From Dawn To Decadence, part 1: Cultural Shifts and Economic Myths

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What if modern society is hurtling towards decadence just like the Roman Empire, yet we remain blissfully unaware of it? Join us as we embark on a journey with the Regrettable Brothers, Chris and Jason, to explore this possibility and unravel the complexities of societal progress through a Marxist lens. We bring you an insightful discussion that contrasts the lack of unifying structures in today’s capitalist excess, with the historical context of the Roman era's Catholic Church. With references to historical thinkers like Jacques Barzun and Giambattista Vico, we challenge the idea that technological advancement equates to moral and societal progress.
Our conversation takes a provocative turn as we examine theories of social decay and revival, weaving through Marxist perspectives and historical milestones like the Protestant Reformation and the fall of the Byzantine Empire. We scrutinize the evolution of capitalist theory, delving into the continuity of monopolistic practices and the critiques of Marx's views on capitalism's origins. Alongside our guests, we question the very fabric of modern society, examining economic stagnation, technological decay, and the specter of capitalist decadence. From theories of surplus value to the revolutionary role of the proletariat, we leave no stone unturned in our quest for insight.
Finally, we turn our attention to cultural decline, economic stagnation, and the complexities of nationalism in Eastern Europe. Our guests, Jason Moore and Phil Neal, offer perspectives on modern economies, labor rights, and the illusion of meritocracy. We also tackle the intricate tapestry of ethnic identity and nationalism in post-Slavic regions, navigating sensitive topics with a blend of humor and critical reflection. This episode promises a comprehensive exploration of historical transitions and their theoretical underpinnings, providing a rich tapestry of ideas that will leave you questioning the state of our modern world.
Sources:
Morley, Neville. "Decadence as a Theory of History." New Literary History, Vol. 35, No. 4, Forms and/of Decadence (Autumn, 2004), pp.573-585
Decadence: The Theory of Decline or the Decline of Theory?
https://libcom.org/library/decadence-aufheben-2
Revolution or Decadence?
https://monthlyreview.org/2018/05/01/revolution-or-decadence/

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Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn
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Κεφάλαια

1. Decay and Decadence in Society (00:00:00)

2. Theories of Social Decay and Revival (00:13:56)

3. Decadence Theory and Modernity (00:20:51)

4. Evolution of Capitalist Theory (00:31:21)

5. Theories on Capitalism and Crisis (00:38:43)

6. The Theory of Capitalist Decadence (00:46:43)

7. Modern Society and Capitalist Decadence (00:56:53)

8. Economic Stagnation and Technological Decay (01:06:51)

9. Decline and Decadence in Society (01:14:18)

10. IQ, Education, and Social Adaption (01:24:26)

11. Redefining Capitalism and Bourgeois Society (01:28:30)

12. Marxist Analysis of Capitalist Dynamics (01:34:25)

13. Debating Capitalist Decadence Theories (01:45:43)

14. Ethnic Nationalism in Eastern Europe (01:55:33)