Podcasts about strongmen mussolini

  • 58PODCASTS
  • 80EPISODES
  • 52mAVG DURATION
  • 1EPISODE EVERY OTHER WEEK
  • Mar 27, 2025LATEST

POPULARITY

20172018201920202021202220232024


Best podcasts about strongmen mussolini

Latest podcast episodes about strongmen mussolini

BigTentUSA
BigTent Podcast: Democracy under Siege with Ruth Ben-Ghiat and Barbara McQuade

BigTentUSA

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2025 59:14


BigTentUSA hosted a crucial conversation with Ruth Ben-Ghiat, historian and author, and Barbara McQuade, former U.S. Attorney and MSNBC Legal Analyst. Kimberly Atkins Stohr, senior opinion writer and columnist at The Boston Globe, moderated the conversation.Both Ben-Ghiat and McQuade are recognized for their expertise in analyzing and addressing challenges to democratic institutions and the rule of law. Together, they discussed connections between historical fascist tactics and the current threats facing America today. This timely discussion shed light on the strategies used to manipulate public perception, erode trust in democracy, and consolidate power—offered insights into how we can resist and respond.ABOUT THE SPEAKERSRuth Ben-Ghiat is a Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University, specializing in the study of fascism, authoritarianism, and propaganda. She has authored several books, including the New York Times bestseller Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, which examines how illiberal leaders use propaganda, corruption, violence, and machismo to maintain power. In addition to her academic work, Ben-Ghiat publishes “Lucid,” a Substack newsletter focused on threats to democracy, and serves as an advisor to Protect Democracy.Barbara McQuade is a professor from practice at the University of Michigan Law School, her alma mater, where she teaches courses in criminal law, criminal procedure, national security, and data privacy. She is also a legal analyst for NBC News and MSNBC, and a co-host of the podcast #SistersInLaw. From 2010 to 2017, McQuade served as U.S Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan. Ms. McQuade was appointed by President Barack Obama, and was the first woman to serve in her position. Earlier in her career, she worked as a sports writer and copy editor, a judicial law clerk, an associate in private practice, and an assistant U.S. attorney. She is also the Author of Attack From Within: How Disinformation is Sabotaging America.Kimberly Atkins Stohr is a senior opinion writer and columnist at The Boston Globe. She is also an MSNBC contributor, a frequent panelist on NBC's “Meet the Press,” and co-host of the weekly Politicon legal news podcast #SistersInLaw. Previously, Kim was the inaugural columnist for The Emancipator, a collaboration between The Boston Globe and Boston University's Center for Antiracist Research that reframes the conversation about racial justice and equality. Download her newest Podcast: Justice By Design HERE.Watch YouTube Recording Learn More: BigTentUSA This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bigtentnews.substack.com

HistoryBoiz
Benito Mussolini Part 4

HistoryBoiz

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2025 158:39


Mussolini's spectacular fall from power would become a legendary cautionary tale for any would-be (and/or contemporary) despot going forward. Join us for part 4, the brutal conclusion of our series on the Italian fascist dictator!Sources:Ben-Ghiat, Ruth. STRONGMEN : Mussolini to the Present. S.L., W W Norton, 2021.Corner, Paul. Mussolini in Myth and Memory. Oxford University Press, 22 Sept. 2022.Gooch, John. Mussolini's War. Simon and Schuster, 1 Dec. 2020. ‌Ridley, Jasper. Mussolini. Rowman & Littlefield, 5 Sept. 2000.

HistoryBoiz
Benito Mussolini Part 3

HistoryBoiz

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2025 149:34


In this episode, Mussolini names and renames things after himself and his fascist “revolution”, appears shirtless in news reels, and decides that Italy should reacquire and acquire land enough to make a new Italian Empire. Join us this week for part 3!Sources:Ben-Ghiat, Ruth. STRONGMEN : Mussolini to the Present. S.L., W W Norton, 2021.Corner, Paul. Mussolini in Myth and Memory. Oxford University Press, 22 Sept. 2022.Gooch, John. Mussolini's War. Simon and Schuster, 1 Dec. 2020. ‌Ridley, Jasper. Mussolini. Rowman & Littlefield, 5 Sept. 2000.

HistoryBoiz
Benito Mussolini Part 2

HistoryBoiz

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2025 120:26


In part 2, Benito goes from being the editor of the left wing paper Avanti!, to marching (well, not personally, but figuratively) on Rome with his ultranationalist right wing black shirts. Join us for part 2, the Mussolini switcharoo!Sources:Ben-Ghiat, Ruth. STRONGMEN : Mussolini to the Present. S.L., W W Norton, 2021.Corner, Paul. Mussolini in Myth and Memory. Oxford University Press, 22 Sept. 2022.Gooch, John. Mussolini's War. Simon and Schuster, 1 Dec. 2020. ‌Ridley, Jasper. Mussolini. Rowman & Littlefield, 5 Sept. 2000.

HistoryBoiz
Benito Mussolini Part 1

HistoryBoiz

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 1, 2025 113:59


How does a young delinquent that is born and raised to be a fiery socialist rabble rouser, end up being the Italian fascist leader, Il Duce? It's a long, winding road to say the least! Join us for part 1 of Benito Mussolini!Sources:Ben-Ghiat, Ruth. STRONGMEN : Mussolini to the Present. S.L., W W Norton, 2021.Corner, Paul. Mussolini in Myth and Memory. Oxford University Press, 22 Sept. 2022.Gooch, John. Mussolini's War. Simon and Schuster, 1 Dec. 2020. ‌Ridley, Jasper. Mussolini. Rowman & Littlefield, 5 Sept. 2000.‌

8 O'Clock Buzz
Strongman Dystopia

8 O'Clock Buzz

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 2, 2025 19:05


Ruth Ben-Ghiat, Professor of History and Italian Studies at NYU, has written a book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, in which she explains what modern authoritarian leaders have in common with each other and how their plans follow the typical script of fascism developed a hundred years earlier. The post Strongman Dystopia appeared first on WORT-FM 89.9.

Middle East Focus
Rethinking Democracy Ep. 5: Impact of Donald Trump's Election on American Democracy and the World with Ruth Ben-Ghiat and Larry Diamond

Middle East Focus

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2024 48:54


About the series: This is a critical year for the future of democracy. Half the world's population will go to the polls in 2024, at a time when citizens in America and across the globe are losing faith in democratic institutions. We often view the rollback of democracy and threats to the liberal international order as separate problems, but in reality they are closely interlinked. Through a new limited podcast series, MEI's Gonul Tol seeks to examine the interplay between democracy's domestic and international foes as well as how to counter them. In this episode: Last month, the US electorate voted President-Elect Donald Trump back into the White House. His victory was seen by some experts as part of a global trend and a move towards anti-incumbency attitudes and populism. How will Trump's rhetoric impact the United States domestically and internationally? Will he govern as a strongman during his second term? What can we expect to be different from his first term? Dr. Larry Diamond, Mosbacher Senior Fellow of Global Democracy at the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies at Stanford University and author of Ill Winds: Saving Democracy from Russian Rage, Chinese Ambition, and American Complacency, and Ruth Ben-Ghiat, Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University and author of Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, join host Gonul Tol to discuss Trump's election.

Mid-Atlantic - conversations about US, UK and world politics

In this episode of *MidAtlantic*, host Roifield Brown, joined by panelists from both sides of the Atlantic, unpacks the political reverberations of the 2024 U.S. Presidential election and shifts in British leadership. From the Democratic Party's introspection post-Kamala Harris's defeat to the implications of Donald Trump's cabinet picks, the discussion spans populist movements, neoliberal woes, and institutional complacency.**Kamala Harris's Loss and Democratic Strategy** The panel critiques the Democratic Party's messaging failures, particularly its over-reliance on identity politics while neglecting the economic pain felt by working-class voters. Aram Fischer highlights the party's inability to address economic discontent effectively, allowing Trump's simplistic blame-game narratives to resonate more powerfully with voters. Michael Donahue underscores the challenge of combating right-wing populism in a political system dominated by neoliberal inertia and financial inequities.**Trump's Cabinet: A Show of Loyalty or Competence?** Donald Trump's controversial appointments, including vaccine skeptic RFK Jr. and loyalists like Matt Gaetz, reflect his disdain for institutional norms and his consolidation of personal power. The panel speculates on the potential for internal Republican politics to shape national policy, while noting the absence of checks on Trump's authority in this administration.**Across the Pond: Keir Starmer vs. Kemi Badenoch** In the UK, Prime Minister Keir Starmer's early tenure as a “boring but competent” leader is juxtaposed with Kemi Badenoch's shaky start as Leader of the Opposition. While Starmer's steadiness may benefit Labour in the short term, some panelists express concern over his lack of transformative vision. Meanwhile, Badenoch faces skepticism over her political depth and readiness, though some Tories remain hopeful about her potential.**The Gaza Debate and Moral Responsibility in Politics** The conversation takes an impassioned turn as the panel confronts the West's complicity in the ongoing crisis in Gaza. Criticism is levied against Keir Starmer and other Western leaders for their silence or tepid responses to what some panelists describe as ethnic cleansing. This segment underscores the broader tension between geopolitical pragmatism and moral leadership.**Quotes to Reflect On** 1. **Aram Fischer**: "Trump says, ‘I see your pain, and it's immigrants' fault.' Democrats say, ‘Things are getting better.' Guess which resonates more?” 2. **Michael Donahue**: “Neoliberalism has squeezed people for decades; what they need is left economic populism, not status quo institutionalism.” 3. **Steve O'Neill**: “Starmer's strength is in being a boring technocrat, but where's the big, juicy policy to show things are changing?” 4. **Dave Smith**: “If we can't call out ethnic cleansing in Gaza, what hope do we have of defending the rules-based international order anywhere?” 5. **Roifield Brown**: “Politics isn't just management—it's about inspiring people to believe change is possible.”**Further Reading** - [The Color of Law by Richard Rothstein](https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781631494536) - [Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present by Ruth Ben-Ghiat](https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781324001546) - [The History of the World in 47 Maps by John Elledge](https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781911393701) - [Tides of History Podcast](https://wondery.com/shows/tides-of-history/) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Colin McEnroe Show
Historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat on global authoritarianism and the future of democracy

The Colin McEnroe Show

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2024 48:59


Going into November, we'll be doing some shows where we talk with one guest, for the hour, who knows a lot about the election. This hour, we talk with Ruth Ben-Ghiat about authoritarianism and democracy. GUEST:  Ruth Ben-Ghiat: Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University. Her latest book is Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present. She also writes the Substack newsletter “Lucid.”  Support the show: http://www.wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Back Room with Andy Ostroy

Ruth Ben-Ghiat is Professor of History at New York University. She writes about fascism, authoritarianism, and propaganda. She is the recipient of Guggenheim and other fellowships; an advisor to Protect Democracy; an MSNBC opinion columnist and television commentator; and publishes Lucid, a newsletter on threats to democracy. Her latest book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present looks at how illiberal leaders use propaganda, corruption, violence, and machismo - and how they can be defeated. Ruth's back for another insightful conversation about Trump, Trumpism and the existential threat to democracy just two weeks from the most critical, consequential election in American history. Got somethin' to say?! Email us at BackroomAndy@gmail.com Leave us a message: 845-307-7446 Twitter: @AndyOstroy Produced by Andy Ostroy, Matty Rosenberg, and Jennifer Hammoud @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff Design by Cricket Lengyel

Mehdi Unfiltered
A Civil War in America? Two Experts Sound the Alarm on Trump's Second Term

Mehdi Unfiltered

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2024 2:59


This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit zeteo.comBomb threats to schools in Ohio attended by immigrants, an assassination attempt on a presidential candidate, and an increase in threats to federal judges are just a few examples of the heightened level of political violence in the United States. Much has been written about Donald Trump's hateful rhetoric and incendiary language but what will happen if he loses the election? A study last year showed that violence is gaining mainstream acceptance, with one-third of Republicans saying that violence may be the answer to saving the US. As the election approaches, can we totally discount the idea of a ‘civil war' in the US? Some say that this has all been a long-time coming. Jack Goldstone, an expert on Civil Unrest, practically predicted January 6th, writing alongside Peter Turchin less than two months before the 2020 election: “Is the US likely headed for still greater protests and violence? In a word, yes.”In fact, Goldstone had already predicted over 25 years ago that in the 21st century, the US would elect a populist America-first leader who would inflict division and chaos onto the country.Jack Goldstone, Professor of Public Policy at George Mason University joins this episode of ‘Mehdi Unfiltered' together with one of the top experts on fascism, New York University's History Professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat, the author of ‘Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present.' “What it would mean is an end to the lawful processes that we believe in. Revolutions have changed, they're more peaceful than they used to be, and we could have civil strife that changes our institutions,” said Goldstone.Ben-Ghiat cautioned that as “we saw on January 6th, [for them] violence is the way you change history. And that goes back to fascism, and it's also part of communism… This is what demagogues do, they have to condition people to see violence differently.”Watch the important, and at times disturbing, discussion above to hear the analysis of this particular political moment, what role language and rhetoric play in setting the stage for upheaval, and even whether a coup may be in the cards.

