Rethinking Heroes with Cary Harrison

By: Preventing Truth Decay
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  • Featuring Hidden Heroes, Mystery History, Mythbusting, High Tech and Groundbreaking Discoveries, Futurists, Emerging Technology, and Usable Life-hacks!

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Episodes
  • Ep. 61: Why Some Americans Love Authoritarianism & Open Phones

    Ep. 61: Why Some Americans Love Authoritarianism & Open Phones
    Sep 7 2024
    From Los Angeles… Rethinking Heroes: Why Some Americans Love AuthoritarianismWell, today we embark on a journey through the annals of what I shall refer to as the "Traitor's Path." A meandering trek that some Americans seem alarmingly eager to undertake, often driven by the irresistible allure of authoritarianism. As we wade through these murky waters, let us marvel at the sheer caprice of human nature and the fallacies that lead men to betray their kind in pursuit of what can only be described as fleeting illusions.Picture it: our nation, envisioned as a beacon of liberty and justice, has its very fabric tested by the temptations of despotism. Indeed, my own family's lineage contains within it the dichotomy that represents our national struggle. On my mother's side, an illustrious connection to Abraham Lincoln, the liberator and emancipator. On my father's side, a sordid history of slavers, bound to the whims of English royalty dating back to 1640. Another illustrious figure, one shrouded in infamy—Benedict Arnold—lies nestled in my maternal genealogy, a man whose treachery is both famous and instructive.Arnold fought initially on the side of George Washington, striving, as did many colonialists, against the perceived tyranny of British rule. Yet, financial woes and an unpaid Congress nudged him into the debtor's prison that England so gleefully maintained. Abruptly, Arnold shifted allegiances, his motivations quintessentially mercenary, to save his own neck. This man was branded a villain for generations, and deservedly so.Oh, the ease with which necessity transforms into treachery! But let us not conflate necessity with the whimsy and malevolent desires that fuel today's traitors. Enter the modern-day fluffer—an individual steeped in opportunistic duplicity. The betrayal here reeks more pungently than any historical turncoat could muster. Think of the gay individual, once an advocate for Joe Biden, now espousing the bizarre assertions of Bobby Kennedy Jr., only to later supplicate before the altars of Trumpism.What greets him? Not the inclusivity and humane progressive stance one might expect—but rather a perilous flirtation with far-right dogma. For Trump has promised, openly, to enact the largest deportation in American history—a cantankerous echo of authoritarian regimes past.So, why do ordinary people with ordinary lives embrace fascist ideologies? The answer lies deep within the complexities of human nature, manipulated by those who prey on fears and desires. The promise of stability amid chaos, the allure of simple solutions to intricate problems—these are the serpent's whispers that lead men astray. The nostalgic rhapsody of "Make America Great Again!" offers not a concrete temporal vision but a mirage, a fantastical past where systemic oppression reigned unchallenged.Yet, herein lies the most terrifying transformation. The ordinary man, seeking security, sacrificing individuality, autonomy, and freedom—evokes memories of the post-9/11 panic that birthed the Patriot Act, a legislation that stripped away fundamental liberties in the name of safety. The creeping return to monarchical rule, replete with overbearing surveillance—Ashcroft’s vile concoction.Stooping lower yet, consider the self-deluded—those who genuinely drink from the cauldron of fascist ideology, believers in the false promises of tomorrow. They are oblivious to the harm they incur, the lives they dismantle, for their joy is short-lived, and the infamy eternal. The essence of their actions is driven by fear—fear of the unknown, of change, of being left behind.But fear shall not prevail, not today. Not here. Not now.Stand firm against the fascists, reclaim empathy and compassion. Understand that the traitor's path is one of self-deception that can indeed be halted. America's educational erosion since the early 1900s, a deliberate manipulation designed to keep the populace quiescent and non-questioning, has only exacerbated this plight.Contrary to the divisive narratives, we must offer a different vision—a narrative that is compassionate and humane. Remember that the framing of our Constitution and the Declaration of Independence are not relics of 1776 but alive and pertinent today.In our media-driven world, now more than ever, we must ensure that the airwaves serve us—the people—and not the corporate overlords. Let us recapture the media as a force for good, as a tool for enlightenment, rendering not empty noise but informed and insightful discourse.So, dear reader, I call on you to join this conversation, to share your thoughts, to participate actively in shaping a media landscape that serves democracy, justice, and truth.As we ponder this broad spectrum of betrayal and attraction to authoritarianism, remember our charge is eternal—to fight for a world that values liberty and equity, where the media is ours, and the future is worth fighting for.Join us, call in, share, and be heard.Here’s to ...
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    55 mins
  • Ep. 60: 10 Pillars of Fascism | Tidal Wave of New Voters

