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Showing episodes and shows of
DemocracyatWork - Richard D. Wolff
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Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Marx Was Right
This week's episode of Economic Update is an adaptation from a talk Professor Wolff gave at Yale University on December 2, 2025, to the Yale Political Union. In this presentation, he discusses the significance of the title "Marx was Right," which Yale offered, and points out that, over the last 75 years, such a topic or event would not likely have occurred on that campus. He provides a basic summary of critical points throughout Marx's work where he has been proven "right." Professor Wolff also discusses how and why socialism has evolved, from the rise and fall of the USSR to the...
2025-12-16
31 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Marx Was Right
This week’s episode of Economic Update is an adaptation from a talk Professor Wolff gave at Yale University on December 2, 2025, to the Yale Political Union. In this presentation, he discusses the significance of the title "Marx was Right," which Yale offered, and points out that, over the last 75 years, such a topic or event would not likely have occurred on that campus. He provides a basic summary of critical points throughout Marx's work where he has been proven "right." Professor Wolff also discusses how and why socialism has evolved, from the rise and fall of the USSR to th...
2025-12-16
31 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
The U.S. Military's Role in Ecological Crisis
On this week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff delivers updates on the internal struggle inside the U.S. Teamsters Union between O'Brien leadership and Hooker challenge group (pro- vs anti-Trump), Trump-McMahon attack on the nursing profession in the U.S., and Trump's own reduction of tariffs and thus of government revenue from tariffs. Then, Professor Wolff interviews Abby Martin about her new film, "Earth's Greatest Enemy," which explores the U.S. military's disastrous ecological impact on the planet. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. W...
2025-12-09
34 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
The U.S. Military's Role in Ecological Crisis
On this week’s episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff delivers updates on the internal struggle inside the U.S. Teamsters Union between O'Brien leadership and Hooker challenge group (pro- vs anti-Trump), Trump-McMahon attack on the nursing profession in the U.S., and Trump's own reduction of tariffs and thus of government revenue from tariffs. Then, Professor Wolff interviews Abby Martin about her new film, "Earth's Greatest Enemy," which explores the U.S. military's disastrous ecological impact on the planet. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. pro...
2025-12-09
34 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Resurgent Labor Organizing
On this week’s episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff’s updates include the 60+ people killed by the U.S. military in what it claimed were "narco boats," Socialist Catherine Connolly wins the Presidency in Ireland, Canada hit with nationwide postal workers strike alongside a strike of the entire public workforce (51,000) in Alberta, Canada, and finally a new poll showing that 67% of U.S. college students look favorably or neutrally on socialism. In the second half of today’s show, Professor Wolff interviews Robert Ovetz and Kevin van Meter on effective new ways of organizing workers. The d...
2025-11-11
32 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Resurgent Labor Organizing
On this week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff's updates include the 60+ people killed by the U.S. military in what it claimed were "narco boats," Socialist Catherine Connolly wins the Presidency in Ireland, Canada hit with nationwide postal workers strike alongside a strike of the entire public workforce (51,000) in Alberta, Canada, and finally a new poll showing that 67% of U.S. college students look favorably or neutrally on socialism. In the second half of today's show, Professor Wolff interviews Robert Ovetz and Kevin van Meter on effective new ways of organizing workers. The d@w...
2025-11-11
32 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Union Organizing In Today's U.S.
This week on Economic Update, Professor Wolff delivers updates on the impending U.S. recession, JP Morgan admits failures of the neoliberal period as it turns nationalist, and the causes of mass shootings in the U.S. In the second half of today's show, Professor Wolff interviews two young U.S. union organizers and their organizing method of "workers inquiry": Alex Pyne of the Blue Bottle Independent Union and Anastasia Wilson of Hobart and William Smith Colleges. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. We make i...
2025-10-28
31 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Union Organizing In Today's U.S.
This week on Economic Update, Professor Wolff delivers updates on the impending U.S. recession, JP Morgan admits failures of the neoliberal period as it turns nationalist, and the causes of mass shootings in the U.S. In the second half of today’s show, Professor Wolff interviews two young U.S. union organizers and their organizing method of "workers inquiry": Alex Pyne of the Blue Bottle Independent Union and Anastasia Wilson of Hobart and William Smith Colleges. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. We mak...
2025-10-28
31 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Late Stage Capitalism and Technical Change
On this week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff delivers updates on the censoring of U.S. government reports on hunger, changes in U.S. agriculture amid capitalism's decline, the special place of white, male, Christian union members in the MAGA world, and the relation of A.I. and jobs. In the second half of the show, Professor Wolff interviews UCLA Professor Ramesh Srinivasan, host of the podcast "Utopias," on technology, capitalism, and our collective future. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. We make it a...
2025-10-21
30 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Late Stage Capitalism and Technical Change
On this week’s episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff delivers updates on the censoring of U.S. government reports on hunger, changes in U.S. agriculture amid capitalism's decline, the special place of white, male, Christian union members in the MAGA world, and the relation of A.I. and jobs. In the second half of the show, Professor Wolff interviews UCLA Professor Ramesh Srinivasan, host of the podcast “Utopias,” on technology, capitalism, and our collective future. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. We make it a po...
2025-10-21
30 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Communities of Women Build a Movement
On this week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff delivers updates on the non-profit reporters that are unionizing in Ohio, the Hilton Hotel workers striking in Houston, Canada's third party with radical leadership, and Canada's postal strike pits private profits of UPS, FedEx, etc, vs the nation's real postal needs. In the second half of the show, Professor Wolff interviews Kim Westcott, Managing Director of Women Building Up, a new community organization in Brooklyn, New York, dedicated to helping formerly incarcerated women reintegrate into new lives. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wo...
2025-10-07
29 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Communities of Women Build a Movement
On this week’s episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff delivers updates on the non-profit reporters that are unionizing in Ohio, the Hilton Hotel workers striking in Houston, Canada's third party with radical leadership, and Canada's postal strike pits private profits of UPS, FedEx, etc, vs the nation's real postal needs. In the second half of the show, Professor Wolff interviews Kim Westcott, Managing Director of Women Building Up, a new community organization in Brooklyn, New York, dedicated to helping formerly incarcerated women reintegrate into new lives. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. W...
