Wokal Distance AKA Michael Young is a cultural researcher at the Center for Renewing America.

We discuss the history of American culture and counterculture—specifically how the cycle of commodified non-conformity is used to control the masses and expand the very capitalism that its proponents (originally the Critical Theorists) sought to undermine. Also, where does this leave the “ascendant” cultural right? If it’s all just a cycle of faux rebellion, where is there to ascend to?

The books discussed are The Rebel Sell by Andrew Heath and Joseph Potter, and The Conquest of Cool by Thomas Frank.

PLEASE ALSO SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE, WHERE YOU CAN NOW GIVE ME SUPER CHATS THAT I WILL READ ON THE AIR. ALSO I AM LITERALLY 5 PAID SUBS AWAY FROM ORANGE CHECK ON SUBSTACK, SO PLEASE BECOME A PAID SUBSCRIBER!!!

The Carousel is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecarousel.substack.com/subscribe