From Los Angeles, Rethinking Heroes with Cary Harrison - Rethinking Heroes: Unmasking the Machinations of Modern Fascism. Yale professor Jason Stanley, delves into the tactics of modern fascism and its impact on history and education. The discussion covers the manipulation of historical narratives by authoritarian regimes, the role of education in fostering or suppressing critical thought, and how today's political landscapes echo past fascist movements. They also discuss the current legal battles against censorship and the importance of acknowledging America's historical contradictions. Furthermore, former presidential candidate Jason Palmer shares his ambitious plan to register a million new young voters, leveraging technology and the influence of college athletes. This episode serves as a call to action to stay informed and fight against the distortion of history and encroaching authoritarianism.
The War on History: Erasing and Manipulating the Past
Today, we’re tackling how authoritarian regimes, especially fascist movements, manipulate history to consolidate their grip on power. If you’ve read Orwell's "1984," you’re in for a ride through the twisted machinery that masks and distorts reality.
Why Rewriting History is a Fascist Staple
Yale professor, Jason Stanley, today's intellectual powerhouse, explains it all. Authoritarians love a singular, mythical narrative. It simplifies the mind and makes people easier to control. They dismantle varied accounts of history, suppress dissent, and enforce a unified story—one that supports their agenda and marginalizes all others.
The Silent Genocide and the Erasure of Oppression
Take the Holocaust, for example. Soviet regimes didn't acknowledge it, fearing that once one genocide was recognized, others might be too. Fast forward to today, and history is under siege—some presidential hopefuls are crafting "MAGA histories" that entangle the truth in such propaganda it’s laughable, yet devastatingly effective.
Fascist Tactics in Today's Political Landscape
Stanley doesn’t sugarcoat it—today's fascists aim to divide and conquer by exploiting racial, religious, and sexual differences. They paint a mythical past and use propaganda to justify racial and religious hierarchies. Despite their efforts, true history—people's lived experiences—can’t be completely erased. Families who lost loved ones to COVID, for instance, know the reality, regardless of the political spin.
The Link Between Authoritarianism and Today's Education
One of the hot topics? Education. Across the U.S., particularly in states like Florida, there's an ongoing battle over what's taught in schools. Admitting climate change or acknowledging the humanity of LGBTQ individuals has become a criminal act in some areas. The fascists' playbook includes suppressing critical thought and rewriting curricula to foster obedient followers—a grim echo of regimes past.
The Role of Corporations and Legal Battles
It's a twisted irony that big corporations are now some of the loudest opponents of these fascist strategies. Major book publishers have taken a stand against censorship, suing states that ban books and ideas from schools and public libraries. Corporations, once the problem, are now part of the resistance—delicious paradox, indeed.
Jason Stanley: Knowledge as an Arm Against Authoritarianism
Stanley argues that knowledge alone isn't a safeguard against fascism. Some of history’s sharpest minds were fascists themselves, using their intellect to wield power ruthlessly. Thus, it's not just about education but what kind of education and to what end.
America's Historical Paradoxes
Harrison dives into America's founding sins—slavery, manifest destiny, genocides. Facing history head-on is crucial. America can’t shy away from its past; confronting it is the only path to genuine progress and democracy.
The Future of History and Education
Harrison and Stanley spell out the future if figures like Trump reclaim power: education becomes a tool for nationalistic ego-stroking rather than democratic enlightenment. Public schools could turn into breeding grounds for blind patriotism rather than nurturing critical, informed citizens.
Meet Jason Palmer: The Maverick Who’s Mobilizing Gen Z to Save America
Palmer isn't your cookie-cutter politician spouting the same old tired rhetoric. This guy, a former Democratic presidential candidate, isn’t just sitting on his thumbs. He’s made headlines and charged into the political fray with a victory in American Samoa, no less. Now, you might think, "Big whoop, what’s next?" Jason’s got a plan that puts most political folks to shame. He's creating partnerships in over a thousand schools and 300 colleges, teaching kids how to dissect the media blob, and telling them what's real, what's not, and how it's all glued together with propaganda.
