Podcasts about parallax views

On this edition of Parallax Views, former CDC epidemiologist and physician Dr. Charles LeBaron joins us to discuss his explosive new book Greed to Do Good: The Untold Story of CDC's Disastrous War on Opioids. Drawing on his rare vantage point as a public health insider (with 28 years' experience at the CDC), clinician, and former pain patient, Dr. LeBaron argues that the CDC's 2016 opioid guidelines—meant to reduce overdose deaths—actually worsened the crisis. We explore how flawed data, political pressure, and a rigid, arguably even at times psuedo-scientific approach led to a policy that criminalized both doctors and patients, neglected the realities of chronic pain, and contributed to the ongoing epidemic of overdose deaths. Dr. LeBaron explains why the distinction between addiction and use of opioids as a legitimate chronic pain treatment matter, how voluntary guidelines became de facto law, and why Dr. LeBaron still sees value in the CDC as an institution and is not using the book to delegitimize it (ie: critique isn't alway for tearing down, but calling for reform).. This is a powerful and challenging conversation about public health, institutional accountability, and the human cost of well-intentioned but disastrous policy.

In this latest installment of the G&R Arts and Culture series, we look at three films from the seventies that were shaped by America's growing cynicism and distrust of its governing institutions. We look at The Parallax View, Three Days of the Condor and All the President's Men, and discuss the stories and how they effected and were effected by the sociopolitical shifts that were happening at the country in that time. **If you have the means, and want to support scrappy independent media (and get some G&R schwag), become a patron at https://www.patreon.com/greenredpodcast --------------------Outro- "G&R Blues by MoodyLinks//The Nation: The Life and Death of Conspiracy Cinema (https://bit.ly/4mzfzgv)Follow Green and Red// G&R Linktree: ⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/greenandredpodcast⁠⁠⁠ Our rad website: ⁠⁠⁠https://greenandredpodcast.org/⁠⁠⁠ Join our Discord community (https://discord.gg/8evPXV7g)Follow us on Substack (https://greenandredpodcast.substack.com)Follow us on Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/podcastgreenred.bsky.social)Support the Green and Red Podcast// Become a Patron at https://www.patreon.com/greenredpodcast Or make a one time donation here: ⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/DonateGandR⁠⁠⁠ Our Networks// We're part of the Labor Podcast Network: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.laborradionetwork.org/⁠⁠ We're part of the Anti-Capitalist Podcast Network: linktr.ee/anticapitalistpodcastnetwork Listen to us on WAMF (90.3 FM) in New Orleans (https://wamf.org/) This is a Green and Red Podcast (@PodcastGreenRed) production. Produced by Bob (@bobbuzzanco) and Scott (@sparki1969). Edited by Scott.

Welcome to the Celestial Insights Podcast, the show that brings the stars down to Earth! Each week, astrologer, coach, and intuitive Celeste Brooks of Astrology by Celeste will be your guide. Her website is astrologybyceleste.com.  

On this edition of Parallax Views, comedian and writer Kate Willett joins us to examine the growing influence of Silicon Valley billionaires on the Democratic Party and the controversial politics behind the so-called Abundance Agenda. Framed by figures like Ezra Klein as a bold, future-focused vision of progress, this agenda is increasingly backed by tech elites such as Dustin Moskovitz—co-founder of Facebook—and promoted through a network of well-funded think tanks, including the Niskanen Center, that aim to push the party in a technocratic, pro-market direction. With sharp wit and political insight, Kate unpacks how the Abundance movement—closely aligned with key figures on the Tech Right—represents a slick, astroturfed rebranding of neoliberalism. Beneath its glossy surface lies a coordinated strategy to marginalize progressive and working-class voices while recasting Silicon Valley's private interests as public goods. We explore how this plays out most visibly in San Francisco, where billionaire-funded groups have successfully reshaped local politics and helped unseat progressive officials. Kate also offers a thoughtful critique of California's YIMBY (Yes In My Backyard) movement. While she is not a NIMBY (Not in My Backyard) advocate either, she raises serious concerns about how YIMBY rhetoric often functions as a Trojan horse for real estate developer- and tech-driven policies that displace working-class communities under the guise of solving the housing crisis. This episode explores the intersection of tech money, urban development, media influence, and intra-party power struggles—and asks the vital question: “Abundance for whom?” Show Notes: "Abundance: Big Tech's Bid for the Democratic Party by Kate Willet (New International Magazine)

In this timely conversation, Parallax Views host J.G. Michael sits down with The Nation's editorial director and longtime progressive voice Katrina vanden Heuvel to discuss the mounting political crises shaking both Europe and the United States. Drawing from her recent co-authored piece, "Report from Europe: The Center Does Not Hold," and her Mother's Day commentary in The Guardian, vanden Heuvel explores the dangers of austerity politics, the failure of centrist consensus, and the rise of far-right insurgencies across the across Europe. We examine how neoliberal economic policies have fueled disillusionment and opened space for authoritarian insurgents, and why a fragmented left has struggled to respond with a cohesive, inspiring alternative. From the U.K. to France to the U.S., this episode unpacks the urgent need for bold progressive politics, social investment, and renewed democratic vision in the face of political polarization and inequality. We also discuss the controversial figure of Jean-Luc Mélenchon in France and his importance; the return of Nigel Farage to British politics and the possibility of Reform UK gaining power; European centrism's embrace of bypassing austerity for military purposes BUT not social programs; and how the right doesn't own pro-family policy, nor does it own concepts like freedom or patriotism. At the end of the conversation, Katrina shares her thoughts on the Abundance Movement and Ezra Klein. Essential listening for anyone concerned with the future of democracy, the right-wing insurgency in the U.S. and Europe, and the challenges — and opportunities — facing the global left.

On this edition of Parallax Views, you will hear an incredible story that, on its surface, you may mistake as being just about professional wrestling: the life and career of "The Golden Greek" Jim Londos. He was the biggest star of not only pro wrestling in the 1920s and 1930s, but arguably of sports itself. His popularity eclipsed that of the profession itself. He sold out stadiums of tens of thousands. Contrary to popular misconceptions, pro wrestling was not simply the domain of smoky rooms before the era of Hulk Hogan. Jim Londos is proof of that. In fact, it may be fair to say that Jim Londos was Hulk Hogan before Hulk Hogan. And just to drive that point home, one only need look at his match against Kola Kwariani on October 22nd, 1933 in Athens, Greece at the Panathenaic Stadium. The attendance for that event? It's said to be between 65,000 and 100,000. Simply put, Londos was a phenomenon. But, his story is much more than that of a pro wrestler. Londos is the story of an immigrant to the United States overcoming all odds. He is the story of a man who gave hope to the masses in the trying times of The Great Depression. A man who became a symbol of being able to overcome the greatest adversities. He was smaller in stature than many of his wrestling contemporaries. The classic underdog. And the fans loved him for it. He was their hero. He was "The Golden Greek" of professional wrestling. Joining J.G. on this edition of the show is journalist Steven Johnson. Although Johnson has done a lot of journalism related to pro wrestling and its storied history, he's also been a U.S. Senate aide and newspaper editor. Moreover, he has master's and Ph.D. from the University of Virginia. Over more than a decade he worked on a book to finally tell the story of Jim Londos. That book, recently released, is entitled Jim Londos: The Golden Greek of Professional Wrestling. Part of MacFarland's Studies in Strength of Physical Culture series, this book uncovers the life and times of an athletic performer who has been unfairly forgotten due to having wrestled in the pre-television era of the professional wrestling. In this conversation Steven I will discuss how he came around to the story of Jim Londos, the ways in which Londos story differs greatly from the more tragic rise & fall of early television-era wrestling Gorgeous George, the trials and tribulations of Jim Londos as a young immigrant in the United States of America in the early 20th century, the ways in which Londos is comparable to the mythical figure of Jason in the story of Jason and the Argonauts, how the legacy of Londos is carried on today by wrestlers like Bryan Danielson (aka Daniel Bryan), WWE superstar John Bradshaw Layfield's (JBL) foreword to the book, the wrestling double-crosses of the early 20th century that long predated the WWE's infamous "Montreal Screwjob", the colorful wrestling promoters of the Londos era (such as Toots Mondt and the Gold Dust Trio, Jack Pfefer, and Jack Curley), the legendary years long feud between Jim Londos and Ed "The Strangler" Lewis, Londos ability to make a crowd not only "believe" but "care" about his journey as a wrestler, and much, much more.

