

#2342
Mentioned in 14 episodes
A conflict of visions
Book • 1987
In this book, Thomas Sowell explores the fundamental differences in visions of human nature that underlie many political and ideological disputes.
He identifies two primary visions: the 'constrained' vision, which sees human nature as inherently self-centered and limited by systemic processes, and the 'unconstrained' vision, which views human nature as malleable and perfectible through societal intervention.
Sowell argues that these visions shape opinions on a wide range of issues, from justice and equality to power and social institutions.
The book blends history, economics, philosophy, and law to provide a comprehensive understanding of these conflicting visions and their implications for political thought and action.
He identifies two primary visions: the 'constrained' vision, which sees human nature as inherently self-centered and limited by systemic processes, and the 'unconstrained' vision, which views human nature as malleable and perfectible through societal intervention.
Sowell argues that these visions shape opinions on a wide range of issues, from justice and equality to power and social institutions.
The book blends history, economics, philosophy, and law to provide a comprehensive understanding of these conflicting visions and their implications for political thought and action.
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Mentioned in 14 episodes
Mentioned by Jordan Peterson as outlining two classes of visions of the future: unconstrained and constrained.

273 snips
515. Ethics, Power, and Progress: Shaping AI for a Better Tomorrow | Marc Andreessen
Mentioned by
Paul Bloom to highlight the tragic view of human nature, arguing inherent constraints limit problem-solving.


162 snips
Nature vs. Nurture (with Paul Bloom)
Mentioned for his concept of the "open vision" of the world, which is central to the modernist worldview.

137 snips
Understanding Modern Civilization
Mentioned by Tobi Lutke as a recently read book that provided insightful perspectives on political conversations.

83 snips
Tobi Lütke on Creating Shopify for Americans as a German in Canada
Mentioned by
Peter Boettke as the author of "A Conflict of Visions", highlighting his insights on differing worldviews.


31 snips
Who Won the Socialist Calculation Debate (with Peter Boettke)
Von Michael Henkel erwähnt im Zusammenhang mit Sowells Auseinandersetzung mit unterschiedlichen Weltanschauungen.

14 snips
»Libertär? Der Denker Thomas Sowell« - Michael Henkel auf den Studientagen im Winter 2025
Mentioned by Sean DeMars as a book that offers a different perspective on the fundamental divide between conservatives and liberals.

13 snips
The Children's Rights Interview
Mentioned by
Nick Gillespie in the context of the constrained and unconstrained visions of human nature.


Michael Shermer: Conspiracy Thinking, Wokeness, and the Future of Free Thought
Mentioned by Andrew Weiss as a book that explores different mindsets regarding human potential and problem-solving.

The Power Hour | Talking Energy Policy with Andrew Weiss and Austin Gae
Mentioned by
Konstantin Kisin when discussing his admiration for Sowell's writings on constrained and unconstrained visions of the world.


#499 - Konstantin Kisin - The West Is Under Attack
Mentioned by Thomas Hogan as a work exploring different visions of society and the role of government.

Thomas Hogan: The First Semester at America's Newest University
Recommended by
Roni Fouks as a book that provides a deeper understanding of conflicting visions in society.


The History of Woke