Worker and Parasite

In this episode, Jerry and Stably discuss The Cynic Philosophers: From Diogenes to Julian, edited by Robert Dobbin. The conversation centers on the core tenets of Cynicism, such as radical self-sufficiency, rejection of societal norms, and public acts meant to provoke reflection. The hosts explore how cynics challenged conventions through deliberately outrageous behavior, like Diogenes' public defecation or spitting on opulence, aiming to expose hypocrisy and dependency. They contrast Cynicism with Epicureanism and Stoicism, debating whether these philosophies share a common telos and whether Cynicism's austerity is a viable path to virtue. The episode ends with a preview of their next book: Why Nothing Works by Mark Dunkelman.

Jerry and Stably discuss The Unaccountability Machine by Dan Davies, a book exploring why large systems often produce irrational outcomes. While the subtitle promises insight into how “the world lost its mind,” the hosts note the book leans heavily into cybernetics and systems theory, which was unexpected. They reflect on a shared cultural sense that “something has gone wrong,” but critique the book for offering a diffuse diagnosis—pointing vaguely at free market capitalism and systemic complexity without a clear prescriptive argument. The conversation highlights both the book's ambition and its lack of concrete answers to institutional dysfunction.

In this episode, Jerry and Stably discuss The Art of Happiness by Epicurus, specifically the Penguin Classics edition that compiles Epicurean texts alongside interpretations by editors like Dan Klein and George K. Strodach. They clarify that Epicurus never authored a book by that title; rather, it is a curated volume of letters, aphorisms, and summaries of his philosophy. The hosts highlight how the book heavily features commentary by Strodach, which at times overtakes the original texts. They explore the core tenets of Epicureanism, such as pleasure as the absence of pain, and critique the editorial tone, noting Strodach's assertive, almost irascible personality. 

The episode continues Jerry and Stably's deep dive into Huey Long by T. Harry Williams, covering the second half of the biography of the controversial Louisiana politician. Picking up after Long's first gubernatorial win, the discussion traces his aggressive consolidation of power, his near-impeachment, and the establishment of a political machine that blurred the line between populist governance and autocracy. Jerry and Stably emphasize Long's command over the state legislature and his manipulative use of patronage and state resources to silence opposition. They explore the contradictions in Long's character—his professed idealism versus his often ruthless tactics—and analyze how his charisma and direct appeals to the poor fueled both admiration and intense resistance.The hosts examine his tenure as a U.S. Senator, during which he maintained effective control over Louisiana politics from Washington, D.C. They note his increasing paranoia, use of bodyguards, and elaborate security measures. His “Share Our Wealth” program is given particular attention, with discussion about its radical proposals and how it positioned Long as a national political threat, especially to President Roosevelt. The episode also delves into Long's polarizing public image, his strategy to control media narratives, and his dramatic assassination. Jerry and Stably reflect on the legacy of Huey Long, drawing connections between his methods and modern populism, and debating whether his contributions to infrastructure, education, and wealth redistribution justify his authoritarian tendencies. The conversation closes with a sober assessment of the enduring relevance of Long's political style.

The episode features hosts Jerry and Stably engaging in a discussion about Huey Long: A Biography by T. Harry Williams. The conversation begins with Jerry expressing his frustration with the book's length and dense formatting, noting that it was difficult to obtain digitally. Stably acknowledges the challenge but defends the book's depth and significance. They proceed to explore the life and political career of Huey Long, the populist governor and senator from Louisiana, whose ambitions and policies made him one of the most controversial figures in American history.The discussion highlights Long's rise to power, his unconventional political tactics, and his ability to mobilize mass support through populist rhetoric. Stably emphasizes Long's role in reshaping Louisiana politics, particularly his efforts to expand social programs, build infrastructure, and challenge entrenched elites. Jerry, however, is more critical, questioning whether Long's authoritarian tendencies undermined the very democratic ideals he claimed to champion. They debate whether Long was a true reformer or a self-serving demagogue, referencing specific moments in his career, including his battles with corporations, his conflicts with political opponents, and his aggressive consolidation of power.The hosts also consider Long's national ambitions, discussing his Share Our Wealth program, which proposed radical wealth redistribution during the Great Depression. They analyze how his policies resonated with struggling Americans but also raised concerns about their feasibility and authoritarian implications. The episode concludes with a reflection on Long's legacy, debating whether his assassination cut short a dangerous trajectory or silenced a leader who might have reshaped American politics. 

