Quique Autrey on the Paradoxes of the Mark Fisher and David Smail

Varn Vlog

Unlock a deeper understanding of the interplay between personal struggles and societal pressures as therapist and podcast co-host Kiki Altre joins us to dissect the influential ideas of Mark Fisher and David Smail. Fisher's poignant "Good for Nothing" article serves as a springboard for our conversation, blending personal anecdotes with academic critique. Kiki brings a unique perspective, sharing insights from his specialized therapy work with men on the autism spectrum and his approach to hosting thought-provoking podcast discussions that bridge diverse viewpoints.
Together, we tackle the complexities of mental health, challenging the common narratives around Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and its evolution. The conversation transcends simple class-based explanations for depression, instead highlighting the intricate web of cognitive dissonance and narrative creation within the individual. We traverse David Smail's examination of class and power dynamics in mental health, advocating for a nuanced understanding that acknowledges both personal experiences and broader sociological forces.
As we journey through the ethical gaps in Marxism and the concept of resilience, we explore Christopher Lasch's critique of societal relationships and psychoanalysis. Addressing the balance between personal responsibility and external societal pressures, we dissect the implications of class origins and cultural norms on one's self-worth and actions. The episode closes with an emphasis on the importance of personal growth and active participation in societal change, advocating for ethical solidarity and power egalitarianism in our pursuit of a more just world.

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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. Quique Autrey on the Paradoxes of the Mark Fisher and David Smail (00:00:00)

2. Fisher's Legacy and Sociological Understanding of Depression (00:01:35)

3. Social Thinking and Mental Health Complexity (00:15:26)

4. Analysis of Christopher Lash's Ideas (00:32:14)

5. Depression, Marxism, and Personal Responsibility (00:48:33)

6. Exploring Ethics and Marxism's Ethical Void (01:05:57)

7. Rejecting Victimology and Encouraging Resilience (01:15:08)