Episode #123 - Catherine Liu - The Sanctimony of the Professional Managerial Class

Dr. Paul talks with Dr. Catherine Liu, professor of Film and Media Studies at the University of California Irvine and socialist cultural critic, about her recent book, Virtue Hoarders: The Case Against the Professional Managerial Class—commonly referred to as the “PMC.” Drawing from the book, Catherine reveals how the PMC—from academics to social workers—have become the educated elite of modern capitalist society.

Though the class presents itself as being a defender of human rights, Catherine contends how this is largely illusory and obscures both their self-serving interests, including the consolidation of power and wealth, as well their rejection of the poor and working class. Finally, speaking to socialism’s potential to challenge this, the episode invites us to ask: how can popular struggle be achieved to create a more fair and just society, where all—and not only select classes like the PMC—can live materially comfortable and dignified lives?

Learn more about Catherine here.

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CREDITS

Producer - Dr. Paul Salvatori

Writer & Host - Dr. Paul Salvatori

Sound Editor - Peter Bull

Music - Dr. Paul Salvatori

Photo - Los Angeles Review of Books