Paul VanderKlay's Podcast The Death of the Village is Killing the Family and Taking Civilization with it
Jul 17, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Christian Baxter, a YouTuber known as Free Rilian, explores Midwest culture and community dynamics. Joining him are Rod Dreher, an insightful writer on religion and culture, Jonathan Pageau, a symbolism expert and iconographer, and cultural commentator Kale Zelden. They examine the impact of rampant individualism on community ties, the crisis of family in modern times, and how societal progress can sometimes lead to disconnection. Peter Thiel also shares his thoughts on entrepreneurship in the face of cultural challenges, advocating for a return to local identity.
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Slowing Progress Since the 1970s
- The pace of technological progress slowed dramatically after the 1970s despite earlier rapid change.
- Social upheaval may have both caused and resulted from this slowdown in other progress areas.
Urbanization's Impact on Society
- Urbanization hollowed out villages, breaking traditional community bonds.
- Industrial and social changes disrupted family and tribal identities crucial for societal stability.
Build Local Communities with Integrity
- Focus on building strong, local communities with shared values for resilience.
- Connect with trustworthy allies and prioritize integrity to survive societal challenges.