In this episode we discuss A Generation of Sociopaths: How the Baby Boomers Betrayed America by Bruce Cannon Gibney. Jerry selected the book as a deep dive into the behaviors and societal impact of the baby boomer generation, a topic that both hosts had discussed in passing. The conversation explores Gibney's central thesis that baby boomers, as a generational cohort, have demonstrated extreme selfishness and short-sighted governance, prioritizing their own interests at the expense of younger generations and the country's long-term well-being.The hosts examine key arguments from the book, particularly how the economic and political power wielded by boomers led to policies favoring immediate personal gains over sustainable societal progress. They highlight examples such as fiscal irresponsibility, the erosion of public infrastructure, and the dismantling of social safety nets. The discussion also touches on how boomers' approach to wealth accumulation, corporate influence, and political decision-making has created financial and environmental burdens for future generations.Jerry and Stably engage in a critical analysis of whether Gibney's arguments are fair and balanced, debating the extent to which structural forces versus generational attitudes contributed to current societal issues. They reflect on personal anecdotes and historical contexts, considering alternative perspectives on intergenerational responsibility. The episode concludes with a discussion on whether younger generations can shift the trajectory set by boomers and what lessons can be learned from the book's analysis.

In this episode, Jerry and Stably dive into Kaiser: The Greatest Footballer Never to Play Football by Rob Smyth, a fascinating exploration of the life and myth of Carlos Kaiser. Known for his extraordinary ability to avoid playing professional football while maintaining a high-profile “career,” Kaiser's story blends deception, charisma, and ingenuity. The hosts discuss how Kaiser leveraged charm, fake injuries, and carefully orchestrated media coverage to sustain his reputation in the elite world of football without ever stepping on the pitch.Jerry and Stably analyze the cultural and systemic factors that allowed Kaiser to thrive in 1980s and 1990s football, highlighting how charisma and myth-making can sometimes outweigh skill and merit. They share amusing and thought-provoking anecdotes from the book, such as Kaiser's elaborate schemes to evade matches, and explore broader themes of ambition, imposture, and the human fascination with larger-than-life figures.The episode examines the ethical and societal implications of Kaiser's actions, questioning whether his story is one of clever survival or manipulative fraud. With their trademark mix of humor and insightful critique, Jerry and Stably offer listeners a compelling look at a figure who turned football's conventions on their head and became a legend for all the wrong—or perhaps right—reasons.

The podcast episode explores Fat Leonard: The Con Man Who Corrupted the US Navy by Craig Whitlock, focusing on the astonishing true story of Leonard Glenn Francis and his large-scale corruption scandal involving the U.S. Navy. Hosts Jerry and Stably delve into the book's narrative, beginning with Francis's origins as a Malaysian entrepreneur and his rise as a defense contractor, where he exploited weaknesses in Navy operations. Through bribes, lavish gifts, and manipulation, Francis secured lucrative contracts while engaging in systematic fraud, inflating invoices, and misappropriating resources.The hosts highlight how Francis's operation thrived in an environment rife with negligence and complicity, exposing systemic vulnerabilities in military oversight. They discuss specific examples, such as the misuse of Navy funds for personal gain and the pervasive culture of secrecy and entitlement that allowed Francis's schemes to flourish. The story is presented as both riveting and disheartening, with the moral complexities and human failings of those involved taking center stage.Jerry and Stably reflect on the broader implications of the scandal, including its impact on trust in military institutions and the challenges of reforming such entrenched corruption. Despite its detailed account of misconduct, the book is acknowledged as an engaging and accessible read that illuminates a lesser-known aspect of military history. The discussion blends critique, analysis, and a touch of incredulity at the audacity of Francis's operations, making for an insightful exploration of a shocking case of institutional failure. 