On this edition of Parallax Views, Orthodox Rabbi Yaakov Shapiro — author of The Empty Wagon: Zionism's Journey from Identity Crisis to Identity Theft — returns to unpack the theological foundations of Jewish anti-Zionism and non-Zionism. Fresh off his participation in a protest against Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's recent U.S. visit, Rabbi Shapiro explains why he believes Zionism is not only a political nationalist ideology distinct from Judaism, but one that misrepresents the Jewish people on the global stage. We explore the historical opposition of traditional Orthodox communities to Zionist projects, tracing the evolution of Zionism from the Revisionist movement of Ze'ev Jabotinsky to the early Religious Zionism of Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook, and ultimately to the far-right nationalism of figures like Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich. We also distinguish Rabbi Shapiro's critique from that of Orthodox anti-Zionist groups like Neturei Karta; Rabbi Shapiro's argument is based in the question of Jewish identity rather than anything eschatalogical. Along the way, we discuss Meir Kahane and how his violent ideology culminated in his assassination; Rabbi Shapiro's personal encounters with Kahanists in 1970s Brooklyn; and his message to left-wing Zionists — namely, his belief that left Zionism inevitably paves the way for the far right. A must-listen for anyone interested in theology, nationalism, and the contested meanings of Jewish identity.

On this episode of Parallax Views, we're joined by University of Chicago political scientist Michael Albertus, author of the forthcoming book Land Power: Who Has It, Who Doesn't, and How That Determines the Fate of Societies (Basic Books, Jan. 14, 2025). Drawing on his expertise in democracy, dictatorship, inequality, property rights, and social conflict, Albertus unpacks how land ownership lies at the heart of power struggles shaping both authoritarian regimes and liberal democracies. The book explains how control over land fuels political inequality, social exclusion, environmental destruction, and even climate change. Albertus explains the historical and modern-day impacts of zoning laws, gentrification, displacement of indigenous and marginalized communities, and the structural barriers to housing affordability and economic opportunity. It also delves into the growing movements for restitution and reparations, such as Black Lives Matter and Land Back, as well as global efforts at land reform. With insights featured in The Atlantic, Foreign Affairs, The New York Times, and The Washington Post, and appearances on outlets like NPR, CNN, and the BBC, Albertus offers a deeply researched and urgent perspective on how land shapes our societies—and what must change to build more just and democratic futures.

Escaping the Matrix

Nobody thought we could do it but we made it through our next 9 random movies! In this episode we look back at what sticks out in our withered memories of the movies we have put ourselves through: Robocop, Paths of Glory, The Lost Weekend, Them!, Face/Off, The Parallax View, AVPR: Aliens v Predator: Requiem, My Left Foot, and The Wrong Man . How did we feel about them in retrospect and with hindsight in our rear view mirror? Listen on and find out!

On this May Day edition of Parallax Views w/ J.G. Michael, political theorist Matt McManus joins us to unpack The Political Theory of Liberal Socialism, his groundbreaking new book. We explore: Liberal Socialism Defined: Why liberal rights and socialist economics aren't mutually exclusive—and how methodological collectivism and normative individualism unite them. Historical Roots: From Mary Wollstonecraft and Thomas Paine's radical democracy to John Stuart Mill's social liberalism, contrasted with Edmund Burke and Ludwig von Mises. Core Principles: A developmental ethic over mere inquiry, economic democracy within a liberal framework, and, for some, extending democratic values into the family. Key Influences: John Rawls's Theory of Justice, Samuel Moyn's critique of Cold War liberalism and the relationship between Samuel Moyn's book LIBERALISM AGAINST ITSELF: COLD WAR INTELLECTUALS AND THE MAKING OF OUR TIMES and Matt's book, and a speculative look at Richard Rorty's pragmatic liberalism in relation to Liberal Socialism. Global & Anti-Colonial Critiques: Addressing charges of Eurocentrism and imperialist bias by anti-colonial and Global South critiques of Liberal Socialism. Critiques from the Left & Right: Responses to neoliberal, libertarian, and Marxist-Leninist objections, and why caricaturing Marx misses his nuanced view of liberal institutions. If you're interested in the crossroads of political philosophy, the future of democratic socialism, and reclaiming a tradition of freedom and equality, tune in to this deep dive with Matt McManus.

Is religion the solution for philosophical problems?

On this edition of Parallax Views, we remember the late Pope Francis in conversation with veteran journalist William Dowell, who recently penned the WhoWhatWhy article “The Passing of a Genuinely Christian Pope.” Dowell reflects on Francis's lasting spiritual legacy, portraying him as a humble and principled leader who consistently emphasized compassion for the poor, migrants, and marginalized—offering a distinct moral voice in a time often marked by political polarization and societal uncertainty. Drawing on decades of experience covering the Vatican and international affairs, Dowell shares thoughtful reflections on papal transitions, the evolving role of the Catholic Church, and how Francis's message of empathy and humility resonated with younger generations and diverse global audiences. The conversation also widens to examine broader political and cultural dynamics, including the rise of populist and authoritarian currents in the United States, especially in light of the 2nd Trump presidency. Dowell offers his perspective on recent political developments and contrasts the ethos of Francis's leadership with contemporary trends he sees as driven more by power than principle. In an age where foundational democratic and ethical values are frequently contested, the discussion offers space for reflection on the role of conscience, truth, and leadership. This wide-ranging dialogue is both a tribute to a unique papacy and an invitation to deeper thought.

