What is “Muskism,” and why does it matter far beyond Elon Musk himself? In this episode of Deep Focus, guest host Matt Hoh sits down with authors Quinn Slobodian and Ben Tarnoff to discuss their new book, Muskism: A Guide for the Perplexed. Together, they explore how Musk’s empire—from Tesla and SpaceX to X, xAI, Starlink, and Neuralink—represents more than a collection of companies. They argue it reflects a new model of capitalism built on AI, financial markets, government partnerships, digital networks, and unprecedented corporate power.The conversation examines Musk’s evolution from internet entrepreneur to tech-industrial magnate, the role of government support in building his businesses, the implications of SpaceX’s historic IPO, and the growing influence of AI and data infrastructure on society. They also discuss “state symbiosis,” the future of work, the social contract in the age of Big Tech, and whether Muskism can survive without Elon Musk himself.A thought-provoking discussion about technology, power, democracy, and the future of the global economy.01:14 Will SpaceX Make Elon Musk the First Trillionaire?03:05 What Is "Muskism"? The New Face of Capitalism08:00 From PayPal to Tesla: Musk’s Evolution Explained10:07 The Government’s Hidden Role in Building Musk’s Empire14:05 Tesla, SpaceX & The Internet Connection Nobody Talks About17:31 How X, xAI, Starlink & Neuralink Fit Together19:12 Neuralink and Musk’s Plan to Merge Humans with AI22:22 Why Musk Bought Twitter and Built xAI24:53 The Monopoly Strategy Behind Musk’s Companies26:15 Why Every Retirement Fund Could Soon Depend on SpaceX29:10 Orbital Data Centers: Musk’s Biggest AI Bet Yet33:47 What Is "State Symbiosis"? Musk and Government Power38:36 DOGE, Palantir & The Privatization of State Capacity40:49 The Missing Social Contract of Muskism43:20 Elon Musk, Politics & the New Right45:28 Can Muskism Survive Without Elon Musk?47:41 Is There a Backlash Against the Tech Oligarchy?50:23 Final Thoughts: The Future Beyond MuskismIf you enjoyed the conversation, please like, subscribe, and share to support more in-depth interviews and analysis. Thanks for tuning in!