural grievances that influenced local loyalties. Paykhar discusses the Taliban's focus on governance over global jihad and the contentious relationship with Pakistan, especially following the Taliban's outreach to India. He also delves into the precarious position of the Hazara community and the emergence of ISIS-K, showcasing the complicated dynamics shaping Afghanistan today.

Brad Pearce, a writer specializing in international relations, joins to dissect the looming U.S. conflict with Venezuela, driven by political pressures and misconceptions about drug trafficking. He critiques the influence of lobbying groups in Florida and discusses the implications of a potential war. Transitioning to Sudan, Pearce reveals the brutal dynamics of the Rapid Support Forces and highlights the UAE's expanding presence and ambitions in Africa. He raises alarms about autonomous drone warfare and the suffering of civilians caught in these crises.

Dave DeCamp, news editor at Antiwar.com and host of Antiwar News, dives deep into the complexities of U.S. foreign policy. He explores the legality of Venezuelan boat strikes, questioning self-defense claims amid domestic political hypocrisy. The conversation shifts to America's escalating air campaign in Somalia, where DeCamp highlights the ineffectiveness of strikes against groups like al-Shabaab. He also discusses Trump's controversial ties with a Syrian al-Qaeda faction, revealing unsettling U.S. alliances that challenge traditional narratives.

Matthew Hoh, a former US Marine and State Department official turned antiwar analyst, dives into provocative discussions about a rumored U.S.-Russia plan to end the Ukraine conflict. He examines the implications of territorial concessions and the fraught dynamics of European politics surrounding the war. The conversation then shifts to the legacy of Dick Cheney, unpacking his role in shaping U.S. foreign policy and the moral injuries suffered by veterans. Hoh also assesses Israel's military strategies in Gaza and the broader regional consequences.

Barry Eisler, a former CIA officer and now a political thriller novelist, shares his transformation from insider to critic, highlighting the disarray in U.S. foreign policy and the alarming prospect of military action in Venezuela. He explores how storytelling can awaken minds to political realities and emphasize the importance of cognitive empathy in understanding differing perspectives. Eisler also tackles critical themes like American exceptionalism, the role of elites, and the motives behind regime change, while providing craft advice on writing engaging yet meaningful fiction.

Mike Benz, founder of the Foundation for Freedom Online and an expert on the censorship industrial complex, dives deep into how government, corporations, and NGOs collude to shape public understanding. He discusses the influence of foreign powers and the political ramifications of censorship in the U.S., particularly during the Trump era. Benz also highlights how universities serve state agendas and explores the role of organizations like Indivisible in orchestrating protests. His insights into the intertwining of funding, policy, and free speech are thought-provoking and timely.