2025-10-07
29 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
American Style Fascism
This week on Economic Update, Professor Wolff delivers updates on the flight attendants' union strike in Canada, polls show that U.S. Democrats are shifting leftward, with majorities favoring socialism, Nigel Farage discusses Epstein and prominent Americans, and the French people move against Macron's austerity through mass national street actions. In the second half of today's show, Professor Wolff interviews attorney Michael S. Smith, co-author of the new book, "From the Flag to the Cross: Fascism American Style." The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. We m...
2025-09-30
30 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
American Style Fascism
This week on Economic Update, Professor Wolff delivers updates on the flight attendants' union strike in Canada, polls show that U.S. Democrats are shifting leftward, with majorities favoring socialism, Nigel Farage discusses Epstein and prominent Americans, and the French people move against Macron's austerity through mass national street actions. In the second half of today’s show, Professor Wolff interviews attorney Michael S. Smith, co-author of the new book, “From the Flag to the Cross: Fascism American Style.” The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. We make...
2025-09-30
30 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Capitalism and Culture, Their Connection in Crisis Now
On this week’s episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff provides updates on Medicare advantage and "pre-authorization" as a way to reduce Medicare payments, liberals and radicals split over Mamdani, Trump's current budget further deepens the inequality of wealth across the US, and Mexico attends the BRICS meeting in Rio de Janeiro. In the second part of today’s show, Professor Wolff interviews Professor Henry Giroux from McMaster University, Canada, on capitalism, culture, and fascism in the U.S. today. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. produc...
2025-07-15
30 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Capitalism and Culture, Their Connection in Crisis Now
On this week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff provides updates on Medicare advantage and "pre-authorization" as a way to reduce Medicare payments, liberals and radicals split over Mamdani, Trump's current budget further deepens the inequality of wealth across the US, and Mexico attends the BRICS meeting in Rio de Janeiro. In the second part of today's show, Professor Wolff interviews Professor Henry Giroux from McMaster University, Canada, on capitalism, culture, and fascism in the U.S. today. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. We ma...
2025-07-15
30 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
The Workers' Struggle within The Metropolitan Opera Orchestra
On this week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff delivers updates on the political theater, of the U.S./Iran hostilities, the political shock of Zohran Mamdani's Democratic primary win in New York City, the withdrawal of union leaders from the Democratic National Committee, and the rising trade among BRICS crosses the $1 trillion milestone. In the second part of today's show, Prof. Wolff interviews two leaders of the musicians' union representing the orchestra of the Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center, New York City: Javier Gandara and Stephanie Mortimore. The d@w Team Economic Update with R...
2025-07-08
31 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
The Workers' Struggle within The Metropolitan Opera Orchestra
On this week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff delivers updates on the political theater, of the U.S./Iran hostilities, the political shock of Zohran Mamdani's Democratic primary win in New York City, the withdrawal of union leaders from the Democratic National Committee, and the rising trade among BRICS crosses the $1 trillion milestone. In the second part of today's show, Prof. Wolff interviews two leaders of the musicians' union representing the orchestra of the Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center, New York City: Javier Gandara and Stephanie Mortimore. The d@w Team Economic Update with R...
2025-07-08
31 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
The Corporatization of Universities and Trump's Attacks
This week on Economic Update, Professor Wolff begins by presenting updates on the death of libertarianism and the rise of US economic nationalism, and US universities become big businesses, governed by money concerns. In the episode's second half, Professor Wolff interviews Professor Geert Dhondt, the Chair of the Economics Department and Economics Professor at John Jay College of the City University of New York, on how colleges and universities are reacting to Trump's attack on higher education. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. We make i...
2025-05-20
31 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
The Corporatization of Universities and Trump's Attacks
This week on Economic Update, Professor Wolff begins by presenting updates on the death of libertarianism and the rise of US economic nationalism, and US universities become big businesses, governed by money concerns. In the episode's second half, Professor Wolff interviews Professor Geert Dhondt, the Chair of the Economics Department and Economics Professor at John Jay College of the City University of New York, on how colleges and universities are reacting to Trump's attack on higher education. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. We make i...
2025-05-20
31 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Resisting Trump's Restoration Project with Kali Akuno
This week on Economic Update, Professor Richard Wolff examines a major labor strike unfolding in California, where 2,400 Kaiser Permanente mental health workers are fighting for better conditions. Next, we break down how tariffs function as an economic weapon, undermining the living standards of U.S. workers. Finally, Professor Wolff sits down with Kali Akuno, co-founder and co-director of Cooperation Jackson, to discuss Trump's controversial "restoration" agenda and the growing resistance against it. Kali Akuno is the co-founder and co-director of Cooperation Jackson, a network of worker cooperatives and community-led programs that sustain and grow a...
2025-04-29
32 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Resisting Trump's Restoration Project with Kali Akuno
This week on Economic Update, Professor Richard Wolff examines a major labor strike unfolding in California, where 2,400 Kaiser Permanente mental health workers are fighting for better conditions. Next, we break down how tariffs function as an economic weapon, undermining the living standards of U.S. workers. Finally, Professor Wolff sits down with Kali Akuno, co-founder and co-director of Cooperation Jackson, to discuss Trump’s controversial "restoration" agenda and the growing resistance against it. Kali Akuno is the co-founder and co-director of Cooperation Jackson, a network of worker cooperatives and community-led programs that sustain and grow a...
2025-04-29
32 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Solidarity Cities as Alternatives to Capitalism
**** SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT **** For those of you in the New York area, we'd like to invite you to join us for another presentation of "Global Capitalism Live with Professor Richard Wolff" taking place on April 30th. Professor Wolff will be giving a lecture on the impact of President Trump’s economic policies and explaining how they are an attack on working people as part of a reflection on May Day. This event will be held in person in the main lecture hall at the Women Building Up campus at 401 State Street in Brooklyn, NY. Seats are limited but you ca...
2025-04-22
31 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Solidarity Cities as Alternatives to Capitalism
**** SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT **** For those of you in the New York area, we'd like to invite you to join us for another presentation of "Global Capitalism Live with Professor Richard Wolff" taking place on April 30th. Professor Wolff will be giving a lecture on the impact of President Trump's economic policies and explaining how they are an attack on working people as part of a reflection on May Day. This event will be held in person in the main lecture hall at the Women Building Up campus at 401 State Street in Brooklyn, NY. Seats are limited but you can...
