J. Ann Tickner on how gender impacts politics & international relations

Summary

In this thought-provoking interview, Professor Ann Tickner discusses the state of U.S. democracy, touching on concerns around voting rights, the manipulation of mail-in ballots, and the rise of political figures like Donald Trump. Reflecting on history, she highlights how America has gone through cycles of corruption and conflict, suggesting that the current situation is a reaction to previous political shifts, particularly the Obama presidency. She also addresses racial tensions, noting the anxieties surrounding demographic changes and the future of a predominantly white America.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ann Tickner expresses concern about the future of democracy in the United States, highlighting fears related to corruption and the political landscape.
• 😀 Tickner discusses the increasing role of mail-in ballots and the post office, suggesting that challenges to these systems are part of a larger effort to undermine trust in elections.
• 😀 Tickner reflects on how the United States has experienced corrupt periods in history, implying that current challenges might be cyclical rather than unprecedented.
• 😀 Tickner revisits her historical roots and writes about forgotten figures, drawing parallels between the past and present political climate.
• 😀 Tickner believes the current political situation is a reaction to former President Obama’s administration and its progressive policies.
• 😀 Tickner identifies racism as a continuing issue in the U.S., suggesting that the rise of figures like Trump represents a response to shifting demographics.
• 😀 Tickner predicts that by 2040, white Americans will no longer be the majority, contributing to ongoing racial anxiety in the country.
• 😀 Tickner acknowledges that the concerns of white America regarding demographic change are contributing to social and political tensions.
• 😀 Tickner sees the current moment as a reaction to historical progress, indicating that the struggles of today are part of broader societal shifts.
• 😀 Despite her concerns, Tickner does not see the country returning to a worse state but believes it is undergoing a reactionary phase.

Q & A

What concerns does Ann Tickner have about the future of U.S. democracy?

Ann Tickner is concerned about the future of U.S. democracy due to growing political division, the undermining of the electoral process, and the use of tactics like discrediting mail-in ballots. She expresses worry about the current state of democracy, especially under the influence of political figures who challenge its integrity.

How does Ann Tickner view the current political climate in relation to past U.S. history?

Tickner believes that U.S. history goes in cycles, with similar corruption and challenges seen in previous eras. She points out that even in the 19th century, political violence, such as members of Congress being shot, occurred. She doesn't view the current situation as necessarily a regression but rather as a reaction to past political events.

What does Ann Tickner mean by the term 'hidden figures of history'?

Tickner uses the term 'hidden figures of history' to refer to people who have been forgotten or overlooked in historical accounts. She is writing about these individuals and acknowledging their contributions and presence in history, much like the reference made in the movie 'Hidden Figures.'

How does Ann Tickner perceive Donald Trump's role in the political landscape?

Ann Tickner views Donald Trump as part of a broader reaction to Barack Obama's presidency, particularly focusing on racial tensions in the U.S. She believes Trump represents a nervous white minority that is attempting to hold on to power in response to changing demographics.

What is Ann Tickner's perspective on the racial dynamics in the U.S. and their impact on politics?

Tickner believes that the U.S. is still a deeply racist country, and that the anxiety surrounding demographic shifts is linked to the changing racial makeup. She specifically points out that by 2040, the white population will no longer be the majority, which she believes has created a sense of nervousness among white Americans who fear losing political dominance.

Why does Ann Tickner suggest that the U.S. is in a 'reactionary' phase politically?

Tickner suggests that the current political climate is reactionary because of the backlash against progressive shifts, particularly those associated with the Obama administration. She argues that figures like Donald Trump represent a reaction to these shifts, particularly the rise of minority groups and changing social norms.

What historical event does Ann Tickner reference to demonstrate the extent of political corruption in the past?

Tickner references a period in the 19th century when people were so politically divided that members of Congress were literally shot. This illustrates that political corruption and violent divisions have existed in American history, similar to the political unrest seen today.

How does Ann Tickner see the future racial demographic shifts in the U.S.?

Tickner notes that by 2040, the white population in the U.S. will no longer be the majority. She believes this shift is contributing to a sense of insecurity among white Americans who fear losing their long-held political and cultural dominance.

What is the significance of Jed Macosko's suggestion to interview Ann Tickner again after the election?

Jed Macosko suggests interviewing Ann Tickner again after the election to assess how the political situation plays out and to evaluate whether her concerns about democracy and the future of the country are validated or mitigated by the outcomes of the election.

How does Ann Tickner explain the political tensions related to Donald Trump’s rise?

Ann Tickner explains that Trump's rise is part of a broader reactionary movement in the U.S. to Obama's presidency. She sees his leadership as a reflection of fears among a shrinking white majority that is reacting to the increasing political power and influence of racial minorities.