You're Listening to Parallax Views https://parallaxviews.podbean.com/ Support the Show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/parallaxviews On this edition of Parallax Views with J.G. Michael, we explore the powerful financial forces behind Washington D.C.'s most influential think tanks—and how those funding streams may shape U.S. foreign policy and defense strategy. Joining us are Ben Freeman and Nick Cleveland-Stout of the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft to discuss their eye-opening project: the Think Tank Funding Tracker (TTFT). The TTFT is designed to bring much-needed transparency and accountability to the world of policy influence, exposing the financial ties between think tanks and their funders. Specifically, we look at three major sources of funding: U.S. government funding, led by the Department of Defense Foreign government contributions, including major donors like Saudi Arabia and Qatar Defense contractor money, with Northrop Grumman leading the charge Think tanks play a vital role in shaping public policy through research, analysis, and recommendations. But as Ben and Nick explain, financial backing can create conflicts of interest and biases that may influence the narratives and policy prescriptions these institutions offer. Some think tanks rank high in transparency—others, particularly those with more hawkish foreign policy stances, score a troubling zero. We also address the issue of “dark money” think tanks, declining public trust, and how the TTFT includes concrete policy recommendations to encourage better disclosure practices. The conversation highlights the need for vigilance in understanding who is funding the experts shaping public debate and decision-making. One key case study we explore is the Atlantic Council, a major D.C. think tank whose funding sources exemplify the complex web of influence at play in the policy space. If you're interested in U.S. foreign policy, military-industrial complex dynamics, Middle East geopolitics, or political influence in Washington, this is a must-listen episode that breaks down the often unseen forces shaping global affairs. For more information please read Quincy Brief #68: Big Ideas and Big Money: Think Tank Funding in America.

GGACP's celebration of National Couples Appreciation Month continues with a revisit of this conclusion of a 2-part interview with veteran screen performers Richard Benjamin and Paula Prentiss. In this episode, Richard and Paula talk about sharing the stage with their children, celebrating 60 years of marriage, casting the comedy classic “My Favorite Year” and filming “The Stepford Wives,” “Westworld,” Diary of a Mad Housewife” and “The Parallax View.” Also, Mel Brooks produces “The Elephant Man,” Orson Welles intimidates the cast of “Catch-22,” Paula's mom chats up William S. Burroughs and Richard lists his favorite Paula Prentiss performances. PLUS: “Captain Nice”! Elsa Lanchester! The genius of Michael Crichton! The irrepressible Bill Macy! And Richard and Paula remember Yul Brynner, Buck Henry, Jack Klugman and George Segal! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  On this special episode of Parallax Views, we enter the world of Shoot Pro Wrestling (SPW)—a new promotion looking to bring the raw intensity and legitimacy of catch-as-catch-can wrestling back to the forefront of combat sports and professional wrestling. Joining the conversation are three key figures behind the SPW movement: –

We examine the career and movies of Hollywood legend Warren Beatty on the newest Jagbags.  We go through all his movies and discuss their merits.  We also rank his movies, discuss his more underrated and overrated films, and discuss his abilities as an actor and director.  We also talk his influence over Hollywood.  We take an in-depth look at one of cinema's most interesting luminaries of the last half-century.  Tune in, and tell us your favorite Warren Beatty movies as well!

About Bullfighting, meaning-making, the secret to covid, and the most human of rituals

On this edition of Parallax Views, the biggest wrestling event of the year is only days away: WrestleMania. Billed as the "Showcase of the Immortals," WrestleMania is the marquee event of World Wrestling Entertainment and has been going strong for over 40 years. On April 19th and 20th, WWE will present WrestleMania 41. Yes—FORTY-ONE. Ahead of the big event, I spoke with Gary from the YouTube channel Grapplevision—one of the most unique and compelling voices in pro wrestling media today. While most wrestling YouTubers focus on current events or canonical moments like the Montreal Screwjob, Hulk Hogan's heel turn, or Mick Foley's infamous fall off the Hell in a Cell, Grapplevision dives into the ghosts and glitches of wrestling history. It's a channel immersed in what you might call phantom histories: forgotten figures, obscure promotions, uncanny storylines, and the lingering specters of wrestling's carny roots. What sets Grapplevision apart is its unmistakably hauntological aesthetic—think VHS degradation, lost tapes, and late-night public access weirdness. The channel's documentaries are layered with analog textures and deep archival digs, evoking the era of tape trading and underground fandom. In many ways, it feels less like a recap or explainer and more like a séance conducted with a turnbuckle and a cathode-ray screen. From the blurred lines of shoot vs. worked fights (explored in the "Wrestling Gets Real" series), to Japanese deathmatch icon Atsushi Onita's exploding barbed wire spectacles, to strange pop culture crossovers featuring Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, and Jim Varney's Ernest P. Worrell—Grapplevision chronicles the strange, forgotten, and surreal corners of the squared circle. All this with an intro that cheekily nods to David Cronenberg's Videodrome. In this sprawling, four-and-a-half-hour conversation, you'll hear from someone who's not only been inside the industry but has also taken on the role of archivist and cultural historian. Even if you're not a wrestling fan, there's something here for anyone interested in performance, memory, mythology, and media.

On this edition of Parallax Views, host J.G. Michael welcomes back writer and commentator Ralph Leonard to unpack his recent UnHerd article, "Dave Smith–Douglas Murray Debate Highlights Right-Wing Fault Lines." In this wide-ranging conversation, Leonard breaks down the recent viral Joe Rogan-hosted debate between anti-war libertarian comedian Dave Smith and neoconservative public intellectual Douglas Murray — a fiery exchange that has become a flashpoint for deeper tensions within the contemporary Right. Leonard and Michael explore how the Israel-Gaza conflict has brought long-simmering ideological contradictions on the Right to the surface, pitting libertarian anti-interventionism and populist anti-elitism against the hawkish commitments and institutional allegiances of neoconservatism. They discuss the dynamics of the debate itself — from Murray's criticisms of Rogan's platforming of uncredentialed “armchair experts” and conspiratorial thinkers to Smith's defense of the democratic value of non-expert participation in public discourse. The episode also dives into the broader ecosystem of the “podcast bros” — the rise of Rogan-style infotainment as a dominant force shaping public opinion, its appeal as anti-establishment counterprogramming, and its vulnerabilities to pseudoscience and ideological echo chambers. Leonard offers a nuanced take, arguing that while the Rogan-verse isn't above critique, it still offers a space for airing out dissent and confronting controversial issues in ways legacy media often avoids. Together, Leonard and Michael navigate the complicated cultural terrain where influence, ideology, and epistemology collide — from libertarian anti-interventionism to the moral and strategic blind spots of neoconservatism — offering listeners a critical lens through which to understand not just one debate, but the fracturing landscape of the Right in 2025.

