How ‘Muskism’ is Reshaping America

How ‘Muskism’ is Reshaping America

From KQED's Forum by KQED

April 28, 2026 · 55 min

About this episode

The episode discusses how Elon Musk's actions and ideologies are influencing American society, featuring insights from authors Ben Tarnoff and Quinn Slobodian.

Everyone has an opinion about Elon Musk, who has carved out a uniquely powerful place for himself in the worlds of auto-making, space launch, social media and even government. But beyond Musk the individual, what do his corporate maneuvers and embrace of authoritarian, anti-humanitarian and white supremacist ideologies tell us about the direction of our society? As Musk’s high-stakes lawsuit against Open AI’s Sam Altman begins in Oakland this week, we talk to Ben Tarnoff and Quinn Slobodian about their new book, “Muskism: A Guide for the Perplexed.” Guests: Quinn Slobodian, professor of international history, Boston University; author, "Globalists," "Crack-Up Capitalism," "Hayek’s Bastards." Ben Tarnoff, co-author, "Muskism: A Guide for the Perplexed;" author, "Internet for the People: The Fight for Our Digital Future" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

People in this episode

Guests: Quinn Slobodian, Ben Tarnoff

Topics covered

  • Elon Musk
  • corporate power
  • authoritarianism
  • white supremacy
  • social media
  • high-stakes lawsuits

Keywords

  • Muskism
  • Elon Musk
  • corporate maneuvers
  • authoritarian ideologies
  • high-stakes lawsuit
  • Sam Altman
  • social media

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Open AI, Boston University

Books & works: Muskism: A Guide for the Perplexed

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