Dive into a captivating discussion on the intricate dynamics of U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding Israel, and the existential threats it faces. Hear insights on the painful Ted Cruz-Tucker Carlson interview and the internal conflicts within Trump’s coalition. Explore philosophical reflections on political actions inspired by Chesterton, and unravel the parable of the golden goose as it relates to contemporary political discontent. Finally, examine capitalism's complexities amid rising populist frustrations and the need for humility in political thought.
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insights INSIGHT
Israel's Existential Threat Drives Attention
Israel dominates conversation because it's constantly under existential threat.
Americans care deeply as it faces real danger unlike stable countries such as Belgium or Sweden.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Childhood Story on Prioritizing Danger
Jonah recalls feeling neglected as a child while his sick brother received all attention.
This personal story illustrates how focus is given to what is critically important, like a nation's survival.
insights INSIGHT
Exhaustion Risks Israel's Survival
People resent Israel coverage because of its constant presence in news due to threat.
Exhaustion with political drama can weaken the public will to defend Israel, risking its survival.
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G.K. Chesterton's "Heretics" is a collection of essays that explore various aspects of religious belief and social commentary. Chesterton's characteristic wit and insightful observations make this a stimulating and engaging read. The essays cover a wide range of topics, from the nature of orthodoxy to the dangers of modernism. Chesterton's defense of traditional values and his critique of contemporary society remain relevant today. The book is a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate about faith, reason, and the challenges of modern life.
Liberal fascism
The Secret History of the American Left, From Mussolini to the Politics of Meaning
Jonah Goldberg
In 'Liberal Fascism', Jonah Goldberg presents a controversial argument that fascist movements were and are rooted in left-wing ideologies. He contends that the original fascists, including Mussolini and Hitler, were on the left and that their policies and principles share similarities with those of modern liberal progressives. Goldberg explores how fascist elements, such as statism, eugenic racism, and the suppression of individual freedoms, have been present in various forms of liberal and progressive movements throughout history. The book challenges the mainstream view that fascism is exclusively a far-right ideology and argues that the totalitarian impulse is a common thread among these movements[1][4][5].
The File
A Personal History
Timothy Garton Ash
In this memoir, Timothy Garton Ash recounts his experience of living in East Germany in the early 1980s and his subsequent discovery of his Stasi file after the fall of the Berlin Wall. The file, code-named 'Romeo,' contains a detailed record of his activities compiled by the East German secret police with the help of numerous informers. Ash compares the Stasi records with his own memories, diary entries, and published articles, and he tracks down and interviews the informants and former Stasi officers involved in his case. The book provides a gripping and morally provocative account of life in East Germany's surveillance state and the complexities of post-communist society[2][3][4].
The Wealth of Nations
Adam Smith
Published in 1776, 'The Wealth of Nations' is Adam Smith's magnum opus that laid the groundwork for modern economics. The book critiques mercantilist economic theories and introduces the concept of the 'invisible hand,' which describes how individual self-interest leads to societal benefit. It emphasizes the division of labor, the accumulation of capital, and the importance of free markets. Smith argues that a nation's wealth is not measured by its gold and silver reserves but by the stream of goods and services it produces. The book also outlines the core functions of government, such as maintaining defense, enforcing civil law, and promoting education, while advocating for limited government intervention in market activities.
Jonah Goldberg has spent the week knee-deep in eggheadery of the highest order and must alleviate himself from the resonant voices in his head. Therefore, today’s Ruminant presents listeners with an hour of punditry on Israel and its existential value, the painful Ted Cruz-Tucker Carlson interview, the sorry tale of the Golden Goose, and liberal theory run amok.
The Remnant is a production of The Dispatch, a digital media company covering politics, policy, and culture from a non-partisan, conservative perspective. To access all of The Dispatch’s offerings—including Jonah’s G-File newsletter, regular livestreams, and other members-only content—click here.