8 O'Clock Buzz
Strongman Dystopia

8 O'Clock Buzz

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2024 19:49


Ruth Ben-Ghiat, Professor of History and Italian Studies at NYU, has written a book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, in which she explains what modern authoritarian leaders have in common […] The post Strongman Dystopia appeared first on WORT-FM 89.9.

You Decide with Errol Louis
Ruth Ben-Ghiat: Understanding autocracy

You Decide with Errol Louis

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2024 42:06


The subject of autocracy is on the minds of many. We often hear about an existential threat to our democracy in the United States. But is fascism truly possible in America? Ruth Ben-Ghiat is a professor of history and Italian studies at New York University. She writes about fascism, authoritarianism, propaganda and democracy protection. Her most recent book, “Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present,” explores what modern authoritarian leaders have in common and how they can be stopped. She joined NY1's Errol Louis before a live audience at Temple Emanuel of Great Neck, New York, to discuss the book, her thoughts on how dictators rise to power and what she feels are effective weapons against strongmen. Join the conversation, weigh in on Twitter using the hashtag #NY1YouDecide, give us a call at 212-379-3440 and leave a message, or send an email to YourStoryNY1@charter.com.

Pivot
Disney's Victory Lap, Online Privacy, and Guest Ruth Ben-Ghiat

Pivot

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2024 80:46


Kara and Scott discuss Meta's stock continuing to rise, California businesses challenging Gov. Gavin Newsom on taxes, and Elon Musk's robotaxi announcement. Then, Disney successfully fended off Nelson Peltz in a proxy battle, but where does the company go from here? Plus, could Congress be getting close to actually passing an online privacy bill? Finally, our friend of Pivot is NYU history professor and author of "Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present," Ruth Ben-Ghiat. Ruth explains what the autocrats of the past can teach us about Donald Trump. Follow Ruth at @ruthbenghiat Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lincoln Project
Masochism and Ritual Humiliation with Ruth Ben-Ghiat

The Lincoln Project

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 31, 2024 37:14


Host Reed Galen is joined by Ruth Ben-Ghiat, Author and Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University. They discuss what to take away from the latest E. Jean Carroll verdict, how autocrats and criminal behavior often go hand-in-hand, and Greg Abbott's handling of the Texas border as viewed through a lens of authoritarianism. Plus, why eroding trust in democratic institutions is an autocrat's greatest weapon. If you'd like to hear more from Ruth, check out Lucid (her Substack newsletter) and pick up Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present. For more from Reed Galen, subscribe to “The Home Front”. If you'd like to ask a question or share a comment with The Lincoln Project, send an email to podcast@lincolnproject.us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Back Room with Andy Ostroy

Ruth Ben-Ghiat is Professor of History at New York University. She writes about fascism, authoritarianism, and propaganda. She is the recipient of Guggenheim and other fellowships; an advisor to Protect Democracy; an MSNBC opinion columnist and television commentator; and publishes Lucid, a newsletter on threats to democracy. Her latest book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present looks at how illiberal leaders use propaganda, corruption, violence, and machismo - and how they can be defeated. This is our first live-audience podcast taping! And it's a truly riveting conversation about America's chilling flirtation with fascism, Donald Trump's dangerous authoritarian behavior, the ongoing threats to democracy of Trumpism, the death of the Republican Party, and more. Got somethin' to say?! Email us at BackroomAndy@gmail.com Leave us a message: 845-307-7446 Twitter: @AndyOstroy Produced by Andy Ostroy, Matty Rosenberg, and Jennifer Hammoud @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff Design by Cricket Lengyel

The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steven Hassan
Mussolini to the Present- The Rising Tide of Online Authoritarian Influence with Ruth Ben-Ghiat

The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steven Hassan

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 11, 2023 47:33


Navigating a deeply divided, polarized world filled with vulnerable souls to the siren calls of conspiracy theories, I find it essential to shine a light on the shadows where undue influence thrives. In this discussion with historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat, we discuss the subtle and often sinister ways authoritarianism intertwines with the psychological mechanisms of control. We connect the dots from my experiences with cults and coercive persuasion. Ruth Ben-Ghiat is an NYU professor and expert on fascism and authoritarianism, a celebrated author, MSNBC columnist, and consultant, including for del Toro's Oscar-winning ‘Pinocchio.' Her book Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present explores the tactics of illiberal rulers and the history of resistance against them. With a focus on unraveling the complex tapestry of undue influence in modern politics, my discussion with historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat sheds light on the intricate relationship between authoritarianism and its psychological underpinnings. Learn more about Steven Hassan and Freedom of Mind Resource Center. Visit freedomofmind.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Think About It
Book Talk 61: Ruth Ben-Ghiat on Threats to Democracy and H.L. Mencken's "Notes on Democracy"

Think About It

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2023 57:21


A century ago, journalist H. L. Mencken provocatively stated in Notes On Democracy (new edition by Warbler Press, 2023) that anti-democratic behavior is not only not shocking but that we should in fact expect democracies to give rise to un- and even anti-democratic forces. Mencken doubted that such the evils of democracy will be cured by more democracy, which usually means elections and ‘fostering democratic norms and behaviors. So what is to be done? I spoke with NYU Professor and political commentator Ruth Ben-Ghiat on the current threats to democracy posed by populism, the media's role in shaping political views, what historical precedents of strongmen can teach us about today's threats to democracy, and what is crucially missing from today's political landscape. Find the texts: Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present (Norton, 2021) by Ruth Ben-Ghiat Notes On Democracy (1926) by H. L. Mencken Ruth Ben-Ghiat is a distinguished expert in the history of fascism and is appointed at NYU as Professor of History and Italian. A leading authority on the contemporary challenges facing democracies globally, she frequently provides insights as a commentator for various news networks and contributes as an MSNBC opinion columnist. In her newsletter, Lucid, she delves into the critical issues threatening democracy. Her work has been recognized with Guggenheim, NEH, Fulbright and other fellowships. Her latest book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present explores the regimes and rise to power of authoritarian leaders, while proposing strategies for their defeat. Follow her here: Twitter @RuthBenGhiat; Instagram @RuthBenGhiat. Ulrich Baer teaches literature and photography as University Professor at New York University. A recipient of Guggenheim, Getty and Humboldt awards, in addition to hosting "Think About It” he hosts (with Caroline Weber) the podcast "The Proust Questionnaire” and is Editorial Director at Warbler Press. Email ucb1@nyu.edu; Twitter @UliBaer; IG: @thinkaboutit.podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New Books Network
Ruth Ben-Ghiat on Threats to Democracy and H.L. Mencken's "Notes on Democracy"

New Books Network

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2023 57:21


A century ago, journalist H. L. Mencken provocatively stated in Notes On Democracy (new edition by Warbler Press, 2023) that anti-democratic behavior is not only not shocking but that we should in fact expect democracies to give rise to un- and even anti-democratic forces. Mencken doubted that such the evils of democracy will be cured by more democracy, which usually means elections and ‘fostering democratic norms and behaviors. So what is to be done? I spoke with NYU Professor and political commentator Ruth Ben-Ghiat on the current threats to democracy posed by populism, the media's role in shaping political views, what historical precedents of strongmen can teach us about today's threats to democracy, and what is crucially missing from today's political landscape. Find the texts: Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present (Norton, 2021) by Ruth Ben-Ghiat Notes On Democracy (1926) by H. L. Mencken Ruth Ben-Ghiat is a distinguished expert in the history of fascism and is appointed at NYU as Professor of History and Italian. A leading authority on the contemporary challenges facing democracies globally, she frequently provides insights as a commentator for various news networks and contributes as an MSNBC opinion columnist. In her newsletter, Lucid, she delves into the critical issues threatening democracy. Her work has been recognized with Guggenheim, NEH, Fulbright and other fellowships. Her latest book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present explores the regimes and rise to power of authoritarian leaders, while proposing strategies for their defeat. Follow her here: Twitter @RuthBenGhiat; Instagram @RuthBenGhiat. Ulrich Baer teaches literature and photography as University Professor at New York University. A recipient of Guggenheim, Getty and Humboldt awards, in addition to hosting "Think About It” he hosts (with Caroline Weber) the podcast "The Proust Questionnaire” and is Editorial Director at Warbler Press. Email ucb1@nyu.edu; Twitter @UliBaer; IG: @thinkaboutit.podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

New Books in History
Book Talk 61: Ruth Ben-Ghiat on Threats to Democracy and H.L. Mencken's "Notes on Democracy"

New Books in History

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2023 57:21


A century ago, journalist H. L. Mencken provocatively stated in Notes On Democracy (new edition by Warbler Press, 2023) that anti-democratic behavior is not only not shocking but that we should in fact expect democracies to give rise to un- and even anti-democratic forces. Mencken doubted that such the evils of democracy will be cured by more democracy, which usually means elections and ‘fostering democratic norms and behaviors. So what is to be done? I spoke with NYU Professor and political commentator Ruth Ben-Ghiat on the current threats to democracy posed by populism, the media's role in shaping political views, what historical precedents of strongmen can teach us about today's threats to democracy, and what is crucially missing from today's political landscape. Find the texts: Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present (Norton, 2021) by Ruth Ben-Ghiat Notes On Democracy (1926) by H. L. Mencken Ruth Ben-Ghiat is a distinguished expert in the history of fascism and is appointed at NYU as Professor of History and Italian. A leading authority on the contemporary challenges facing democracies globally, she frequently provides insights as a commentator for various news networks and contributes as an MSNBC opinion columnist. In her newsletter, Lucid, she delves into the critical issues threatening democracy. Her work has been recognized with Guggenheim, NEH, Fulbright and other fellowships. Her latest book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present explores the regimes and rise to power of authoritarian leaders, while proposing strategies for their defeat. Follow her here: Twitter @RuthBenGhiat; Instagram @RuthBenGhiat. Ulrich Baer teaches literature and photography as University Professor at New York University. A recipient of Guggenheim, Getty and Humboldt awards, in addition to hosting "Think About It” he hosts (with Caroline Weber) the podcast "The Proust Questionnaire” and is Editorial Director at Warbler Press. Email ucb1@nyu.edu; Twitter @UliBaer; IG: @thinkaboutit.podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

New Books in Political Science
Ruth Ben-Ghiat on Threats to Democracy and H.L. Mencken's "Notes on Democracy"

New Books in Political Science

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2023 57:21


A century ago, journalist H. L. Mencken provocatively stated in Notes On Democracy (new edition by Warbler Press, 2023) that anti-democratic behavior is not only not shocking but that we should in fact expect democracies to give rise to un- and even anti-democratic forces. Mencken doubted that such the evils of democracy will be cured by more democracy, which usually means elections and ‘fostering democratic norms and behaviors. So what is to be done? I spoke with NYU Professor and political commentator Ruth Ben-Ghiat on the current threats to democracy posed by populism, the media's role in shaping political views, what historical precedents of strongmen can teach us about today's threats to democracy, and what is crucially missing from today's political landscape. Find the texts: Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present (Norton, 2021) by Ruth Ben-Ghiat Notes On Democracy (1926) by H. L. Mencken Ruth Ben-Ghiat is a distinguished expert in the history of fascism and is appointed at NYU as Professor of History and Italian. A leading authority on the contemporary challenges facing democracies globally, she frequently provides insights as a commentator for various news networks and contributes as an MSNBC opinion columnist. In her newsletter, Lucid, she delves into the critical issues threatening democracy. Her work has been recognized with Guggenheim, NEH, Fulbright and other fellowships. Her latest book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present explores the regimes and rise to power of authoritarian leaders, while proposing strategies for their defeat. Follow her here: Twitter @RuthBenGhiat; Instagram @RuthBenGhiat. Ulrich Baer teaches literature and photography as University Professor at New York University. A recipient of Guggenheim, Getty and Humboldt awards, in addition to hosting "Think About It” he hosts (with Caroline Weber) the podcast "The Proust Questionnaire” and is Editorial Director at Warbler Press. Email ucb1@nyu.edu; Twitter @UliBaer; IG: @thinkaboutit.podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/political-science

New Books in Politics
Ruth Ben-Ghiat on Threats to Democracy and H.L. Mencken's "Notes on Democracy"

