Yuval Levin, director of social, cultural, and constitutional studies at the American Enterprise Institute and author of 'American Covenant,' discusses the potential of the Constitution to heal America's polarization. He explores how cynicism hampers unity and advocates for seeing each other as humans beyond politics. Levin suggests ranked-choice voting could mitigate partisanship and reflects on the historical and modern dynamics of the two-party system. He emphasizes the importance of community engagement in fostering a cohesive society.
Levin emphasizes that the Constitution should be viewed as a covenant fostering unity, not just a legal framework for division.
The importance of engaging with diverse viewpoints through compassionate dialogue is essential for overcoming political polarization and conflict.
Deep dives
C.S. Lewis and Public Persuasion
The influence of C.S. Lewis on Yuval Levin's perspective on conservatism and public persuasion is significant. Levin explains that Lewis taught him the importance of engaging with people's thoughts in a compassionate and understanding manner, emphasizing the need to create a dialogue that mirrors the others' beliefs while gently guiding them towards new insights. He particularly admires Lewis's book, 'The Abolition of Man,' which effectively persuades the reader of complex ideas through storytelling and relatable examples. Levin feels that this approach shapes his own work, especially in public discourse, where effective engagement hinges on understanding and connecting with diverse viewpoints.
The Constitution as a Solution to Division
In discussing the challenges facing the American political landscape, Levin argues that the Constitution is often mischaracterized as a source of division rather than a remedy for it. He notes that many Americans perceive it as an obstruction rather than a framework for unity in the face of different viewpoints. Levin asserts that the Constitution's primary aim is to create a more perfect union, facilitating cooperation and harmony among diverse factions. By highlighting its original intent, he encourages a return to constitutional principles as a means to mend the fractures within society and enhance political cohesion.
The Nature of Political Factions
Levin articulates that the increasing polarization in American politics stems from an alarming trend of factionalism, where political groups define themselves solely in opposition to one another. He warns that this environment fosters animosity and division, undermining the potential for productive political discourse. The conversation shifts to the necessity of transcending mere opposition and cultivating coalitions based on shared interests and goals, rather than fear and division. Levin underscores the importance of recognizing fellow citizens as neighbors rather than adversaries, advocating for a political culture that prioritizes collaboration over conflict.
Reconceptualizing the Constitution and Political Identity
Levin challenges the common perception of the Constitution as a mere legal contract and instead frames it as a covenant that shapes American identity and obligations. He explains that while contracts can easily dissolve, covenants are rooted in deep, lasting relationships and commitments among citizens. This perspective fosters a sense of belonging and responsibility toward one another, encouraging Americans to view their constitutional ties as integral to their identities. By cultivating a greater understanding of this covenantal relationship, Levin believes Americans can better appreciate their shared values and navigate political divides with empathy and respect.
Could the Constitution provide the antidote to polarization?
Yuval Levin thinks so. The director of social, cultural, and constitutional studies at the American Enterprise Institute, Levin is the author of a new book titled American Covenant. In it, and during this episode, Levin identifies the reasons people feel as though America is at a breaking point and meaningful opportunities for reuniting.
He and Moore consider why fragmentation is happening, the naiveté of cynicism, and ways the party system has—and hasn’t—worked well for the United States. They discuss partisanship, the potential upsides of ranked-choice voting in primaries, and the importance of seeing one another not primarily as political beings but as human beings.