The New Paradigm

A Tribute to Lebanese Music

For years, Lebanese indie/alternative musicians have broached themes of socio-economic injustice, corruption, and politics in their work. Dr. Ramzi Salti shares an episode of his Arabology radio program, which explores how this genre of Lebanese music offers a crucial window onto recent events in Lebanon, which is being rocked by one of the most violent tragedies in recent memory. By showcasing some of Beirut's most talented indie/alternative musicians, this program reminds us of the role that music can play in helping us to heal and rebuild the country.

Running Black

How does race determine who plays--and gets paid--in America's most popular sport, NFL football? Dave Canton and Jerry Beeks share an episode of "The Podcast for Your Punkass" on the politics of NFL positions and contracts, the dogwhistle of Jason Aldean's "Good Old Boy" Country Music, and the campaign against affirmative action.

The Roaring 20's

Why is fear such a force in contemporary politics? Dave Canton and Jerry Beeks share an episode of The Podcast for Your Punkass exploring how understanding the specter of "moral panic" in the 1920s can help us grapple with the political strife of the 2020s.

Technology and Coercion in Kenya

Powerful international actors are pressing African states to adopt DIGITAL ID and other new technologies to transform the social contract across Africa. But how will this project affect communities whose access to citizenship is already in question? In this episode of The New Paradigm podcast, we speak with Yasah Musa of the Nubian Rights Forum about the dangers of technological solutionism and its capacity to deepen social divides and reinforce political marginalization in Kenya.