With the first episode of YDHTY falling on the anniversary of the January 6 attack on the Capitol, I thought it fitting to kick off a larger conversation on how we should deal with instances of violence and rioting and protests, and whether those who organize these events should be held responsible.

To kick the series off, I invited Ben Studebaker, political theorist and frequent guest of YDHTY, to share his thoughts on the events of January 6, how it fits into the larger context of American politics, and what it says about the state of the union.

In this episode, we discuss a political system where performative gestures and culture wars have taken precedence over passing legislation to improve people's lives, how the Capitol riot was a byproduct of this continuous escalation, and the bitter medicine America would have to swallow to address the economic issues that drive this discontent.

You can listen to the full episode via the player below, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or via these platforms.