Identity, nationalism, and fatherhood

Apr 11, 2019

Michael Brendan Dougherty, a senior writer at National Review and author of the memoir 'My Father Left Me Ireland,' delves into the deep connections between identity, nationalism, and fatherhood. He shares powerful insights from his personal narrative, reflecting on how cultural heritage shapes individual identity. The discussion explores the moral responsibilities tied to nationalism, the emotional impacts of fatherlessness, and the complexities of historical legacies in contemporary society. Dougherty challenges modern views, emphasizing the importance of heartfelt connections in today's world.

01:48:48

forum

Ask episode

web_stories

AI Snips

view_agenda

Chapters

menu_book

Books

auto_awesome

Transcript

info_circle

Episode notes

question_answer

ANECDOTE

Dougherty's Irish Upbringing

Michael Brendan Dougherty grew up in New Jersey with an Irish mother who fostered his Irish identity.
She involved him in Irish cultural events, spoke Irish at home, and instilled in him a longing for Ireland.

insights

INSIGHT

The Pull of Identity

Ezra Klein questions what drives individuals to embrace specific identities, like Irishness.
He contrasts this with more present-focused pursuits, pondering the underlying motivations.

insights

INSIGHT

Ireland: End of History?

Ezra Klein points out that modern Ireland is viewed as peaceful and prosperous, an "end of history" country.
Dougherty's connection to a more turbulent, revolutionary Ireland contrasts with this perception.

Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode

Exploring Identity Through Fatherhood and Culture

01:48 • 21min

chevron_right

Exploring Nationalism and Identity Through History and Sacrifice

23:09 • 5min

chevron_right

Nationalism and Identity: A Personal Lens

28:25 • 19min

chevron_right

Identities and Legacies

47:45 • 5min

chevron_right

Exploring Nationalism and Historical Legacy

52:34 • 3min

chevron_right

Philosophies in Political Landscape

55:36 • 22min

chevron_right

Revolution, Identity, and Political Dilemmas

01:17:51 • 22min

chevron_right

Influential Reads on Faith, Nationalism, and Political Theory

01:40:12 • 3min

chevron_right

The Complexity of Thought and Political Discourse

01:43:20 • 5min

chevron_right

Political Writings and Speeches

By Patrick Pearse

Patrick Henry Pearse

This book compiles the political writings and speeches of Patrick Pearse, offering insights into his nationalist ideology and his role in shaping Irish republicanism. Pearse's works reflect his deep commitment to Irish independence and his vision for a free Ireland. The collection includes notable orations and essays that underscore his influence on Irish history.

The Everlasting Man

None

G.K. Chesterton

G. K. Chesterton's "The Everlasting Man" is a sweeping historical and philosophical work that traces the history of humanity from its origins to the present day. Chesterton argues for the unique position of humanity within creation and the enduring significance of Christianity. The book is a powerful defense of the Christian faith, blending historical analysis with philosophical insights and Chesterton's characteristic wit and eloquence. It is a challenging but rewarding read for those interested in history, philosophy, and theology. The book's exploration of the relationship between faith and reason, and its defense of the Christian worldview, continue to resonate with readers today.

My Father Left Me Ireland

Michael Brendan Dougherty

My Father Left Me Ireland is a poignant memoir that explores Michael Brendan Dougherty's complex relationship with his Irish heritage and his absent father. Raised by his mother in New Jersey, Dougherty grapples with the absence of his father and the cultural identity he inherited. The book delves into themes of identity, family, and the search for a sense of home, reflecting on both personal and national levels.

The Machiavellians, defenders of freedom

James Burnham

In this book, James Burnham analyzes the works of Machiavelli and other Machiavellian thinkers such as Gaetano Mosca, Georges Sorel, Robert Michels, and Vilfredo Pareto. Burnham argues that politics is fundamentally a struggle for power among competing elites, who use deception, manipulation, and coercion to maintain their dominance. He advocates for a scientific approach to politics, separating ethics from political analysis, and suggests that political liberty can be preserved by creating a balance of power among different elite groups. The book provides a realistic and pragmatic understanding of human nature and social dynamics, highlighting the importance of individual freedom and the perpetual struggle of elite classes in shaping political outcomes.

Between the World and Me

Ta-Nehisi Coates

Between the World and Me is a personal and literary exploration of America's racial history. Written as a series of letters to his 15-year-old son, Samori, Ta-Nehisi Coates reflects on his own experiences growing up in Baltimore, his education at Howard University, and his career as a journalist. The book delves into the realities of being Black in America, including the historical and ongoing impacts of slavery, segregation, police brutality, and mass incarceration. Coates shares personal anecdotes and historical insights to prepare his son for the challenges he will face as a Black man in America, while also offering a broader critique of American society and its treatment of Black bodies. The book is a powerful and emotional exploration of identity, history, and the struggle for racial justice.

The End of History and the Last Man

Francis Fukuyama

In this book, Francis Fukuyama posits that human history is moving towards a state of idealized harmony through the mechanisms of liberal democracy. He argues that liberal democracy is the final form of human government, driven by two powerful forces: the logic of modern science and the struggle for recognition. Fukuyama draws on the philosophical ideas of Hegel and Kojeve, suggesting that liberal democracy meets the economic and psychological needs of humanity, including the desire for recognition and dignity. The book explores the implications of this thesis, including the potential paradox that the satisfaction of basic needs might lead to a lack of outlets for human striving and recognition.

Democracy for Realists

Why Elections Do Not Produce Responsive Government

Christopher H. Achen and Larry M. Bartels

How to Change

The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be

Katy Milkman

In this ground-breaking book, Katy Milkman reveals a proven path to help readers move from where they are to where they want to be. Drawing on her original research and the work of her world-renowned scientific collaborators, Milkman shares strategic methods for identifying and overcoming common barriers to change, such as impulsivity, procrastination, and forgetfulness. The book offers innovative approaches like 'temptation bundling,' using timely reminders, and creating 'set-it-and-forget-it systems' to make change more achievable. It emphasizes the importance of tailoring solutions to specific roadblocks and using science to stack the deck in favor of successful change.

Michael Brendan Dougherty is a senior writer at National Review and the author of My Father Left Me Ireland, a moving, lyrical memoir about fatherhood and identity. It’s also a stirring defense of nationalism, an attack on wonks, and a critique of some of the core assumptions of liberal modernity. When I opened it, I didn’t expect it to be quite so on point to my interests. But here we are.

This conversation starts a little slow, but it accelerates into an exploration of some of the biggest questions this podcast has approached. What’s the purpose of the nation-state? Where does identity come from? What kinds of historical inheritances matter? How do human beings discipline their emotions and intuitions without losing their souls? When is violent revolution or resistance merited? And what does it mean to be a wonk?

One of the nice things about a conversation like this is it required both of us to articulate and defend some core beliefs that often go unquestioned. So there’s a lot here, including, at about the 32nd minute, probably the clearest description of my moral approach that I’ve offered on this podcast. Enjoy!

Recommended books:

The Everlasting Man by G.K. Chesterton

Political Writings and Speechesby Patrick Pearse

The Machiavellians: Defenders of Freedom by James Burnham

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Home Top podcasts Popular guests