New Books in Politics

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2023 57:21


A century ago, journalist H. L. Mencken provocatively stated in Notes On Democracy (new edition by Warbler Press, 2023) that anti-democratic behavior is not only not shocking but that we should in fact expect democracies to give rise to un- and even anti-democratic forces. Mencken doubted that such the evils of democracy will be cured by more democracy, which usually means elections and ‘fostering democratic norms and behaviors. So what is to be done? I spoke with NYU Professor and political commentator Ruth Ben-Ghiat on the current threats to democracy posed by populism, the media's role in shaping political views, what historical precedents of strongmen can teach us about today's threats to democracy, and what is crucially missing from today's political landscape. Find the texts: Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present (Norton, 2021) by Ruth Ben-Ghiat Notes On Democracy (1926) by H. L. Mencken Ruth Ben-Ghiat is a distinguished expert in the history of fascism and is appointed at NYU as Professor of History and Italian. A leading authority on the contemporary challenges facing democracies globally, she frequently provides insights as a commentator for various news networks and contributes as an MSNBC opinion columnist. In her newsletter, Lucid, she delves into the critical issues threatening democracy. Her work has been recognized with Guggenheim, NEH, Fulbright and other fellowships. Her latest book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present explores the regimes and rise to power of authoritarian leaders, while proposing strategies for their defeat. Follow her here: Twitter @RuthBenGhiat; Instagram @RuthBenGhiat. Ulrich Baer teaches literature and photography as University Professor at New York University. A recipient of Guggenheim, Getty and Humboldt awards, in addition to hosting "Think About It” he hosts (with Caroline Weber) the podcast "The Proust Questionnaire” and is Editorial Director at Warbler Press. Email ucb1@nyu.edu; Twitter @UliBaer; IG: @thinkaboutit.podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/politics-and-polemics

New Books in American Politics
Ruth Ben-Ghiat on Threats to Democracy and H.L. Mencken's "Notes on Democracy"

New Books in American Politics

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2023 57:21


A century ago, journalist H. L. Mencken provocatively stated in Notes On Democracy (new edition by Warbler Press, 2023) that anti-democratic behavior is not only not shocking but that we should in fact expect democracies to give rise to un- and even anti-democratic forces. Mencken doubted that such the evils of democracy will be cured by more democracy, which usually means elections and ‘fostering democratic norms and behaviors. So what is to be done? I spoke with NYU Professor and political commentator Ruth Ben-Ghiat on the current threats to democracy posed by populism, the media's role in shaping political views, what historical precedents of strongmen can teach us about today's threats to democracy, and what is crucially missing from today's political landscape. Find the texts: Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present (Norton, 2021) by Ruth Ben-Ghiat Notes On Democracy (1926) by H. L. Mencken Ruth Ben-Ghiat is a distinguished expert in the history of fascism and is appointed at NYU as Professor of History and Italian. A leading authority on the contemporary challenges facing democracies globally, she frequently provides insights as a commentator for various news networks and contributes as an MSNBC opinion columnist. In her newsletter, Lucid, she delves into the critical issues threatening democracy. Her work has been recognized with Guggenheim, NEH, Fulbright and other fellowships. Her latest book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present explores the regimes and rise to power of authoritarian leaders, while proposing strategies for their defeat. Follow her here: Twitter @RuthBenGhiat; Instagram @RuthBenGhiat. Ulrich Baer teaches literature and photography as University Professor at New York University. A recipient of Guggenheim, Getty and Humboldt awards, in addition to hosting "Think About It” he hosts (with Caroline Weber) the podcast "The Proust Questionnaire” and is Editorial Director at Warbler Press. Email ucb1@nyu.edu; Twitter @UliBaer; IG: @thinkaboutit.podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New Books in European Politics
Ruth Ben-Ghiat on Threats to Democracy and H.L. Mencken's "Notes on Democracy"

New Books in European Politics

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2023 57:21


A century ago, journalist H. L. Mencken provocatively stated in Notes On Democracy (new edition by Warbler Press, 2023) that anti-democratic behavior is not only not shocking but that we should in fact expect democracies to give rise to un- and even anti-democratic forces. Mencken doubted that such the evils of democracy will be cured by more democracy, which usually means elections and ‘fostering democratic norms and behaviors. So what is to be done? I spoke with NYU Professor and political commentator Ruth Ben-Ghiat on the current threats to democracy posed by populism, the media's role in shaping political views, what historical precedents of strongmen can teach us about today's threats to democracy, and what is crucially missing from today's political landscape. Find the texts: Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present (Norton, 2021) by Ruth Ben-Ghiat Notes On Democracy (1926) by H. L. Mencken Ruth Ben-Ghiat is a distinguished expert in the history of fascism and is appointed at NYU as Professor of History and Italian. A leading authority on the contemporary challenges facing democracies globally, she frequently provides insights as a commentator for various news networks and contributes as an MSNBC opinion columnist. In her newsletter, Lucid, she delves into the critical issues threatening democracy. Her work has been recognized with Guggenheim, NEH, Fulbright and other fellowships. Her latest book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present explores the regimes and rise to power of authoritarian leaders, while proposing strategies for their defeat. Follow her here: Twitter @RuthBenGhiat; Instagram @RuthBenGhiat. Ulrich Baer teaches literature and photography as University Professor at New York University. A recipient of Guggenheim, Getty and Humboldt awards, in addition to hosting "Think About It” he hosts (with Caroline Weber) the podcast "The Proust Questionnaire” and is Editorial Director at Warbler Press. Email ucb1@nyu.edu; Twitter @UliBaer; IG: @thinkaboutit.podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gaslit Nation
Live Q&A with Ruth Ben-Ghiat and Olga Lautman

Gaslit Nation

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2023 15:25


This is an excerpt of Gaslit Nation's bonus show. To get access to this, our episodes ad free, our archives, live events, and more, support our independent journalism by subscribing at Patreon.com/Gaslit! Thank you to everyone who supports the show -- we could not make Gaslit Nation without you!  Thank you to everyone who braved a stormy night of torrential rain to attend the recent live taping of Gaslit Nation featuring historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat, author of the bestselling book Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, and Russian mafia expert Olga Lautman of the Kremlin Files podcast. This week's bonus episode includes the live Q&A with our audience, kicking off with Olga's theory...what if Prigozhin is still alive? In the introduction, Andrea shares two powerful films that are essential viewing, especially heading into 2024. Disinformation aims to divide and dehumanize. The anecdote to that is to stay human and center the human beings caught in the middle of powerful forces. So be sure to check out these two powerful films. One is a drama, The Swimmers, about two Syrian girls who dream of swimming in the Olympics for Syria, and instead have to escape the war, taking the dangerous journey to Europe by sea where they use their swimming training to pull their raft full of refugees for hours to shore after the boat's motor fails. It's an extraordinary story of resilience and gives important insight into the refugee crisis politically dividing Europe, inflaming the Russian-backed far-right. The second film is a Peabody Award-winning documentary called Missing in Brooks County. Like Ava DuVernay's 13th exposes the white supremacy cult of political and legal violence that built the prison industrial complex, Missing in Brooks County lifts the veil on the dystopian nightmare of the U.S. Southern Border, deliberately engineered for mass murder. And of course Elon Musk, Apartheid Barbie, made headlines this week in relation to both refugee crises. First, he was slapped on Twitter by the German government which clapped back at him for calling out their rescue efforts of refugees who take the perilous journey by sea to escape unimaginable danger and hardship at home. Then he pulled a disinformation stunt by visiting the U.S. border, called by a recent United Nations report the deadliest border crossing in the world. Musk, Trump, and Putin are all part of a global far-right movement to consolidate the world's racists, to chip away at democracy, to scapegoat victims of fascism and mafia state greed, and bring autocrats to power through incitement of political violence. We're seeing that same KKK terror on Staten Island where mobs of people continue to terrorize refugees by blasting intrusive lights and blaring car horns and more at a refugee center. We're not going to let them win. We're fighting back by building political power and growing our community beyond Apartheid Barbie's Twitter. You can join Andrea, J. Smith-Cameron and people across the country by supporting all important state races like the upcoming Virginia state elections -- more info here: https://www.grapevine.org/giving-circle/zjrhpjw/State-Fair And be sure to follow Gaslit Nation on the new socials we're building as we ramp up for 2024 and reclaim our democracy.  Finally, on Thursday October 5th at 4pm EST, Andrea will spill some tea on Fox News after speaking with a former insider, and record that in a special live stream available both on Patreon for our supporters and also Instagram Live. Look out for a Patreon post sent straight to your inbox for how to watch that stream as it goes live this coming Thursday. Thank you to everyone who supports the show – we could not make Gaslit Nation without you!  Instagram @GaslitNation: https://www.instagram.com/gaslitnation/ Threads @GaslitNation: https://www.threads.net/@gaslitnation Gaslit Nation's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaslitNation  Mastodon @GaslitNation: https://mastodon.social/@GaslitNation  Gaslit Nation's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gaslitnation5288 Gaslit Nation's Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gaslit_nation Spoutible @GaslitNation: https://spoutible.com/GaslitNation Post at @GaslitNation: https://post.news/@/GaslitNation Gaslit Nation on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/  

Gaslit Nation
HyperNormalisation

Gaslit Nation

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2023 56:34


Our song for September is 'The Cost of Living' by PrisonPenPal. Check out more of their music here: https://soundcloud.com/wot-not-718138294 To have your music featured on the show, submit it here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1-d_DWNnDQFYUMXueYcX5ZVsA5t2RN09N8PYUQQ8koq0/edit?ts=5fee07f6&gxids=7628  To receive all of our episodes ad free, get exclusive invites, access our archives and more, join our community of listeners by supporting our independent journalism at Patreon.com/Gaslit  HyperNormalisation was first coined by Russian-born anthropologist Alexei Yurchak in his book Everything was Forever, Until It Was No More. (It also inspired the Adam Curtis docuseries by the same name).  The term describes the final years of the Soviet Union when the system was failing, everyone knew the system was rotted from within by greed and corruption, yet people carried on, the broken system becoming the new normal. When our government can easily be shutdown by a Kremlin-backed, proudly fascist party, while its leader continues to call for violence, walking free after having tried to violently overthrow our government, and disinformation echo chambers on the far-right and far-left openly mock and attack the victims and targets of that fascism, America has reached HyperNormalisation. And the priority of the business elite is to protect their immorally low-tax rate and hoard their wealth, following in the footsteps of those who helped bring Hitler and Pinochet to power.  Elon Musk's X has become the biggest outlet of Russian disinformation, according to the EU. That's “mission accomplished” for the American far-right and its Russian backers. Formerly reliable so-called “resistance” accounts on Twitter that once led the way combating Trump and Putin have succumbed to self-censorship and catering to Musk's oppressive algorithms like they're an authoritarian regime. This causes them to fall silent on ringing the alarm on the stakes to all of us for stopping Russia's genocide in Ukraine, LGBTQ+ rights that are being scapegoated through genocidal rhetoric, and more. You know things are bad when even Ralph Nader is ringing the alarm of fascism and wants to campaign for the Democrats!  Since the beginning of the show, the focus has been on grassroots power–the most reliable power we have left. Together, we made 15,000 phone calls to get John Fetterman into the Senate, and he's leading the way against corruption and greed. To maintain your courage and stay grounded in the truth, check out the Gaslit Nation Action Guide. You can also join Andrea, J. Smith-Cameron, and people across the country in State Fair, a grassroots group with the States Project organizing for the upcoming Virginia election to stop Posh Trump Youngkin from winning a majority in Virginia's state government and banning abortion.  In this episode, you'll hear an excerpt of the August 5th live taping of Gaslit Nation at Caveat in NYC with the Risk! Storytelling podcast by comedia Kevin Allison of the iconic comedy group The State, which launched the comedic geniuses Michael Showalter, Michael Ian Black, David Wain, and many more. Thank you to everyone who came out! We hope to do more live tapings closer to the election.  This week's Q&A will feature the audience questions at the live taping featuring historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat, author of the bestselling book Strongmen: Mussolini to Present, and Russian mafia expert Olga Lautman of the Kremlin Files podcast. Thank you to everyone who supports the show – we could not make Gaslit Nation without you!  Show Notes: We encourage you to check out the sponsors of this week's episode:  Cozy Earth provided an exclusive offer for our listener's today. Up to  35% off site wide when you use the code “GASLIT" https://cozyearth.com/ Want to join the conversation? Subscribe to join our community of listeners at Patreon.com/Gaslit  Join Andrea, J Smith-Cameron, and people across the country in the grassroots group State Fair to help protect Virginia from Posh Trump and his rightwing agenda https://www.grapevine.org/giving-circle/zjrhpjw/State-Fair Opening Clip of Tim Gurner: https://twitter.com/FinancialReview/status/1701440109948887057 U.S. Accuses Amazon of Illegally Protecting Monopoly in Online Retail https://www.nytimes.com/2023/09/26/technology/ftc-amazon.html?campaign_id=60&emc=edit_na_20230926&instance_id=0&nl=breaking-news&ref=cta®i_id=48614702&segment_id=145764&user_id=097a378032011d6e8be1570cdce0a176 Biden speaking at the UAW picket line https://www.c-span.org/video/?530728-1/pres-biden-joins-uaw-picket-line-michigan Musk's X Is Biggest Outlet of Russia Disinformation, EU Says https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-09-26/eu-faults-musk-s-x-in-fight-against-russia-s-war-of-ideas?srnd=undefined#xj4y7vzkg Ralph Nader wants to help Democrats win https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2023/09/26/ralph-nader-joe-biden-election/ The Kushner Family is Cozying Up to Nikki Halely https://www.vanityfair.com/news/2021/07/the-kushner-family-is-cozying-up-to-nikki-haley  Republicans Lead Race for Private Equity's 2024 Dollars https://www.wsj.com/articles/republicans-lead-race-for-private-equitys-2024-dollars-ba152e12?page=1 @JStein_WaPo: “Hard to find a quote that better summarizes how Obamanomics =/= Bidenomics” https://twitter.com/JStein_WaPo/status/1706747404756635815 @AriDrennen: “Michael Knowles claims trans kids are the number one thing in voters' minds in the 2024 election and that GOP candidates should focus on that instead of "bread and butter, dinner table issues" https://twitter.com/AriDrennen/status/1706754511581147292 Ukrainian oligarch Pavel Fuks has been linked to Russian Intelligence, employed Giuliani and has newly reported ties to Trump Tower in NYC https://newstracs.com/ukrainian-oligarch-pavel-fuks-has-newly-reported-ties-to-trump-tower-in-nyc/2023/09/18/ The antidote to civilisational collapse: An interview with the documentary filmmaker Adam Curtis on his docuseries HyperNormalisation https://www.economist.com/open-future/2018/12/06/the-antidote-to-civilisational-collapse Elie Mystal on Twitter: “Good job, Merrick Garland. Your weakness has orchestrated the indictment of a private citizen trying to overcome drug addiction so Republicans can try to hit a bank shot off of him to his loving father, all because you were afraid of looking "political" to Fox News viewers.”  https://twitter.com/ElieNYC/status/1702384315806466475 Hunter Biden claims in lawsuit that Rudy Giuliani hacked his data https://www.politico.com/news/2023/09/26/hunter-biden-rudy-giuliani-lawsuit-laptop-00118112 Follow-up on last week's bonus episode:  “Even back in the 1850s, when an immigrant arrived who was sick, they would be sent to Staten Island to get better. And even back then, the residents of Staten Island didn't much like being forced to take immigrants who they didn't particularly want,” Anbinder told me. “We tend to idealize our own immigrant ancestors and think they're different than immigrants today. But what you find when you look at the 400-year history of immigrant New York is that every generation of immigrants comes to New York for the same reasons, has the same experiences, is hated by the people who are already in New York, and yet always they end up succeeding. And so every group is despised for a time, but every group ends up becoming an accepted New Yorker. We just forget that, generation after generation after generation.” Source:The Biggest Lesson of the Migrant Crisis https://nymag.com/intelligencer/2023/09/the-biggest-lesson-of-the-migrant-crisis.html  