The episode opens with Jerry and Stably greeting each other warmly after a holiday break, reflecting on the New Year and its opportunities for renewal. They segue into the central discussion, focusing on “Heart of a Dog” by Mikhail Bulgakov, a novella set in 1920s Moscow. Stably introduces the story, describing it as a satirical exploration of Soviet society through the transformation of Sharik, a stray dog, into a human following an experimental surgery conducted by a renowned doctor, Professor Preobrazhensky.The hosts delve into Bulgakov's critique of the Soviet regime, examining how the novella uses humor and absurdity to highlight the societal and moral dilemmas of the time. They discuss the professor's intentions behind the experiment, portraying it as a commentary on human nature and the challenges of attempting to create “ideal” citizens. Sharik's transformation is analyzed as both a metaphor for social engineering and a direct critique of the upheavals of the Russian Revolution.Stably highlights how the novella's narrative structure juxtaposes Sharik's perspective as a dog with his later experiences as a human, emphasizing the loss of innocence and the complexities of human existence. The conversation touches on Bulgakov's use of vivid imagery and allegorical elements, with Jerry noting the novella's blend of dark comedy and philosophical inquiry.The hosts also discuss specific scenes and character dynamics, such as Sharik's initial gratitude towards his rescuer and his eventual rebellion as he struggles to adapt to his new identity. They reflect on the ethical implications of the experiment and the broader questions it raises about science, power, and identity. Notable examples include the interplay between Professor Preobrazhensky and his assistant, Dr. Bormenthal, which underscores the tensions between ambition and responsibility.Concluding the discussion, Jerry and Stably agree that “Heart of a Dog” remains relevant for its incisive critique of authoritarianism and its exploration of what it means to be human. They praise Bulgakov's storytelling for its ability to provoke thought while entertaining readers, encouraging listeners to explore the novella for its rich thematic layers and enduring significance. 

In this episode, Jerry and Stably discuss The Image: A Guide to Pseudo-Events in America by Daniel J. Boorstin, a book that explores the construction of unreality in American media and culture. Jerry introduces the book as his pick and notes its thematic resonance with previous discussions, particularly those around Neil Postman's Amusing Ourselves to Death. The hosts agree that Boorstin's work predates many of Postman's arguments and, in some ways, anticipates the cultural shift toward media-driven realities.Stably and Jerry unpack Boorstin's central argument that American culture increasingly operates within “mirrors upon mirrors of unreality,” where pseudo-events—artificial happenings staged for media consumption—dominate public perception. Boorstin, writing in the late 1950s and early 1960s, critiques how society becomes incentivized to embrace these fabricated realities, constructing what Jerry calls “castles in the air.” This critique extends across multiple facets of public life, including politics, advertising, and entertainment, all of which blur the line between authenticity and illusion.The discussion touches on Boorstin's seemingly conservative perspective, as he neither explicitly condemns the shift toward pseudo-events nor advocates for a return to a previous era. Instead, he opts to describe the phenomenon with striking clarity, allowing the implications to speak for themselves. This ambiguity prompts Jerry to reflect on Boorstin's ultimate goals or desired outcomes, noting that while the book is critical, it refrains from offering solutions or alternatives.Stably and Jerry also draw connections between Boorstin's work and Marshall McLuhan's theories on media, highlighting the shared observation of media as an environment that reshapes human experience. They discuss how Boorstin's observations remain relevant, despite the book's age, as contemporary media landscapes have only amplified the prevalence and impact of pseudo-events.Throughout the conversation, the hosts emphasize the enduring value of Boorstin's analysis, particularly in an era where digital media and social platforms further complicate notions of authenticity. They reflect on specific examples of pseudo-events in modern society, noting parallels to Boorstin's original case studies and illustrating how the themes of the book continue to manifest today.By the end of the episode, Jerry and Stably underscore the significance of The Image as a foundational critique of media culture. While Boorstin stops short of prescribing change, his work serves as a powerful lens for examining how societies construct and consume manufactured realities. The hosts conclude with a shared appreciation for Boorstin's prescient insights, leaving listeners with a deeper understanding of the book's arguments and their implications for contemporary life.

In this episode, Jerry and Stably engage in a thoughtful discussion about The Theological Origins of Modernity by Michael Allen Gillespie. The hosts delve into the book's central thesis that the modern world, often perceived as secular and rational, has deep roots in theological and metaphysical ideas. They explore how Gillespie traces the evolution of modernity back to debates between medieval theologians and their reinterpretation of ancient Greek philosophy.The conversation begins with a recap of Gillespie's argument that the Reformation and the Renaissance played pivotal roles in shaping the modern worldview. Stably highlights how the author connects figures like Martin Luther and Descartes to a broader intellectual trajectory, emphasizing their attempts to reconcile human freedom with divine omnipotence. Jerry complements this by discussing how these thinkers laid the groundwork for Enlightenment values, such as individual autonomy and scientific inquiry.A key portion of the episode is dedicated to Gillespie's examination of nominalism—the idea that universals do not exist independently of the mind. Both hosts note how this seemingly abstract philosophical shift had profound implications, undermining the hierarchical, God-centered cosmos of medieval scholasticism and paving the way for a more human-centered perspective. They discuss specific examples from the book, such as the works of William of Ockham and how his ideas challenged traditional notions of order and knowledge.Jerry and Stably also tackle the tension between faith and reason, a recurring theme in Gillespie's analysis. They reflect on how this tension manifested in early modern thinkers, including Galileo and Bacon, who sought to harmonize religious beliefs with empirical science. The hosts provide a nuanced take on the enduring relevance of these debates, drawing parallels to contemporary discussions about the role of religion in public life and the boundaries of scientific authority.In addition to philosophical themes, the episode includes accessible anecdotes and case studies. For instance, Stably recounts the historical context surrounding the Protestant Reformation and how it reshaped societal structures, while Jerry adds insights on the influence of classical antiquity on Renaissance humanism. Both hosts emphasize Gillespie's skill in weaving these diverse threads into a cohesive narrative, making a complex subject engaging and relatable.The episode concludes with Jerry and Stably sharing their personal takeaways. They agree that Gillespie's work challenges readers to reconsider simplistic narratives about modernity's origins, inviting a deeper appreciation of the interplay between theology, philosophy, and history. As they wrap up, the hosts encourage listeners to reflect on how these historical dynamics continue to shape modern identity and values.This discussion offers an intellectually stimulating journey through the intersections of faith, reason, and modernity, underscoring the importance of understanding historical context in making sense of today's world.

