Ep. 2407 Scott Horton on Tucker, Pat Buchanan, and Other Good Guys

Written in 1960, 'The Conscience of a Conservative' by Barry Goldwater is a seminal work that laid out conservative principles and policies. The book, ghostwritten by L. Brent Bozell, argues for the importance of conservative values such as freedom, limited government, and the maintenance of social order. Goldwater discusses various issues including civil rights, taxes, the welfare state, and the Soviet threat, advocating for a return to traditional conservative ideals. The book had a significant impact on American conservatism, transforming it from an abstract set of ideas into a practical political philosophy and influencing subsequent generations of conservatives.

Federalist No. 10, penned by James Madison, addresses the critical issue of factions within a republic and their potential to undermine the common good. Madison argues that a well-constructed union can mitigate the negative effects of factions by extending the sphere of the republic. A larger republic, with a greater variety of interests and parties, makes it less probable that a majority faction will form to oppress minority interests. The extended sphere also makes it more difficult for those with unjust motives to coordinate and act in unison. Madison's vision in Federalist No. 10 lays the philosophical foundation for American pluralism, emphasizing the importance of diversity and the challenges of managing conflicting interests within a democratic society.