2025-04-22
31 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Build and Fight: The Resistance Forms
In this week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff discusses the economic causes and effects of the global demographic's decline, the Trump administration's colonial plans for Greenland, and examples of resistance and fighting back as the Trump/Musk firing of federal workers gets underway. In the show's second half, Professor Wolff interviews the activist, organizer, and people's lawyer, who is organizing multiple fronts of resistance, David Cobb. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. We make it a point to provide the show free of ads a...
2025-03-18
33 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Capitalism, Lost Empathy and Rising Addictions
In this week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff discusses Trump's attempts at taking Panama as more evidence of rising colonialism and imperial ambitions, the recent organizing and strike of 10,000 Colorado grocery workers, and finally, corporations and investment funds abandoning DEI. In the second half of the show, Prof. Wolff interviews psychotherapist Tess Fraad-Wolff on capitalism's causal links to declining empathy and rising addictions. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. We make it a point to provide the show free of ads and rely on v...
2025-02-18
21 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Capitalism, Lost Empathy and Rising Addictions
In this week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff discusses Trump's attempts at taking Panama as more evidence of rising colonialism and imperial ambitions, the recent organizing and strike of 10,000 Colorado grocery workers, and finally, corporations and investment funds abandoning DEI. In the second half of the show, Prof. Wolff interviews psychotherapist Tess Fraad-Wolff on capitalism's causal links to declining empathy and rising addictions. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. We make it a point to provide the show free of ads and rely on v...
2025-02-18
21 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
The View from Prison
In this week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Richard Wolff delivers updates on the North Carolina union election at an Amazon warehouse, the deportation of immigrants, and the U.S. construction industry, a lesson in how capitalism installs new technology like A.I. and how it could be far better done. In the second half of this week's episode, Professor Wolff interviews Serena Martin, a formerly incarcerated social activist and executive director of New Hour for Women and Children. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. W...
2025-02-11
30 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
The View from Prison
In this week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Richard Wolff delivers updates on the North Carolina union election at an Amazon warehouse, the deportation of immigrants, and the U.S. construction industry, a lesson in how capitalism installs new technology like A.I. and how it could be far better done. In the second half of this week's episode, Professor Wolff interviews Serena Martin, a formerly incarcerated social activist and executive director of New Hour for Women and Children. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. W...
2025-02-11
30 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
New Economics Institute with Clara Mattei
In this week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Richard Wolff delves into the heroic efforts of California firefighters and their extraordinary work in battling the recent wildfires in Los Angeles. We also explore the progressive transformations occurring within U.S. labor unions and shed light on the escalating housing affordability crisis across the United States. Additionally, we interview Professor Clara Mattei, Director of the newly established Center for Heterodox Economics in Oklahoma. Professor Mattei shares details about this groundbreaking initiative, outlining its goals, mission, and activities, as well as how it distinguishes itself from mainstream economic approaches.
2025-02-04
32 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Marxism and Economics: A Global View with Shahram Azhar
In this week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff discusses the strengths and weaknesses of Senator Elizabeth Warren's new bill "The Accountable Capitalism Act", Elon Musk's recent comments on homeless people, Mitch McConnell's criticisms of Trump for isolationism, and the over 9,000 Michigan nurses voting to join the Teamsters Union. Finally, Professor Wolff interviews Bucknell University Economics Professor and Co-Host of The Dialectic at Work Professor Shahram Azhar on the appeal of Marxian economics. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. We make it a point to p...
2025-01-14
30 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Class Struggles Worldwide
This week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff delves into key global developments, including President Trump's looming tariff wars, the collapse of Emmanuel Macron's government in France, and massive strikes by Volkswagen workers in Germany. He also examines the fall of governments in South Korea and Syria and its implications, along with the public reaction to the assassination of a prominent healthcare CEO. Professor Wolff concludes by analyzing how these events collectively highlight class struggles fueled by the declining U.S. empire and its systemic challenges. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. W...
2024-12-16
29 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
The Persistence of Socialism
In this week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff dives deep into why socialism remains a popular and successful economic system. Professor Wolff highlights new laws passed by the government of Spain that punish airline companies who employ 'unjustified' airline passenger fees. We then debunk the unsubstantiated and nonsensical myth we hear so often that: 'Socialism has never worked,' and finally we juxtapose the history of the last capitalist collapse (1930s Great Depression) when the US working class turned left versus the current crisis of US capitalism when the initial turn of the working class is to...
2024-12-10
30 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Financializing Public Universities for Wall Street's Benefit
On this week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Richard Wolff addresses the numerous requests for financial planning or investment advice that he receives from many of you. We touch on the truth about investing in the stock and/or bond markets. In addition, Professor Wolff offers a basic understanding of the economics of US capitalism's century-long, profit-driven failure to adequately provide housing to its people. Finally, an interview with Professors Eleni Schirmer and Sofya Aptekar about their new book "Lend and Rule", from Common Notions Press, and their fight against the financialization of US public universities, and w...
2024-10-01
30 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Financializing Public Universities for Wall Street's Benefit
On this week’s episode of Economic Update, Professor Richard Wolff addresses the numerous requests for financial planning or investment advice that he receives from many of you. We touch on the truth about investing in the stock and/or bond markets. In addition, Professor Wolff offers a basic understanding of the economics of US capitalism's century-long, profit-driven failure to adequately provide housing to its people. Finally, an interview with Professors Eleni Schirmer and Sofya Aptekar about their new book "Lend and Rule", from Common Notions Press, and their fight against the financialization of US public universities, and...
2024-10-01
30 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Worsening Economic Inequality Yields Worsening Social Conditions
On this week's Economic Update, Professor Richard Wolff discusses Kate Pickett's and Richard Wilkinson's best-selling study in the book "The Spirit Level" (2009), showing how economic inequality correlates with most of the major social problems of our time. We will juxtapose their latest paper "The Spirit Level at 15: The Enduring Impact of Inequality" Which details how economic inequality has only gotten worse since the past fifteen years, despite government laws and programs aimed to "reduce" inequality. Wilkinson and Pickett show how inequality leads to severe social ills, divisions, and disintegration. What we need is to face th...
