Varn Vlog

What do Hegel, Marx, and esoteric traditions have in common? Join us for an enlightening episode featuring Dr. Justin Sledge from the Esoterica channel as we explore this fascinating intersection. Dr. Sledge shares his insights into the influence of figures like Hegel and Marx on political theology and esoteric traditions, while also addressing Adorno's critique and the resurgence of conspiracies about Marxism. We'll uncover Dr. Sledge's motivations for his unique content on esoteric Marxism and Hegelianism, and discuss the intriguing influence of Hermeticism on Hegel, alongside Marx’s reluctance to speculate about the future.

From graduate school struggles to dissertation triumphs, we delve into the unresolved tensions in Marxist metaethics and their catastrophic implications for later Marxist implementations. Hear about my personal experiences grappling with the complexities of Marx’s moral theory and how Victorian virtue ethics played a significant role in shaping his thoughts. We'll also challenge the tendency to impose rigid orthodoxies on thinkers like Marx, illustrating the flexibility and adaptability of Marxist theory through historical examples.

In our final segments, we broaden the scope to examine class analysis, early Christianity, and the profound impact of esotericism on modernity. By applying class analysis to historical figures and movements, we gain fresh perspectives on events and ideologies. Dr. Sledge’s unique qualifications provide an unparalleled view into the overlooked dimensions of mystical experiences on rationalist philosophy, urging a more nuanced understanding of philosophical development and historical materialism. Don't miss out on this comprehensive exploration of history, philosophy, and socio-economic contexts!

Support the show

Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube

Is modern socialism merely a revenge fantasy against historical colonizers? Join Elijah Emery and C. Derick Varn as we critically examine Sam Gindin's "Socialism for Realists," tracing our journey from initial excitement to ultimate disillusionment. We argue that Gindin's vision lacks the aspiration for a classless society and falls short of traditional socialist ideals. Reflecting on the Bernie Sanders and Jeremy Corbyn movements, we discuss how their promise has fizzled, leading the left to either concede too much to mainstream parties or drift towards third-worldism.

Explore the intricate challenges of socialist politics in the UK and US with us. From Jeremy Corbyn's struggle with party divisions over Brexit to Bernie Sanders' Medicare for All proposal, we dissect why these attempts at left-wing politics haven't lived up to their potential. Touching on left populist movements like Syriza and the contributions of figures like Giannis Varoufakis, we highlight the practical impediments to implementing socialism, including constitutional barriers and legislative hurdles.

We then delve into the intricacies of socialist economic systems, questioning the role of markets within a socialist framework and the feasibility of central planning. From environmental standards to the historical context of Technocracy Inc, we examine the balance between centralization and decentralization in a socialist society. Finally, we tackle the contemporary landscape of socialism, critiquing its current pitfalls and stressing the need for realistic, sustainable structures that engage people from all walks of life. Join us for a comprehensive critique and a call for a pragmatic approach to building a socialist future.

Support the show

Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube

What if our apocalyptic narratives are actually masking the true dystopia we live in today? Join us as we challenge conventional wisdom in our latest episode, featuring a thought-provoking conversation with Bram Gieben, author of "The Darkest Timeline, Living in a World with no Future." Bram shares his insights into how these narratives shape our understanding of current global crises, influenced by thinkers like John Gray and Slavoj Žižek. Together, we unpack the complexities of addressing climate change and the subjective nature of apocalyptic experiences, offering a fresh perspective on the notion of linear progress.

Next, we turn our focus to the pressing issue of water scarcity and climate collapse in the United States. Journalist Josh Ellis provides a sobering look at how historical decisions around state boundaries and water distribution have left places like Las Vegas and Salt Lake City on the brink of ecological disaster. Through Ellis's detailed examples, the fragile nature of our human infrastructure becomes evident, reminding us of the precarious balance between progress and environmental stability. This segment amplifies the conversation around skepticism about progress and the vulnerabilities in our current systems.

We also take a critical lens to the resurgence of transhumanism and its cultural ramifications. From the initial optimism of Ray Kurzweil to the contemporary skepticism fueled by AI fears and tech billionaire narratives, we explore the self-aggrandizing tendencies of tech leaders and the risks of digital escapism. As our dialogue unfolds, we examine the intricate dance between digital colonization, censorship, and the evolution of social media interactions. We conclude with a deep dive into the fragmented legacy of influential thinkers like Mark Fisher, reflecting on how their work continues to resonate and challenge our understanding of mental health, capitalism, and societal structures. Don't miss this episode packed with thought-provoking discussions at the intersections of technology, society, and philosophy.

Support the show

Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube

Can neoliberalism be truly understood without examining its Southern roots? In this episode, Marxist writer and thinker Connor Harney joins us to unpack the complex history and dynamics behind the rise and persistence of neoliberalism. We trace its origins back to the 1970s, focusing on the American Southeast, dissecting how anti-war sentiments, financial crises, and the defeat of unions have shaped this ideology. Through a critical examination of labor-intensive industries, racial segregation, and state violence, we reveal why the South resisted unionization and how this resistance influenced the national economic landscape.