In this episode we discuss The Prophets of Doom by Neema Parvini. Next time we'll discuss The Theological Origins of Modernity by Michael Allen Gillespie.

In this episode we discuss What Went Wrong with Capitalism by Ruchir Sharma What Went Wrong with Capitalism by Ruchir Sharma. Next time we'll discuss The Prophets of Doom by Neema Parvini.

In this episode we discuss The Case Against Reality: How Evolution Hid the Truth from Our Eyes by Donald D. Hoffman. Next time we'll discuss What Went Wrong with Capitalism by Ruchir Sharma.

In this episode we discuss Losing the Long Game: The False Promise of Regime Change in the Middle East by Philip H. Gordon. Next time we will discuss The Case Against Reality: How Evolution Hid the Truth from Our Eyes by Donald D. Hoffman.

In this episode we discuss The World That Wasn't: Henry Wallace and the Fate of the American Century by Benn Steil. Next time we will discuss Losing the Long Game: The False Promise of Regime Change in the Middle East by Philip H. Gordon.

In this episode we discuss The World Beyond Your Head: On Becoming an Individual in an Age of Distraction by Matthew B. Crawford. Next time we will discuss The World That Wasn't: Henry Wallace and the Fate of the American Century by Benn Steil.

In this episode we discuss The United States of Paranoia: A Conspiracy Theory by Jesse Walker. Next time we will discuss Everything Was Forever, Until It Was No More: The Last Soviet Generation by Alexei Yurchak.

In this episode we discuss The Populist Delusion by Neema Parvini. Nex time we will discuss The United States of Paranoia: A Conspiracy Theory by Jesse Walker.

In this episode we discuss Lessons in Stoicism: What Ancient Philosophers Teach Us about How to Live by John Sellars (and also On Duties by Cicero). Next time we'll discuss The Populist Delusion by Neema Parvini.

In this episode we discuss The Formula: How Rogues, Geniuses, and Speed Freaks Reengineered F1 into the World's Fastest Growing Sport by Joshua Robinson and Jonathan Clegg. Next time we'll discuss On Duties by Marcus Tullius Cicero.

In this episode we discuss Virtue Hoarders: The Case against the Professional Managerial Class by Catherine Liu. Next time we'll discuss The Formula: How Rogues, Geniuses, and Speed Freaks Reengineered F1 into the World's Fastest Growing Sport by Joshua Robinson and Jonathan Clegg.

In this episode we discuss The Collapse of Complex Societies by Joseph A. Tainter. Next time we'll discuss Virtue Hoarders: The Case against the Professional Managerial Class by Catherine Liu.

In this episode we discuss Technopoly: The Surrender of Culture to Technology by Neil Postman. Next time we will discuss The Collapse of Complex Societies by Joseph A. Tainter.

In this episode we discuss How the World Really Works: The Science Behind How We Got Here and Where We're Going by Vaclav Smil. Next time we will discuss Technopoly: The Surrender of Culture to Technology by Neil Postman.

In this episode we discuss A City on Mars: Can We Settle Space, Should We Settle Space, and Have We Really Thought This Through? by Kelly and Zach Weinersmith. Next time we will discuss How the World Really Works: The Science Behind How We Got Here and Where We're Going by Vaclav Smil.