2024-08-27
29 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Worsening Economic Inequality Yields Worsening Social Conditions
On this week’s Economic Update, Professor Richard Wolff discusses Kate Pickett's and Richard Wilkinson's best-selling study in the book "The Spirit Level" (2009), showing how economic inequality correlates with most of the major social problems of our time. We will juxtapose their latest paper "The Spirit Level at 15: The Enduring Impact of Inequality" Which details how economic inequality has only gotten worse since the past fifteen years, despite government laws and programs aimed to "reduce" inequality. Wilkinson and Pickett show how inequality leads to severe social ills, divisions, and disintegration. What we need is to face...
2024-08-27
29 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Capitalism vs Patriarchy W/Tess Fraad-Wolff
On this week's Economic Update, Professor Richard Wolff discusses the growing Labor movement and the nuclear disarmament movements in the United States; we will also examine the economic impacts of people under 50 not having nor wanting to have children; we highlight the UK Conservatives fearmongering claiming Free Speech is in danger from "cancel culture" and how anti "cancel culture" legislation was blocked by the new Labor gov't; We also discuss an Ohio court ruling that favors employers over the general public around boneless chicken that had bones. Finally, we end the show with an interview with psychotherapist T...
2024-08-20
30 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Capitalism vs Patriarchy W/Tess Fraad-Wolff
On this week’s Economic Update, Professor Richard Wolff discusses the growing Labor movement and the nuclear disarmament movements in the United States; we will also examine the economic impacts of people under 50 not having nor wanting to have children; we highlight the UK Conservatives fearmongering claiming Free Speech is in danger from "cancel culture" and how anti "cancel culture" legislation was blocked by the new Labor gov't; We also discuss an Ohio court ruling that favors employers over the general public around boneless chicken that had bones. Finally, we end the show with an interview with psy...
2024-08-20
30 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Economic Update (Special Edition): Exclusive interview with Dr. Cornel West
Third Party Politics and Social Change We would like to present a special edition of Economic Update featuring an exclusive discussion between Professor Richard Wolff and Dr. Cornel West. This program was recorded in June, 2023, but unfortunately we were unable to air this important discussion at that time. You will hear Dr. West explain why he undertook the challenge and burden to run for President of the United States. Given the political reality of US politics, as exhausted by the two major parties, we thought it would be a public service to invite Dr. West to be heard in...
2024-06-05
30 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Economic Update (Special Edition): Exclusive interview with Dr. Cornel West
Third Party Politics and Social Change We would like to present a special edition of Economic Update featuring an exclusive discussion between Professor Richard Wolff and Dr. Cornel West. This program was recorded in June, 2023, but unfortunately we were unable to air this important discussion at that time. You will hear Dr. West explain why he undertook the challenge and burden to run for President of the United States. Given the political reality of US politics, as exhausted by the two major parties, we thought it would be a public service to invite Dr. West to be heard in...
2024-06-05
30 min
Ask Prof Wolff
ASK PROF WOLFF LIVE (RECAP) - 04-08-2024
In today's "Ask Prof. Wolff Live," the discussion will cover the potential Marxist themes in Shakespeare's works, the distinctions between employee stock ownership programs (ESOP) and work cooperatives, and the concerning practices of investors buying up tangible assets and private equity firms acquiring starter homes. Professor Wolff will then take live questions from the audience on these and other economic and social topics. Ask Prof Wolff is a @democracyatwrk production. We are committed to providing these videos to you free of ads. Please consider supporting us on Patreon.com/democracyatwork. Become a part of the growing Patreon co...
2024-04-17
47 min
Ask Prof Wolff
ASK PROF WOLFF LIVE (RECAP) - 03-20-2024
This week on Ask Prof Wolff Live, we explore anti-inflationary measures implemented by central banks, the rationale behind income caps subject to social security tax, and the potential implications of transitioning from a socialist or communist economy to a wartime footing. Ask Prof Wolff is a @democracyatwrk production. We are committed to providing these videos to you free of ads. Please consider supporting us on Patreon.com/democracyatwork. Become a part of the growing Patreon community and gain access to exclusive patron-only content, along with the ability to ask Prof. Wolff questions like this one! Your support als...
2024-03-27
59 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Patriarchy and Capitalism
[EU S14 E11] Patriarch and Capitalism This week's Economic Update Professor Richard Wolff discusses the UAW union's latest moves. Their organizing drives at auto plants, their efforts to form unions among employed and free-lance journalists. In addition, we will highlight New York Governor Kathy Hochul's decision to deploy national guard troops in New York City subways and what that means for everyday residents. Finally, an interview with psychotherapist Tess Fraad-Wolff on interactions between patriarchy and capitalism, today. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. We make...
2024-03-19
29 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Patriarchy and Capitalism
[EU S14 E11] Patriarch and Capitalism This week’s Economic Update Professor Richard Wolff discusses the UAW union’s latest moves. Their organizing drives at auto plants, their efforts to form unions among employed and free-lance journalists. In addition, we will highlight New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s decision to deploy national guard troops in New York City subways and what that means for everyday residents. Finally, an interview with psychotherapist Tess Fraad-Wolff on interactions between patriarchy and capitalism, today. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. produc...
2024-03-19
29 min
Ask Prof Wolff
ASK PROF WOLFF LIVE (RECAP) - 03-06-2024
Stay connected with the latest news from d@w. Join our mailing list today: https://www.democracyatwork.info/sign_up In this installment, Prof. Wolff discusses the impact on children's autonomy, explores the intersections of class struggle with other forms of oppression, and unravels the intriguing concept of "Scientific Socialism." Following the insightful discussion, Prof. Wolff addresses a range of questions from the audience, providing deeper understanding and perspectives on these critical topics. Ask Prof Wolff is a @democracyatwrk production. We are committed to providing these videos to you free of ads. Please consider supporting us...
