Homebrewed Christianity

Aaron Simmons: The Paradox of Democracy & What Comes Next

6 snips
Feb 20, 2025
Guest
Aaron Simmons
Aaron Simmons, an Associate Professor of Philosophy at Furman University and creator of ‘Philosophy in the Wild,’ dives into the complexities of democracy. He discusses the challenges of sustaining democratic engagement amidst political polarization. The conversation highlights the tensions between equality and justice, critiques the two-party system, and advocates for embracing conflict in dialogue. Simmons also explores anarchism as a form of democratic practice and emphasizes the need for genuine political engagement and understanding across differing perspectives.
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INSIGHT

Democracy's Dilemma

  • Democracy requires balancing political equality and social justice.
  • Polarization arises when prioritizing justice over engaging with opposing views.
ANECDOTE

Facebook Friend Dilemma

  • Aaron Simmons struggles with engaging a megachurch pastor and Trump supporter.
  • He questions whether blocking him is a failure of democratic principles.
INSIGHT

Paradox of Democracy

  • Liberalism (individual freedom) and democracy (popular sovereignty) are inherently tense.
  • The goal is transforming antagonistic enemies into agonistic adversaries.
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