New Books in Critical Theory

Steven Hahn, "Illiberal America: A History" (Norton, 2024)

Apr 24, 2025
Steven Hahn, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and professor at New York University, unpacks the deep-seated illiberalism in American history in his new book. He challenges the belief that recent political upheavals are anomalies, revealing that exclusionary practices have long been woven into the fabric of American democracy. Hahn explores the tension between liberal ideals and illiberal traditions, examining historical movements for civil rights and the complicated intersections of race and gender. His insights urge listeners to reconsider the true narratives of American democratic evolution.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

Defining Illiberalism in America

  • Illiberalism in America involves belief in inequality, assigned hierarchies, cultural homogeneity, and violence to maintain power.
  • Rights are seen as limited and local, with community will often overriding individual rights and rule of law.
INSIGHT

Historical Roots of January 6th

  • The January 6th Capitol attack was unprecedented nationally but reflects long histories of local overthrow and violence.
  • Decentralization and local power in the U.S. has often involved repressive, violent, illiberal practices rooted in state control.
INSIGHT

Decentering Liberalism in US History

  • Liberalism has been central to American narratives, but its dominance masks a multiplicity of political currents including illiberal and non-liberal traditions.
  • Decentering liberalism helps understand the full complexity of American political history beyond consensus myths.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app