2024-03-07
39 min
Ask Prof Wolff
ASK PROF WOLFF LIVE (RECAP) - 02-21-2024
Stay connected with the latest news from d@w. Join our mailing list today: https://www.democracyatwork.info/sign_up Join this special iteration of "Ask Prof Wolff" Every Wednesday at 2PM (Eastern) Live on D@W YouTube Page. Professor Wolff will respond to your questions live! This is Professor Richard Wolff's video response. Submit your own question to be considered for a video response by Prof. Wolff on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/democracyatwo.... Ask Prof Wolff is a @democracyatwrk production. We are committed to providing these videos to yo...
2024-02-28
1h 00
Ask Prof Wolff
ASK PROF WOLFF LIVE (RECAP) - 01-17-2024
Stay connected with the latest news from d@w. Join our mailing list today: https://www.democracyatwork.info/sign_up Join this special iteration of "Ask Prof Wolff" Every Wednesday at 2PM (Eastern) Live on D@W YouTube Page. Professor Wolff will respond to your questions live! This is Professor Richard Wolff's video response. Submit your own question to be considered for a video response by Prof. Wolff on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/democracyatwo.... Ask Prof Wolff is a @democracyatwrk production. We are committed to providing these videos to yo...
2024-02-28
46 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Capitalism and Tax Injustice
[EU S14 E07] Capitalism and Tax Injustice This week's episode of Economic Update hosted by Professor Richard Wolff, we discuss Germany's recession, California fast-food workers unionize, How the war in Ukraine boosts US stock market, corporate stock holdings, while hurting most wage/salary incomes, In addition we ask what lessons from the protest/revolt of European farmers? Finally, the ongoing exposing of major injustices of the US federal tax system (tax exemptions for schools, churches, hospitals, and charities and social security's flat tax system) If you haven't already, please subscribe to our channel, follow us on social m...
2024-02-20
29 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
Capitalism and Tax Injustice
[EU S14 E07] Capitalism and Tax Injustice This week's episode of Economic Update hosted by Professor Richard Wolff, we discuss Germany's recession, California fast-food workers unionize, How the war in Ukraine boosts US stock market, corporate stock holdings, while hurting most wage/salary incomes, In addition we ask what lessons from the protest/revolt of European farmers? Finally, the ongoing exposing of major injustices of the US federal tax system (tax exemptions for schools, churches, hospitals, and charities and social security's flat tax system) If you haven't already, please subscribe to our channel, follow us on social m...
2024-02-20
29 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
The U.S. Tax System: Designed For Economic Injustice
[EU S14 E06] The U.S. Tax System Designed For Economic Injustice This week's episode of Economic Update hosted by Professor Richard Wolff, we will be discussing the increasingly more common corporate threats to force remote workers back to working onsite. We then turn to Ukraine war economics, U.S. vs BGI as anti-Chinese economic nationalism, US's escalation of war in the Middle East, and finally a critique of the US tax system's injustices. If you haven't already, please subscribe to our channel, follow us on social media and of course be sure to...
2024-02-13
29 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
The U.S. Tax System: Designed For Economic Injustice
[EU S14 E06] The U.S. Tax System Designed For Economic Injustice This week's episode of Economic Update hosted by Professor Richard Wolff, we will be discussing the increasingly more common corporate threats to force remote workers back to working onsite. We then turn to Ukraine war economics, U.S. vs BGI as anti-Chinese economic nationalism, US's escalation of war in the Middle East, and finally a critique of the US tax system's injustices. If you haven't already, please subscribe to our channel, follow us on social media and of course be sure to...
2024-02-13
29 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
The US Economy As An Apartheid System
****************************************************************************** [EU S14 E05] The US Economy As An Apartheid System ****************************************************************************** This week's episode of Economic Update hosted by Professor Richard Wolff, we will be discussing the continuing decline of US manufacturing; a 29,000 person strike at California State Univ.; the Houthis disrupt Red Sea shipping in move against Israel; and Texas refuses to obey US federal government's rules in struggle over immigration and white supremacy. In addition we have a special Interview with leading economist Prof. Michael Hudson on basic crises facing US capitalism. If you haven't already, please subscribe to our channel, follow us o...
2024-02-06
29 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
The US Economy As An Apartheid System
****************************************************************************** [EU S14 E05] The US Economy As An Apartheid System ****************************************************************************** This week's episode of Economic Update hosted by Professor Richard Wolff, we will be discussing the continuing decline of US manufacturing; a 29,000 person strike at California State Univ.; the Houthis disrupt Red Sea shipping in move against Israel; and Texas refuses to obey US federal government's rules in struggle over immigration and white supremacy. In addition we have a special Interview with leading economist Prof. Michael Hudson on basic crises facing US capitalism. If you haven't already, please subscribe to our channel, follow us o...
2024-02-06
29 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
US Capitalism At The Crossroads
****************************************************************************** [EU S14 E04] US Capitalism At The Crossroads ****************************************************************************** This week's Economic Update Professor Richard Wolff discusses the special dimensions and qualities of the US labor movement's current dynamism; Thomas Piketty's analysis showing how capitalism generates widening wealth and income gaps leading to crashes or simmering, divisive, and domestic resentments. Leading to the system itself becomes destabilized. If you haven't already, please subscribe to our channel, follow us on social media and of course be sure to sign up on our website: www.democracyatwork.info And as always, we thank for your attention, support a...
2024-01-30
29 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
US Capitalism At The Crossroads
****************************************************************************** [EU S14 E04] US Capitalism At The Crossroads ****************************************************************************** This week’s Economic Update Professor Richard Wolff discusses the special dimensions and qualities of the US labor movement's current dynamism; Thomas Piketty’s analysis showing how capitalism generates widening wealth and income gaps leading to crashes or simmering, divisive, and domestic resentments. Leading to the system itself becomes destabilized. If you haven't already, please subscribe to our channel, follow us on social media and of course be sure to sign up on our website: www.democracyatwork.info And as always, we thank for your atten...
2024-01-30
29 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
The U.S. China Decoupling Myth
****************************************************************************** [EU S14 E1] The U.S. China Decoupling Myth ****************************************************************************** Happy New Year! For our first Economic Update of 2024, Professor Richard Wolff discusses the myth of the current narrative of the United States disconnecting itself economically from the Republic of China If you haven't already, please subscribe to our channel, follow us on social media and of course be sure to sign up on our website: www.democracyatwork.info And as always, we thank for your attention, support and solidarity. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info I...
