E23 - Historical Necessity

A Socialist Reads Atlas Shrugged

Jonathan begins this episode by discussing Schumpeter's concept of "creative destruction" and the thorny problem of those who, through no fault of their own, lose their jobs because of it. Next, we challenge Orren Boyle's notion of "progressive social policy" by clarifying and historicizing the legislation and reforms of the Progressive Era. Swill milk is the example Jonathan uses to emphasize the importance of Progressive Era legislation and regulation. This brings up the question of the government's role in the affairs of particular firms. Should the government intervene when a new invention will lead to some companies going out of business? When is a company "too big to fail"? Jonathan next addresses the racism apparent in the discussion of Mexico in this scene. The episode ends with an explanation of Wesley Mouch's role and a reflection on the idea that "who you know" is more important than anything else in business and politics.
My five themes to explore in this podcast's close read of Atlas Shrugged are:

1. What is human nature?
2. Straw-man arguments and their impact on the world Ayn Rand creates.
3. Dagny Taggart as a true hero.
4. How empathy can be de-legitimized.
5. What is Capitalism and what is wrong with it?

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Learn more about Jonathan Seyfried at their website, https://jonathanseyfried.art
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The intro/outro music was composed by John Sib.
The podcast theme image was created by Karina Bialy

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