Un-American

If the second term of the Donald Trump administration has shown anything so far, it’s that democratic institutions and norms aren’t self-evident. They can be reshaped, undermined, and even destroyed if a government is determined to do so. Hungarian sociologist and former politician Gábor Scheiring learned this lesson as early as 2010. As a member of the oppostion party “Politics Can Be Different”...

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the West has found itself plunged back into its Cold War mindset: you're either with it or against it, you either fight for democracy or stand with autocracy. However, in Africa, South America, and Asia, governments are becoming increasingly fed up with following Washington’s and Brussels’ lead. Does this mean the Global South stands by Vladimir Putin an...

Year after year, the Republican Party moves further to the right and gains political momentum. And year after year, the Democratic Party remains anchored to the center and loses steam. Oxford professor Jane Gingrich and philosopher Nancy Fraser examine the center-left’s failure to reinvent itself—and the Democratic establishment’s refusal to confront its own shortcomings. Quoted in this episode: O...

Working toward reconciliation instead of seeking retaliation: Israeli peace activist Noy Katsman does what the Netanyahu government has never sought to do. In this episode they talk about the radicalization within Israeli society, the shortcomings of the American debate on its ally in the Middle East and the importance of retaining empathy towards one’s alleged enemy.  Quoted in this episode: Ta-N...

British-Australian media studies scholar Toby Miller talks about the symbiosis of entertainment and politics, the role of U.S. mainstream media in turning elections into sports and the influence of capital on news reporting. Music by sam_o.b Artwork by The Aliens Follow Un-American on Instagram for episode updates!

Former police chief Devon Clunis , who joined the Canadian Police Service in 1987 and later became the Chief of Police for the City of Winnipeg, shares his perspective on police violence and the need for police reform.  Music by sam_o.b Artwork by The Aliens Follow Un-American on Instagram for episode updates!