2024-01-09
29 min
Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff
The U.S. China Decoupling Myth
****************************************************************************** [EU S14 E1] The U.S. China Decoupling Myth ****************************************************************************** Happy New Year! For our first Economic Update of 2024, Professor Richard Wolff discusses the myth of the current narrative of the United States disconnecting itself economically from the Republic of China If you haven't already, please subscribe to our channel, follow us on social media and of course be sure to sign up on our website: www.democracyatwork.info And as always, we thank for your attention, support and solidarity. The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info I...
2024-01-09
29 min
Ask Prof Wolff
ASK PROF WOLFF LIVE (RECAP) - 12-13-2023
Stay connected with the latest news from d@w. Join our mailing list today: https://www.democracyatwork.info/sign_up Join this special iteration of "Ask Prof Wolff" Every Wednesday at 2PM (Eastern) Live on D@W YouTube Page. Professor Wolff will respond to your questions live! This is Professor Richard Wolff's video response. Submit your own question to be considered for a video response by Prof. Wolff on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/democracyatwo.... Ask Prof Wolff is a @democracyatwrk production. We are committed to providing these videos to yo...
2023-12-20
48 min
Ask Prof Wolff
ASK PROF WOLFF LIVE (RECAP) - 11/8/2023
Stay connected with the latest news from d@w. Join our mailing list today: https://www.democracyatwork.info/sign_up Join this special iteration of "Ask Prof Wolff" Every Wednesday at 2PM (Eastern) Live on D@W YouTube Page. Professor Wolff will respond to your questions live! This is Professor Richard Wolff's video response. Submit your own question to be considered for a video response by Prof. Wolff on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/democracyatwo.... Ask Prof Wolff is a @democracyatwrk production. We are committed to providing these videos to you...
2023-11-13
42 min
Global Capitalism
Socialism in Today's World: The 4 Kinds
Democracy at Work in conjunction with The Left Forum Presents: Global Capitalism Live Economic Update with Professor Richard D. Wolff Socialism in Today’s World: the 4 Kinds - 3 Kinds of State Role in Economy - 1 Kind of Workplace Revolution - Saving Capitalism from Itself - Socialism, Fascism and Capitalism’s Decline Co-sponsored by Democracy at Work and Left Forum Special messages to our audience: Please help sponsor Global Capitalism by becoming a monthly donor to Democracy at Work. Go to our w...
2023-11-09
59 min
Ask Prof Wolff
ASK PROF WOLFF LIVE (RECAP) - 11/1/2023
Stay connected with the latest news from d@w. Join our mailing list today: https://www.democracyatwork.info/sign_up Join this special iteration of "Ask Prof Wolff" Every Wednesday at 2PM (Eastern) Live on D@W YouTube Page. Professor Wolff will respond to your questions live! This is Professor Richard Wolff's video response. Submit your own question to be considered for a video response by Prof. Wolff on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/democracyatwo.... Ask Prof Wolff is a @democracyatwrk production. We are committed to providing these videos to you...
2023-11-02
54 min
Ask Prof Wolff
ASK PROF WOLFF LIVE (RECAP) - 10/25/2023
Stay connected with the latest news from d@w. Join our mailing list today: https://www.democracyatwork.info/sign_up Join this special iteration of "Ask Prof Wolff" Every Wednesday at 2PM (Eastern) Live on D@W YouTube Page. Professor Wolff will respond to your questions live! This is Professor Richard Wolff's video response. Submit your own question to be considered for a video response by Prof. Wolff on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/democracyatwo.... Ask Prof Wolff is a @democracyatwrk production. We are committed to providing these videos to you...
2023-10-26
35 min
Ask Prof Wolff
ASK PROF WOLFF LIVE (RECAP) - 10/11/2023
Stay connected with the latest news from d@w. Join our mailing list today: https://www.democracyatwork.info/sign_up Join this special iteration of "Ask Prof Wolff" Every Wednesday at 2PM (Eastern) Live on D@W YouTube Page. Professor Wolff will respond to your questions live! This is Professor Richard Wolff's video response. Submit your own question to be considered for a video response by Prof. Wolff on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/democracyatwo.... Ask Prof Wolff is a @democracyatwrk production. We are committed to providing these videos to...
2023-10-13
42 min
Ask Prof Wolff
The Many Interpretations of Marx
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "I wrote an email response to someone who had a lot of strange ideas about Marx and all of the purported evil done in his name. He and others seem to hold Marx personally responsible for the crimes of Pol Pot, Stalin, Mao, et al. I've read a bit by and about Marx and listened to many lectures of those who hold him in high regard. Am I missing something?" This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work o...
2023-05-03
08 min
Ask Prof Wolff
The True Cost of Sanctions
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "Are sanctions, which are detrimental to ordinary citizens, in some cases justified in order to try to pressure a government committing evil (like in the case of South Africa) to cease?" This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/democracyatwork
2023-04-28
09 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Can Capitalism Be Reformed?
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "Have you looked into the concept of Collective Capitalism as theorized by G. Means and its influence on Japan (which has the largest Communist Party not in control of the government)? Also, the public private relationship in Singapore's economy seems very different from the Western financial capitalist system. Are these various "Eastern" economic models something that would attract support from American workers rather than socialism? In another way, could concessions from capitalism like guarantees of long-term employment, market controls, social services, etc. be ways that capitalists retain private property rights and stymie s...
2023-04-26
08 min
Ask Prof Wolff
How Treasury Bonds Help Corporations and the Rich
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "Please explain the role of the bond market (US Treasuries) in the failure of capitalism and democracy." This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/democracyatwork
2023-04-21
09 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Who Do Politicians Really Serve?
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "It seems like you believe capitalists aren't just greedy and evil but in a system requiring them to do what they do. Is this also true of politicians who vote for and carry out incredibly destructive policies to human lives and the environment?" This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/democracyatwork
2023-04-19
09 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Lessons from France's Pension Struggle
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "In view of the French retirement proposals and the argument that fewer active workers are supporting more retired workers, can you address how changing demographics will affect world economies? I don't see that declining birth rates will change. It seems to make the current form of capitalism even more sustainable." This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/democracyatwork
2023-04-14
08 min
Ask Prof Wolff
AI & ChatGPT - What are the Economic Impacts?