In this episode of Parallax Views, returning guest and veteran JFK assassination researcher Jim DiEugenio joins us to unpack the recent developments in the long-running battle over JFK assassination records. We dive into the legacy of President Trump's January 2025 executive order concerning the JFK files and discuss the implications of the recent congressional hearing led by Rep. Anna Paulina Luna — to which Jim himself testified! Jim, who was in attendance at the Luna hearing, shares his firsthand impressions of the proceedings and what they may signal for the future of the JFK Records Act. But this conversation goes beyond the question of conspiracy: we explore the broader stakes of transparency, institutional trust, and the historical significance of declassified documents — including revelations like Operation Northwoods, which had nothing to do with the assassination itself but emerged from the Assassination Records Review Board process and reshaped how we understand Cold War covert operations. Whether or not you believe there was a conspiracy to kill JFK, the questions raised by these files and the government's resistance to disclosure remain urgent. Tune in for a timely conversation on truth, secrecy, and why history still matters — no matter how long ago it happened. And yes, we'll address conservative pundit Ben Shapiro's angry dismissal of anyone interested in the assassination because it happened "a long time ago". Additional topics covered include: - Oliver Stone, the attacks on his movie JFK months before the film was even released, and the role of the Vietnam war in shaping Oliver Stone as a filmmaker and a human being. - CIA spymaster James Jesus Angleton's chilling quote about the CIA: “If you were in a room with them, you were in a room full of people that you had to believe would deservedly end up in hell. I guess I will see them there soon.” - The release of the unredacted Schlesinger Memo and what it tells us about covert operation during the Cold War. Learn what it is and how it enhances our understanding of a moment in history and politics. - The surprise appearance of John Davisson, a senior counsel at the Electronic Privacy Information Center in Washington, who raised privacy concerns related to information in the recently released documents. - Jim's thoughts on Democrats' lack of interest in the hearing and why he thinks Democrats are passing up a big opportunity with it - And much more!

On this edition of Parallax Views, the Quincy Institute's Dr. Annelle Sheline, a frequent guest on the program and a former Biden-era State Dept. official who resigned over the U.S. handling of Gaza, returns to discuss her briefing "Under Primacy, Weapons Sales Will Always Supersede Human Rights". But first we discuss the article she recently co-wrote for Responsible Statecraft entitled "Trump drops news bomblet: Direct US-Iran talks this Saturday". The conversation begins with a discussion of Netanyahu's meeting with Donald Trump earlier this week and some talk about the upcoming talks between the U.S. and Iran. We then get into the main event of this conversation: the ways in which weapons sales have trumped human rights rhetoric in U.S. foreign policy. For as much as the United States has often talked about human rights, it has often sold weapons to autocratic human rights abusers. We'll discuss a number of historical moments related to this including the assassination of Salvador Allende and the bloody Chile coup of 1973, Jimmy Carter vs. Ronald Reagan on human rights & U.S. foreign policy, the Iran-Contra affair, the legacies of the Cold War and the Global War on Terror, how wars abroad often lead to repression at home (and concerns about Trump's plans for pro-Palestinian voices in America), bridging the gap between human rights and realism/U.S. national interests, a brief look at the Leahy Laws, sanctions and weapons sales, the U.S.'s unconditional support of Israel's actions in Gaza as undermining claims to defending human rights, and much, much more.

On this edition of Parallax Views, Geoffrey Aronson, a noted analyst Middle East affairs and formerly the director of the Foundation for Middle East Peace, returns to discuss his latest Responsible Statecraft piece entitled "Israel's plan for Gaza is clear: 'Conquest, expulsion, settlement'". One of the key aspects of Geoffrey's analysis in said article is that Israel is currently pursuing a policy of "politicide", or, as he puts it, "destroying for all time any Palestinian hope for sovereignty west of the Jordan River." We'll be delving into elements of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that long predate the events of October 7th and what has transpired since. For example, Geoffrey will takes us back to 2005 when then Israeli Prime Minister evacuated Israeli settlers from Gaza. We'll also discuss the resurgent right-wing in Israel and its aims in Gaza, how the so-called "Day After" in Gaza is today, a brief excursion into what is happening in Syria and the weakness of Arab states (and what that means), and much, much more.

On this edition of Parallax Views, the Left Business Observer's Doug Henwood, host of the influential radio program Behind the News, returns to the program to discuss Trump's tariffs, Bidenomics vs. Trumponomics, the legacy of the anti-WTO/anti-globalization protests of the late 1990s, and much more! Literally a half hour before Doug and I began recording Trump announced a 90-day pause on some of his tariffs. We'll be discussing what Doug sees as Trump's nostalgia about a romanticized 1950s America and how he believes that is driving Trump's policies in many ways. Doug talks about what he sees as the nonsensical nature of Trump's tariffs and how stocks shot up immediately after Trump announced the 90-day pause. Although sometimes there's more noise than signal when looking at the stock market, in this case the response of the stock market over the past week has reflected very real economic anxieties. He also notes that the bond market has been reacting strangely in the past week in a way that is worrying. Doug notes that we'll likely see prices increase in May and June and discusses the effect these tariffs will have on those at the bottom of the income distribution. All of this will factor into Doug's analysis of why he thinks Trump has announced a 90-day pause on some tariffs. We'll also discuss in-depth the pros and cons of Bidenomics and then look at that in comparison to Trumponomics. We'll discuss industrial policy, ways of bringing back manufacturing to the U.S. in a productive rather than destructive manner, and we'll look at the effect of tariffs on poorer countries like Vietnam or Cambodia. We'll also discuss how there's been a wide backlash against Trump's tariffs from across the political spectrum including libertarians like Thomas Sowell, CNBC's Jim Cramer, and even some protectionists. Doug Henwood sums up the backlash as being driven ultimately by the crudeness of the tariff policy. The conversation will also delve into Trump's romanticism about the 19th century U.S. economy, the legacy of the anti-WTO/anti-globalization protests of the late 90s, the potential of a pro-trade internationalism that isn't neoliberal and is informed by socialist or left-wing concerns, the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, the Biden team's failure to tout the positive aspects of Bidenomics, Trump's anti-libertarian streak, DOGE, the misanthropy of the Silicon Valley right-wing, comparing and contrasting the Ralph Nader and Donald Trump views on foreign trade, and much, much more!

On this edition of Parallax Views, legal scholar and Boston University Law professor Jonathan Feingold joins us to discuss a growing crisis in higher education: the escalating assault on academic freedom. At the center of this episode is the recent dismissal of Dr. Cemal Kafadar and Dr. Rosie Bsheer—faculty leaders of Harvard's Center for Middle Eastern Studies—following politically charged accusations related to programming on the Israel-Palestine conflict. Feingold, a member of Concerned Jewish Faculty & Staff-Boston Area, breaks down why these dismissals are not just isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern of repression targeting scholars and students advocating for Palestinian human rights. We dig into the weaponization of antisemitism discourse, the chilling effect on scholarship, and how elite institutions like Harvard are capitulating to pressure from right-wing forces and donor lobbies—including those aligned with Trump's authoritarian cultural agenda. This story isn't just about Israel-Palestine. Even for those uninterested in debates over Israel-Palestine, the implications of this case are far-reaching. It raises urgent questions about academic freedom, free speech, and free inquiry in American universities. What happens when controversial topics become grounds for dismissal? How do elite institutions navigate the tension between political pressure and intellectual autonomy? And what does this say about the health of democratic discourse in higher education? This episode is not just about one controversy at Harvard—it's about the future of the university itself.

