Lecture Notes: Oligarchy and Democratic Progressive State
Introduction
Myth of Political Normalcy: The belief that removing right-wing forces will restore a democratic progressive state is a myth.
Political Normality: The true default state of centralized societies is oligarchy, not democracy.
The Nature of Oligarchy
Definition: Oligarchs transform immense economic power into political power.
Support for Right-Wing Movements: Billionaires support leaders like Trump, Farage, and Le Pen because they promote oligarchic transformation.
Political Forces and Limitations
Centrist Politicians: Figures like Keir Starmer and Joe Biden struggle to counter oligarchy.
They try to appease oligarchs and appeal to the populace simultaneously, which diminishes popular support.
Historical Context
Rise and Fall of Oligarchic Power: Oligarchic power resurges periodically throughout history unless opposed by significant movements.
Walter Scheidel’s Theory: Only catastrophic events like war, revolution, state collapse, or plague have historically reduced inequality.
Case Study: Post-World War Transformation
World Wars' Impact: Destruction of wealth and power of the rich led to more egalitarian societies.
High taxes on the wealthy helped fund wars and later welfare states.
US Occupation of Japan: Reforms dismantled Japan’s oligarchic structures, leading to a democratic society.
Land redistribution, trade unions, and worker rights were established.
Contemporary Challenges and Solutions
Return of Oligarchic Power: There's a resurgence aiming to undo post-WWII democratic gains.
Need for Progressive Movements: To counter oligarchic power, there must be organized, large-scale progressive movements.
Must use a social tipping science to change societal behaviors.
Media's Role: Mainstream media cannot be relied upon to fight oligarchy as it is often oligarch-controlled.
Alternative media like Double Down News aims to challenge oligarchic power.
Conclusion
Urgency for Action: Emphasizes the need for non-violent and strategic mobilization against oligarchic powers to prevent societal regression to historical oppressive states.
Support for Independent Media: Encouragement to back independent media challenging oligarchy.