In this episode we discuss Digital Future in the Rearview Mirror: Jaspers' Axial Age and Logan's Alphabet Effect by Andrey Mir. Next time we'll discuss A City on Mars: Can We Settle Space, Should We Settle Space, and Have We Really Thought This Through? by Kelly and ZachWeinersmith.

In this episode we discuss discuss The Rise and Decline of Nations: Economic Growth, Stagflation, and Social Rigidities by Mancur Olson. Next time we'll discuss Digital Future in the Rearview Mirror: Jaspers' Axial Age and Logan's Alphabet Effect by Andrey Mir.

In this episode we discuss discuss In Defense of Civilization: How Our Past Can Renew Our Present by Michael RJ Bonner. Next time we'll discuss The Rise and Decline of Nations: Economic Growth, Stagflation, and Social Rigidities by Mancur Olson.

In this episode we discuss discuss Offside: Soccer and American Exceptionalism by Andrei Markovits and Steven L. Hellerman. Next Time we'll discuss In Defense of Civilization: How Our Past Can Renew Our Present by Michael RJ Bonner.

In this episode we discuss The Origins of Woke: Civil Rights Law, Corporate America, and the Triumph of Identity Politics by Richard Hanania. Next time we'll discuss Offside: Soccer and American Exceptionalism by by Andrei Markovits and Steven L. Hellerman.

In this episode we discuss Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in the Age of Show Business by Neil Postman. Next time we'll discuss The Origins of Woke: Civil Rights Law, Corporate America, and the Triumph of Identity Politics by Richard Hanania.

In this episode we discuss Transformative Experience by L.A. Paul. Next week we'll discuss Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in the Age of Show Business by Neil Postman.

In this episode we discuss Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl. Next week we'll discuss Transformative Experience by L.A. Paul.

In this episode we discuss The World Behind the World: Consciousness, Free Will, and the Limits of Science by Eric Hoel. Next week we will discuss Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman.

In this episode we discuss Up From Conservatism: Why the Right is Wrong for America by Michael Lind. Next week we will discuss The World Behind the World: Consciousness, Free Will, and the Limits of Science by Eric Hoel.

In this episode we discuss End Times: Elites, Counter-Elites, and the Path of Political Disintegration by Peter Turchin. Next week we will discuss Up From Conservatism by Michael Lind.

In this episode we discuss two books by Joan Didion: The White Album and Miami. Next time we'll discuss End Times: Elites, Counter-Elites, and the Path of Political Disintegration by Peter Turchin.

In this episode we discuss The Closing of the American Mind by Allan Bloom. Next time we'll discuss The White Album by Joan Didion.

In this episode we discuss After Liberalism: Mass Democracy in the Managerial State by Paul Gottfried. Next time we'll discuss The Closing of the American Mind by Allan Bloom.

In this episode we discuss Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity by Peter Attia. Next time we'll discuss After Liberalism: Mass Democracy in the Managerial State by Paul Gottfried.

In this episode we discuss The End of Equality by Mickey Kaus. Next time we'll discuss Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity by Peter Attia.

In this episode we discuss The Myth of the Eternal Return: Cosmos and History by Mircea Eliade. Next time we'll discuss The End of Equality by Mickey Kaus.

In this episode we discuss Beauty: A Very Short Introduction by Roger Scruton. Next time we'll discuss The Myth of the Eternal Return: Cosmos and History by Mircea Eliade.

In this episode we discuss The Mind and the Market: Capitalism in Western Thought  by Jerry Z. Muller. Next time we'll discuss Beauty: A Very Short Introduction by Roger Scrutton.

In this episode we discuss By the People by Charles Murray. Next time we'll discuss The Mind and the Market by Jerry Z. Muller

In this episode we discuss Obedience is Freedom by Jacob Phillips. Next time we'll discuss By the People by Charles Murray.

In this episode we discuss The Cultural Contradictions of Capitalism by Daniel Bell. Next time we'll discuss Obedience is Freedom by Jacob Phillips.

In this episode we discuss Western Self-Contempt: Oikophobia in the Decline of Civilizations by Benedict Beckeld. Next time we'll discuss The Cultural Contradictions of Capitalism by Daniel Bell.

In this episode we discuss The Authenticity Hoax: How We Get Lost Finding Ourselves by Andrew Potter. Next time we'll discuss Western Self-Contempt: Oikophobia in the Decline of Civilizations by Benedict Beckeld.

In this episode we discuss Soccernomics: Why European Men and American Women Win and Billionaire Owners Are Destined to Lose by Simon Kuper and Stefan Szymanski. Next time we'll discuss The Authenticity Hoax: How We Get Lost Finding Ourselves by Andrew Potter.