On this edition of Parallax Views, the Quincy Institute's Karthik Sankaran—writer, analyst, and longtime observer of global macroeconomic trends—joins the program to unpack the Trump administration's sweeping new tariff policy. Billed as a "reciprocal tariff" strategy, the move abandons long-held trade norms like Most Favored Nation (MFN) status in favor of a confrontational approach that targets countries based on bilateral trade deficits with the U.S. We'll end begin by discussing the logic and methodology that Karthik believes are driving the Trump tariff policies. We'll also delve into why the tariffs have been criticized across the board by neoliberals (of which Karthik describes himself as), right-wing libertarians like Thomas Sowell, and even progressively minded protectionists. The conversation will also delve into an area of particular interest to Karthik: how this will effect the Global South. We'll also delve into what the tariffs mean for U.S. foreign policy and international relations, why Brazil may come out of this better than other countries, what the tariffs mean for Europe and the EU, nearshoring vs. off-shoring and how nearshoring could be beneficial to Mexico, the U.S. move towards economic protectionism even under Biden, and what the tariffs mean for China. Also, Karthik will address listeners that disagree with his neoliberal worldview. Karthik describes himself as a "Neoliberal Peacenik". Whether or not you agree with his overview worldview, hopefully you'll find it interesting and informative.

Recorded 4/7/2025 On this edition of Parallax Views, Israeli commentator Ori Goldberg returns to the show to discuss the latest development in Gaza and Israel. This conversation came about due to the horrific stories coming of the southern Gaza city Rafah and touches upon that as well as the political turmoil currently bubbling to a fever pitch in Israel. J.G. specifically reached out to interview Ori in the hopes of trying to make sense of what is happening on the ground. Abstractions are often attendant to discussions of Israel/Palestine, but the human cost cannot be forgotten. That is what led to this discussion, and it proved difficult on some level due to the intense nature of the horrors we've seen in the past year and a half whether it be the events of October 7th or the scenes coming out of Rafah. Ori's approach is highly reflective in nature and as such has a certain unique quality. Whether you agree or disagree with Ori's thinking, this is hopefully going to be a powerful discussion.

Recorded: 4-7-2025 On this edition of Parallax Views, journalist James M. Dorsey of the Turbulent World w/ James M. Dorsey Substack returns for another Middle East update. In this conversation we go over the visit Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, is making to Washington D.C. to meet U.S. President Donald Trump. The visit will reportedly entail discussion focused on Israeli hostages in Gaza as well as U.S. tariffs. This comes on the heels of Netanyahu facing re-emerging politically turmoil domestically Israel. Netanyahu is complaining more and more of a "leftist deep state" in Israel and the U.S (see also: this report from The Times of Israel). Additionally, hundreds of thousands are fleeing the southern Gazan city of Rafah due to airstrikes and a deadly assault on medics in Gaza. Israel has had to walk back its account of how the assault on those medics happened as video of it has emerged. We'll be discussing all of this on the show as well as the relationship between Trump and the Gulf States, specifically Saudi Arabia and the UAE. What does this mean for Israel (and the Palestinians)? We'll discuss what leverage the Saudis may have in regard to what happens next in Gaza. We'll also discuss Turkey-Israel relations and Syria. And, of course, Iran will play into the discussion. And we'll delve into the rise of civilization-states, the difference between nation-states vs. civilizational states, and the battle of narratives between Israelis and Palestinians. All that and much more on this edition of Parallax Views w/ J.G. Michael!

On this edition of Parallax Views, host J.G. Michael engages renowned Israeli pollster Dahlia Scheindlin in a revealing discussion on the evolution of Israeli civil society and its dynamic relationship with both Palestinian civil society and internal societal shifts within Israel. Drawing from her insightful essay, “The Rise, Weakening, and Resurgence of Civil Society in Israel,” Dahlia navigates the complex interplay of historical, political, and social forces that have shaped civic life in the region. - Internal Transformation: Explore how the transition to the Likud government in the 1970s led to the weakening of Israel's welfare state, creating a vacuum that civil society eagerly filled with new social and political initiatives. - Historical Perspectives: Trace the development of Israeli civil society from its Zionist origins through the transformative eras of the Oslo Accords and beyond, while examining how these shifts have paralleled, intersected, and at times clashed with Palestinian civic movements. - Interplay of Resistance and Repression: Learn how grassroots resistance against occupation as well as anti-democratic movements in Israel has fueled a dynamic interplay between Israeli and Palestinian civil societies, fostering both collaboration and contention in the quest for justice and democratic reform. - Legislative and Social Backlash: Understand the impact of autocratic policies and legislative attacks under Netanyahu's government, which not only suppressed dissent but also galvanized a renewed civic activism among diverse groups. - Turning Points and Future Prospects: Delve into the dramatic civic mobilization following the events of October 7, 2023, and explore what this resurgence means for the future of democratic engagement and cross-community solidarity in a divided society. This episode offers a compelling narrative that weaves together historical context, political resistance, and the powerful role of civic action in shaping both Israeli and Palestinian futures. We will also discuss Dahlia's recent trip to the United States, where she is currently on a speaking tour. Additionally, Dahlia and will discuss into the gap between the perspectives of diaspora populations vs. those living in Israel/Palestine. You can currently obtain an ebook download of Suppressing Dissent, which features Dahlia's essay, for FREE at the Carnegie Endowment website. Contributors include such previous Parallax Views guests as Nathan J. Brown, Dana El Kurd, and Dahlia Scheindlin as well as Lara Friedman, Marwa Fatafta, Yael Berda, Jessica Buxbaum, and many others.

Iconoclasm, anybody?

On this edition of Parallax Views, Andrew Day—senior editor at The American Conservative and contributing fellow at Defense Priorities—joins the show to unpack his provocative article, “Mahmoud Khalil, Viewed From the Right.” In our conversation, Andrew explains why he believes MAGA conservatives must oppose the arrest and potential deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, a pro-Palestinian activist and green card holder whose First Amendment rights are at stake. Andrew details how the Trump administration's use of a 1952 immigration statute to target Khalil's protest activities not only oversteps constitutional protections but also sets a dangerous precedent for conservatives. He argues that even those who challenge Khalil's views must uphold free speech and that Khalil's detainment has less to do with being a threat to "U.S. foreign policy" than the fact he was protesting Israel. We will also discuss billionaire Trump back Miriam Adelson and pro-Israel affinity group advocacy in the U.S., disagreements that exist in the American conservative movement over the U.S. strikes against the Houthis in Yemen and concerns about the renewed potential for a conflict with Iran,

On this edition of Parallax Views, we dive into the struggles facing men in modern society with two insightful guests: Alex Gendler, author of "The New Superfluous Men" in American Affairs Journal, and Ryan Zickgraf, author of "Working-Class Men Are Not Okay" in Jacobin. Gendler unpacks the incel phenomenon, exploring how economic shifts, social alienation, and demographic imbalances have contributed to a growing class of men who feel expendable in a post-industrial world. Meanwhile, Zickgraf examines the deeper crisis afflicting working-class men—rising mortality rates, economic precarity, loneliness, and the erosion of traditional support networks. Are these issues cultural, political, or economic at their core? How do they fit into broader discussions about gender, class, and social discontent? And what solutions—if any—exist for reversing these trends? All that and more on this thought-provoking episode of Parallax Views.

