The Soundtrack of Rebellion: Greil Marcus and Robert Scheer on Rock, Politics, and the Meaning of Freedom
Intro:Welcome to Scheer Intelligence, where the real intelligence comes from our guests. Today, Robert Scheer sits down with legendary cultural critic Greil Marcus—called by The Washington Post “our greatest cultural critic”—to explore how rock and roll became the pulse of political and personal liberation in America.From the streets of Berkeley during the Free Speech Movement to the birth of Rolling Stone magazine, Marcus and Scheer trace the intertwined history of music and resistance—how the Beatles, Dylan, and Lennon didn’t just soundtrack an era, but gave voice to its rebellion.It’s a rare conversation between two thinkers shaped by the same storms—war, protest, and art—and still asking the same question: can truth survive in a world that insists on selling it back to us?
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59:20
From Orchard to Table: Unpacking Biodiversity and the Hidden Stories of Apples with Priyanka Kumar
Welcome to another enlightening episode of Scheer Intelligence, where we explore the intricate tapestry of our natural world through the lens of literature and personal experience. I'm your host, Robert Scheer, and today we embark on a delightful journey into the heart of one of nature's most beloved fruits—the apple.Joining me is acclaimed naturalist and author Priyanka Kumar, whose latest book takes us beyond the grocery store aisles and into the wild, exploring the profound connections we share with the apple and its role in the broader narrative of biodiversity. In a candid discussion that traverses her childhood in the Himalayan foothills to her current life in Santa Fe, we unravel the stories of feral apple trees, cultural histories, and the urgent call to reconnect with nature in an increasingly disconnected world.Whether you're a casual apple enthusiast or a devoted naturalist, this conversation promises to enlighten and inspire as we peel back the layers of history, science, and personal reflection surrounding this humble yet extraordinary fruit. So grab your favorite apple—perhaps one with a few character marks—and settle in for a rich exploration of our forgotten ties to the wild.
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"Academic Freedom Under Siege: Brian Rosenberg Reveals the Threats Facing Higher Education in Today's Political Climate"
Welcome to another thought-provoking edition of Scheer Intelligence. I'm your host, Robert Scheer, and today we delve into the heart of a critical issue facing our society: the erosion of academic freedom in higher education. Joining me is Brian Rosenberg, a noted educator and commentator whose recent article in the Chronicle of Higher Education warns that autocratic pressures are compromising the very institutions that promise to foster critical thought and innovation. As we navigate the complexities of modern governance and the chilling effects of fear on intellectual discourse, Rosenberg exposes how universities are grappling with their vulnerabilities amidst political upheaval. Together, we'll explore the implications of this capitulation and the urgent need for a robust defense of academic principles in a time when they are more threatened than ever. Stay tuned as we unpack the intricate relationship between power, education, and the future of democracy."
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Navigating Sociocide: The Contradictions of American Society with Charlie Derber
Join Robert Scheer in this thought-provoking episode of Scheer Intelligence as he engages with sociologist Charlie Derber, author of Bonfire: American Sociocide - Broken Relations and the Quest for Democracy. This conversation delves into the complexities of modern American society, exploring the alarming trends of sociocide and the ramifications of systemic alienation amidst apparent prosperity.Derber, a prolific writer with 29 books to his name, presents a compelling argument about the forces at play in our current societal landscape, where individualism erodes community bonds and the quest for democracy feels increasingly distant. Robert and Charlie dissect the historical context of these issues, tracing the roots of contemporary authoritarianism and the role of elites in shaping the socio-political climate. Amidst the grim diagnosis, they also uncover rays of hope, examining the potential for grassroots movements and collective action to challenge the status quo. With insights that resonate deeply in today's political climate, this episode is not just an analysis of despair but also a call to recognize the cracks in the system where light can break through.Listen in as they discuss the contradictions inherent in a society at odds with itself and contemplate the future of democracy in a world grappling with profound social and economic upheaval. Tune in for a rich conversation that challenges conventional narratives and invites listeners to reflect on their role in shaping a more equitable society.
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Defiant: The Remarkable Story of Robert Smalls - A Journey from Slavery to Congress
Welcome to another riveting episode of Scheer Intelligence. I’m your host, Robert Scheer, and today, we delve deep into an extraordinary tale that challenges the very fabric of American history. Joining me is Rob Edwards, a seasoned Hollywood storyteller known for his impactful work in mass media. His recent project, a graphic novel titled "Defiant," sheds light on the life of Robert Smalls—a man who not only escaped the bonds of slavery but also rose to prominence as a congressman and an influential public figure.Prepare to be inspired as we explore how Smalls’ daring escape during the Civil War defied expectations and shattered stereotypes, revealing a narrative that has been overlooked in traditional historical accounts. From his unlikely upbringing to his courageous actions that changed the course of his life and the lives of others, this is a story about resilience, humanity, and the fight for freedom. Tune in as we celebrate an unsung hero and discuss the importance of reclaiming our history through compelling storytelling.
Scheer Intelligence features thoughtful and provocative conversations with "American Originals" -- people who, through a lifetime of engagement with political issues, offer unique and often surprising perspectives on the day's most important issues.
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