Victor Davis Hanson, a Classicist and Military Historian at Stanford University, discusses the causes of World War II and the importance of military strength in preventing wars. The podcast also explores Thomas Sowell's approach to intellectual perspectives on war, the role of defense companies, the evolution of the United States as a multiracial democracy, and the dangers of relying on authority-based intellectuals. It delves into psychological deterrence, knowledge fallacies, and Israel's success amidst growing hostility.
Assimilation and integration are crucial for creating a shared national identity in the United States.
Thomas Sowell's unique ability to communicate common sense ideas and use data exposes fallacies and false knowledge.
The importance of demonstrating relative strength and power to avoid false assumptions and prevent conflicts.
Deep dives
Importance of Assimilation, Integration, and Intermarriage
The United States is a uniquely diverse country where assimilation, integration, and intermarriage have played a crucial role in creating a shared national identity. This American story, like that of the author's own mixed heritage family, highlights the importance of embracing common values and principles while celebrating diverse cultural backgrounds. Assimilation and integration require individuals to surrender primary identities and embrace the core unifying principles of America. This process enriches society while upholding a common American identity.
Thomas Sowell's National Treasure Status
Thomas Sowell is often considered a national treasure due to his unique ability to communicate common sense ideas and his meticulous use of data to expose fallacies and false knowledge. His writings, whether in op-eds, longer essays, podcasts, or books, offer thoughtful and analytical examinations of various social and political phenomena. Sowell fearlessly expresses his views, unaffected by majority opinions or personal gain. His accessible writing style, commitment to accuracy, and unwavering dedication to principles make him a highly respected and admired figure.
The Significance of Psychological Deterrence
Thomas Sowell's insights on the importance of psychological deterrence in preventing war were influenced by his conversations and association with military historian Victor Davis Hanson. Their discussions revolved around topics such as deterrence, pacifism, and appeasement. Through Hanson's expertise in warfare and Sowell's deep understanding of historical events, they delved into the significance of deterrence and the perils of misjudging the relative power of belligerents. Their shared views on war and a focus on data-driven analysis provided mutual enrichment and a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Collaboration between Thomas Sowell and Victor Davis Hanson
Thomas Sowell and Victor Davis Hanson developed a close professional relationship, meeting for regular lunches and sharing insights on various subjects such as politics, history, and culture. Their conversations covered a wide range of topics, including the importance of data, classical authors, and the impact of intellectual movements. Sowell introduced Hanson to new ideas and perspectives while Hanson contributed his extensive knowledge of military history. This collaboration led to mutual enrichment and the exploration of topics such as deterrence, appeasement, and the significance of psychological factors in shaping historical events.
The Importance of Showing Relative Strength and Power
It is important for parties involved in a disagreement to demonstrate their relative strength and power to avoid false assumptions. The speaker cites historical examples, such as the outbreak of war when one side underestimated the other's manpower and GDP, or when Vladimir Putin took perceived signs of weakness as an opportunity to act. Showing strength and power not only discourages opponents from becoming emboldened, but also prevents them from developing contempt and underestimating one's capabilities.
The Fallacy of Intellectual Elites and Everyday People
The speaker discusses the dichotomy between intellectual elites and everyday people. These elites, disconnected from the realities of working-class and minority communities, often adopt radical positions and impose their ideologies without considering the consequences on those affected. The speaker suggests that this disconnect stems from a sense of guilt and a need to perform penance, leading to the adoption of extreme left-leaning ideologies. The speaker argues that this disconnect between the elites and the people can have detrimental effects on society.
1) The Causes of WW2: A presentation of Sowell's essay "Intellectuals and War," from Sowell 2010 classic "Intellectuals and Society." In particular, I discuss the 6 causes of WWII, from Sowell's perspective.
2) My conversation with Victor Davis Hanson, (VDH): VDH is a Classicist and Military Historian at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University. You can find his books and columns at: VictorHanson.com and I highly recommend you subscribe for premium access to all his essays.
Notes to help you get the most out of this episode:
• My four favorite Victor Davis Hanson books: 1. Mexifornia (2003) 2. The Second World Wars (2017) 3. The Case for Trump (2019) 4. The Dying Citizen (2021) Dr. Hanson's new book is called "The End of Everything: How wars descend into annihilation," which will be released May 2024. • This episodes' song list: - War Pigs: Black Sabbath -Give Peace a Chance: John Lennon -Let There Be Peace on Earth: Boys Choir or Harlem -Praise the Lord, Pass the Ammunition: Kay Kyser -The Flesh Failures: Galt McDermott -Heal the World: Michael Jackson -We Are the World: USA for Africa -Blowin' in the Wind: Bob Dylan -Where Have All the Flowers Gone -Where is the Love: Black Eyed Peas -Ride of the Valkyries: Richard Wagner -One Day: Matisyahu
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