Empowering the Future Voters
Palmer talks about running the gauntlet against polarization. He’s endorsed 18 young, vibrant candidates, with an average age of 38. These aren’t your typical, stuck-in-the-mud politicians. Half are Democrats, half are Republicans, with a sprinkling of Independents who, just maybe, have a shot in hell of winning. The aim here is to take Congress back from the lunatic fringe, the crazies, and put it in the hands of younger, tech-savvy people who might actually get something done. Imagine that, Congress filled with folks who know how to turn on a computer without their kid showing them.
No More Partisan Nonsense
Harrison chimes in, happy that Palmer is bridging this chasmic divide between Democrats and Republicans. And why shouldn’t he? There was a time, not too long ago, when Republicans stood for something other than chaos and incompetence. Sure, they weren't perfect, but at least they weren't trying to stage a damn coup d'état. Cary’s heartening message here is bipartisan hope—good people on both sides who know if America goes to the dogs, they're going with it.
The Youth Revolution: Rooted in Technology
Palmer, being the dapper entrepreneur he is, heads back to his roots. Jason isn’t just talking the talk; he's walking the walk. Working with young entrepreneurs, investing in their mission-driven companies, and leveraging his political failures to catalyze real change, his guerrilla tactics might just be the thing we need to bust through this political quagmire. It’s about leveraging technology, using athletes from college campuses to promote voter registration in ways that are fresh, modern, and yes, tech-savvy.
Common Issues, Uncommon Solutions
Let's talk issues that matter to Gen Z because, unlike the crusty old politicians, they’ve got their priorities straight. Palmer lists five key issues: climate change, gun violence, affordable higher education, and the elusive promise of a good first job. Gun violence and climate change, topics often dismissed by the older generation, are at the top of their concerns. Why? Because while grandpa is arguing about the good old days, these young souls are doing active shooter drills at school. Nice way to say, "Welcome to adulthood," huh?
Parents and Gen Z: United by Fear and Hope
What really ties the bow on this is the involvement of parents. They’re vested in this struggle too—you bet your ass they are. When they think about the future, they're not just thinking about their retirements but also about the safety and prospects of their kids. Your support can make this happen, not just for Gen Z, but for the collective future we all share.
Visit Together, Palmer’s initiative, togetherpurple.org. Let’s bring the red and blue together—mix it up, shake it around, and create something truly transformative. Because if we don't, well, we might as well sit back and watch the whole circus burn to the ground. And let's face it, nobody wants to roast marshmallows over that kind of fire.
About Rethinking Heroes
Rethinking Heroes, hosted by Cary Harrison, is dedicated to exploring innovative solutions and providing knowledge that empowers individuals. Stay connected with us for more enlightening conversations and transformative ideas.
00:00 Introduction to Rethinking Heroes
00:22 The Importance of Journalism and Truth
00:52 Live Streaming and Audience Engagement
01:31 Understanding Authoritarian Regimes
02:17 The Role of History in Recognizing Oppression
04:17 Fascist Ideologies and Their Tactics
05:50 The Battle for Education and Truth
07:46 Interview with Jason Stanley: Erasing History
15:22 The Impact of Authoritarianism on Education
24:14 The Influence of Foreign Authoritarian Leaders
27:37 America's Founding and Historical Contradictions
30:45 Introduction and Acknowledgements
30:51 Support for KPFK and Book Promotion
31:39 Live Streaming and Newsletter Information
31:58 Introducing Jason Palmer and His Mission
32:46 Empowering Gen Z and Voter Registration Drive
33:35 Interview with Jason Palmer: Common Sense Candidates
36:34 Challenges and Strategies for Voter Registration
38:42 The Importance of Youth and Technology in Politics
40:08 Jason Palmer's Background and Political Views
41:52 Issues Driving Gen Z Voters
44:24 Parental Support and Organizational Goals
45:39 Closing Remarks and Call to Action
46:23 Final Acknowledgements and Donation Appeal
48:41 Medicare Advantage Plan Information
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Ep. 60: 10 Pillars of Fascism | Tidal Wave of New Voters