Introduction by Reese
Hi, I'm Reese! Welcome to Adventure With Me. Today, I'm excited to talk about Bo Burnham's "Inside," particularly the song "How The World Works." Burnham's self-awareness is a central theme, and I want to do a review of the special, maybe song by song, or just a few select ones. This is my first time talking directly to the camera like this, without streaming a game, so bear with me.
Analyzing "How The World Works"
International Relations Theories
The line, "The secret is the world can only work when we work together," is particularly interesting. In international relations theory, there are two major schools of thought: liberalism and realism. Realism suggests that people must defend themselves with violence, while liberalism asserts that the world works through interconnectedness. Many prominent international relations theorists believe realism is the dominant force – we cooperate out of fear of destruction. It's fascinating how this contrasts with the popular belief that we work together because we care about each other.
Constructivism and Different Perspectives
I appreciate that Bo provides examples from nature to illustrate how things seemingly work together seamlessly. However, humanity's ability to engage in philosophical thought complicates matters. This song reminds us that we all perceive the world through our own "lenses," a concept related to constructivism. Even within the same nation, experiences differ based on factors like privilege or language barriers. These diverse experiences are equally valid, and understanding them is crucial for peacemaking.
The Children's Song Medium and Socko's Role
At first, it wasn't immediately apparent to me that this song was intended as a children's song. The use of a sock puppet, Socko, made me think about the reasons behind this choice. One interpretation is that Socko parallels how children initially regurgitate information. Conversely, Socko could represent an alter ego, a persona Bo can adopt and discard at will.
Socko's Commentary on History and Capitalism
Classism vs. Nationalism in History
Socko argues that the narrative taught in history classes is "demonstrably false and pedagogically classist." While classism is interesting way to perceive this, I see it more as a nationalistic lens. Countries often present their history in a way that favors their national image. For example, the U.S. may downplay colonization, while Japan might omit WWII war crimes. While questioning information is vital, it's also important to avoid being combative with teachers. They are working within a system and generally want to help students.
Marxism and the Global Network of Capital
Socko's statement about "the global network of capital" separating the worker from the means of production reflects a Marxist critique of capitalism. Marxism is a critique, not a theory. I interpret this as referencing the global division of labor. Historically, artisans controlled the entire production process. Now, raw materials, production, and sales are often divided across nations. Raw materials are often obtained by colonial conquests. This system can perpetuate exploitation. The global South is often forced to rely on exporting cheap goods and raw materials, leading to a cycle of debt. Structural Adjustment Programs (SAPs) are often used to exploit the global South.
Private Property, Neoliberal Fascism, and Generalizations
Socko's claims that "private property is inherently theft" and "neoliberal fascists are destroying the left" raise important questions. Private property can be viewed as exploitative, as people pay for land they don't own. Neoliberalism, critiqued as predatory capitalism, concentrates power in the hands of the financial elite. The term "neoliberal fascism" can be an oxymoron. However, both movements share right-wing populist traits like ultra-nationalism and xenophobia. It's important to avoid simply agreeing with buzzwords and instead understand the nuanced concepts.
Socko goes on to say that "every politician every cop on the street protects the interests of the pedophilic corporate elite." This is an overgeneralization. While the system might enable such interests, it's unlikely that every individual politician or cop is complicit. Accusatory statements like this are unhelpful.
Socko and Bo's Communication Breakdown
Colonialism and Responsibility
Socko says yeah that happens if you're curious about this phenomena it's usually called colonialism uh when one country decides ooh yeah i want that thing uh that's your land is is my land now and then takes it by violent means but genocide can also happen within nations. Then says First that's how it works. After he said that, Socko asks, "What can I do to help?" and Bo retorts, "Read a book or something. Just don't burden me with the responsibility of educating you." He then accuses white people of seeing socio-political conflict through the lens of self-actualization. Bo is being defensive and Socko is being accusatory.
This exchange exemplifies poor communication. Socko accuses Bo of narrow-mindedness and of using others' struggles to feel better about himself. While the criticism might be valid, the accusatory tone shuts down the conversation. Bo's defensiveness is also unhelpful.
Socko, in essence, is saying that Bo, who has the privilege, is having his pity party while Socko is living this horrible day. This situation is off-putting.
How can this be improved? There should be less jargon. Lower the egos. Have productive conversations and realize that everyone is not perfect.
Power Dynamics and Virtue Signaling
In the end, Bo silences Socko. Even though Socko can say whatever he wants, Bo will take advantage of his position of power. This can be seen as virtue signaling. It's not about the intentions, but more about what is happening and Sako calls Bo out on that. He knows that White people see socio-political conflicts through the myopic lens of their own self-actualization.
I'm happy to continue this conversation in the comments.