Gaslit Nation
Are Putin and Trump Winning?

Gaslit Nation

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 20, 2023 52:50


Welcome to the recording of the live taping of Gaslit Nation featuring historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat, author of the bestselling book Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, Russian mafia expert Olga Lautman, co-host of the Kremlin Files podcast, and reactions from our live audience. We recorded this episode at P&T Knitwear in New York City. Thank you to everyone who came out on a torrential rainy night. We hope to do another live event closer to the election.  In this episode, we discuss whether Putin and Trump are winning and how to stop them; how to navigate the hellscape during a time of cults on the far-right and far-left; why are Americans having Ukraine fatigue even though Russian fascism helps prop up the Republican Party threatening our own democracy, and how to build a livable future even when everything feels especially demoralizing and overwhelming. The live audience Q&A will run as an upcoming bonus episode. Thank you to everyone who joined the conversation!  This week's bonus episode is the live audience Q&A featuring Terrell Starr reporting from Ukraine during the recent virtual live taping of Gaslit Nation. That discussion includes how to stand up for yourself at work when you're being exploited and gaslit; what to do when those around you don't understand the urgency of the moment; and more! Thank you to everyone who keeps Gaslit Nation going especially during these difficult times. We could not make our show without you! Want to join the conversation? Subscribe to join our community of listeners at Patreon.com/Gaslit  We encourage you to check out the sponsors of this week's episode:  Cozy Earth provided an exclusive offer for our listener's today. Up to  35% off site wide when you use the code “GASLIT" Look out for upcoming interviews with Heather Cox Richardson sharing lessons from American history, her new book Democracy Awakening: Notes on the State of America, and the original Nazi hunter – Andrea's boyfriend Ulysses S. Grant. We'll also be joined by Jesse Eisinger, a Senior Editor at ProPublica and author of The Chickenshit Club Why the Justice Department Fails to Prosecute Executives. Jesse is on the team exposing corruption on the Supreme Court and uncovered that former Manhattan DA Cy Vance, Jr. failed to charge Ivanka Trump and Donald Trump, Jr. in a fraud case.   

Gaslit Nation
Are We Headed Towards Mass Violence?

Gaslit Nation

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2023 24:33


Quick reminder: This Monday 9/18, Andrea will be in discussion with historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat, author of the bestselling book Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, and Russian mafia expert Olga Lautman of the Kremlin Files podcast to discuss the new Gaslit Nation graphic novel Dictatorship: It's Easier Than You Think! and how to defeat Trump and Putin. Copies of the book signed by both Andrea and Sarah will be available at the event, which will be held at P&T Knitwear on the Lower East Side at 7pm. Our Patreon community can join Andrea starting at 6pm for free N95 masks and a signed Mr. Jones poster. Details here: https://ptknitwear.com/events/29217 In this special and personal call to action, Andrea shares her story on why it's important to interview someone you love while there's still time: “On New Year's Day, we had to rush someone in my immediate family to the hospital. Since then, their health has been in decline as they battle two terminal illnesses. In February, I produced a list of questions for interviewing them on camera, to preserve their history as a treasured family keepsake, but life got in the way, and I waited too long to conduct the interview. When I finally managed to sit down with them for the interview, their health had declined to the point where they could no longer sit through more than 30 minutes of conversational talking. As they continue their treatments, we continue to do what we can as a family for our loved one as they bravely face the hardest battle of their life. Don't make the mistake I did. Make time to interview those you love as a celebration of your love and the family you were lucky to have been born into and/or the family you were lucky to make. We all need each other. No one gets through these times alone.” Here are the list of questions: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dR-rDSmQUFJCDxF9veqcVrxObOhP41uv6orogKGnGIY/edit?usp=sharing This week's bonus episode is a response to a comment on last week's bonus show on why Biden Must Declare a Climate Emergency. You can find that here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/88983043 (There's a free excerpt wherever you get your podcasts). That bonus episode created a lot of discussion among our listeners on Patreon, including one who commented that we're inevitably headed towards mass violence. Are they right? And what does that mean and how can it be avoided? This deserves a much larger discussion, and we appreciate your comments.  Sarah joins this week's bonus episode to answer questions from our listeners. Our supporters on Patreon at the Truth-teller level and higher can submit their questions in the comments section or by sending a private message on Patreon. Subscribe today to join the conversation: Patreon.com/Gaslit  Thank you to everyone who supports the show – we could not make Gaslit Nation without you. To join the conversation and our community of listeners, get bonus shows, all shows ad free, exclusive invites and more, sign up at Patreon.com/Gaslit 

The Lincoln Project
In the Window with Ruth Ben-Ghiat

The Lincoln Project

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2023 35:25


Host Reed Galen is joined by Ruth Ben-Ghiat, Author and Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University. They discuss the role extremist groups play in a nation's evolution to authoritarianism, how every Trump rally since 2015 has been a radicalization site, and how the history of strongmen can inform our nation's current political moment. If you'd like to hear more from Ruth, check out Lucid (her Substack newsletter) and pick up Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present. If you'd like to ask a question or share a comment with The Lincoln Project, send an email to podcast@lincolnproject.us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gaslit Nation
Terrell Starr on Living Among Drones in Kyiv

Gaslit Nation

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2023 54:59


A special reminder! This coming Monday September 18th at 7pm at P&T Knitwear on the Lower East Side, Andrea will join historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat, author of the bestselling book Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, and Russian mafia expert Olga Lautman of the Kremlin Files podcast for a special in-person live taping of Gaslit Nation. A select few copies of the Gaslit Nation graphic novel Dictatorship: It's Easier Than You Think! signed by both Andrea and Sarah will be available at the event. Get them while supplies last! Event details are here. For Patreon supporters, there will be a special meet-up at 6pm just for you that includes FREE N95 masks and signed Mr. Jones posters – details to come! To join our community on Patreon, sign up at Patreon.com/Gaslit  In this special live taping of Gaslit Nation, journalist Terrell Starr reports from Kyiv, Ukraine on what his life is like living among drones, missile attacks, bomb sirens, and the amazing bars and restaurants of Ukraine. The defiance of life among Russia's death and destruction sustains people as they carry on with their days, many wounded and now disabled, as Terrell describes, and facing nuclear threats and the aftermath of the massive dam explosion. Terrell and Andrea discuss the GOP's latest Kremlin disinformation smear of Biden with their impeachment show trial heading into 2024 to help Russian asset Trump, why the G20 summit in India watered down its statement of support for Ukraine, why Elizabeth Warren gives us hope by taking on Elon Musk who was recently praised by Putin after it was revealed he sabotaged Ukraine's efforts to liberate Crimea, a cesspool of repression under Russian occupation. All that and more are discussed in this look at the threat of autocracy in the US and beyond.  The live audience Q&A with compelling questions and comments from our listeners will run next week as a bonus episode. This week's bonus show includes a Q&A of Sarah answering questions from our listeners. To have your questions answered, send us a private message or drop them in the comment section below. Thank you to everyone who supports the show, especially during these difficult times. We could not make Gaslit Nation without you!  We encourage you to check out the sponsors of this week's episode:  Cozy Earth provided an exclusive offer for our listener's today. Up to  35% off site wide when you use the code “GASLIT" Go to HelloFresh.com/50gaslit and use code 50gaslit for 50% off plus 15% off the next two months!  Show Notes: Opening Clip: https://twitter.com/lizbrownkaiser/status/1701630833398821106 Russia's Putin praises Elon Musk as an ‘outstanding person' and ‘talented businessman' https://www.cnbc.com/2023/09/12/russias-vladimir-putin-praises-elon-musk-as-an-outstanding-person.html Senator Warren demands an investigation into SpaceX after Musk blocked Ukraine from extending the Starlink network near Crimea. https://twitter.com/OstapYarysh/status/1701592112246997228 Christopher Steele on India funding Russia's genocide in Ukraine https://twitter.com/Chris_D_Steele/status/1701309978215067959 Anne Applebaum on Elon Musk sabotaging Ukraine's efforts to liberate Crimea https://twitter.com/anneapplebaum/status/1701282864011121024 In time of war, Russia turns up aggression on transgender citizens https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2023/09/10/russia-outlaws-transgender-citizens/ US behind more than a third of global oil and gas expansion plans, report finds https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/sep/12/us-behind-more-than-a-third-of-global-oil-and-gas-expansion-plans-report-finds?CMP=share_btn_tw  

Below the Radar
Fascist Strongmen — with Ruth Ben-Ghiat

Below the Radar

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2023 30:08


Ruth Ben-Ghiat, Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University, joins Am Johal to discuss the pertinent topic of fascism and how political figures use and promote the image of “strongmen'' in their pursuit of power. Am and Ruth explore the modern political environment through Ruth's book, Strongmen: From Mussolini to the Present, linking the style of Mussolini to politicians like Berlusconi, Orban, and Trump, and the process by which they become more corrupt, more reliant on power, and thereby more reliant on extremists. In conjunction with our previous episode with Alberto Toscano, these two episodes give a historical perspective to understanding the rise of fascism in the present. Full episode details: https://www.sfu.ca/vancity-office-community-engagement/below-the-radar-podcast/episodes/218-ruth-ben-ghiat.html Read the transcript: https://www.sfu.ca/vancity-office-community-engagement/below-the-radar-podcast/transcripts/218-ruth-ben-ghiat.html Resources: Ruth Ben-Ghiat: https://ruthbenghiat.com/ Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present: https://wwnorton.com/books/strongmen Lucid: Substack Newsletter: https://lucid.substack.com/ Bio: Ruth Ben-Ghiat is Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University. She writes about fascism, authoritarianism, propaganda, and democracy protection. Her latest book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, examines how illiberal leaders use corruption, violence, propaganda, and machismo to stay in power, and how resistance to them has unfolded over a century. Cite this episode: Chicago Style Johal, Am. “Fascist Strongmen — with Ruth Ben-Ghiat.” Below the Radar, SFU's Vancity Office of Community Engagement. Podcast audio, September 12, 2023. https://www.sfu.ca/vancity-office-community-engagement/below-the-radar-podcast/episodes/218-ruth-ben-ghiat.html.

