The Pseudo-Populism of Canada’s New Right
Pierre Poilievre talks like a class warrior, but his policies serve the C-suite. A new book digs into the ideology and elite backing behind his faux-populist, anti-government movement.
116 Articles by: David Moscrop
Page 1 of 6 Next
David Moscrop is a writer and political commentator. He hosts the podcast Open to Debate and is the author of Too Dumb For Democracy? Why We Make Bad Political Decisions and How We Can Make Better Ones.
The Shared Logic of Censorship
Whether from religious conservatives or progressive educators, today’s book bans share a common moral claim: some texts are too harmful to circulate. But when ideologies compete to control knowledge, the pluralism and inquiry democracy needs begin to erode.
Canada Is Betting on Mark Carney, Technocrat Extraordinaire
As an election looms, Mark Carney is the face of Canada’s Liberal Party comeback — and the latest figure to stand between the country and Trump-era fallout. He may also be its first casualty.
Rising GDP Lifts Only the Boats of the Wealthy Few
Since the early 1980s, Canada’s economy has expanded significantly, with GDP per capita rising by 70% in real terms. But while the wealthiest Canadians’ incomes have increased fivefold, those of the bottom half have risen just 1.5 times.
Jacobin Writer Jailed 5 Days for Criticizing Israel
The Right’s newfound love of censorship proves what many suspected: its free speech absolutism was always conditional. Just ask Jacobin contributor Yves Engler, recently jailed in Canada for five days for online criticism of Israel’s supporters.
The US Economy Runs on Billionaire Pocket Change
The top 10% of earners account for almost half of all consumer spending in the United States. Wealth concentration has made economic stability shockingly reliant on elite consumption.
AI Is Here to Stay. Who’s Steering the Ship?
From the smokestacks of the Industrial Revolution to today’s neural nets, technology has always been a double-edged sword that carries the promise of liberation for workers. But cashing in on that promise requires control over how technology is deployed.
The Democrats Helped Bring About Trump’s Return
Tomorrow Donald Trump will take the oath of office again. By spurning economic populism and embracing Bush-era Republicans, Democrats helped pave the way for his second inauguration.
Donald Trump Is Making Canada Nationalistic Again
Donald Trump’s latest musings about annexing Canada have put Canadian right-wing populists in an awkward position. As Pierre Poilievre and Doug Ford embrace nationalistic rhetoric, they’re also hedging their bets to keep trade and defense ties intact.
Congratulations, Your Privacy Is Worth $20
Siri eavesdropped on users’ medical appointments and other private moments. With the pitiful settlement that was reached, Apple will now dole out enough hush money for each claimant to buy a few coffees.
Digital Ownership and the End of Physical Media
The decline of physical media and the death of analog formats is consolidating corporate control over digital content. This shift raises serious concerns about access, ownership, and consumer rights.
Under Austerity, Assisted Suicide Isn’t Freedom
The UK is getting closer to legalizing assisted dying. On paper it may seem compassionate, but as with the Canadian case, the problems of state austerity and medical neglect mean it remains morally and ethically questionable.
Liberals Are Finally Admitting Bernie Is Right
After another devastating loss to Donald Trump, a few liberal pundits are begrudgingly admitting it — Bernie Sanders was right.
Navigating Discontent in the Age of the Internet
We live in an era of increasing tribalism and self-righteousness, made more toxic by social media. Philosopher Mark Kingwell argues that the Left can forge a healthier political culture.
Dear NHL, We Can’t See the Ice Through the Ads
Under the NHL’s new ad regime, the puck never crosses a line without a viewer being bombarded with a garish billboard.
Big Tech Markets Its Snake Oil as Progressivism
Tech bros promising “community engagement” are trying to cash in on health equity. Silicon Valley’s answer to social welfare involves slapping a progressive label on subscription social services while monetizing the safety net.
Copyright Keepers Just Destroyed a Huge Digital Library
In a troubling blow to public access, a US appeals court sided with big publishers, erasing half a million books from the Internet Archive’s lending library. This case isn’t just about books; it’s also about who controls the digital commons.
The Dream and Nightmare of Neoliberalism
The spread of neoliberalism promised economic efficiency and freedom for the powerful while wreaking havoc for millions. In recent years, claims of a post-neoliberal era have emerged, but a new book argues that these claims may be greatly exaggerated.
The Rich Want You to Fear Tax Fairness
Canada raised its capital gains tax inclusion rate, sparking outrage from the investing class, who warned of economic disaster. The data shows that their histrionics were groundless.
Economic Overlords Are Destroying Democracy — and Our Lives
Economic power is political power. We spoke with Peter Phillips, author of Titans of Capital, about how the capitalist class is subverting democracy and controlling the lives of billions through massive investments in everything from food to war.