DeepSummary
The episode features an interview with Astra Taylor and Leah Hunt Hendricks, co-authors of the book "Solidarity, the past, present, and future of a world changing idea". Astra explains that the idea for the book stemmed from a discussion with Leah about the origins of the word "solidarity" being rooted in ancient Roman law related to collective debt. The book explores the history, political theory, and practical aspects of solidarity in social movements.
Leah discusses her motivation for studying solidarity, which stemmed from her PhD dissertation on the topic. Despite its widespread use in activism, solidarity had received little scholarly attention compared to concepts like justice and liberty. Leah emphasizes the importance of understanding solidarity as both theory and praxis, and sees social movements as key drivers of structural change to address issues like economic inequality.
The authors aim to provide an intellectual resource for understanding and supporting contemporary social movements, while acknowledging the backlash they often face. The episode promises insights into the history, etymology, political theory, and organizing mechanics related to solidarity.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- The book "Solidarity" explores the history, political theory, and practical applications of the concept of solidarity in relation to social movements.
- The authors aim to provide an intellectual resource for understanding and supporting contemporary social movements.
- The book examines the backlash and repression faced by social movements, as well as the organizing mechanics and strategies employed.
- The concept of solidarity has its roots in ancient Roman law related to collective debt.
- Social movements are seen as key drivers of structural change to address issues like economic inequality and climate change.
- The authors emphasize the importance of understanding solidarity as both a theoretical concept and a lived practice.
- The book combines elements of history, etymology, political theory, and practical organizing experience.
- The authors collaborated on the project due to their shared interests and experiences in social movements and activism.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “For me, I was always interested in economic inequality and climate, but really thinking, for me, since I was just really young, I have been kind of obsessed with just the level of disparity in our society.“ by Leah Hunt Hendricks
- “And so how do we support the social movements of our time is a big question. How do we, we've lived through the past decade has just been, you know, seen so many vibrant social movements, but how do we ensure that they really, we've also been in a time of real backlash.“ by Leah Hunt Hendricks
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Episode Information
Left Anchor
Ryan Cooper & Alexi the Greek
4/17/24