PLR 8.5: The Problem with "Integration"

What does "Integration" mean? Who determines when someone or some people "integrate"? How does the idea of "integration" give rise to extreme right groups like Alternative for Germany and MAGA Chuds?  In this episode, Alex interviews Dr. Jon Cho-Polizzi, who received his PhD from the University of California, Berkeley. Jon has translated the work of Max Czolleck, a German-Jewish philosopher who has written extensively on the problem of overcoming Germany's past, the dangers of "integration," and how the work can be applied to the United States.   The works: "De-Integrate Yourselves" and "Overcoming the Present."  Gegenwartsbewältigung [Overcoming the Present] (essay): https://transit.berkeley.edu/2020/czollekcho-polizzi/ NYT bio piece on Max Czollek: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/01/16/books/max-czollek-germany-desintegriert-euch.html The Best Supper (short movie): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89oWOYzOZyY Jon can be reached at www.jon-chopolizzi.com/translation or on IG @jpolizei If you like what you hear subscribe to our patreon for bonus content: www.patreon.com/plrpodcast