We also explore the origins of corporate paternalism and its implications for modern work environments. By investigating North Carolina's Research Triangle Park and early public-private partnerships, we uncover how companies like IBM set the stage for what would become the Silicon Valley model. Our discussion highlights the broader implications of Southern industrialization, including the stark contrasts in worker wages and living conditions between the North and the South. We dive deep into the contradictions of Southern exceptionalism and its impact on American racial dynamics, exposing the myth that the South alone carries the burden of racism.

Finally, we tackle the rise and fall of neoliberalism and the collapse of social contracts. Through a historical lens, we connect the plantation system, feudal landholding, and modern labor exploitation, showing how these systems perpetuate economic serfdom. We reflect on the Southern influence on neoliberal policies, legislative movements to curtail collective bargaining rights, and the critical need for unionization in the South to ensure the success of labor movements nationwide. This episode challenges oversimplified narratives and provides nuanced insights into the economic and racial complexities that continue to shape the United States.

The following works are referenced:
Ending the Eternal Present: A Historical Account of the 1970s
Textile Mills to Mainframes

Support the show

Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube

Step into the complex world of geopolitics as we engage in a provocative dialogue with Donald Parkinson from the Marxist Unity Group and Cosmonaut Magazine. Ever wondered how Aleksandr Dugin's perspectives on Vladimir Putin shift when viewed from Russia's internal lens? Discover the nuances of his book "Putin vs. Putin: Vladimir Putin Viewed from the Right," and how it provides clarity on Dugin's ideological leanings compared to his more globally recognized "Fourth Political Theory." We unpack the influences of far-right esoteric thinkers like Julius Evola on Dugin, his critical take on Putin and Medvedev, and the convoluted relationship he has with Nazi ideology, all while maintaining his Russian patriotism.

We then scrutinize Dugin's admiration for Putin's centralizing strategies as outlined in "The 12 Labors of Putin." Find out how Putin's efforts to stave off Russia's disintegration, particularly in the Caucasus, and his suppression of ethnic separatism align with Dugin’s vision. Our conversation spans from the federal structure of the Russian Federation to Putin's methods of curbing regional autonomy and disciplining oligarchs. We also delve into the intricate dance between Eurasianism and Islamism, and how Dugin selectively aligns with certain Islamist factions. This discussion paints a comprehensive picture of the ideological and geopolitical strategies at play within Russia.

Finally, we tackle broader geopolitical ideologies, juxtaposing right and left strands of Eurasianism with insights from thinkers like Zbigniew Brzezinski and John Mearsheimer. We navigate the complexities of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, the contentious "land back" movement, and the evolving nature of counter-systemic politics, including the rise of MAGA communism. Reflect with us on the future of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), and the critical need for a cohesive programmatic vision. This episode offers a treasure trove of insights into Dugin’s political theories and their far-reaching implications on global geopolitics. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation!

Support the show

Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube

E.P. Thompson versus Louis Althusser—what if their debate reshaped our understanding of Marxist theory forever? Join Nicolas D. Villareal as we unpack Thompson's contentious critiques of Althusser, revealing the misunderstandings and secondary sources that fueled their intellectual clash. We'll dissect Althusser's argument against historicism, his endeavor to preserve Marxism's scientific core, and how his ideas have often been misinterpreted or simplified, especially by followers like Foucault.

As structuralism evolved, so did the criticisms and new trajectories within Marxist thought. We dive into Derrida's deconstructionism and Eco's Theory of Semiotics, unraveling their impacts on Marxist discourse. Hear our analysis on Althusser's later works, where Gramscian influences and Lenin's revolutionary defeatism highlight the complexities of change within structures. We'll explore how these debates have influenced contemporary Marxism, with nods to thinkers like Richard Wolff and the ever-evolving landscape from the 1960s to today.

Finally, we tackle the nuanced legacy of Althusser's critiques and his contentious relationship with Maoism and Stalinism. The conversation spans Althusser's stance on traditional dialectics, psychoanalysis, and the unpredictable nature of social evolution, as well as his efforts to establish a left-wing critique of Stalinism. Reflecting on the broader philosophical and political implications, we examine how these debates continue to shape revolutionary theory and historical materialism, offering a balanced perspective on Althusser’s enduring impact.

Support the show

Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube

What complexities lie beneath the recent shifts in the U.S. left? Join us on Varn Vlog as we sit down with Jules Taylor of the "No Easy Answers" podcast to dissect the nuanced landscape of leftist politics in America. From the financial woes of the DSA to the growing support for Palestinians in Gaza, we break down the major events and miscalculations that have shaped the modern millennial left. We even touch on the resurfacing of figures like Lyndon LaRouche and the state's escalating tactics against student protests.

Moving from New York to Texas, Jules shares the gritty realities of leftist organizing in conservative strongholds. We explore the balance between fostering social camaraderie and pushing for real-world impact, especially within organizations like CPUSA and DSA. This discussion extends to the role of media in shaping collective consciousness, as we question the effectiveness of traditional political actions and debate the practicality and morality of various leftist ideologies.

