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EconTalk

Arnold Kling on the Three Languages of Politics, Revisited

Apr 6, 2020
Arnold Kling, an economist and author of 'The Three Languages of Politics,' shares his insights on the evolving political landscape. He discusses how modern media complicates political discourse and contributes to polarization. Kling emphasizes the importance of understanding diverse viewpoints and fostering empathic engagement. He highlights cultural activities as a means to bridge divides, the influence of populism, and the shifts in higher education's approach to intellectual discourse. His reflections call for a more nuanced dialogue amidst today's tribal politics.
01:03:14

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Quick takeaways

  • Each political tribe frames issues through a distinct lens - oppressor vs. oppressed, civilization vs. barbarism, liberty vs. coercion.
  • Intellectual maturity involves appreciating diverse perspectives and historical contexts.

Deep dives

The Three Languages of Politics

The podcast explains the concept of the three languages of politics - progressive, conservative, and libertarian. Each language frames issues differently: progressives focus on oppressor vs. oppressed, conservatives on civilization vs. barbarism, and libertarians on liberty vs. coercion. The discussion highlights how each tribe believes it has a monopoly on fighting a particular bad (oppression, barbarism, coercion) and how individuals align with one language over others.

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