    Ep. 60: 10 Pillars of Fascism | Tidal Wave of New Voters
    Aug 31 2024
    From Los Angeles, Rethinking Heroes with Cary Harrison - Rethinking Heroes: Unmasking the Machinations of Modern Fascism. Yale professor Jason Stanley, delves into the tactics of modern fascism and its impact on history and education. The discussion covers the manipulation of historical narratives by authoritarian regimes, the role of education in fostering or suppressing critical thought, and how today's political landscapes echo past fascist movements. They also discuss the current legal battles against censorship and the importance of acknowledging America's historical contradictions. Furthermore, former presidential candidate Jason Palmer shares his ambitious plan to register a million new young voters, leveraging technology and the influence of college athletes. This episode serves as a call to action to stay informed and fight against the distortion of history and encroaching authoritarianism.The War on History: Erasing and Manipulating the PastToday, we’re tackling how authoritarian regimes, especially fascist movements, manipulate history to consolidate their grip on power. If you’ve read Orwell's "1984," you’re in for a ride through the twisted machinery that masks and distorts reality.Why Rewriting History is a Fascist StapleYale professor, Jason Stanley, today's intellectual powerhouse, explains it all. Authoritarians love a singular, mythical narrative. It simplifies the mind and makes people easier to control. They dismantle varied accounts of history, suppress dissent, and enforce a unified story—one that supports their agenda and marginalizes all others.The Silent Genocide and the Erasure of OppressionTake the Holocaust, for example. Soviet regimes didn't acknowledge it, fearing that once one genocide was recognized, others might be too. Fast forward to today, and history is under siege—some presidential hopefuls are crafting "MAGA histories" that entangle the truth in such propaganda it’s laughable, yet devastatingly effective.Fascist Tactics in Today's Political LandscapeStanley doesn’t sugarcoat it—today's fascists aim to divide and conquer by exploiting racial, religious, and sexual differences. They paint a mythical past and use propaganda to justify racial and religious hierarchies. Despite their efforts, true history—people's lived experiences—can’t be completely erased. Families who lost loved ones to COVID, for instance, know the reality, regardless of the political spin.The Link Between Authoritarianism and Today's EducationOne of the hot topics? Education. Across the U.S., particularly in states like Florida, there's an ongoing battle over what's taught in schools. Admitting climate change or acknowledging the humanity of LGBTQ individuals has become a criminal act in some areas. The fascists' playbook includes suppressing critical thought and rewriting curricula to foster obedient followers—a grim echo of regimes past.The Role of Corporations and Legal BattlesIt's a twisted irony that big corporations are now some of the loudest opponents of these fascist strategies. Major book publishers have taken a stand against censorship, suing states that ban books and ideas from schools and public libraries. Corporations, once the problem, are now part of the resistance—delicious paradox, indeed.Jason Stanley: Knowledge as an Arm Against AuthoritarianismStanley argues that knowledge alone isn't a safeguard against fascism. Some of history’s sharpest minds were fascists themselves, using their intellect to wield power ruthlessly. Thus, it's not just about education but what kind of education and to what end.America's Historical ParadoxesHarrison dives into America's founding sins—slavery, manifest destiny, genocides. Facing history head-on is crucial. America can’t shy away from its past; confronting it is the only path to genuine progress and democracy.The Future of History and EducationHarrison and Stanley spell out the future if figures like Trump reclaim power: education becomes a tool for nationalistic ego-stroking rather than democratic enlightenment. Public schools could turn into breeding grounds for blind patriotism rather than nurturing critical, informed citizens.Meet Jason Palmer: The Maverick Who’s Mobilizing Gen Z to Save AmericaPalmer isn't your cookie-cutter politician spouting the same old tired rhetoric. This guy, a former Democratic presidential candidate, isn’t just sitting on his thumbs. He’s made headlines and charged into the political fray with a victory in American Samoa, no less. Now, you might think, "Big whoop, what’s next?" Jason’s got a plan that puts most political folks to shame. He's creating partnerships in over a thousand schools and 300 colleges, teaching kids how to dissect the media blob, and telling them what's real, what's not, and how it's all glued together with propaganda.Empowering the Future VotersPalmer talks about running the gauntlet against polarization. He’s endorsed 18 young, vibrant ...
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    48 mins
  • Ep. 59: Supreme Court: Presidential Crime OK

