In this episode, Paige is joined by professor, philosopher and writer Anthony David Vernon for a wide-ranging conversation on the quiet evolution of fascism in contemporary culture. They explore how fascist ideologies are increasingly "disguised". Co-opting everything from AI and internet aesthetics to nostalgic pop culture and traditional values. Vernon breaks down how nationalism remains the central thread of fascist movements, and why it’s important to distinguish between reactionary figures and true authoritarian ideologues.
The conversation also delves into the rise of the “repairman economy”. Paige and Anthony reflect on how cultural and economic narratives intertwine—and what resistance looks like when fascism wears softer, subtler faces.
Together, they imagine a future rooted in social democracy, where progress is incremental but real, and where reclaiming empathy is key to confronting political dehumanization.
Check out some of Anthony’s articles:
https://academeblog.org/2025/04/17/double-booking-against-higher-education/
https://www.bardicsanonymous.com/nonfiction/optimistic-absurdism
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