Join Andrew and Cordula as they delve into the enigmatic archetype of the Fool. What does it mean to embrace the Fool's energy, and how can we navigate the delicate balance between freedom and responsibility?In this conversation, Andrew and Cordula explore:* The Nature of the Fool: From the earthy, Crazy Wisdom figure of the Marseilles Tarot to the more whimsical interpretations, they discuss the diverse facets of this archetype.* The Fool's Journey: How does one transition from naive innocence to mature wisdom? They examine the pitfalls and potentials of embracing the Fool's path.* Freedom and Responsibility: Can the Fool find balance? They discuss the importance of grounding, boundaries, and the integration of work and love in a meaningful life.* Personal Anecdotes: Hear stories of their own experiences with the Fool's energy, from bohemian nights in Paris to the challenges of parenthood.* Archetypes and Growth: How can we harness the Fool's energy to foster personal growth and resilience? They draw on examples from literature, art, and personal experience.* The importance of "taming" the fox, and what that means in relationships.* The difference between the immature and mature fool.* The importance of moving from the fool, to the magician.Timestamps:* 0:00 - Introduction to Parallax View and Cordula* 1:09 - Cordula's introduction and the Fool's night in Paris* 4:17 - What is the Fool?* 6:26 - Navigating naivety and wisdom* 12:15 - The impact of parenthood on the Fool's journey* 16:46 - Invoking the Fool's energy* 20:01 - The Fool's freedom and the cost of it* 26:35 - The mature Fool and finding a map* 30:15 - Moving from the Fool to the Magician* 33:26 - Taming the fox and the Little Prince* 37:35 - Creating Boundaries for the FoolConnect with Parallax:*https://www.parallax-media.com/the-parallax-view#ParallaxView #TheFool #Archetypes #PersonalGrowth #Wisdom #Spirituality #Tarot #Philosophy```

On this edition of Parallax Views, the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace's Zaha Hassan returns to the program alongside first-time guest Yousef Munayyer, a Senior Fellow at the Arab Center Washington D.C., to discuss the new book she co-edited with H.A. Hellyer entitled Suppressing Dissent: Shrinking Civic Space, Transnational Repression, and Palestine-Israel. Yousef is a contributor to the Suppressing Dissent and, amongst other things, he will discuss his piece in the book entitled "Closing Spaces Beyond Borders: Israel's Transnational Repression Network". Zaha will discuss a number of topics related to the book as well including her contribution, co-written with Layla Gantus, called "Between a Rock and a Hard Place: The Impact of Israel's Occupation and Palestinian Authoritarianism on Community Organizing and NGOs". The conversation will begin, of course, with a discussion of a case that makes this book timelier than ever: the detainment of Columbia University pro-Palestinian student protester Mahmoud Khalil by the Trump administration. From there we will discuss such issues as the Israeli-based NSO Group's infamous Pegasus spyware being used against Palestinian civil society organizations, the long shadow of the Oslo Accords, the interplay between the Israeli occupation and the governance in Gaza and the West Bank, revisiting Zaha's paper on the Human Rights-centric approach to dealing with Israel/Palestine, the debanking of Palestinian civil society individuals and organizations, the Palestinian Authority vs. Palestinian civil society, and much, much more. You can currently obtain an ebook download of Suppressing Dissent for FREE at the Carnegie Endowment website. Contributors include such previous Parallax Views guests as Nathan J. Brown, Dana El Kurd, and Dahlia Scheindlin as well as Lara Friedman, Marwa Fatafta, Yael Berda, Jessica Buxbaum, and many others.

On this edition of Parallax Views, Matthew Petti, an assistant editor at Reason magazine whose beat is national security issues, returns to the program to discuss his recent articles "Bipartisan war hawks go after Trump defense pick Elbridge Colby", "Is Trump borrowing Biden's ‘bear hug' approach to Israel?", and "Who is the Palestinian Columbia student detained for his protest activity?". We'll also discuss the situation in Syria, specifically the uprising and massacre of Alawite civilians in the past week. In regards to Syria, we'll dissect the information war shell game that's currently taking place and how various actors including Israel, Russia, Iran, Turkey, and the Arab Gulf States are all pushing certain narratives in relation to Syria's transitional government led by Ahmed al-Sharaa (formerly Abu Mohammad al-Julani). In the first portion of our conversation, we look at the confirmation hearing of Elbridge Colby, who has been nominated by President Donald Trump to be his Under Secretary of Defense for Policy. Although Colby belongs to the world of defense intellectuals and is not a dove by any stretch, some of his views have a pro-restraint bent that have come under fire from both Republicans and Democrats. Republican Senator Tom Cotton, in particular, appears to take issue with Colby, specifically Colby's views on the Middle East (Colby wants to wind down U.S. involvement in the region), and is alleged by a number of Trump allies to have been behind a recent whisper campaign against Colby. We'll examine the realist camp of figures who have been given positions within the Trump administration thus far and JD Vance and Marco Rubio's allusions to realist foreign policy views since Trump's election. We'll also discuss how the other side of the coin when it comes to this embrace of realism by elements of the Trump administration and MAGA. Namely, the increasing talk of consolidating U.S. power in its geographic sphere of influence (ie: all the talk of making Canada the "51st State"). Petti will also go over Colby's hawkish views on China, specifically in relation to Taiwan, and how his views have changed over the years. In the latter portion of the conversation, we'll discuss Petti's notion that Trump's may well be employing the "bear hug" strategy with Israel that many claimed Biden was using during his administration in light of the Gaza War. Petti makes the case that Biden did not actually apply the bear hug strategy, but that Trump may actually be using it. On one hand, Trump is frequently proclaiming his pro-Israel credentials for domestic consumption (ie: the targeting of Gaza protesters as "pro-Hamas" sympathizer or illegal "agitators"; saying he completely wants to eradicate Hamas). On the other hand, the Trump administration just held secretive talks with Hamas that were brought ot the public by Axios journalist Barak Ravid. Ravid, who has many sources within the Israeli national security state, broke the news and it seems reasonably to say Israeli security sources wanted the story to come out even if Trump didn't want that to happen. What are the implications of this? We'll delve into that in-depth. Afterwards we will turn our attention to detainment of Mahmoud Khalil, a lead negotiator for pro-Palestinian protest camp at Columbia University. The detainment has garnered massive media attention with Khalil currently being held at an ICE detainment center. Turns out Khalil is not in the U.S. on a student visa. He has a green card. Although the Department of Homeland Security argues that Khalil's " activities aligned to Hamas, a designated terrorist organization" he has not been charged with a crime and is a permanent legal resident of the U.S. The case is likely to raise a lot of debate about what constitutes support for a terrorist organization, specifically what constitutes material support and where the lines between 1st amendment rights and said support are drawn. All that and more on this edition of Parallax Views!