    Ep. 59: Supreme Court: Presidential Crime OK
    Jul 6 2024
    From Los Angeles, Rethinking Heroes with Cary Harrison presents an eye-opening discussion on the recent Supreme Court ruling that grants unprecedented powers of immunity to the sitting President of the United States. This episode dives deep into the implications of the court’s decision, featuring viewpoints from experts in the field, including Professor Francis Boyle, a renowned International Law professor at the University of Illinois and widely published author and globally-recognized legal scholar.Exploring the Boundaries of Presidential PowerThe show opens with an introduction by Cary Harrison, setting the stage for a robust exploration of what this ruling means for America, unearthing uncomfortable truths and challenges listener/viewers to grapple with the consequences of such judicial decisions.Harrison, recognized for his investigative prowess in journalism, does not shy away from contentious issues. His monologue effectively underscores the gravity of the Supreme Court’s decision. The central question of whether the President of the United States is truly above the law is examined in detail, with historical context and present-day implications considered.Supreme Court’s Decision in Trump vs. United StatesCary Harrison critiques the Supreme Court's decision, describing it as a move that essentially lifts the President to a king-like status. This sentiment is best captured in his recount of Justice Kavanaugh’s arguments during the case. Particularly striking is Kavanaugh's hypothetical scenario where a President orchestrating a coup d'etat might be considered engaging in an "official act" and thus be safeguarded from prosecution.Professor Francis Boyle joins the discussion to provide expert analysis. He echoes Harrison’s concerns and draws chilling parallels to historical events. Boyle equates the January 6th attacks to Hitler’s Munich Beer Hall Putsch of 1923, suggesting a frightening trajectory for American democracy. The conversation with Boyle reveals a deep-seated fear among legal experts—that this decision could effectively insulate the President from any form of criminal liability, undermining the rule of law.The Realities and Consequences of the RulingHarrison dives deeper, illustrating the absurdity of what could transpire under this new judicial protection. He paints a vivid picture: a President could theoretically commit heinous acts under the guise of performing "official duties" and consequently be immune from prosecution. The discussion extends to cover various legal and political ramifications, including the controversial ‘Project 2025’ which aims at dismantling significant aspects of government and public welfare.Professor Boyle offers solutions, such as counterpacking the Supreme Court to balance the ideological scales skewed by years of strategic judicial appointments by Republican Presidents. This approach, he argues, is a necessary countermeasure to restore equilibrium and prevent the further degradation of constitutional governance.The Role of Civil ResistanceReflecting on historical and contemporary advocacy, Boyle stresses the importance of civil resistance. He advocates for peaceful, non-violent protest, invoking the spirit of previous movements that have shaped American policy and public opinion. His insights suggest a way for citizens to take action despite institutional failings.Precedents in International Law and Current AffairsThe conversation broadens to international implications, including the U.S.'s continuing arms support to Israel amid allegations of violations of several U.S. laws. Boyle’s legal expertise underscores the gravity of the situation, criticizing actions that might be rendered untouchable by the recent Supreme Court decision. Then, ‘Open-Phones’ Callers from various backgrounds share their thoughts, urging action and expressing deep-seated fears about the future of American democracy under such legal precedents. The dialogue underscores a collective awareness and readiness to contest these unsettling developments.Retrospective and Forward ActionHarrison encapsulates the episode’s discussions, emphasizing the urgency for informed citizenry and civic involvement. He encourages his listeners to stay engaged, suggesting platforms and avenues for active participation, including joining the Rethinking Heroes community and tuning into further discussions.The episode effectively mobilizes public sentiment, providing not only a critique of contemporary issues but also offering avenues for meaningful action. It leaves an indelible mark, highlighting the critical juncture at which America stands and the imperative for collective, informed resistance to safeguard democracy.About Rethinking HeroesRethinking Heroes, hosted by Cary Harrison, is dedicated to exploring innovative solutions and providing knowledge that empowers individuals. Stay connected with us for more enlightening conversations and transformative ideas.00:00 Introduction...
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    1 hr

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