Finally, we dive into the historical evolution of the American left and its ongoing power dynamics. With reflections on issues ranging from the housing crisis to the humanitarian situation in Gaza, we provide a comprehensive look at the challenges and potential future of leftist activism. This episode is a blend of realism and hope, offering insights that are both critical and aspirational for anyone interested in contemporary political struggles.

Support the show

Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube

What if the apocalypse is already here, but we're too busy imagining zombies and nuclear winters to notice? On this episode, Bram E. Gieben, author of "The Darkest Timeline: Living in a World with No Future," unpacks the eerie realization that our present might be the dystopia we've been fearing. We explore how apocalyptic narratives can distract us from the grim realities we currently face, drawing on insights from all sorts of fields of study. The discussion confronts the uncomfortable truth that our solutions to technological and climate crises might be more fantasy than feasible reality.

Next, we plunge into the murky waters of environmental water security in the United States, specifically the contentious issue of water rights. Using real-life examples like the endangered mussel in Florida, we highlight the complex interplay between ecological preservation and urban necessities. Inspired by John Gray's "Straw Dogs," we ponder what it means to live a good life in a world on the brink of ecological collapse, reflecting on the millennial left's responses to these daunting scenarios post-Bush administration.

We also tackle the intriguing developments in transhumanism and the metaverse, dissecting how early optimism has given way to skepticism and critique. From the grandiose claims of tech billionaires to the limitations of AI, our conversation traverses the performative nature of modern political activism and the disillusionment faced by progressive youth movements. We wrap up with an examination of Mark Fisher's lasting influence and the complex legacy he left behind, urging listeners to confront today's realities with intellectual rigor and nuanced understanding. Tune in for a journey through the intricate narratives shaping our world.

Support the show

Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube

What if the horizon of the workers' movement has truly ended? On this thought-provoking episode, we welcome Ross Wolfe to dissect the enduring legacy and contemporary relevance of Loren Goldner a monumental figure in left communism. We delve into Goldner’s solitary stance amid post-structuralism, his fierce critiques of post-colonialism, and his eye-opening reviews, such as his take on Max Elbaum's "Revolutions in the Air." Walsh offers a rare glimpse into Goldner’s mentorship of writers and theorists, his influence on the New York ultra-left scene, and his rigorous examination of movements like Occupy and Maoism. 

Our discussion continues by contrasting the intellectual debates between Troploin and Theorie Communise with Goldner’s unwavering belief in the working class as a pivotal historical force. We touch on Goldner’s opposition to third-worldism and post-colonial thought, his rich academic background, and his critical stance against post-structuralism and Maoism. Walsh further critiques contemporary intellectual currents, making connections between Goldner’s ideas and ongoing global workers' struggles. We also delve into Christopher Lasch's critiques of American culture, discussing his departure from Marxism, his analysis of cultural malaise and narcissism, and his interactions with feminists. Walsh draws intriguing links between Lasch’s thoughts and contemporary thinkers like Anselm Jappe, who critique modern capitalist society.

The episode wraps up with a broad look at the dissatisfaction with the mainstream left and the bleak state of contemporary leftist movements. We highlight the significant differences between resistance movements like BDS and the anti-apartheid efforts, underlining the harsh realities faced by Palestinians today. Furthermore, we explore the unexpected political realignments of former radicals and the implications of anti-Americanism within the left, especially concerning the Ukraine-Russia war. Stay tuned for an insightful update from our guest on their upcoming research and writings on Marxism and the family, promising a series of thought-provoking essays in the year ahead.

Support the show

Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube

Is the millennial left crumbling under its own weight, or is it poised for a groundbreaking resurgence? Join us on VarmVlog as we dissect the intricate evolution and fragmentation of the millennial left post-Bernie Sanders. With insights from Alex Gendler, we reflect on the legacies of Mark Fisher, David Graeber, and Michael Brooks, and how their contributions continue to shape contemporary leftist politics. We compare the vibrant political ecosystems of New York and California, exploring how their unique industrial landscapes influence local leftist movements.

We'll navigate the treacherous waters of U.S. electoral politics, scrutinizing the left's response to Trump-era strategies and the current state of the Democratic Party. From the decline of Graeberite anarchism to the rise of semi-reformist Marxist-Leninist tendencies, this episode uncovers the fractured nature of leftist groups like the DSA and the complex challenges of modern political organizing. We also examine the reactive nature of leftist politics, particularly in relation to international crises and domestic policy shifts, and question the feasibility of certain ideological perspectives.

Finally, we confront the uncomfortable truths and strategic missteps that have plagued leftist movements. From the perplexing support for figures like Alexander Dugin to the organizational flaws within movements like BLM, we dissect the multifaceted challenges of forming a coherent and impactful leftist movement. We also explore the potential for revitalizing the workers' movement, addressing the generational wealth disparities, and examining the subtle manipulations within leftist media. Tune in for a comprehensive and critical analysis of the millennial left's past, present, and possible future trajectories.

Support the show

Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube