The Dig

Mouin Rabbani, co-editor of Jadalia and a senior fellow at the Middle East Council on Global Affairs, discusses Israel's ongoing military agenda and its implications for U.S. foreign policy. He examines the historical background of U.S.-Iran relations, the troubling humanitarian crises in Gaza, and critiques the inconsistent application of international law. The conversation also touches on ceasefire negotiations and the geopolitical dynamics introduced during the Trump era, highlighting the need for a renewed approach to peace in the region.

Astra Taylor hosts a thought-provoking discussion with Ryann Liebenthal, a passionate advocate on student debt, Chenjerai Kumanyika, a seasoned journalist and professor, and Mike Pierce, the executive director tackling predatory lending. They delve into the origins and transformation of student debt in the U.S. and critique the shortcomings of current political responses. The conversation sheds light on the emotional toll of debt, the failures of for-profit colleges, and emphasizes the urgent need for systemic reforms and collective action to reshape higher education.

Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor, an African American Studies professor and author, joins Asha Ransby-Sporn, a Chicago-based organizer and columnist, to discuss the implications of the 2020 protests following George Floyd's death. They analyze the shift from mass mobilization to political stagnation, emphasizing the need for sustained activism and accountability within Black movements. The conversation explores the evolution of Black Lives Matter, the influence of philanthropy on activism, and the challenges posed by partisan politics, calling for a more integrated approach to social and economic justice.

Derek Guy, a menswear writer and editor, joins Dennis M. Hogan, a Harvard literature scholar, to discuss the intricate relationship between menswear and socio-political dynamics. They dive into the evolution of men's fashion, exploring themes of colonialism, class distinction, and the impact of social media. The conversation highlights how clothing serves as a reflection of personal identity while negotiating historical influences. They also touch on the ethical implications of fast fashion and its consequences for workers, making a compelling case for transparency in the industry.

Quinn Slobodian, a Professor of international history at Boston University and author of 'Hayek's Bastards,' dives into the intersection of far-right ideologies and neoliberal thought. He discusses how movements like MAGA aren't merely reactions to neoliberalism, but also shaped by it. Slobodian highlights the historical ties between race, economics, and extremism, revealing how figures like Ron Paul fueled paranoia in the 90s. He connects the rise of nativism to neoliberal policies, exploring the complex narratives that influence modern political dynamics.

Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of France's La France Insoumise and author of 'Now, The People', dives into the urgent challenges posed by far-right movements. He emphasizes the need for leftist unity in the face of rising authoritarianism and discusses the evolving identity of the working class in France. The conversation explores the intersection of secularism and faith in political discourse, advocating for grassroots activism. Mélenchon articulates strategies for building solidarity among diverse left factions to combat neoliberalism and inspire meaningful change.

Aziz Rana, a professor at Boston College Law School and author of insightful works on American freedom, dives into the complexities of the U.S. Constitution and its historical implications. He discusses the transformation of America from a settler colony to a global empire, the rise of radical right movements, and the challenges faced by leftist movements today. The episode critiques how neoliberalism has influenced political dynamics and examines the evolution of presidential power, advocating for a reevaluation of the Constitution to better support democracy and social justice.

Aziz Rana, a Professor of Law at Boston College, dives into the complexities of American constitutional politics and its resonance with black movements during the Cold War. He discusses how black activism shaped responses to the Vietnam War, revealing critiques of mainstream civil rights approaches. The conversation spans the contradictions of Cold War liberalism, connections to anti-colonial struggles, and the challenges faced by radical groups like the Black Panthers, emphasizing the need for intersectional coalitions in the fight against imperialism.

Aziz Rana, a Professor of Law at Boston College and author of 'The Two Faces of American Freedom', dives into the making of the American project. He discusses the intersection of American liberalism and empire, highlighting the impact of the Supreme Court and McCarthyism. Rana also critiques immigration policies that reflect ethno-nationalism and examines the complex history of the Communist Party USA. With key insights on FDR's transformative leadership, listeners gain a fresh understanding of the paradoxes in American constitutionalism.

In this discussion, Aziz Rana, a law professor at Boston College and author, unpacks the deep-rooted connection between the U.S. Constitution and American imperialism. He dives into the Constitution's dual role as a revered document and a tool for perpetuating capitalism. Rana explores the tensions between radical movements and established norms, the complexities of representation, and ideological conflicts during the Constitution's formation. He also examines the impact of U.S. expansionism on identity and the contradictions that have shaped American freedom.