Are we living in the End Times? With Naomi Klein and Astra Taylor
Summary
Naomi Klein and Astra Taylor discuss their new book, End Times Fascism, which analyzes how religious fundamentalists, tech billionaires, and ethno-nationalists exploit planetary crises to fuel authoritarianism. The authors explore the radicalizing effects of the pandemic, climate change, and AI, arguing that these groups view the current world as a temporary stage for their escape to heaven, Mars, or digital immortality. They contrast this apocalyptic mindset with the concept of "hereness," using Zohran Mamdani’s NYC campaign as a model for building community and addressing material needs. …
Topics discussed
Introduction: Defining modern crises and the book's purpose
From essay to book: The Guardian article and the AI frenzy
Collaborative writing and navigating political darkness
Defining end-times fascism and its differences from the 20th century
Three events fueling apocalyptic sensibility: Pandemic and Jan 6
Climate change, resource scarcity, and the rise of AI
Misogyny, toxic masculinity, and the manosphere
AI risks: Environmental cost and existential threats
Peter Thiel, transhumanism, and the desire to escape humanity
JD Vance, venture capital, and the MAGA-Tech alliance
Coalition tensions: Anti-tech sentiment vs. AI expansion
Stakes of holding power and the Zohran Mamdani transition
Sponsor segment: Tire purchase guarantee
The concept of 'Hereness' as an antidote to escape fantasies
Zohran Mamdani: Meeting a friend and discussing practical policies
Mamdani's rise: Material policies and community building
Lessons for the left: Embracing cities and neighborly identity
Political alliances: Concerns about Bernie Sanders and Steve Bannon
Building coalitions: Writing with conservatives and meeting needs
Closing remarks and show promotion
Sponsor segment: QVC shopping
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