New World Notes - Michael Parenti: The Goals and Results of American Imperialism (Part 1 of 2)

This week on New World Notes: radio program #2201, January 10, from 12:00 to 12:30 p.m., host Kenneth Dowst plays excerpts from a recent talk by Michael Parenti.

Progressive political scientist Michael Parenti is in fine form in this recent speech, which brings together his key insights about the practice and purpose of the U.S. Empire and imperialism. Some of Parenti's main points will be familiar to long-time fans. Here they are made with fine wit and good specific examples from current events.

Parenti argues that the purpose of our imperialism is not national glory but rather the further enriching of Wall Street and other transnational corporations. U.S. foreign policy seems "stupid," "irrational," or "self-defeating" only to those who misunderstand its real goals.

Highlights of Part One (this week) include an argument that the U.S. is an empire and a look at how empires bleed dry the republics from which they grew. For instance, the city of Oakland, California, is closing most of its public libraries for lack of funds--while spending millions to equip its police force with military gear.

Parenti spoke at the University of Guelph (Ontario) on November 2, 2011. Audio (edited by KD) taken from the videotape of the talk available at dandelionsalad.wordpress.com.