On this edition of Parallax Views, Terrifier 2 & Terrifier 3's star final girl, Lauren LaVera, has a new fright flick, The Fetus, coming out on March 7th that'll combine comedy and body horror! And it'll also feature horror icon Bill Moseley, know for his roles as the brutal killer Otis Driftwood in Rob Zombie's House of 1000 Corpses & The Devil's Rejects and the demented Choptop in Tobe Hooper's The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2, in a deliciously macabre role as a blind veteran with psychotic side. As you can probably surmise from the title, the movie will tackle pregnancy horror and creature feature thrills vis-à-vis a demonic baby. If you're a fan of 80s horrors like John Carpenter's The Thing or Wes Craven's A Nightmare on Elm Street, you'll be glad to know that the movie relies heavily on practical creature effects. It also promises to be a timely fright flick in light of the debates the rage on in American culture over abortion. Joining us to discuss the movie is the film's director, Joe Lam. We'll talk about the experience of working with Lauren LaVera and Bill Moseley, the long process of writing the movie, the influence of Orson Welles' Citizen Kane on Joe, the film's use of practical effects and the award-winning work of Alex Rojas on the creature effects, the decision to release The Fetus unrated and increasing obsolescence of the MPAA ratings system in the age of streaming, thoughts on Sean Baker's Oscar speech in which he made a call for defending independent film and movie theaters in an age where both are under threat, balancing comedy/humor and horror, the importance of story and character development in Joe Lam's approach to horror, and much, much more!

Bellumgenesis, or the cultural/memetic progression of and towards war. Also, the spectrum of peace/war: We are culturally never fully at peace, nor never fully at war, we are always inbetween. It implies that we are not aware how present behaviour escalates and deescalates war, or: we don´t know which behaviours escalates war and peace.

In our continuing series on the Iron Age Green Lantern, twentysomething ‘90s dude Kyle Rayner gets a new girlfriend (Donna Troy, formerly known as Wonder Girl, currently serving as a Darkstar), goes on a space adventure with his teammates in the Titans, meets Iron Age Flash Wally West and former Corpsman John Stewart, and is tempted to make a deal with the (literal) devil. But his biggest challenges will be confronting Major Force (the man who killed his previous girlfriend) and justifying his stewardship of the Green Lantern legacy when Hal Jordan returns and demands the ring back. And if he survives all that…he just might screw things up with Donna.Discussed in this episode: Green Lantern #59-70 and Annual #4 (1995), plus crossover issues of Guy Gardner: Warrior, New Titans, Darkstars, and Damage.

"It's astonishing to me that, despite the blizzard of barbarism currently being visited on them, Palestinians continue to produce such stunning writing. This excellent compilation is essential reading.” The above are the words of praise Brian Eno, long-time activist and one of the most consequential musicians of our time (as evidenced by his induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with Roxy Music; and that doesn't even touch on his contributions to electronica and ambient music), heaped on Sumūd: A New Palestinian Reader. Co-edited by Malu Halasa and Jordan Elgrably of The Markaz Review, a literature and arts from the center of the world and the diasporas of the Middle East and North Africa, this volume gives voice to the culture of Palestinians and its relationship to political resistance. On this edition of Parallax Views, Malu Halasa joins us to discuss Sumūd: A New Palestinian Reader and the collection of poetry, visual art of all kinds (from conceptual art to posters), literary criticism, and even speculative fiction/science fiction contained within it. Although many, especially since the war in Gaza, have become aware of the political dimensions of the Palestinian people, Sumūd: A New Palestinian Reader highlights the cultural dimension that is sometimes overlooked. However, that is not to say that the poltiical dimension is ignored in book. In fact, Sumūd: A New Palestinian Reader illustrates the connection, the ties that bind, between the cultural and the political for Palestinians. Contributors to the book include Israeli New Historian Ilan Pappe, noted Gaza expert Sara Roy, Palestinian-American poet Noor Hindi, Paris-based journalist Olivia Snaije, British-Palestinian writer Ahmed Masoud (whose speculative fiction/sci-fi short story "Application 39" is featured in the book and a topic of discussion in our conversation), Gaza's Theater for Everybody founder Hossam Madhoum, and many, many more! We'll discuss a number of topics in this conversation including Gaza, political resistance, Palestinian humor, allowing Palestinian voices to speak for themselves, and much, much more!

Is he dead yet?

On this edition of Parallax Views w/ J.G. Michael, award-winning journalist and author Simon Parkin joins us to discuss his latest book, The Forbidden Garden: The Botanists of Besieged Leningrad and Their Impossible Choice. This gripping true story explores the incredible sacrifice of scientists at the world's first seed bank, who risked—and even gave—their lives to protect a vast collection of plant biodiversity during the brutal Siege of Leningrad in World War II. We dive into the differing scientific views of pioneering botanist and geneticist Nikolai Vavilov and Soviet agronomist Trofim Lysenko, whose controversial theories led to disastrous agricultural policies and whose influence in the Soviet Union did Vavilov no favors. In the latter part of the conversation, Parkin shares insights from his work as a video game journalist, addressing concerns about the "Fortnite-ification" of the gaming industry—where games are increasingly developed as just monetized content rather than as artistic experiences. We also discuss his Atlantic article, "How a School Shooting Became a Video Game", which covers The Final Exam, a controversial video game designed to raise awareness about school shootings. Created by Change the Ref, an organization founded by Manuel and Patricia Oliver after their son Joaquin was killed in the 2018 Parkland shooting, the game forces players to experience the horror of a school shooting scenario—not for shock value, but to confront the grim reality of gun violence in America. Tune in for this powerful discussion on history, science, video games, and social issues—only on Parallax Views w/ J.G. Michael.

You're Listening to Parallax Views https://parallaxviews.podbean.com/ Support the Show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/parallaxviews On this edition of Parallax Views, it's Valentine's Day Parallax Views special! And to celebrate the J.G. decided to dig up an interview that was previously unreleased related to holiday. In 1981, George Mihalka's Canadian slasher My Bloody Valentine hit theaters. In the years since it has become a cult classic, enough so, in fact, to get a Hollywood remake in 2009 directed by Wes Craven protege Patrick Lussier & starring heartthrob Jensen Ackles from the hit TV show Supernatural. The original movie, in which a town known as Valentine Bluffs experiences a series of murders seemingly committed by a vengeful, deranged miner known as Harry Warden, has never received a proper sequel. Fans of the movie, however, came together to get a professionally done, feature-length fan sequel. It's called Valentine Bluffs: A My Bloody Valentine Fan Film and even features a guest starring performance from Troma's Lloyd Kaufman as the Mayor of Valentine Bluffs. It features all the bloody mayhem one would expect from a sequel to My Bloody Valentine, and, best of all for fans of 80s horror, features lovingly made practical effects rather than CGI. In this previously unreleased interview, I speak with director and special effects artist Tom Smith and lead actress Rachel Keefe about Valentine Bluffs: A My Bloody Valentine Fan Film in-depth! You can view the fan film for free on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RIIOv49awUU. Near the end of the conversation Rachel talks about her upcoming role in Joe Lam's horror movie The Fetus. As it turns out, The Fetus is set to be released next month, March 2025, and, in addition to Rachel Keefe, stars Terrifier 2 and Terrifier 3's Lauren LaVera as well as genre stalwart Bill Moseley from Rob Zombie's House of 1000 Corpses, The Devil's Rejects, and Tobe Hooper's The Texas Chainsaw Massacre! All that and more on this edition of Parallax Views!

On this edition of Parallax Views, another year has passed and longtime listeners will know what that means: a look back at the news that DIDN'T get adequately covered by the corporate press. Yes, it's that time again. The annual Project Censored check-in to Parallax Views. This time we have not one but two guests from Project Censored: the returning Mickey Huff and first-time guest Shealeigh Voitl. We'll look back at the state of the media ecosystem in a turbulent year that ended with Donald Trump being elected President for a second time. We'll look at the problem of junk food news, important stories that haven't received their due coverage in the news, and much more in this conversation!

