GlobeCon: Can Technocratic Neoliberalism Save Us? Um no wtf?
Summary
Host Garrison Davis critiques the Center for New Liberalism’s technocratic approach at their 2026 summit, arguing that leaders like Jeremiah Johnson ignore material economic crises in favor of "storytelling." The episode contrasts this neoliberal denial with sociologist Ben Rose Porter’s analysis of wage stagnation and inequality. Davis concludes that the movement’s reliance on elitist technocracy and liberal nationalism fails to address the real grievances driving voters toward populist alternatives.
Topics discussed
Intro and Sponsor Ads
Globecon 2026 and the Rise of Populism
Michael Bennett's Primary Loss and Liberal Messaging
DSA Momentum vs. Moderate Liberal Energy
Wage Stagnation and the Crisis of Confidence
Material Conditions vs. Cultural Explanations
Sponsor Breaks
Critique of Johnson's Dismissal of Materialist Analysis
Fukuyama, Struggle, and the Need for Meaning
Technocratic Solutions and Cynical Politics
Liberal Nationalism and the Role of Capital
Sponsor Breaks
The 'Brightness Loop' and Class Reproduction
Undemocratic Technocracy and Final Thoughts
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