The interlocking concepts of reform and revolt have commingled in the podcast since the beginning and in political thought in general since as far as we have kept track. Do we try to improve our flawed systems or do we burn them down and start over? As dedicated listeners and close people know, my heart lies much closer to the brash methods, but I also acknowledge the logistical hurdles involved in pursuing either course with a goal of lessening harm to one another. Our dominant political tribalism may be divided between “liberal” and “conservative”, but there are fascinating dynamics outside of that related to radicalism. Amid the background hum of a lackluster presidential campaign season and other huge campaigns, I’ll be walking between those more traditional means and projects and figures more radical in scope.
Locally, there’s been a great conversation catalyzed partially by Chris Hedges’ appearance in March who pointed out the factors at play that add up to a revolutionary moment and gave a stark analysis of our current state. He openly uses the word rebellion and the word revolution to describe the type of action that is necessary in this moment. He isn’t alone in that analysis. The more I ask open ended questions about politics to people of all political stripes and identities, the more they seem to have the word on their mind already. I am fascinated by what revolution means in a modern context and in the context of the U.S., being so geographically massive, so fraught with colonial history, and incredible diversity. How does revolt play out and vary place to place within the country? How can we pull it off without falling into post apocalyptic scenarios? So I will be asking activists and normal people about their hopes and frustrations, asking “Is it time for a revolution?”
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