Gaslit Nation
Why Biden Must Declare a Climate Emergency [TEASER]

Gaslit Nation

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2023 14:39


This is a free excerpt of this week's bonus show. To access the full discussion, our archives, receive all episodes ad free, invites to events like our live taping and audience Q&A with Terrell Starr of the Black Diplomats podcast this Tuesday at 12pm ET, subscribe to the show at the Truth-teller level or higher and join our community of listeners who sustain much-needed independent journalism. Become a member today: www.Patreon.com/Gaslit    Should we drop out of society and organize mass orgies given the state of the world? That and more are discussed in this week's bonus episode.   This discussion was inspired by a question from our Patreon community and is an urgent argument for why Biden must declare a climate emergency, especially if he wants to boost his poll numbers. Gen Z is voting in larger numbers, running for office, building grassroots organizing machines, and they're demanding their elected leaders ensure a livable future. Biden will drive out the vote of an increasingly influential Gen Z by declaring a climate emergency, and at the same time energize a new generation of leaders to help strengthen and protect our democracy. It's not up to Gen Z to save us, but it is up to us to listen to Gen Z. Biden did just that by rolling back oil leases to protect pristine wilderness. Now it's time to hyper-speed a renewable energy revolution by declaring a climate emergency. The latest research by the Cassandras of the climate crisis like James Hansen, the former NASA scientist who testified to Congress in 1988 that we were headed towards collapse, warn that the heating of the planet is accelerating.   Declaring a climate emergency is urgently needed national security and foreign policy. The sooner we achieve a post-oil world, the sooner we put gas station dictatorships like Russia and Iran out of business. China, another major producer, buys cheap oil from Russia, financing its genocide in Ukraine, while Iran provides killer drones slaughtering civilians. To defund these repressive mass-murdering regimes, expand the transition to renewable energy with executive emergency powers. The Department of Defense elevated climate change as a national security priority, because if we don't move faster the world will become ungovernable. The fascist far-right trying to overthrow our democracy is deeply embedded with Big Oil like the Koch political network, as discussed in our interviews with Anne Nelson, author of The Shadow Network, and historian Nancy MacLean, author of Democracy in Chains. Making fossil fuels obsolete defunds the shadowy backers of America's far-right threat, supported in a global fascist alliance by oil producer Russia. Trump, Marjorie Taylor Greene, Vivek Ramaswamy, and other Kremlin mouthpieces are just the lobbyist puppets of the fossil fuel industry.   Even if the Supreme Court were to strike down or curb efforts by Biden to unlock executive emergency powers for meaningful climate action, the court's far-right Republican majority would be met with backlash at the voting booth, as we saw in the 2022 midterms. A Roe v. Wade blue wave ensured Democrats kept the Senate and that Republicans only got a fragile majority in the House, defying historical trends of the president's party losing badly in midterm elections. People left, right, and center are terrorized by the reality of extreme fires, hazardous smoke, and killer super storms. The horrifying new normal of the climate emergency breaks through far-right disinformation machines like Fox News, with young Republicans demanding action on climate change and traditionally conservative farmers working with the federal government on climate crisis projects. The very real fears and destruction of the existential threat we all live with now is a unifying moment that a president must meet by declaring a climate emergency. Morally it's the right thing to do and long past time.   Leadership at the top and at all levels of government must speed up the renewable energy revolution. Biden has led on uniting the democratic alliance against Russia, and bold leadership bringing us closer to a post-carbon world will defund Russia's war machine. And his re-election will be guaranteed if he energizes Gen Z's grassroots base by giving civilization a fighting chance. There's still time, but only if we unite against "feel good" pledges and demand bold executive action now.   You can contact the White House by sharing this essay or your own arguments, and raise your voice on social media demanding a climate emergency. Contact your local reps in your state government, too. Local changes can trickle up. There's more info and ways to take action below from the Sunrise Movement: Millions of young people: @POTUS end fossil fuels Biden: *cancels all remaining oil and gas leases in the Arctic Refuge and protects 13 million acres in the Western Arctic* It's clear he's listening. Demand that he declare a climate emergency next ⬇️ https://twitter.com/sunrisemvmt/status/1699888163467219004 Announcements: Tuesday September 12 at 12pm ET – Terrell Starr of the Black Diplomats podcast will join a special live taping of Gaslit Nation. A link to join that virtual event will go out to our Patreon community at the Truth-teller level and higher on the morning of the event. Join the conversation in our audience Q&A! Monday September 18th at 7pm ET at P&T Knitwear – Historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat, the author of Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, and Russian mafia expert Olga Lautman will join me, Andrea, to discuss the new Gaslit Nation graphic novel Dictatorship: It's Easier Than You Think! It's free. There will be a special meet up at 6pm before the event for our Patreon community. I will have N95 masks for those who need one. Come say hi! Here's the event link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/andrea-chalupa-presents-gaslit-nation-a-live-podcast-recording-tickets-699829909097 Show Notes:   James Hansen: There Is a Lot More Warming in the Pipeline (Summary of Report) https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2022/12/25/2143836/-James-Hansen-There-Is-a-Lot-More-Warming-in-the-Pipeline   Peer & Public Review of James Hansen's “Global Warming in the Pipeline” http://www.columbia.edu/~jeh1/mailings/2023/Peer+PublicReview.21July2023.pdf   MUST READ: James Hansen Op-Ed: President Biden's Legacy http://www.columbia.edu/~jeh1/mailings/2022/BidensLegacy.08August2022.pdf   VIDEO: Global Warming in the Pipeline - Discussion by Climate Emergency Forum https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-ArA_xYxfs   ‘We are damned fools': scientist who sounded climate alarm in 80s warns of worse to com https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/jul/19/climate-crisis-james-hansen-scientist-warning   Steve Bannon Saw the ‘Monster Power' of Angry Gamers While Farming Gold in World of Warcraft https://nymag.com/intelligencer/2017/07/steve-bannon-world-of-warcraft-gold-farming.html   Steve Bannon Targeted 'Incels' Because They Are 'Easy to Manipulate,' Cambridge Analytica Whistleblower Says https://www.newsweek.com/steve-bannon-targeted-incels-manipulate-cambridge-analytica-whistleblower-christopher-wylie-1468399?utm_campaign=NewsweekTwitter&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Twitter   Climate change: More than 3bn could live in extreme heat by 2070 https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-52543589  

Gaslit Nation
All Eyes on Virginia

Gaslit Nation

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 6, 2023 61:05


Special announcements:  Terrell Starr of the Black Diplomats podcast will join Gaslit Nation Tuesday September 12th at 12pm ET for a live taping – get your ticket by subscribing at the Truth-teller level or higher and join the conversation in the chat! The access link will be sent exclusively to our Patreon community the morning of the show. Sign up at Patreon.com/Gaslit  Historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat, author of the bestselling book Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, and Russian mafia expert Olga Lautman of the Kremlin File podcast, will join Andrea at a special in person live taping of Gaslit Nation Monday September 18th at 7pm ET at P&T Knitwear on the Lower East Side. Patreon supporters can join Andrea for an exclusive early meet up at 6pm ET for signed Mr. Jones posters. Free N95 masks will be available at the event.  In this super caffeinated episode, Andrea breaks down the recent news on the climate crisis exposing Burning Man and America's Grover Norquist crisis; the classic authoritarian story of business elites fueling the rise of Nazis – this time by flocking to Florida for the tax breaks; how Twitter helped Saudi Arabia target and destroy the lives of activists; the apparent self-censorship on Twitter as people make moral compromises to try to game the Big Brother algorithm by avoiding issues Elon Musk works against like Ukraine and trans rights – Gaslit Nation sees you!  J. Smith-Cameron, “Gerri” on Succession and the star of theater, film, and TV, shares an important call-to-action to protect quality of life and democracy in Virginia in the impending state elections there, which will help determine which party wins the electoral college in 2024. To join J. and Andrea at State Fair, their States Project giving circle, for events to reach voters in Virginia, sign up here. Our efforts helped a grassroots victory flip the Pennsylvania state House from Republican to Democratic control, helping protect the integrity of the vote there in 2024.  Finally, Daniel Squadron, a former New York state Senator, and Melissa Walker, a novelist and activist, of the States Project join Gaslit Nation to expose the far-right machine fueling “Posh Trump” Glenn Youngkin, the Governor of Virginia and a potential presidential candidate who would bring a dog whistler-version of Trumpism to the White House.  This week's bonus episode will be a special Q&A answering questions from our Patreon community. To have your question answered and join the conversation, support the show by subscribing at the Truth-teller level or higher. Your subscription sends every episode ad free to your inbox and gives you full access to our archives, including all bonus episodes, and supports independent journalism during this critical time. Thank you to everyone who supports Gaslit Nation – we could not make the show without you!  Gaslit Nation will remain on Twitter, but would like to expand to other platforms to break our dependency on Apartheid Barbie's “authoritarian town square.” Follow us here and let's continue the conversation – more platforms will be added and developed soon:  Threads @GaslitNation  Instagram @GaslitNation  Facebook @GaslitNation Mastodon @GaslitNation  YouTube @GaslitNation Tiktok @GaslitNation Spoutible @GaslitNation  Post at @GaslitNation  BlueSky  @GaslitNation (Jack Dorsey betrayed us before by selling us out to Elon Musk, he'll do something like that again. Dorsey also let the Saudis use Twitter to hunt down dissidents according to a chilling lawsuit against Twitter).    Show Notes: Join Andrea and J Smith-Cameron at our giving circle State Fair to help protect democracy in Virginia this fall. More info here: https://www.grapevine.org/giving-circle/zjrhpjw/State-Fair Americonned: Organize, Fight, Win https://www.gaslitnationpod.com/episodes-transcripts-20/2023/07/12/americonned?rq=Americonned Twitter accused of helping Saudi Arabia commit human rights abuses https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/sep/04/twitter-saudi-arabia-human-rights-abuses Teen and mom plead guilty to abortion charges based on Facebook data  ttps://techcrunch.com/2023/07/11/teen-and-mom-plead-guilty-to-abortion-charges-based-on-facebook-data/ “We Didn't Find Genocide in Ukraine,” UN Commissioner Erik Møse Says https://gwaramedia.com/en/we-didn-t-find-genocide-in-ukraine-un-commissioner-erik-mose-says/ Is Twitter Censoring LGBTQ+ Content? What We Know, What We Don't https://www.newsweek.com/twitter-lgbtq-censor-censorship-elon-musk-1792139

The Back Room with Andy Ostroy

Ruth Ben-Ghiat is Professor of History at New York University. She writes about fascism, authoritarianism, and propaganda. She is the recipient of Guggenheim and other fellowships; an advisor to Protect Democracy; an MSNBC opinion columnist and television commentator; and publishes Lucid, a newsletter on threats to democracy. Her latest book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present looks at how illiberal leaders use propaganda, corruption, violence, and machismo --and how they can be defeated. Ruth is back for another insightful, thought-provoking conversation about the increasing threat to democracy from Donald Trump, his corrupt inner circle, his brainwashed cult, and the co-opted Republican Party. We discuss the chilling parallels between their demagoguery and hateful, violence-inciting rhetoric and that of fascist dictators past and present; the rise of fascism and Neo-Nazism; and its impact on American politics and culture. Got somethin' to say?! Email us at BackroomAndy@gmail.com Leave us a message: 845-307-7446 Twitter: @AndyOstroy Produced by Andy Ostroy, Matty Rosenberg, and Jennifer Hammoud @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff Music by Andrew Hollander Design by Cricket Lengyel

Prevail with Greg Olear
How to Wreck a Democracy (with Ruth Ben-Ghiat)

Prevail with Greg Olear

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2023 72:22


In an interview recorded on July 29, Greg Olear talks to fascism expert Ruth Ben-Ghiat, author of “Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present” and the “Lucid” Substack, about the nature of coups, lessons from Berlusconi, the rise of Hitler, DeSantis as fascist, the extremist Texas GOP, secessions, the trucker convoy and the fascist threats in Canada, Meloni in Italy, the Vox party in Spain, and the power of nonviolent protest. Plus: Clash of the titan.Follow Ruth:https://twitter.com/ruthbenghiatSubscribe to Lucid:https://lucid.substack.com/Buy “Strongmen”:https://wwnorton.com/books/9781324001546Thanks HelloFresh! Go to http://HelloFresh.com/50prevail and use code 50prevail for 50% off  plus 15% off the next 2 months!Subscribe to the PREVAIL newsletter:https://gregolear.substack.com/aboutWould you like to tell us more about you? http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=short. *

Defending Democracy with Malcolm Turnbull
Meet the new autocrats and their playbook

Defending Democracy with Malcolm Turnbull

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2023 20:34


Who are the new autocrats and what's their playbook?   We are now living in the era of the strongman - and every dictator has built on the accomplishments of his predecessors. Hitler watched Mussolini, and Gaddafi learned from Lt Col Gamal Abdul Nasser. So why, despite the evidence of history, do strongmen still hold such appeal for us? What does the playbook reveal about  Donald Trump's run for the 2024 Presidency?  Malcolm talks with Ruth Ben-Ghiat, Author of Author, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present about how the new high-tech autocrats are gaining popularity.  Available on Listnr.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jen Rubin's Green Room
10: Ruth Ben Ghiat

