Varn Vlog

Are you ready to journey back in time, traversing the landscapes of class conflict and crisis within the realms of feudal France and England? We promise an engaging tour that illuminates the contrasts between feudalism and signorism, explores the adoption of Cointel Pro tactics, and ponders gravely on the role of debt and hard currency in medieval societies. From examining the victories of rural communes to weighing the bearing of Lordship on peasant holdings, we delve deeply into how the surplus of the peasant economy was manipulated.As the discussion unfolds, we traverse through the intricacies of regional diversity within France and England, connecting these to the broader concept of nation states. We'll dissect the influence of Marxism and liberalism on our comprehension of nation states and cultural unification, and ruminate the implications of the evolving formation of nation states. The intricacies of power structures, shaped by geography and material conditions, are also brought to the fore, along with an analysis of the evolution of court power in England and the influence of the feudal aristocracy.In our step leg of this historical journey, we invite you to engage in a captivating comparison of feudal systems and land ownership in England and France during the Middle Ages. We weigh the interplay between lords and subjects, and the transition from serfdom to villainage. Our trip concludes with an intriguing exploration of cultural appropriation, with a focus on its impacts on music in Mexico and South Texas. All this and more in our detailed discourse designed to spark your curiosity and deepen your understanding of these historical phenomena. Strap in, history buffs! It's going to be a riveting ride through time.Send us Fan Mail Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeLeadership Lessons From The Great BooksUnderstanding great literature is better than trying to read and understand (yet)...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic,Julian

Dive into the depths of the murky waters of Marxist value theory with Colin Drumm, the founder of Mimbres School, for an enlightening exploration. We examine the labyrinth of different interpretations, their birth in a politically charged context, and the reflections of Marx's idealistic concept of a liberal economy, sans state, in his work. We unwrap Petty's theories of surplus value, shedding light on the enigma that Marx's understanding of value theory often is, and challenging your preconceived notions.Our journey extends through economic theory development and the repercussions of capitalized value and taxation. William Petty’s contribution to the transformation of surveying and his impact on the valuation of seized land is a highlight we delve into with gusto. We further explore the debates on tax proportioning post the civil war and its influence on our current comprehension of value. The discussion on Smith's theories - their influence on our perception of economic security and military strength, the Ricardo-Malthus debate on managing large permanent debt, and the birth of Keynesian theory, promises to be a riveting exploration.Lastly, we dissect and critique Marxist and MMT Economic Theories. Colin’s analysis of Marx's labor theory of value, the intricacies, and its implications on government authority and money, presents a compelling narrative. We debate the problems with our intellectual history beyond Marxism and its influence on our present understanding of economics. We conclude our conversation by questioning economic growth, its implications, power dynamics, and distribution, urging you to reassess traditional economic theories and explore alternate perspectives. Join this intellectual voyage for a fresh perspective on economics and its theories.Send us Fan Mail Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeLeadership Lessons From The Great BooksUnderstanding great literature is better than trying to read and understand (yet)...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic,Julian

Have you ever wondered about the complexity and depth of J.R.R. Tolkien's works? Our guest, Alexander Prashauser, an artist and mathematician from Austria, reveals how his childhood fascination with Tolkien's books led him to a profound understanding of literature, politics, and human nature. Journey with us through the mythical worlds of The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, and The Silmarillion, as we explore the social, political, and psychological interpretations of Tolkien's masterpieces.Debunking the notion that Tolkien's work should only be enjoyed by conservatives, Alexander passionately argues for the universality of the author's appeal. Together, we unpack Tolkien's views on authorship, the freedom of the reader, and the concept of applicability. From the misreading of Tolkien's world as a mythical middle age to the exploration of the author’s views on human progress, we weave a tapestry of thought that challenges the conventional understanding of his work.In the latter part of our conversation, we turn our attention towards the realms of literature and human psychology. Uncovering themes of alienation, self-improvement, original sin, and the tragic nature of human systems in Tolkien’s works, Alexander Prahauser shares fascinating insights that illuminate the significance of these elements in our lives. Finally, we ponder over the moral obligations to life, the concept of Estelle, and the role of technology in shaping our worldview. Don't miss out on our enlightening conversation about the lasting impact of Tolkien's work.Send us Fan Mail Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeLeadership Lessons From The Great BooksUnderstanding great literature is better than trying to read and understand (yet)...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic,Julian

Ever wondered how the complexity of Language Modeling (LLMs) and cybernetics can revolutionize the way we communicate and interact? Are you curious about the sociopolitical implications of such advancements? Join us in an enlightening discussion with the well-versed Mark Rainey, as we dissect these technologies and their potential impact on our society.Our journey begins with an exploration of LLMs, their potential, and inherent limitations. We discuss the nuanced logic of human language, Boolean operators, and their influence on the design of these systems. We then shift gears to delve into the intriguing world of cybernetics, viable systems, and the behavioralist and cognitivist wars. We scrutinize the implications of these advancements and the tests used to measure intelligence, all the while contemplating the potential and pitfalls of Stafford Beer's Viable System Model. As we navigate further, we probe into the relationship between technology and Marxism, questioning the teleological feedback loop of capital and its effects on the proletariat. We also explore the exciting realm of cybernetic planning and the potential role of LLMs in such systems. Finally, we reflect on the concepts of agency, alienation, class dynamics, and the implications of capitalism on social reproduction. This rich and riveting conversation with Mark Rainey is not to be missed!Send us Fan Mail Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeLeadership Lessons From The Great BooksUnderstanding great literature is better than trying to read and understand (yet)...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic,Julian

