Celebrating the Global Socialist Vision of Michael Brooks

Varn Vlog

Join the conversation as we honor the extraordinary Michael Brooks, with guest Dr. Matthew McManus, whose latest work "How to Guide to Cosmopolitan Socialism" celebrates Michael’s legacy and his unifying vision for a globally inclusive left. Delve into the heart of Michael's approach to politics, one that wove together the threads of diverse ideologies into a tapestry of progressive thought and action. We reminisce about his contributions, reflecting on the need for unity in contemporary leftist circles and the void left by his untimely departure.
Navigating the murky waters of left-wing foreign policy, we grapple with the complexities that movements like Bernie's 2016 brought to the fore, blending political ideologies into a vibrant coalition. From the decline of socialist internationalism to the bipartisan consensus on American military power, we confront the challenge of crafting a coherent foreign policy that speaks to our global responsibilities. Brooks' nuanced perspective on these issues reminds us of the intricate dance between domestic and international politics, and how critical it is to maintain this balance for the sake of a progressive global vision.
In a world where domestic and international fronts are inextricably linked, we scrutinize the American Left's approach to global politics. How would a socialist United States shape its relations with powers such as the EU or respond to anti-socialist governments? We consider the role of religion in leftist movements, looking at historical alliances, the spiritual underpinnings of activism, and the transformative power of religious discourse in forging paths toward social change. Join us as we explore these pressing questions, inspired by the profound insights and humanity that Michael Brooks brought to the political landscape.

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Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn
Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube

Chapters

1. Legacy of Michael Brooks and Socialism (00:00:00)

2. The Challenge of Left-Wing Foreign Policy (00:15:44)

3. The American Left's International Outlook (00:21:02)

4. Reconceiving World Order and Leftist Politics (00:29:18)

5. Religion in Leftist Movements (00:46:56)