Episode Details

A sharp debate on whether democratic socialism can be both radical and practical. In this condensed summary of Interesting Times with Ross Douthat, host Ross Douthat speaks with Bhaskar Sunkara about class inequality, housing, healthcare, labor unions, AI regulation, and why socialism is gaining traction with voters frustrated by high costs and weak institutions. Sunkara argues for a more egalitarian economy, explains why democratic socialists are not simply anti-capitalist contrarians, and makes the case for policies like Medicare for All and stronger bargaining power for workers. The conversation also explores the tension between class politics and identity politics, the left’s foreign policy instincts, and how a welfare state would actually be paid for through broader taxes. Get the key insights from the full discussion in minutes, and listen now to get the key ideas in minutes.