Jen Rubin's Green Room

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 19, 2023 47:17


Jen sits down with expert on authoritarianism Ruth Ben-Ghiat for a look at the mythic hold strongmen have on political systems around the world and how Trump took up that mantle here.  They cover how he resurrected the spoils system, used divisive language to create a cult-like following, and his attempts to create disinformation that tears apart loyalty to anyone besides him.  More importantly, they explore how deep the threat to democracy goes– and when our system is threatened, how can we fight back to restore equality and justice under the law? This Week's Guest: Ruth Ben-Ghiat: Twitter | NYU | Website | Substack | Author of “Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present” & Other Books Get More From Jennifer Rubin: Twitter | WaPo | Author of “Resistance: How Women Saved Democracy From Donald Trump”

The Back Room with Andy Ostroy

Ruth Ben-Ghiat is Professor of History at New York University. She writes about fascism, authoritarianism, and propaganda. She is the recipient of Guggenheim and other fellowships; an advisor to Protect Democracy; an MSNBC opinion columnist and television commentator; and publishes Lucid, a newsletter on threats to democracy. Her latest book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present looks at how illiberal leaders use propaganda, corruption, violence, and machismo --and how they can be defeated. Join us for this truly fascinating, insightful conversation about Trump, Trumpism, Ron DeSantis and the chilling parallels between their demagoguery and hateful rhetoric and that of Hitler, Mussolini and other dictators past and present. How fascism and Neo-Nazism is on the rise domestically and abroad, and its impact on American politics and culture. Got somethin' to say?! Email us at BackroomAndy@gmail.com Leave us a message: 845-307-7446 Twitter: @AndyOstroy Produced by Andy Ostroy and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff Associate producer Jennifer Hammoud Music by Andrew Hollander Design by Cricket Lengyel

The Source
Trump on CNN spreads lies to win GOP voters

The Source

Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2023 24:53


Wednesday night, former President Donald Trump returned to CNN for a town hall that featured the proven sexual assaulter telling lies about January 6, his lost re-election, stealing classified documents and abortion rights. He was given a standing ovation by the crowd. Did you watch this unfiltered look at the GOP frontrunner for president?Guest:Angelo Carusone, president of Media Matters.Ruth Ben-Ghiat, historian and commentator on fascism, authoritarian leaders, and propaganda — and the threats these present to democracies. She is the author of "Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present""The Source" is a live call-in program airing Mondays through Thursdays from 12-1 p.m. Leave a message before the program at (210) 615-8982. During the live show, call 833-877-8255 or email thesource@tpr.org.*This interview will be recorded on Thursday, May 11.

The Bookshelf Odyssey Podcast
Inheriting Trauma: A Conversation with author Max Friedman on the Legacy of the Holocaust

The Bookshelf Odyssey Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2023 46:49


In this episode, I sit down with author Max Friedman to discuss his latest book, "Painful Joy." The book explores the experiences of Max's parents during the Jewish Holocaust, and the impact that this had on Max's life growing up. We delve into the history of the Holocaust and its effects on subsequent generations, as well as the process of writing such a personal and emotional book. Max shares with us his perspective on the importance of remembering and honoring the victims of the Holocaust, and why we need to continue to tell these stories. This is a powerful and moving conversation that will leave you with a deeper understanding of the Holocaust and its ongoing impact on the world today. Books mentioned:Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present by Ruth Ben-GhiatIt Rained Warm Bread by  Gloria Moskowitz-Sweet and Hope Anita Smith Night by Elie Wiesel Schindler's List by Thomas Keneally ____________There are 4 ways you can help support the channel!-Like and subscribe!-I'm now a bookshop.org affiliate - check out my shop and find your next great read! https://bookshop.org/shop/bookshelfodyssey  -Buy me a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bookshelfpod  - My Amazon Wishlist: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2PTGNQWISVZE/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_3 _____________Find Me Online: Podcast: https://bookshelfodyssey.buzzsprout.com/  Voxer: @artbookshelfodyssey  Discord: https://discord.gg/8MFceV2NFe    Facebook Group Page: @thebookshelfodyssey Twitter: @odyssey_podcastInstagram: @bookshelfodysseypodcast____________ There are 4 ways you can help support the channel! -Like and subscribe!-I'm now a bookshop.org affiliate - check out my shop and find your next great read! https://bookshop.org/shop/bookshelfodyssey -Buy me a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bookshelfpod - My Amazon Wishlist: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2PTGNQWISVZE/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_3 _____________ Find Me Online: Podcast: https://bookshelfodyssey.buzzsprout.com/ Voxer: @artbookshelfodyssey Discord: https://discord.gg/8MFceV2NFe Facebook Group Page: @thebookshelfodyssey Twitter: @odyssey_podcastInstagram: @bookshelfodysseypodcast

Booked Up with Jen Taub
16: Ruth Ben-Ghiat

Booked Up with Jen Taub

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2023 63:49


This week, my guest Professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat, an expert in authoritarianism, democracy protection, and propaganda and author of the bestelling book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present. Ruth is both a professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University. Outside of the classroom, Ruth frequently appears on cable news to discuss the frightening similarities between early fascism in Europe and current movements here in the United States within the Republican party and abroad. On today's episode, I speak wth Ruth about our current crop of authoritarian brutes who use corruption, violence, propaganda, and machismo to stay in power and what we can do to stop them. To stay current with Ruth's thinking, you can subscribe to her substack, Lucid or read her and her insightful opinion column with MSNBC. Contact Booked Up: You can email Jen & the Booked Up team at: BOOKEDUP@POLITICON.COM or by writing to:  BOOKED UP  P.O. BOX 147 NORTHAMPTON, MA 01061 Get More from Ruth Ben-Ghiat Twitter | Website | LUCID Substack |  Author of STRONGMEN Get More from Jen Taub: Twitter | Follow the Money substack| Author of BIG DIRTY MONEY 

Live From America Podcast
Episode 267: Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present

Live From America Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2023 58:37


This Week's Guests: Professor - Ruth Ben-Ghiat Comedian - Tony Daro The World's Famous comedy Cellar presents "Live From America Podcast" with Noam Dworman and Hatem Gabr. The top experts and thinkers of the world and the best comics in the Nation get together weekly with our hosts to discuss different topics each week, News, Culture, Politics, comedy & and more with an equal parts of knowledge and comedy! Ruth Ben-Ghiat is Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University. She writes about fascism, authoritarianism, and propaganda. She is the recipient of Guggenheim and other fellowships and an advisor to Protect Democracy. She is an MSNBC opinion columnist and provides commentary on MSNBC and other networks. She publishes Lucid, a newsletter on threats to democracy. Her latest book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present (2020; paperback, 2021), looks at how illiberal leaders use propaganda, corruption, violence, and machismo - and how they can be defeated. Her newsletter https://lucid.substack.com/about?utm_source=menu-dropdown Her Book https://wwnorton.com/books/9781324001546 Follow Live From America YouTube www.youtube.com/channel/UCS2fqgw61yK1J6iKNxV0LmA Twitter twitter.com/AmericasPodcast www.LiveFromAmericaPodcast.com LiveFromAmerica@ComedyCellar.com Follow Hatem Twitter twitter.com/HatemNYC Instagram www.instagram.com/hatemnyc/ Follow Noam Twitter twitter.com/noamdworman?lang #strongmen #StrongmenRuthBenGhiat #RuthBenGhiat

Prevail with Greg Olear
(Reprise) Strongmen: History Under Attack (with Ruth Ben-Ghiat)

Prevail with Greg Olear

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2023 67:22


Fascism is on the rise in the United States. Greg Olear talks to Ruth Ben-Ghiat, professor of history, expert on authoritarianism, and author of “Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present,” about Mussolini & Hitler, Putin & Trump, and the dictator's “tools of rule.” Plus: a song about the new covid cure. Follow Ruth Ben-Ghiat: https://twitter.com/ruthbenghiat Subscribe to LUCID: https://lucid.substack.com/ Buy STRONGMEN: https://wwnorton.com/books/9781324001546 Subscribe to the PREVAIL newsletter: https://gregolear.substack.com/about Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Coming From Left Field (Video)
“Strongmen: From Mussolini to Present ” with Ruth Ben-Ghiat

Coming From Left Field (Video)

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2023 46:55


Ruth Ben-Ghiat is a Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University. She is an MSNBC Opinion Columnist and commentator on CNN, MSNBC, and other media outlets about authoritarianism, Fascism, and threats to democracy around the world..  Her latest book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, looks at how illiberal leaders use propaganda, corruption, violence, and machismo - and how they can be defeated.   The book: Strongmen- Mussolini To The Present https://www.kingsbookstore.com/book/9780393868418   Substack: Ruth Ben-Ghiat Lucid Substack https://lucid.substack.com/   Greg's ZZs Blog: http://zzs-blg.blogspot.com/   #RuthBenGhiat#RuthBen-Ghiat#Strongmen#MussolinitoPresent# authoritarianism #Factism#Facist#propaganda#machismo#Trump#illiberal#Putin#Lucid#GregGodels#zzblog#PatCummings#ComingFromLeftField#Podcast

The New Abnormal
One Theory for Why Bolsonaro Is In Florida

The New Abnormal

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 10, 2023 62:33


Despite Jair Bolsonaro https://www.thedailybeast.com/jair-bolsonaro-flees-brazil-to-hide-out-in-home-of-mma-fighter-in-florida, the former Brazilian president is not there on vacation or to protest his election loss to the country's new President Luiz Inácio Lula de Silva, says Ruth Ben-Ghiat, author of Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present. Ruth joined this episode of The New Abnormal podcast to talk to show co-host Danielle Moodie about the Brazilian insurrection, what makes people choose fascism instead of a healthy democracy, and why she is sure Bolsonaro's trip to the States is nothing but a ploy to avoid legal consequences. Plus! Co-host Andy Levy is back and chats with journalist Jeb Lund, who tells him all about his alma mater New College of Florida and all the ways Gov. Ron DeSantis is trying to “destroy” it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rik's Mind Podcast
The Other F Word: Ruth Ben-Ghiat On The Rise of Fascism Abroad & At Home | Rik's Mind Podcast Ep 113

Rik's Mind Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2023


Italy's recent elections have seen the rise of the “Brothers of Italy” party led by Giorgia Meloni. Billed as “center right”, the Brothers of Italy have raised several alarms.With Meloni at the head of a coalition whose other members include Matteo Salvini's League and Silvio Berlusconi's Forza Italia, these members were each once the main force on Italy's populist right. In the words of today's guest Professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat, the Brothers of Italy have “an underlying and sinister familiarity.” Although fascism is not an exclusively Italian problem. The world is going through a kind of fascist renaissance and the United States isn't immune. Ruth Ben-Ghiat joins us to sound the alarm on rising forces in American politics including Donald Trump and everyone's favorite wanna be dictator Gov. Ron DeSantis (FL).Ruth Ben-Ghiat is a historian who writes about authoritarianism, democracy protection, and propaganda. She is Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University, the recipient of Guggenheim and other fellowships, and Advisor to Protect Democracy. She is an MSNBC opinion columnist, a regular contributor to CNN and The Washington Post, and provides live commentary on CNN, MSNBC, and other networks. She publishes Lucid, a newsletter on threats to democracy. Her latest book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, looks at how illiberal leaders use propaganda, corruption, violence, and machismo - and how they can be defeated. You can find more about Ruth on her website ruthbenghiat.com and on Twitter @ruthbenghiatLike and subscribe to us on Youtube for more fun and exclusive content!https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuM080VqVCe0gAns9V9WK9wSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/00gCjGhq8qrAEkraZnMwGR?go=1&sp_cid=ce203d55369588581151ec13011b84ac&utm_source=embed_player_pGoogle Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/u/1/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cucmlrc21pbmQuY29tL2xpc3Rlbj9mb3JtYXQ9cnNz?Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/riks-mind-podcast/id1460215365Show Notes:Ruth Ben-Ghiat | Official WebsiteStrongmen: Mussolini to the Present | W. W. Norton & Co.Lucid Newsletter by Ruth Ben-Ghiat | SubstackThe Return of Fascism in Italy by Ruth Ben-Ghiat | The AtlanticPAUL MANAFORT, AMERICAN HUSTLER by Franklin Foer | The AtlanticHackers Leak Thousands Of Photos Exposing China's Uyghur Camps | AJ+How The CIA Overthrew Iran's Democracy In 4 Days by Lawrence Wu | NPR1928 Poster of Hitler with tape on his Mouth Claiming he is Being Censored | r/PropagandaPostersIndian politician morphs into hologram to reach millions of voters by Chris Welch | The VergePaul Manafort: Handmaiden to dictators by David Hoffman | The HillDonald Trump and Steve Bannon's coup in the making by Ruth Ben-Ghiat | CNNRuth Ben Ghiat Profile | Turning Point USA's Professor WatchlistWhat is Germany's 'Reichsbürger' movement? by Rina Goldberg | DWThe Prince, the Plot and a Long-Lost Reich By Erika Solomon and Katrin Bennhold | The New York Times

Bribe, Swindle or Steal
“Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present”

Bribe, Swindle or Steal

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 4, 2023 22:35


Ruth Ben-Ghiat joins the podcast to discuss her book Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, which examines 100 years of authoritarian rule. She describes the characteristics of a strongman and the strange virility cult surrounding these leaders before turning to the central role of corruption in the autocrat's playbook. (This episode was originally published in November 2021.)

