The Future Of Social Upheaval In The U.S.

During his career as a journalist, Chris Hedges has seen first-hand the workings of revolution around the world. On a recent sweltering night at Town Hall Seattle he talked about the prospects for social upheaval right here in the United States.

Hedges’ latest book is “Wages of Rebellion: The Moral Imperative of Revolt.” In it he tells stories of rebels throughout history, and what it takes to stand up to powerful forces of injustice and oppression.

Hedges argues that popular movements still change the world and that we are morally bound to participate. He predicts that the grave issues we face today—war, violence, persecution, environmental destruction and wealth inequity, to name a few – will lead to more popular uprisings around the world and here in the U.S.

Hedges is a journalist, author, activist and Presbyterian minister. His books include “War Is a Force That Gives Us Meaning” and “Death of the Liberal Class.” He was awarded a Pulitzer Prize for his coverage of global terrorism when he worked for the New York Times. He is currently a columnist for the website Truthdig and a senior fellow at The Nation Institute in New York.

He spoke at Town Hall Seattle on June 8. His talk was presented by Town Hall and University Book Store as part of the Civics series. Thanks to Jennie Cecil Moore for our recording.

Photo credit: "Chris Hedges speaking on a picnic table," by Steve Rhodes on Flickr (CC BY NC ND)