#258 | Fear and Loathing in 2025: Why Does Hunter S Thompson’s Scathing Account of American Politics Still Matter Today?

🎙 Douglas Vigliotti explores Hunter S. Thompson’s "Fear and Loathing on the Campaign Trail ‘72," spotlighting Thompson’s groundbreaking gonzo journalism and his own admiration for the author. Vigliotti unpacks the book’s sharp, scathing critique of American politics, its timeless relevance, and Thompson’s uncanny ability to get at the truth, along with his growing disillusionment with the political system. He urges listeners to reconsider the realities of power and democracy, offers related reading suggestions, and invites the audience to connect and subscribe. ✓ Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org. 📚 Learn more about "Aristotle for Novelists" at AristotleforNovelists.com or READ IT NOW! ⚡️ Connect with the host on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or learn more about him at DouglasVigliotti.com. 🎧 Listen to Douglas Vigliotti's other podcast: Slightly Crooked: Good Stories, Told Well. ⭐️ Please consider sharing "Books for Men" with other men who enjoy reading, or subscribing and rating on your favorite podcast platform. Either goes a long way in helping new listeners find the show and inspire (more) men to read. 🗣️ Listen to episode #116: Hell's Angels | Hunter S Thompson! 💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE:Introduction to the Episode (00:09) - Douglas Vigliotti introduces the podcast, the featured book, and the episode’s focus on Hunter S. Thompson.Newsletter and Podcast Updates (01:21) - Details about the companion newsletter, episode summaries, and how to sign up for updates.Personal Connection to Hunter S. Thompson (02:31) - Douglas shares his admiration for Thompson and the author’s influence on his writing journey.Hunter S. Thompson’s Style and Previous Podcast Episode (03:50) - Discussion of Thompson’s gonzo journalism, his persona, and reference to a previous episode about him.Background on "Fear and Loathing on the Campaign Trail, 1972" (03:50) - Overview of the book’s origin, its coverage of the 1972 election, and Thompson’s unique perspective.Themes and Impact of the Book (05:23) - Exploration of the book’s themes: disillusionment with politics, democracy, and the American people.Hunter S. Thompson’s Honesty and Political Critique (07:01) - Analysis of Thompson’s brutal honesty, critique of political systems, and relevance to today’s politics.Comparison to "The Power Broker" and Understanding Politics (08:14) - Recommendation of "The Power Broker" and reflection on the meaning of politics in everyday life.Quotes from the Book and Contemporary Parallels (08:14) - Sharing two significant quotes from Thompson, drawing parallels between 1972 and recent elections.Closing Remarks and Listener Engagement (11:02) - Douglas encourages listeners to subscribe, connect via Instagram or website, and mentions his new book.Final Reminders and Thank You (11:59) - Information on where to find more about the podcast and newsletter, and a thank you to listeners.