Jacobin Radio

Sam Tanenhaus, a noted author and former editor of the New York Times Book Review, delves into the life and impact of William F. Buckley. He discusses Buckley's Mexican roots and how they shaped his views on race, contrasting his earlier pro-segregationist stance. Tanenhaus explores the ideological foundations of American conservatism and Buckley's legacy, including controversies around racism and homophobia. He shares insights into Buckley's influential role in the conservative movement and his relationships with key political figures.

Tanya Vyhovsky, a Vermont state senator and democratic socialist, recently returned from Ukraine, where she engaged with trade unionists, feminists, and survivors of the ongoing conflict. She shares harrowing stories of resilience against Russian aggression, highlighting the vital role of grassroots movements. The discussion touches on the geopolitical implications of world leaders, the effectiveness of Ukrainian strategies, and the haunting parallels between Ukraine and Gaza. Vyhovsky emphasizes the urgency of international solidarity and collective action in the fight for justice.

Robin D. G. Kelley, a UCLA history professor and expert on social movements, revisits his interviews with Southern sharecroppers from the 1980s. He shares compelling stories about Alabama's Communist Party during the Great Depression, illustrating community resilience against oppression. Kelley emphasizes the power of oral history in connecting past struggles to today's social justice movements. Moreover, the discussion highlights grassroots organizing and the vital role of storytelling in fostering change and empowering marginalized communities.

Dive into the essence of Marxist class analysis and its crucial role in understanding capitalism. Explore the complex dynamics of the capitalist and working classes, and discover the unique position of the petty bourgeoisie. Learn about the evolving nature of class with technological changes and the importance of collective action among workers. The discussion emphasizes the need for clarity in capitalist discourse and the necessity of building coalitions in labor politics to enhance political organizing and worker rights.

Labor sociologist Barry Eidlin sheds light on the recent Air Canada strike, where 10,000 flight attendants defied a back-to-work order and negotiated a successful settlement. He discusses the implications of government intervention in labor rights and contrasts Canadian and U.S. labor laws. Eidlin highlights the historical struggles of workers, the importance of collective action, and the evolving expectations of labor movements. The conversation also emphasizes the critical role unions play in advocating for fair working conditions and compensation.

Osita Nwanevu, author of 'The Right of the People,' discusses the flaws in US democracy and explores participatory governance beyond elections. He emphasizes the need for better labor rights and unions to empower democracy. Joining him is Derek Guy, a menswear authority, who delves into the evolution of upper-class men's dress, contrasting the WASP aesthetic with the power suits of the 1980s. They also examine how contemporary fashion reflects societal status and how events like the pandemic have shifted norms toward comfort over style.

Eskandar Sadeghi-Boroujerdi, a scholar of Middle Eastern politics at the University of York, dives deep into the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. He discusses the tragic civilian toll of recent military actions and the shifting dynamics in U.S.-Israel relations. The podcast uncovers significant protest movements in Iran, particularly the Women Life Freedom Movement, and reflects on Ali Khamenei's complex leadership amidst increasing tensions. Sadeghi-Boroujerdi also addresses Iran’s pursuit of nuclear capabilities and the geopolitical ramifications of ongoing conflicts in the region.

Vladyslav Starodubtsev, a Ukrainian left activist, historian, and soldier, explores the interconnected struggles for Ukrainian autonomy across history. He discusses the significant but short-lived Ukrainian People's Republic and its principles of land reform and gender equality. Starodubtsev contrasts historical events with contemporary U.S.-Russia diplomacy and critiques land deals that could endanger Ukraine's sovereignty. He emphasizes the ongoing fight against imperial ambitions and the lessons from Ukraine's revolutionary past for today's democracy.

Aaron Benanav, an Assistant Professor of Sociology at Cornell and author of a series on alternate economic models, joins Jerome Nikolai Warren, a Research Fellow focused on community regeneration and cooperatives. They explore the vision for a democratically planned economy and the transformative potential of cooperatives. The discussion critiques capitalism's limitations and imagines a post-capitalist future, emphasizing sustainability and community. They delve into cooperative success stories in Italy, showcasing how these models foster social cohesion and local governance.

In this conversation with Sarah Jaffe, a columnist and author, they navigate the intersection of grief and capitalism. Jaffe discusses how traditional mourning is often stifled by societal expectations around productivity. The chat highlights the collective experiences of loss during crises like the pandemic and deindustrialization, emphasizing the urgent need for community support. They explore the role of grief in fueling political activism, and challenge conventional views on emotional expression in radical spaces.