In a thought-provoking conversation, political philosopher John Gray, author of The New Leviathans: Thoughts After Liberalism, challenges the long-held beliefs about the dominance of liberal democracy. He discusses the decline of liberalism, highlighting failures across nations like Russia and China. Gray also explores the complexities of political identity, the fragility of societal order, and the impacts of the 'woke movement.' Amidst a legitimacy crisis in America, he urges a deeper understanding of the historical forces shaping current political landscapes.
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insights INSIGHT
Liberalism's Decline
John Gray argues that liberalism is declining, evidenced by geopolitical trends and restrictions on free speech.
He observes that institutions like universities and media organizations are now curtailing free expression.
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Core of Liberalism
Liberalism's core principle is that rulers serve the governed, lacking inherent right to rule.
This contrasts with theories advocating rule by philosophers, kings, or the virtuous.
insights INSIGHT
Hobbes's Liberalism
Hobbes, considered the first and last great liberal philosopher by Gray, believed rulers derive authority from protecting the ruled.
When protection fails, the obligation to obey dissolves.
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The Book of Job is an Old Testament book that explores themes of suffering, faith, and the nature of God. It tells the story of Job, a righteous man who endures immense suffering despite his piety. The book features dialogues between Job and his friends, who attempt to explain his suffering, and between Job and God. It raises profound questions about the relationship between God and humanity, the problem of evil, and the meaning of life. The Book of Job is considered a literary masterpiece, known for its poetic language and philosophical depth. It remains a source of reflection and inspiration for readers grappling with the complexities of faith and suffering.
The new Leviathans
Thoughts After Liberalism
John Gray
On liberty
John Stuart Mill
Published in 1859, 'On Liberty' is a seminal work by John Stuart Mill that argues for the protection of individual freedoms from the tyranny of the majority and government interference. Mill uses utilitarian philosophy to justify the value of liberty, emphasizing the importance of freedom of thought, discussion, and action. He introduces the 'harm principle,' which states that individuals should only be restrained from acting when their conduct may harm others. The essay is structured into five chapters, each addressing different aspects of liberty, including the liberty of thought and discussion, individual liberty, the limits of authority, and practical applications of his theories. Mill argues that protecting individual liberties is essential for societal progress and the avoidance of social stagnation[2][3][5].
How to Change
The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be
Katy Milkman
In this ground-breaking book, Katy Milkman reveals a proven path to help readers move from where they are to where they want to be. Drawing on her original research and the work of her world-renowned scientific collaborators, Milkman shares strategic methods for identifying and overcoming common barriers to change, such as impulsivity, procrastination, and forgetfulness. The book offers innovative approaches like 'temptation bundling,' using timely reminders, and creating 'set-it-and-forget-it systems' to make change more achievable. It emphasizes the importance of tailoring solutions to specific roadblocks and using science to stack the deck in favor of successful change.
LEVIATHAN
Thomas Hobbes
Published in 1651, 'Leviathan' by Thomas Hobbes is a comprehensive treatise on political philosophy. The book is divided into four main parts: 'Of Man,' 'Of Commonwealth,' 'Of a Christian Commonwealth,' and 'Of the Kingdom of Darkness.' Hobbes argues that the natural state of humans is one of conflict and anarchy, and that the best way to achieve peace and security is through the establishment of a commonwealth governed by an absolute sovereign. This sovereign, which Hobbes terms the 'Leviathan,' has supreme authority over all aspects of governance, including law, religion, and public offices. Hobbes' work is a foundational text in social contract theory and continues to influence political thought to this day.
What exactly is the basis for democracy?
Arguably Iiberalism, the belief that the government serves the people, is the stone on which modern democracy was founded. That notion is so ingrained in the US that we often forget that America could be governed any other way. But political philosopher John Gray believes that liberalism has been waning for a long, long time.
He joins Sean to discuss the great liberal thinker Thomas Hobbes and America’s decades-long transition away from liberalism.
The Gray Area with Sean Illing 