Robert J. Myles  is Senior Lecturer in New Testament at Wollaston Theological College in Perth, Western Australia and the University of Divinity. He lives in Perth, Australia.  He is the co-author of Jesus: A Life in Class Conflict and the editor of Class Conflict in the New Testament.  Strap yourself in for an enlightening journey into the fascinating crossroads of Marxism and Christianity, where faith meets philosophy. We've got Dr. Robert J. Miles joining us on this captivating voyage into the historical Jesus studies in the context of the Enlightenment era and its ideologies, including Marxism. Unpacking the complexities of the earliest Jesus movement, we'll uncover how it evolved from an intra-Jewish mission into an all-embracing movement of Jews and non-Jews. Together, we'll delve into Jesus' socio-economic backdrop, his teachings, and the potential influences on them. We'll then shift our attention to the gender dynamics within this early movement, examining how traditional gender concepts were both reinforced and challenged. As we understand the dynamics of the movement, we'll explore the contradictions within it and the implications of an influx of non-Jewish members.As the enlightening conversation with Dr. Robert J. Miles concludes, we'll examine the symbolism of Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan and its implications for the Jewish power league. We'll also ponder the potential pitfalls of placing modern liberal values onto Jesus' teachings. Finally, we'll explore how a Marxist approach to Jesus' teachings offers a refreshingly different and more nuanced perspective. So, join us on this remarkable exploration of the intersection of religion, history, and politics. This isn't just an episode—it's a journey! So, let's get started!For a more introductory interview, see This Revolution's Interview with Dr. Myles.Send us Fan Mail Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeLeadership Lessons From The Great BooksUnderstanding great literature is better than trying to read and understand (yet)...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic,Julian

Ridhiman Balaji is an economist and activist who has worked with the Anarcho-Syndicalist Review. He also is a serious student of Marxist economics.  He comes on to discuss the misunderstanding between Marxists and anarchists.  Curious about the complex dynamics between Anarchists and Marxists? Eager to understand the nuances of critical ideologies that shaped the course of history? Then join us on Varmblog, where we'll peel back the layers of these intricate philosophical landscapes. We cover a wide range of topics, from Saffrian and non-Saffrian interpretations of Marx to the misunderstood transformation problem issue. Along the way, we'll clarify the differences between various Marxist factions like council communists and Maoists, and dissect both the valid and misinformed critiques of Marx.Our journey continues as we delve into the cogent critique of Marx by renowned economist Steve Keen, as well as the collaborative stance of anti-Marxist economists. We'll probe into the debates surrounding the single-system interpretation and temporal single-system interpretation, discussing the far-reaching implications of Soviet and Maoist economics. We'll also provide insights on pivotal historic events such as the Spanish Civil War and their profound impact on Anarchist-Marxist relations. Finally, we'll grapple with the contentious topic of nationalism within the realms of anarchism and Marxism. We'll unpack the paradox of inventing national identities within the Soviet Union and the history of nationalism in Korea. We'll wrap up our discussion by looking at the early Bolshevik leadership's pursuit of equality among the Soviet Union's diverse polities. So, gear up for an enlightening exploration that promises to deepen your understanding of these influential ideologies. Tune into Varmblog and let the learning begin!Send us Fan Mail Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeLeadership Lessons From The Great BooksUnderstanding great literature is better than trying to read and understand (yet)...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic,Julian

Can philosophy ever be more than just armchair theorising? Join us as we unearth the insightful world of Catholic philosopher, Alasdair McIntyre, with intellectual aficionado, Julian Ossolay Ossolay. We embark on a stimulating journey through McIntyre's philosophical evolution, tracing his footsteps from his early Marxist days to his conversion to Catholicism and his later works. We examine why McIntyre’s philosophy resonates with Catholics who lend towards philosophy, his critiques of rigid philosophical modes, and the enigma that is his political ideology. We also unpack McIntyre's critique of Enlightenment rationalism and his intriguing Aristotle-inspired insights. Get ready to question the Enlightenment's morality reduction to singular rules, and to consider McIntyre's contrasting view of morality as a technique. We delve into his perspectives on ethics, politics, human flourishing, and his critique of Marx and the modern society. Explore with us McIntyre's reflections on human subjugation, the fragmentation of man, and the vital role of community and language in forming an individual's identity. Our deep dive into McIntyre's philosophical world concludes with a thoughtful discussion on the implications of his theories on modernity and human fragmentation. We explore his rejection of communitarian ideas, his challenging concept of biological teleology, and the essence of human flourishing. Join us as we conclude with an analysis of McIntyre's views on social sciences, his take on language games, and his critique of Marx's views on non-European societies. This episode is not merely for the philosophy enthusiast but for anyone ready to look at the world through a different lens.Send us Fan Mail Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeLeadership Lessons From The Great BooksUnderstanding great literature is better than trying to read and understand (yet)...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic,Julian