The Bunker
Strongmen behaving badly – The changing face of populists

The Bunker

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 4, 2023 32:58


There seem to be more authoritarian figures than ever before. But is this true? And if so, what do these leaders have in common? Ruth Ben-Ghiat, author of Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present joins Alex Andreou to explore how authoritarianism has changed over time, and why the greatest strengths of ‘strongmen' could also be their biggest downfall.  “Leader personality cults often present them as omnipotent.” “The same instincts of these leaders to win followers domestically can cause their downfall on the international stage.”  “Financial networks are key to controlling people.” Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast  Written and presented by Alex Andreou. Producers: Jet Gerbertson, Alex Rees. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Lead producer: Jacob Jarvis. Bunker music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production by Jade Bailey. Artwork by James Parrett. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WorldAffairs
January 6th and the Global Far Right Revival

WorldAffairs

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 2, 2023 53:48


When President Trump incited his followers to storm the US Capitol, he punctured a 220-year-old tradition in the United States of America. Two years later, we're still reckoning with the consequences.    Rising political violence is no surprise to Ruth Ben-Ghiat, scholar of fascism and advisor to the House Select Committee on January 6th. Ben-Ghiat and Ray Suarez discuss the stakes of the committee, and how to prevent another riot in the United States. Then, Ray is joined by Julia Ebner, a journalist who went undercover in the world of political extremists. Ebner reveals how conspiracy theories like QAnon have taken hold in Germany.   Guests:     Ruth Ben-Ghiat, author of Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present   Julia Ebner, author of Going Dark: The Secret Lives of Extremists   Host:    Ray Suarez   If you appreciate this episode and want to support the work we do, please consider making a donation to World Affairs. We cannot do this work without your help. Thank you.

THE WEEKEND SHOW
Top Expert on Fascism WARNS of Trump and MAGA movement's DANGER to America | The Weekend Show

THE WEEKEND SHOW

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2022 58:15


Professor of History, NYU, author of Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, Ruth Ben-Ghiat, explains why Trump's MAGA Republicans are part of a new violent fascist movement making America more dangerous than ever. The Weekend Show - Episode 38. Five Minute News with Anthony Davis is an Evergreen Podcast, covering politics, inequality, health and climate - delivering independent, unbiased and essential world news, daily. Visit Five Minute News online and subscribe at http://www.fiveminute.news Follow Five Minute News on Twitter http://twitter.com/fiveminnews Follow Five Minute News on Instagram http://instagram.com/fiveminnews You can subscribe to Five Minute News with your preferred podcast app, ask your smart speaker, or enable Five Minute News as your Amazon Alexa Flash Briefing skill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stay Tuned with Preet
The Rise of Global Fascism (with Ruth Ben-Ghiat)

Stay Tuned with Preet

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2022 64:02


Preet speaks with Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a Professor of History and Italian Studies at NYU and the author of Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present. Ben-Ghiat is an expert on authoritarianism, and discusses the rise of fascist politics in our time—from the recent election of Giorgia Meloni in Italy, to the reign of Vladimir Putin, to the tactics of Florida governor Ron DeSantis.  Plus, Preet weighs in on Judge Aileen Cannon and the January 6th Committee. Don't miss the Insider bonus, where Ben-Ghiat discusses the politics of platforming voices like Donald Trump and Marjorie Taylor Greene.  For show notes and a transcript of the episode, head to: https://cafe.com/stay-tuned/the-rise-of-global-fascism-with-ruth-ben-ghiat/ Tweet your questions to @PreetBharara with hashtag #askpreet, email us at staytuned@cafe.com, or call 669-247-7338 to leave a voicemail. Stay Tuned with Preet is brought to you by CAFE and the Vox Media Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Mary Trump Show
72: Ruth Ben-Ghiat

The Mary Trump Show

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2022 74:16


Mary Trump welcomes author and expert on authoritarianism Ruth Ben-Ghiat for a deep dive into the rise of strongmen (and women) in Europe, and the strategies they use to hijack democracies.  From gender washing candidates with extreme agendas to manufacturing threats that put minorities at risk, understanding the tactics used by Donald and others around the world is more important than ever.  Do we have the courage to defend our values when it matters most? The Mary Trump Show Live In Los Angeles 10/21/22 @ Dynasty Typewriter 2511 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 90057 Tickets ‘Ask Mary Anything' Email: MARY@POLITICON.COM Get More From Ruth Ben-Ghiat: Twitter  NYU | Website | Substack | Author of “Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present” & Other Books

Democracy Now! Audio
Democracy Now! 2022-09-26 Monday

Democracy Now! Audio

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2022 59:00


As Italy’s first far-right leader since Benito Mussolini declares victory, we look at “the return of fascism in Italy” and its spread in Europe with Ruth Ben-Ghiat, author of “Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present”; Ahead of the next House committee hearing on the January 6 Capitol insurrection, we look at one of the key groups that helped plan and carry out the attack, with reporter Andy Campbell, author of the new book, “We Are Proud Boys: How a Right-Wing Street Gang Ushered In a New Era of American Extremism.” Get Democracy Now! delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for the Daily Digest: democracynow.org/subscribe

Democracy Now! Video
Democracy Now! 2022-09-26 Monday

Democracy Now! Video

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2022 59:00


As Italy’s first far-right leader since Benito Mussolini declares victory, we look at “the return of fascism in Italy” and its spread in Europe with Ruth Ben-Ghiat, author of “Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present”; Ahead of the next House committee hearing on the January 6 Capitol insurrection, we look at one of the key groups that helped plan and carry out the attack, with reporter Andy Campbell, author of the new book, “We Are Proud Boys: How a Right-Wing Street Gang Ushered In a New Era of American Extremism.” Get Democracy Now! delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for the Daily Digest: democracynow.org/subscribe

We've Got Issues
Joe Manchin just dropped a bomb on the GOP's midterm campaign

We've Got Issues

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2022 52:05


This week, we embrace a rare good week in America!Joshua Holland kicks off the show looking at a new study which found that the sanctions regime enacted against Russia by Ukraine's allies is doing much more damage to Vladimir Putin's economy than many observers believe. Then we speak with WaPo's Paul Waldman about the surprising deal on climate and prescription drug prices that West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced this week. Democrats' chances of holding control of Congress in November were already looking a lot better before the announcement. Will this prove a game-changer? And then we are joined by historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat, author of Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, to talk about the January 6 Committee hearings and a bunch of new reporting that reveals that Trump and those in his inner circle may not be above the law after all. 

#SistersInLaw
75: Ruth Ben-Ghiat, Jill Wine-Banks & Victor Shi - introducing iGen Politics Podcast

#SistersInLaw

Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2022 53:11


Jill and Victor are joined by Professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat, an expert on the politics and history of strongmen and authoritarians from Mussolini through Trump and Putin.  They discuss how these leaders play to toxic hypermasculinity, and use grievance politics, propaganda, and kompromat to take power and maintain control.  She also emphasizes the need for prosecution and justice, then explains what happens when they fall. Get More From Professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat: Twitter | NYU | Website | Substack | Author of “Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present” & Other Books Get More From Victor and Jill:  Jill Wine-Banks: Twitter | Facebook | Website | Author of The Watergate Girl: My Fight For Truth & Justice Against A Criminal President | iGen Politics Victor Shi: Twitter |Medium | Blog w/Jill Wine-Banks |  Former Biden Delegate: @Bideninaugural | iGen Politics Email iGen Politics at igp@politicon.com Or tweet using #iGenPolitics

The Muckrake Political Podcast
Mass Shootings, Baby Formula, and Increasing Threats

The Muckrake Political Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2022 62:48


Nick Hauselman is out for the day, so Jared Yates Sexton jumps into the white supremacist shooting in Buffalo, the Right's weaponization of White Replacement Theory, and how deteriorating material conditions will only increase the chance of more violence. Then, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present author Ruth Ben-Ghiat stops by to chat about growing authoritarianism. To support the show and access additional content, including the extra Weekender show every Friday and live-shows, become a patron at patreon.com/muckrakepodcast 

Arik Korman
Putin, Trump, and Why Authoritarian Strongmen Are Dangerous

Arik Korman

Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2022 29:52


Ruth Ben-Ghiat, internationally acclaimed historian, speaker, and political commentator for CNN and The Washington Post, discusses whether the strongman style of rule is becoming more prevalent around the world, whether strongmen have been intentional about the ways they chip away at democracy, and what happens when strongmen feel like their power is eroding. Professor Ben-Ghiat's latest book is Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present.

Intergenerational Politics
135: Ruth Ben-Ghiat

Intergenerational Politics

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2022 51:57


Jill and Victor are joined by Professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat, an expert on the politics and history of strongmen and authoritarians from Mussolini through Trump and Putin.  They discuss how these leaders play to toxic hypermasculinity, and use grievance politics, propaganda, and kompromat to take power and maintain control.  She also emphasizes the need for prosecution and justice, then explains what happens when they fall. Get More From Professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat: Twitter | NYU | Website | Substack | Author of “Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present” & Other Books Get More From Victor and Jill:  Jill Wine-Banks: Twitter | Facebook | Website | Author of The Watergate Girl: My Fight For Truth & Justice Against A Criminal President | iGen Politics Victor Shi: Twitter |Medium | Blog w/Jill Wine-Banks |  Former Biden Delegate: @Bideninaugural | iGen Politics Email iGen Politics at igp@politicon.com Or tweet using #iGenPolitics

Dirty Moderate with Adam Epstein
Would you Recognize an Authoritarian Leader? With Ruth Ben-Ghiat

Dirty Moderate with Adam Epstein

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2022 58:48 Transcription Available


Ruth is a professor, author, historian and cultural critic. She is the recipient of the Guggenheim, Fulbright, and other fellowships, is an expert on fascism, authoritarianism, war, propaganda, and Donald Trump. And she's just getting started…Her book, Strongmen: Mussolini to Present, is an in-depth look at the blueprint authoritarian leaders have followed over the past 100 years, and empowers us to recognize, resist, and hopefully prevent yet another (cough *Trump cough cough) disastrous rule in the future.

On the Issues with Alon Ben-Meir
On The Issues Episode 90: Ruth Ben-Ghiat

On the Issues with Alon Ben-Meir

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2022 46:17


Today's guest is Ruth Ben-Ghiat, Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University and a historian and commentator on fascism, authoritarian leaders, and propaganda, and the threats these present to democracies. In this episode, we discuss her latest book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, Trump's authoritarian behavior here in the United States, and what steps can be taken to reverse authoritarian trends around the world. Full bio: Ruth Ben-Ghiat is a historian and commentator on fascism, authoritarian leaders, and propaganda — and the threats these present to democracies. As author or editor of six books, with over 100 op-eds and essays in CNN, The New Yorker, and The Washington Post, she brings historical perspective to her analyses of current events. Her insight into the authoritarian playbook has made her an expert source for television, radio, podcasts, and online events around the globe. Ben-Ghiat is Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University and an Advisor to Protect Democracy. She is also a historical consultant for film and television productions. She is a big fan of electronic music, which is her preferred soundtrack while writing. She practices yoga several times a week. Ben-Ghiat's work has been supported by Fulbright, Guggenheim, and other fellowships. Her books Fascist Modernities and Italian Fascism's Empire Cinema detail what happens to societies when authoritarian governments take hold, and explore the appeal of strongmen to collaborators and followers. Growing up in Pacific Palisades, California, where many intellectuals who fled Nazism resettled, sparked her interest in the subject. Her latest book, the #1 Amazon bestseller Strongmen: From Mussolini to the Present (Norton, 2020), examines how illiberal leaders use corruption, violence, propaganda, and machismo to stay in power, and how resistance to them has unfolded over a century.

Pamela Cerdeira
Vladimir Putin está obsesionado con mantener el poder: Ruth Ben-Ghiat

Pamela Cerdeira

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2022 17:51


En entrevista con Pamela Cerdeira en MVS Noticias, Ruth Ben-Ghiat, autora del libro ‘Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, habló sobre Vladimir Putin, su personalidad y que esperar en el conflicto con Ucrania.

Dave Troy Presents
The Fascist Playbook from Mussolini to Today with Ruth Ben-Ghiat

Dave Troy Presents

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2022 60:00


SEASON 1: OIL, GOLD, CRYPTO & FASCISM: HOW WE GOT HERE AND HOW TO FIX IT Ruth Ben-Ghiat is the author of the book "Strongmen: Mussolini to Present". She joins Dave Troy in conversation about the history of fascism in Italy, its offshoots around the world and connections with the Catholic Church. Ben-Ghiat studied how multiple dictator strongmen came to power, the tools they used to keep it, and how they eventually fell, to look for common patterns. She presents fascism as a "third way," a right-wing reaction to communism in Soviet Russia, rooted in private property and privatization. They discuss the risks present today, previous fascist coups in Chile, parallels with cryptocurrency, and how the United States may emerge from its current authoritarian moment.

