In this episode of Reviving Virtue, we delve into a profound discussion with Benjamin Studebaker, author of 'The Chronic Crisis of American Democracy, the Way Is Shut.' The conversation explores the intricate class schema of workers, professionals, and employers, and the antagonism between these classes. Studebaker introduces the concept of 'rump professionals' and 'fallen professionals,' shedding light on the diminishing value of university degrees and the resulting frustrations. The discussion also highlights the role of resentment in politics, and the impact of voter turnout on the political landscape. The episode further delves into the complexities of the American economic system and the growing resentment among different classes of society. Studebaker emphasizes the need for local narratives that resonate with people across the country and the challenges of the international tax and trade system. The role of fear in political participation is also discussed, offering insights into the dynamics of contemporary politics. The episode concludes with a thought-provoking question: "What if we're wrong?" offering a sobering reflection on the potential consequences of our current trajectory. Topics discussed: * The state of American democracy * The role of local narratives in politics * The impact of the international tax and trade system * The housing market and its economic implications * The role of resentment in politics * The diminishing returns of education * The concept of 'rump professionals' and 'fallen professionals' * The impact of voter turnout and participation on politics * The role of fear in political participation * The question of being wrong and its implications Book recommendations: 1. "The Chronic Crisis of American Democracy - The Way Is Shut" by Benjamin Studebaker https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-031-28210-2 2. "Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City" by Matthew Desmond https://bookshop.org/a/94644/9780553447453 3. "Capital in the Twenty-First Century" by Thomas Piketty. https://bookshop.org/a/94644/9780674979857 Further Info: * Twitter: https://twitter.com/Reviving_Virtue * Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/RevivingVirtue * Bookshop page: https://bookshop.org/shop/RevivingVirtue * Contact: revivingvirtue@gmail.com * Music by Jeffrey Anthony