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "I am writing to seek your insights on the rapidly evolving artificial intelligence (AI) landscape, particularly with regards to its implementation by profit-driven companies. It is evident that AI technology has the potential to bring significant advancements in various sectors. However, there is a growing concern that AI's deployment by corporations focused solely on profit maximization may exacerbate wealth inequality, eliminate jobs, and displace workers. How do you view the current state of AI evolution and its impact on the labor market, especially considering the role of profit-driven companies in shaping AI...
2023-04-12
10 min
Ask Prof Wolff
The Impact of China on Small U.S. Businesses
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "I am a pediatrician but like everyone in the medical field, we are tired of serving insurance companies and Medicine is not fun anymore. I wish we had public insurance as I don't see how health can go with profit. I am opening a small business. My question is, for us tiny companies: what will the future bring with a possible war with China? Aren't we the biggest losers here? We don't manufacture anything anymore! How can small businesses survive in current times? " This is Professor Richard Wolff's response.
2023-04-07
09 min
Ask Prof Wolff
The Illusion of Woke Economics
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "Please discuss woke economics. I have seen YouTube clips using this term. After viewing a couple clips I concluded this is capitalism claiming to be the answer to the social problems caused by capitalism. Do I have that correct?" This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/democracyatwork
2023-04-05
09 min
Ask Prof Wolff
How Capitalism Distorts The Immigration Issue
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "What do you think about the left's view of immigration and why do you think that seems to be the consensus view? Why are most on the left so in support of immigration when it’s clear the working class seem to be rejecting it?" This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/democracyatwork
2023-03-31
09 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Is the U.S. Dollar in Trouble?
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "I'd love to hear your thoughts on what a world looks like if the US dollar loses its primacy. What does the "economy" look like in the USA? Will there be a huge collapse?" This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/democracyatwork
2023-03-29
09 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Why Democratic Workplaces Are Better for Work-Life Balance
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "Are Americans ready for Democracy (at work or anywhere else)? I have been a volunteer in a non-profit for decades. We are a 12 step program and have plenty of participation in our weekly meetings. We are nominally democratic in that we ideally hold a monthly group conscience in which we can make simple decisions like whether to make a donation or purchase supplies or some of both. When such a meeting is announced, members scatter like roaches when the light goes on. They 'don't want to get involved.’ I have heard it is...
2023-03-24
07 min
Ask Prof Wolff
What Europe Got Wrong about Sanctions on Russia
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "Why, in your opinion, did European countries go along with the USA on sanctions on Russia after the Russian invasion of Ukraine last year? Did European leaders miscalculate negative impacts that these sanctions will have on Europe or counted on some benefits that will be worth the losses? Are any benefits present?" This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/democracyatwork
2023-03-22
10 min
Ask Prof Wolff
What Is Economic Nationalism?
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "I would like Prof to explain what the meaning of Economic Nationalism is and provide examples of past and present systems." This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/democracyatwork
2023-03-17
07 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Does Our Education System Reinforce Capitalism?
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "How could the education system transform under a worker-cooperative economy? What would schools look like for young children to young adults? How would it compare to a capitalist education system, which at least in some part, is designed to make us into workers for capitalists?" This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/democracyatwork
2023-03-15
06 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Can Profits Be Excluded From Food and Healthcare?
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "Would you agree that for large monopolistic industries that the entire society depends on for survival, like food, energy, defense, and health care, worker coops would not go far enough? If we're serious about our long-term survival, wouldn't we have to remove the profit motive entirely and give all citizens democratic control over these industries?" This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/democracyatwork
2023-03-10
07 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Why Does a Piece of Lumber Cost More Today Than It Did 10 Years Ago?
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "I don’t understand how inflation works. How can a 2x4 cost more than it did 10 years ago?" This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/democracyatwork
2023-03-07
08 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Why Do We Spend So Much on the US Military Industrial Complex?
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "To what extent does the US Military Industrial Complex factor into the US economy as a whole? It seems like the US is at endless war and, in my opinion, there has to be a significant economic reason for this. Would the US economy take a great hit or maybe fall apart completely if not for the seemingly endless war profiteering?" This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/democracyatwork
2023-03-03
07 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Why Can't We Imagine Moving Past Capitalism?
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "How should we answer when people say, 'capitalism is the only way there is, nothing else works.' How do we live without earning and profiting from our working and, in doing this, making ourselves prosperous from our own industry and ideas?" This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/democracyatwork
2023-03-01
07 min
Ask Prof Wolff
How Do Austerity Politics Impact Policing?
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "From a Marxist economic perspective, can you explain how austerity politics and austerity measures eventually lead to over-policing?" This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/democracyatwork
2023-02-24
08 min
Ask Prof Wolff
What Happens to the Stock Market After Capitalism?
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "I, as a socialist myself, agree with the socioeconomic model that you advocate, with worker-owned cooperatives substituting today's private businesses. However, making the actual changes, reforms and, if you like, revolution, would also bring an end to stocks, stock-based companies, and the stock market. I can't get my head around how we actually get rid of the capitalist stock markets without letting the state take over with force or having the capitalists cause big damages to the economy as an act of revenge. What should we do with the stock market?"
2023-02-22
08 min
Ask Prof Wolff
BlackRock, Homeownership and Reverse Mortgages
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "Based on the content that I consume, my expectation is that factions of the 1% like BlackRock intend to own all family housing in America and rent it to us. The prices of homes going down paired with higher interest rates makes the game even more favorable for those who can buy these properties in one payment. My question is, how will these parasites intercept houses from young people who are expecting to inherit their parent's home? Is there a mechanism for them to do that?" This is Professor Richard Wolff's...
