Activism in the U.S. Now
Summary
Richard Wolff discusses the market failure in childcare, arguing for free public daycare to boost labor participation and child development. He critiques the US federal debt milestone and the "bluff" of corporate tax threats. In the second half, guest David Cobb analyzes the deep alienation from government, attributing it to neoliberal policies and the end of the American empire. Cobb advocates for building post-capitalist institutions like cooperatives and community land trusts to address immediate material needs.
Topics discussed
Introduction and Resist & Build conference announcement
Harvard report on childcare needs and market failure
Critique of Ambassador Huckabee's selective morality
California billionaire tax and the bluff of corporate flight
US public debt crossing $40 trillion and interest costs
Fundraising update and book signing announcement
Introduction of guest David Cobb
Discussion on alienation from government and economic suffering
Political polarization and the challenge for Republicans
Root causes: Neoliberalism, empire, and ecological collapse
The rise of the DSA and material conditions driving change
Action items: Building cooperatives and post-capitalist institutions
Reflection on global debt and the predatory nature of capital
Closing remarks and farewell
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