The Gray Area with Sean Illing

George Will makes the conservative case against democracy

Jul 15, 2019
George Will, a legendary conservative columnist and author of "The Conservative Sensibility," delves into the tensions within conservatism today. He argues that majority rule threatens the American experiment, advocating for a conservative approach that respects individual rights over collective rule. The discussion touches on the decline of trust in government and the complexities of judicial independence in a polarized political landscape. Will critiques the inconsistent fiscal responsibility of the conservative movement while emphasizing the need for thoughtful governance.
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INSIGHT

Political Philosophy and Sensibility

  • Political philosophies are intertwined with personal sensibilities, which are more than attitudes but less than agendas.
  • Sensibilities shape how we respond to societal complexities, influencing our thinking processes.
INSIGHT

American vs. European Conservatism

  • American conservatism, unlike European conservatism, embraces creative destruction and spontaneous order.
  • It prioritizes individual liberty and navigates the complexities of a free society.
INSIGHT

Human Nature and Government

  • Conservatives believe in a constant human nature, while progressives see humans as shaped by culture.
  • This difference leads to opposing views on the role of government.
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