2023-02-17
07 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Fascism, Keynesianism, and Military Spending
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "As we see billions once more go to Ukraine, as we have seen trillions upon trillions go to wars since WWII, isn't it correct to say that Military-Keynesianism is fascism? Technocratic fascism? If so, why? And if not, why not? A Boeing factory in every state, not to mention other military contractors that pay off the coin-operated politicians signifies fascist to me." This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/democracyatwork
2023-02-15
06 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Understanding Surplus & Capitalism’s Abuse of It
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "Can there be another segment about surplus and economic sinks? If capital has to increase all the time, why is there a surplus? And if there is a surplus, why can't we spend it on social programs like health care and infrastructure?" This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/democracyatwork
2023-02-10
09 min
Ask Prof Wolff
How To Get People on the Right to Hear Your Arguments
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "The war of ideas is real and, as often as I can, I engage with opposing ideas. From my perspective, I find that socialistic approaches to most social/economic issues check the box of many of the purported ideals of my more/less conservative neighbors, however, I cannot pierce the armor of their preconceptions. I'm tired of blaming their propaganda consumption. I want to affect their actions, not blame their cause. How can we overcome this deterrence? The cold hard merit of my arguments is not enough to overcome their insulation. Is...
2023-02-08
05 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Is Capitalism a Religion?
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "Is capitalism a religion? Has it become the established religion of the United States?" This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/democracyatwork
2023-02-03
08 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Capitalism is Unstable…and It’s Designed That Way
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "Are any complex systems eternally homeostatic? Cyclic behavior is a euphemism for millions of people will lose their jobs and homes, quit school, etc. I don't think that anyone imagines an economic system sans fluctuations. That would be truly Utopian. Or dystopian rather because fluctuations can be rightly considered a healthy feature of complex systems. But my overall impression in listening to professor Wolff is that these instabilities are borne in no small measure from the fundamental tensions that constitute the employer/ employee relationship." This is Professor Richard Wolff's response.
2023-02-01
08 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Why Retired Individuals Are Critical For Social Change
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "Hello, I am an officially retired person, although I continue to work on projects in the arts, in part to supplement Social Security and in part as a labor of love. I often feel that I am somewhat excluded from the critical effort I see here to remake our work lives. What role can seniors play? We do, after all, possess lifetimes of experience." This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff, join Democracy at Work on Patreon at www.patreon.com/d...
2023-01-27
07 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Shouldn’t We Have a Political Party That Isn’t Capitalist?
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "I was wondering if there has ever been a political party that focuses primarily on the formation, maintenance and sustenance of worker co-ops? My understanding is that worker co-ops are all inclusive by design and would include folks that have been marginalized by society (i.e. people of color, women, gay folks, etc). Would it be useful to develop a political party in the U.S. whose primary focus would be on worker co-ops?" This is Professor Richard Wolff's response. To submit your own question for Prof. Wolff...
2023-01-25
07 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Why Yale and Other Non-Profits Should Be Called "Tax-Exempt"
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "One issue I hope Prof. Wolff might address is a comparative analysis of the role of for-profit vs. non-profit corporations. For example, in the recent shows on inflation, he notes that raising prices by the employer is motivated by profit maximization. This dynamic can't play an obvious role for a non-profit, but they could raise prices to maximize the salaries of high-ranking corporate employees. But do they? Alternatively, would we be better off with more non-profits? The big picture here would be invaluable." This is Professor Richard Wolff's response.
2023-01-20
07 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Consumer Co-ops vs. Worker Co-ops
A Patron of Democracy at Work asks: "You’re known as an advocate of worker cooperatives. However, back in the 19th century, Friedrich Engels (as well as Eduard Bernstein, the father of Democratic Socialism) was very skeptical of worker cooperatives because of the power the workers at a company could still have over the general public to whom they were not responsible to, meaning they could still, for example, create a monopoly, jack up prices, and engage in protectionist tactics. Instead, Engels and Bernstein preferred consumer cooperatives, in which the public that patronized the business would be the ones to...
2023-01-18
06 min
Ask Prof Wolff
The Manipulation of Labor Markets
An audience member of Ask Prof Wolff LIVE asks: "Can you discuss the concept of labor markets and how they influence collective bargaining power?" Prof Wolff answered this question during a live Ask Prof Wolff event. We look forward to having more live "Ask" sessions like these! Some will be open to the public, some will be for the generous donors who sustain our work. Some will be with Prof Wolff, and others will feature other d@w hosts! Stay connected with us to hear about the next live event! The best way...
2022-12-23
05 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Interest Rates Hurt the Same People Inflation Hurts
An audience member of Ask Prof Wolff LIVE asks: "If inflation is a result of employers increasing prices to make higher profits, how does the Fed connect the interest rate as a way to directly control inflation?" Prof Wolff answered this question during a live Ask Prof Wolff event. We look forward to having more live "Ask" sessions like these! Some will be open to the public, some will be for the generous donors who sustain our work. Some will be with Prof Wolff, and others will feature other d@w hosts! Stay connected with...
2022-12-16
10 min
Ask Prof Wolff
The Role of the State
An audience member of Ask Prof Wolff LIVE asks: "In a worker cooperative society, what would be the role or major functions of the state?" Prof Wolff answered this question during a live Ask Prof Wolff event. We look forward to having more live "Ask" sessions like these! Some will be open to the public, some will be for the generous donors who sustain our work. Some will be with Prof Wolff, and others will feature other d@w hosts! Stay connected with us to hear about the next live event! The best...
2022-12-09
07 min
Ask Prof Wolff
Understanding Fascism
An audience member of Ask Prof Wolff LIVE asks: "Fascism is when the state and corporations merge, so why isn’t the system that China has considered fascist? Is it fascist, is it not?" Prof Wolff answered this question during a live Ask Prof Wolff event. We look forward to having more live "Ask" sessions like these! Some will be open to the public, some will be for the generous donors who sustain our work. Some will be with Prof Wolff, and others will feature other d@w hosts! Stay connected with us to hear ab...
2022-12-02
09 min
Ask Prof Wolff
We've Heard of Inflation, But What's Deflation?
An audience member of Ask Prof Wolff LIVE asks: "What are the major historical downsides to a deflation? Are price decreases in a specific sector (e.g. fuel if, hypothetically, the shocks to that supply chain end sometime) generally isolated from these?" Prof Wolff answered this question during a live Ask Prof Wolff event. We look forward to having more live "Ask" sessions like these! Some will be open to the public, some will be for the generous donors who sustain our work. Some will be with Prof Wolff, and others will feature other d...
2022-11-25
08 min