A New Old Left? (Ft. Vivek Chibber)

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In this episode of 1Dime Radio, I have a provocative discussion with a much-requested guest, Vivek Chibber. Chibber is a professor and published writer (Catalyst and Jacobin). We discuss the state of the left today, and whether recent elections mark meaningful shifts in socialist political organizing. We also cover the challenges of building working-class support amidst the rise and conflicting interests of white collar professionals. The conversation touches on political compromise, and the influence of post-colonial theory in academia. 

In the Backroom exclusive segment on Patreon, Vivek Chibber and I specifically discuss Zohran Mamdani and his recent election. Will he and the DSA political strategy be enough to ensure a sustainable rise of socialism? 

Timestamps:

0:00 Understanding Democratic Socialism and Traditional Socialism

03:28 The Crisis of the Left: Organizational and Intellectual Weakness

07:18 Rebuilding the Left: Strategies for Organizing Workers

33:50 The Left's Relationship with Small Business Owners and Farmers

35:16 Voting Patterns and Class Interests

44:13 The Decline of Traditional Left-Wing Parties

56:41 Defining Capitalism and Socialism

59:05 Transition to The Backroom

GUEST:

Vivek Chibber, professor of sociology and author of Confronting Capitalism: How the World Works and How to Change It. You can also follow Chibber’s work in the publications Catalyst and Jacobin.

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Outro Music by Karl Casey

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