Prevail with Greg Olear
Strongmen: History Under Attack (with Ruth Ben-Ghiat)

Prevail with Greg Olear

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2022 71:27


Fascism is on the rise in the United States. Greg Olear talks to Ruth Ben-Ghiat, professor of history, expert on authoritarianism, and author of “Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present,” about Mussolini & Hitler, Putin & Trump, and the dictator's “tools of rule.” Plus: a song about the new covid cure. Follow Ruth Ben-Ghiat: https://twitter.com/ruthbenghiat Subscribe to LUCID: https://lucid.substack.com/ Buy STRONGMEN: https://wwnorton.com/books/9781324001546 Thanks to BetterHelp for sponsoring this episode. Get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/greg https://www.betterhelp.com/greg Subscribe to the PREVAIL newsletter: https://gregolear.substack.com/about Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WorldAffairs
The Return of the Strongmen

WorldAffairs

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 3, 2022 59:01


One year after supporters of former President Donald Trump violently stormed the Capitol,  how do we make sense of the January 6 insurrection? Historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat returns to WorldAffairs to discuss modern authoritarians and the “leader cult” created around former president Donald Trump. With a majority of Republicans believing the false claim that voter fraud helped Joe Biden win the 2020 election, could Donald Trump be reelected in 2024? If weaknesses in our democratic institutions aren't addressed, Ben-Ghiat warns, the real danger lies in the blueprint left for future leaders.   Guest: Ruth Ben-Ghiat, professor of history and Italian studies at New York University and author of Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present Host: Ray Suarez, co-host of WorldAffairs If you appreciate this episode and want to support the work we do, please consider making a donation to World Affairs. We cannot do this work without your help. Thank you.

That Trippi Show
Ruth Ben-Ghiat: Strongmen, Trump's Future, Predicting Path of American Authoritarianism

That Trippi Show

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 9, 2021 37:10


As the Jan. 6 investigation in the House unfolds, historian and professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat joins the show to put America's authoritarian impulses in historical and global context. She contrasts Trump to historical autocrats, puts some of his skills and tendencies under the microscope, and helps diagnose the temperature of the movement in the country today. She offers some hopeful reasons for why Trump could fade in future elections, but also warnings about what has or hasn't been addressed since Jan. 6. Check out Ruth's Substack here: https://lucid.substack.com/ And buy her book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, here: https://www.amazon.com/Strongmen-Mussolini-Present-Ruth-Ben-Ghiat/dp/0393868419/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=strongman+ruth+benghiat&qid=1636399469&sr=8-1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bribe, Swindle or Steal
“Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present”

Bribe, Swindle or Steal

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2021 22:35


Ruth Ben-Ghiat joins the podcast to discuss her book Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, which examines 100 years of authoritarian rule. She describes the characteristics of a strongman and the strange virility cult surrounding these leaders before turning to the central role of corruption in the autocrat's playbook.

Hot Media with Bob Mann
The Perils of Propaganda-Hot Media 233

Hot Media with Bob Mann

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2021 30:19


On "Hot Media" episode 233, Bob Mann welcomes respected historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat to discuss her book Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present. Keeping with the mission of the podcast, the discussion focuses on the propaganda strategies and performance techniques used by authoritarian leaders to manipulate the public. 

Media Masters
Media Masters - Professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat

Media Masters

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2021 54:15


Professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat is a historian and expert on authoritarianism, propaganda, abuse of power and threats to democracy. A prolific media commentator, Ruth brings a historical perspective to current events across major media outlets on TV, print and online. A regular CNN contributor, and one of the few academics to accurately predict the insurrection of January 6th 2021, she joined New York University in 2000, and her work is supported by Fulbright, Guggenheim and other fellowships. In this in-depth interview, Ruth discusses her best-selling book, ‘Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present,' which examines the methods that authoritarian leaders past and present use to stay in power - “corruption, violence, propaganda and outright machismo,” and why (with a few exceptions) this leadership style usually results in failure; shares her blistering analysis of former President Trump as a “dictator in the classic vein” with both “hoarder” and “victim” traits and a “manic desire to control everyone and everything;” and discusses the launch of ‘Lucid' - a subscription publication which shines a light on, among many other things, sexual harassment - “a common factor among these types of abusive leaderships.”

Campbell Conversations
Ruth Ben-Ghiat on the Campbell Conversations

Campbell Conversations

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2021 27:54


On this episode of the Campbell Conversations, Grant Reeher speaks with Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University. She's the author of the new book, "Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present".

Campbell Conversations
Ruth Ben-Ghiat on the Campbell Conversations

Campbell Conversations

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2021 27:54


On this episode of the Campbell Conversations, Grant Reeher speaks with Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University. She's the author of the new book, "Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present".

History As It Happens
Understanding Fascism

History As It Happens

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2021 31:28


What is fascism? The word brings to mind Mussolini, Hitler, and the catastrophes of the twentieth century. Nowadays, fascism -- like socialism -- is often hurled as an insult in American politics. NYU historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat, the author of Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, explains fascism's roots and why the term retains so much potency in contemporary politics. 

We've Got Issues
What can Biden do with a 50-50 Senate? | Why failed coups are often followed by success

We've Got Issues

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2021 62:34


This week, Joshua Holland kicks off our first show after the curtain fell on Donald Trump's failed presidency with a rant about the right's maddening weaponization of Joe Biden's promise to promote healing and unity.    Then we're joined by Slate's Jordan Weissmann to talk about what the new administration can and probably can't achieve with an evenly divided Senate if they don't eliminate the filibuster.   And finally, we speak Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a historian at NYU and the author of Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, about why it's so important to hold Donald Trump and other seditionists accountable for attempting to overturn the results of the 2020 election in order to stave off a more disciplined coup attempt in the future.     PlaylistQueen Latifah: "U.N.I.T.Y."Amanda Gorman: "The Hill We Climb"John Legend: "Feeling Good"

The Department of Conversation with Pat Brittenden
157 Professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat on Donald Trump in historical context

The Department of Conversation with Pat Brittenden

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2021 46:11


Ruth Ben-Ghiat is a Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University and an historian and commentator on fascism, authoritarian leaders, and propaganda — and the threats these present to democracies.Professor Ben-Ghiat is a contributor to CNN, The New Yorker, and The Washington Post and her latest book, "Strongmen: Mussolini to the President", examines how authoritarians use propaganda, virility, corruption, and violence to stay in power, and how they can be opposed.www.theDOC.nzwww.patreon.com/theDOCNZwww.twitter.com/patbrittenden

The Colin McEnroe Show
Insurrection At The U.S. Capitol

The Colin McEnroe Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2021 49:00


President Trump has gotten away with bad behavior since long before he was elected to the presidency. When faced with an election loss that he couldn't change, he instigated his followers to fight for him. They obeyed his command. He may not be able to get out of the consequences of the actions they took on his behalf. We talk about the implications of what happened yesterday. And we take your calls. You can reach us at 888-720-9677. GUEST: Ruth Ben-Ghiat - Professor of history and Italian studies at New York University and a frequent contributor to CNN opinion; her new book is Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present Join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter. Colin McEnroe and Cat Pastor contributed to this show.Support the show: http://www.wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After Words
Ruth Ben-Ghiat, "Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present"

After Words

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2020 61:54


Historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat examines how authoritarian leaders rule. She's interviewed by Barnard College and Columbia University professor and author Sheri Berman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Politicrat
In Conversation: Historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat On Her New Book “Strongmen: Mussolini To The Present”

The Politicrat

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2020 31:43


Omar Moore and historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat in conversation about Ruth's new book “Strongmen: Mussolini To The Present”. The book chronicles over a century of the world's “strongmen“ authoritarian dictators (up to and including Donald Trump). The power of these men over those they rule is rooted in numerous facets including toxic masculinity, virility, violence and corruption. Ruth Ben-Ghiat is a professor of History and Italian studies at New York University. December 5, 2020. Ruth Ben-Ghiat on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ruthbenghiat Website: https://ruthbenghiat.com Order “Strongmen” here: https://bit.ly/2JCqjND Additional order links: https://ruthbenghiat.com/strongmen/ IMPORTANT— Please phonebank *now* for: Jon Ossoff for Georgia US Senate: https://electjon.com AND Rev. Raphael Warnock for Georgia US Senate: https://votewarnock.com VOTE EARLY! Voting by mail is going on now in Georgia. Voter registration deadline in Georgia: Dec. 7 Early in-person voting starts: December 14. Plus— NEW: FULL VIDEO (Nov. 30) THE POLITICRAT podcast episode—a conversation with Professor of Law Dorit Reiss (University of California at Hastings College of Law) about vaccines, coronavirus and ethics. https://bit.ly/3fUL4Qb NOTE: You can now listen to THE POLITICRAT daily podcast free on Audible: https://adbl.co/35MvRNL Latest post at Medium: VICTORY. https://bit.ly/2UkcWU5 MOORE THOUGHTS —The Day After Tomorrow: https://bit.ly/3l5CZdl Omar's film review of “Da 5 Bloods” (bit.ly/37nliju). MOORE THOUGHTS: moore.substack.com. Moore On Medium: medium.com/@omooresf The Politicrat YouTube page: bit.ly/3bfWk6V The Politicrat Facebook page: bit.ly/3bU1O7c The Politicrat blog: politicrat.politics.blog PLEASE SUBSCRIBE to this to this podcast! Follow/tweet Omar at: http://twitter.com/thepopcornreel

Chris Voss Podcast
Chris Voss Podcast – Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present by Ruth Ben-Ghiat

Chris Voss Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2020 64:14


Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present by Ruth Ben-Ghiat What modern authoritarian leaders have in common (and how they can be stopped). Ruth Ben-Ghiat is the expert on the “strongman” playbook employed by authoritarian demagogues from Mussolini to Putin―enabling her to predict with uncanny accuracy the recent experience in America. In Strongmen, she lays bare the blueprint these leaders have followed […] The post Chris Voss Podcast – Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present by Ruth Ben-Ghiat appeared first on Chris Voss Official Website.

The David Pakman Show
7/13/23: Fox News brutally sued again, FBI hearings implode

The David Pakman Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 64:05


-- On the Show:-- Ruth Ben-Ghiat, internationally acclaimed historian, Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University, and author of "Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present," joins David to discuss the authoritarian slide of the Republican Party, and much more. Get her book: https://amzn.to/3JW3aSq-- Republican FBI hearings, meant to make FBI Director Christopher Wray look bad, backfire spectacularly-- Fox News is hit with another major lawsuit, this time from Ray Epps, who has been a target of the right for some time now-- Daily Wire right-winger Michael Knowles declares that "science is mostly fake" and "condoms are gay"-- The 2024 election is increasingly chaotic as an RFK Jr. dinner devolves into flatulence, and Cornel West's campaign is rattling some Democrats-- Donald Trump again claims that President Joe Biden is using cocaine in a disgusting interview-- Donald Trump is massively triggered by Chris Christie's attacks on him, leading Trump to rant uncontrollably on Truth Social-- MyPillow Mike Lindell is so desperate to keep his company afloat that he's now trying to advertise on The David Pakman Show-- Voicemail caller suggests buying MyPillow Mike Lindell's sprinter van for Luke Beasley to have to drive to Trump rallies-- On the Bonus Show: Plastic surgeon banned from medicine after live-streaming surgeries, MSNBC host blames Biden's staff for setting him up to stumble and fall, upcoming interviews, the latest version of the book, much more...

The David Pakman Show
9/4/23: Fox News brutally sued again, FBI hearings implode (CLASSIC EPISODE FROM 7/13/23)

The David Pakman Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 58:21


LABOR DAY / CLASSIC EPISODE FROM JULY 13, 2023-- On the Show:-- Ruth Ben-Ghiat, internationally acclaimed historian, Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University, and author of "Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present," joins David to discuss the authoritarian slide of the Republican Party, and much more. Get her book: https://amzn.to/3JW3aSq-- Republican FBI hearings, meant to make FBI Director Christopher Wray look bad, backfire spectacularly-- Fox News is hit with another major lawsuit, this time from Ray Epps, who has been a target of the right for some time now-- Daily Wire right-winger Michael Knowles declares that "science is mostly fake" and "condoms are gay"-- The 2024 election is increasingly chaotic as an RFK Jr. dinner devolves into flatulence, and Cornel West's campaign is rattling some Democrats-- Donald Trump again claims that President Joe Biden is using cocaine in a disgusting interview-- Donald Trump is massively triggered by Chris Christie's attacks on him, leading Trump to rant uncontrollably on Truth Social-- MyPillow Mike Lindell is so desperate to keep his company afloat that he's now trying to advertise on The David Pakman Show-- Voicemail caller suggests buying MyPillow Mike Lindell's sprinter van for Luke Beasley to have to drive to Trump rallies-- On the Bonus Show: Plastic surgeon banned from medicine after live-streaming surgeries, MSNBC host blames Biden's staff for setting him up to stumble and fall, upcoming interviews, the latest version of the book, much more...