On this edition of Parallax Views, last week President Donald Trump told reporters on Air Force One that he'd like to "clean out" war-torn Gaza. He suggested Egypt or Jordan take Palestinian refugees. Joining us to discuss Trump's floated idea of "cleaning out" Gaza is the Quincy Institute's Dr. Annelle Sheline. Dr. Sheline made headlines during the Biden-era because she resigned from the State Department over that administration's handling of Gaza. In this conversation Dr. Sheline will explain why Trump's "cleaning out Gaza" idea is concerning, not least of which because it would amount to ethnic cleansing of Palestinians in Gaza. She will also delve into how carrying out the idea would impact the peace between Israel and Jordan. In the latter portion of the program, we'll discuss the potential factional disputes in Trump's administration over U.S. foreign policy as it relates to the Middle East.

On this edition of Parallax Views, Antiwar.Com's Dave DeCamp joins the show to discuss Trump's appointment of Michael DiMino, a former CIA analyst and fellow at the realist and restraint think tank Defense Priorities, to head up Middle East policy at the Pentagon. DiMino, if his past comments are any indication, wants U.S. involvement in the Middle East to be drastically reduced. We'll also Trump envoy Steve Witkoff (specifically in relation to Gaza and Iran), Trump redesignating Cuba as a state sponsor of terror, Trump's comments about possible military intervention to deal with Mexican drug cartels, Trump's controversial statements about Greenland and the Panama Canal, and much more.

In this hard-hitting episode of Parallax Views w/ J.G. Michael, we welcome Chris Gunness, former Director of Communications and Advocacy for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), to discuss Israel's controversial ban on UNRWA and its far-reaching consequences for both Palestinians and Israelis. With the Knesset's legislation poised to expel UNRWA from Jerusalem and restrict its humanitarian operations, the episode delves into the grave repercussions of this move, including its impact on over 63,000 Palestinian refugees in East Jerusalem and the broader implications for regional stability. Gunness breaks down how this decision not only undermines UNRWA's vital services, such as education, healthcare, and food aid, but also sets the stage for the de facto annexation of Jerusalem in violation of international law, as highlighted by the International Court of Justice's (ICJ) recent ruling. Tune in for a compelling discussion that unpacks the complex layers of this issue and why it's not only a humanitarian crisis but also a political and moral one that could harm not only Palestinians but also Israel itself. We will discuss Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem in the course of this conversation and Chris will answer questions about some of the attacks that have been made on UNRWA in the past year. This is a must-listen episode for those seeking a deeper understanding of the intersection between international law, humanitarian aid, and the ongoing conflict in Israel-Palestine. Don't miss it!

You're Listening to Parallax Views https://parallaxviews.podbean.com/ Support the Show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/parallaxviews On this edition of Parallax Views, Victor Pickard, C. Edwin Baker Professor of Media Policy and Political Economy at the University of Pennsylvania's Annenberg School for Communication and Co-Director of the Media, Inequality & Change Center at said school, joins the show to discuss America's broken media ecosystem in the age of Donald Trump. Much of this conversation will be based around an article Pickard wrote for Election Analysis immediately after the 2024 Presidential election entitled "Under media oligarchy: Profit and power trumped democracy once again". We will also discuss way that American media could be repaired today, how we can fix the media ecosystem, and the promise of Indymedia models for reviving journalism and reporting in the United States. Some other issues covered throughout the course of our conversation include: public funding of media, the BBC vs. American media, news deserts and the consequences of the decline in local newspapers/outlets, and much, much more.

You're Listening to Parallax Views https://parallaxviews.podbean.com/ Support the Show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/parallaxviews On this edition of Parallax Views, Arno Rosenfeld, a reporter for one of America's most prominent Jewish publications, The Forward, joins the show to discuss his reporting on the right-wing, conservative think tank The Heritage's Foundation's Project Esther. Laid out as a plan to combat antisemitism, some have noticed the Project Esther seems to promote a conspiracy theory around the causes of antisemitism that is itself pulling from antisemitic conspiracy tropes. According to Project Esther, pro-Palestinian activism and antisemitism is the result of a "Hamas Support Network". In a PowerPoint presentation Project Esther point towards Jewish figures like billionaire George Soros and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker as the "masterminds" of cabal fueling antisemitism today. Beyond the conspiratorial nature of this claim and the fact that it's arguably promoting an antisemitic conspiracy theory itself, Rosenfeld has reported on how the Heritage Foundation's approach to combatting antisemitism differs from that of Jewish institutions and discusses how American Jewish institutions have been wary to endorse the Heritage Foundation project. These are Rosenfeld's reports on Project Esther: "Project Esther docs describe conspiracy of Jewish ‘masterminds'" "Scoop: Heritage Foundation plans to ‘identify and target' Wikipedia editors – The Forward" We will discuss the second article mentioned above and the concerns that the Heritage Foundation's plans of targeting Wikipedia editors has raised. Additionally, Arno and I will delve into the fault lines that exist in American Jewish political life today. This will make up the second half of our conversation and delves into the differences between legacy American Jewish institutions (what Jewish journalists like Rosenfeld and JTA's Ron Kampeas have called the American Jewish Establishment) and American Jews as a whole. This leads to a discussion of how American Jews are not a monolith. We will also discuss the impact of newer, counter-institutions like J Street on American Jewish political life, divisions in the American Jewish community over how to fight antisemitism, and much, much more.

You're Listening to Parallax Views https://parallaxviews.podbean.com/ Support the Show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/parallaxviews On this edition of Parallax Views, is a recently declassified NSA memo the smoking gun document that proves Ethel Rosenberg was wrongfully convicted and executed for the charge of being a Soviet spy? That's the contention of her sons Michael and Robert Meeropol. Michael Meeropol joins the program to take us through exactly what this declassified memo says and what it means for the conventional understanding of the Julius and Ethel Rosenberg espionage case. For those unfamiliar, on June 19th, 1953, during the era of Joe McCarthy and the Red Scare, Julius and Ethel Rosenberg were executed by electric chair at New York's Sing Sing Prison after being convicted of spying on behalf of the Soviet Union. They became the first Americans executed on espionage charges during a peacetime period in the United States. Since then, the Rosenberg's sons, the aforementioned Michael and Robert Meeropol, have sought to find out the truth about their parents and whether they were wrongfully convicted and executed. In the intervening years the question of Julius Rosenberg's guilt has been answered. Simply put, he did engage in espionage for the Soviet Union. The case of Ethel Rosenberg, however, has not been so clear cut. Now, the previously mentioned NSA memo that was recently declassified appears to be powerful evidence in favor of her innocence. In addition to discussing what is in this memo, Michael and I will also discuss his experiences growing up under the long shadow of his parents' espionage charges, the collaboration between liberals and right-wing anti-communists during the Red Scare, Michael's review of a biography about Judge Irving R. Kaufman (the judge who sentenced the Rosenbergs), and much, much more.