Jules Delisle, human behavioral ecologist and nurse, joins us on this fascinating journey through the complex world of anthropology and its implications on modern society. She is an associate and organizer of the Mimbres School.  Together, we dissect the limitations of social and behavioral sciences, questioning common assumptions about modern liberalism and challenging the over-reliance on quantified data in qualitative research. We also delve into the power of arbitrary designations and their critical influence not only in bedside nursing but also in research.Venturing further, we illuminate the significance of understanding people's needs beyond the realms of data-driven research, taking a critical look at language and its impact on kinship. Delving into the intriguing concept of 'weird societies,' we explore how an over-dependence on data from modern, industrialized societies may distort our understanding of humanity. From Amazonian partible paternity to the economic flow issues in Western societies, we unpack how kinship can serve as a source of both social and economic support. We wrap up this enlightening conversation with an analysis of family structures through the lens of Marxist theories, the importance of environmental connection, and the irrational aspects of human relationships. Taking a historical perspective, we discuss the often overlooked aspects of anthropology, such as ritual human sacrifice, modern slavery, and social stratification. Lastly, we encourage a shift in thinking around belief in magic, rationality, personhood, and historical choices. Join us in this thought-provoking episode that challenges conventional wisdom and inspires a deeper understanding of anthropology.Send us Fan Mail Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeSupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic,Julian

Are you prepared to have your understanding of the political right stretched and reshaped? That's precisely what our conversation with Mac Manus, a lecturer at the University of Michigan and author of The Emergence of Post-Modernity, promises to deliver. The episode explores the influence of key figures such as Nietzsche, Jordan Peterson, and Ludwig von Miesse on right-wing thought, unraveling the complexities of political ideologies. Mac’s unique insights from his forthcoming book, The Political Right and Inequality, form the foundation of our discussion as we traverse the realms of political overlaps, libertarianism, socialism, and the rise of populism.In our deep dive into the ideological world of right-wing intellectual thought, we explore the allure of authoritarian figures, the emergence of post-modernity, and the role of conservative intellectuals in U.S. politics. We venture into the anti-abolitionist movement in the U.S., the shaping influence of the billionaire class on libertarianism, and the nuanced relationship between libertarianism and socialism. We also tackle the controversial critique of Christianity by Nietzsche, shedding light on his views about truth, power, and status. Our conversation aims to challenge preconceptions and provoke thought.We wrap up our enlightening exchange by examining the appeal of hyper-conservative theories, the contemporary influence of right-wing intellectuals, and the impact of figures like Dugin and Adrian Vimule on the political right. We discuss the potential consequences of unchecked populism and the necessity of fostering dialogue between the Left and Right. We shed light on the legacy of conservative thinkers like TS Eliot, Dostoyevsky, Nietzsche, and Burke as we advocate for a considered response to figures more serious than Ben Shapiro, Mark Levin, and James Lindsay. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the nuances of political thought and the ideological landscape that shapes our world.Send us Fan Mail Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeLeadership Lessons From The Great BooksUnderstanding great literature is better than trying to read and understand (yet)...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic,Julian

In this Strange Matters/Varn Vlog collaboration, we discuss Mira Lazine's account of organizing the McUnion in Strange Matters Issue 2. What if we told you that the friendly face behind your fast food order is grappling with challenges you'd never even imagined? We're inviting you into a raw, deep, and humanizing conversation with Mira Lazine, who has been on the front lines of unionizing in the fast food industry. They shed light on the high turnover rates, the harsh quest for better employment conditions, and the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on an already precarious unionization effort. They also debunk the misconceptions regarding who constitutes the fast food workforce, revealing a broad spectrum of individuals from all walks of life.Our adventure begins with the inspirational and challenging journey of Luzin, who was radicalized by the Bernie Sanders campaign in 2016 and has held on to his anarchist beliefs despite skepticism from coworkers. Luzin helps us understand the two major union models, the IWW model of solidarity unionization and the bureaucratic union model. Taking us step-by-step through the process, they shed light on the complexities of reaching out to workers on different shifts, building trust, and leveraging power mapping in unionizing. But let's not forget the digital age we live in. We dive into the power of technology and its impact on our behavior, especially the dangers of over-reliance on social media and the dopamine feedback loop it creates. Mira and Luzin share stories of surprising allies and betrayals that surface during the process of unionizing, highlighting trust as an ongoing theme. This episode isn't just about the complexities of organizing within the fast food industry; it's about human resilience and strength, and a testament to the people behind your fast food order. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that you won't want to miss.Send us Fan Mail Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeLeadership Lessons From The Great BooksUnderstanding great literature is better than trying to read and understand (yet)...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon, Buddy Roark, Daniel Petrovic,Julian