Thomas Frank, author of “What’s the Matter with Kansas?” talks with Richard Wolinsky of KPFA Public Radio about the new bankruptcy law,Terri Schiavo, globalization and more.

Why do so many people in America vote against their own self-interest? Thomas Frank’s 2004 best seller, “What’s the Matter with Kansas?” attempts to answer this question by examining the midwestern state, its radical roots, and why and how it has become a Republican bastion.

There are multiple answers, of course, ranging from the corporatization of the Democratic Party to the what Frank calls “the great '60s backlash” fto the overwhelming onslaught of right-wing propaganda and the demonization of liberals.

In this 40-minute follow-up to the paperback edition of his book, Frank discusses these issues and brings into play recent events and trends in American politics.

- Download/listen here

• Buy "What's the Matter with Kansas" at Amazon.com