Episode 28: Seed Oil Snacks, Lost Beauty of the European City, Japan, & Rivalry with the Russians

Nico and Shane are joined by Shannon Braswell from Bright News. the conversation starts by discussing how Americans are conditioned from childhood to believe that nasty seed oil soaked foods are actually tasty. Americans, propagandized by means of marketing, internalize the commands of their Food Industry Oppressors.

This gives way to a broader discussion comparing the European Dolce Vida (The Good Life) to the American way of life. Americans travel to Europe for the superior food and superior atmosphere. Why? Isn't it interesting that many Americans go to Europe, binge of pastries and pasta, then arrive home to discover that they lost 15 pounds? The layout of most American Cities, emanates from the centerpiece of a Courthouse, this contrasts with the oldest and most beautiful of Europe's cities having a Church as its centerpiece. The European Cities are also constructed to lift the spirit by appealing to the senses, while American Cities are laid out merely to facilitate transactions.

Finally they discuss the American rivalry with Russia. Both countries are Traditional Land and Sea Powers*, that have a sense of Manifest Destiny, and a Self-Perceived Heavenly Mandate to be a force for Good in the world. They discuss, debate, and deliberate the nature of this Mimetic Rivalry.

*Traditional Land Powers: China, The Mongols, The Persians
*Traditional Sea Powers: Athenians, Great Britain, Vikings