In his latest book, Matthew Continetti — the right’s pre-eminent intellectual historian — traces the rich history of America’s 20th century conservative moment. In this conversation, we don’t dive into the details of history itself (for that, pick up a copy of The Right: The Hundred-Year War for American Conservatism), but rather discuss the origins and repercussions of some of the right’s more unsettling trends — from post-liberalism to populism to religious authoritarianism. As is our wont, we debate, disagree, and dunk on Biden, too.

Check out our ‘Inscrutable’ newsletter for thoughts and rants. To support us and gain access to exclusive content, consider becoming a paid member of Uncertain on Substack. Follow @UncertainPod on your social media of choice.

On the agenda:

-Analyzing the Right from the Right [0:00-7:26]

-The Post-Liberals of the New Right [7:27-18:38]

-Culture vs. Capitalism [18:39-32:46] 

-Rediscovering The American-ness of Conservatism [32:47-42:06] 

-Turning back the clock, but to when? [42:07-45:31] 

-Discussing Dobbs v. Jackson [45:32-52:11] 

-The Monster Within [52:12-1:05:49] 

-Blindspots on the Left & Right [1:05:50-1:07:34]

Uncertain Things is hosted and produced by Adaam James Levin-Areddy and Vanessa M. Quirk. For more doomsday rumination, subscribe to: uncertain.substack.com.