In this engaging discussion, Kevin Vallier, a philosophy professor at the University of Toledo and affiliate scholar at the Acton Institute, dives into the complexities of American fusionism, exploring how religion can coexist with liberty. Vallier shares his personal journey from atheism to intertwining libertarianism with Lutheranism. He analyzes the historical ties between Christianity and classical liberalism, debates the roles of moral understanding, and highlights the importance of dialogue between theologians and social scientists to navigate modern ideological challenges.
Kevin Vallier argues that fusionism, merging liberty with a Christian moral framework, remains vital for contemporary American conservatism.
His personal journey from atheism to confessional Lutheranism highlights the tension between libertarian ideals and religious convictions in political thought.
Vallier emphasizes the need for a nuanced approach to the interplay of culture and politics to enable effective societal transformation.
Deep dives
The Intersection of Religion and Liberty
The discussion emphasizes the complex relationship between religion and liberty within the framework of American conservatism. Kevin Vallier argues that fusionism—combining liberty and moral order through a Christian framework—is still the most intellectually sound approach for American conservatives. He highlights that understanding how religion can inform political structures without compromising individual freedom is crucial. This exploration addresses various philosophical perspectives, questioning the coexistence of libertarian ideals and Christian moral obligations.
From Atheism to Fusionism
Vallier shares his personal journey from atheism to a belief system that merges libertarian political economy with Christian theology. Initially drawn to libertarianism through influential works, Vallier later embraces a confessional Lutheran theology. He reflects on the intellectual tensions between his libertarian leanings and religious convictions, culminating in an ongoing quest to reconcile these two systems of thought. This personal narrative underscores the relevance of faith in forming a robust political framework that respects both liberty and moral order.
Tensions Within American Conservatism
The podcast highlights the prevailing tensions within the American conservative movement, particularly the debate surrounding fusionism's relevance amidst the rise of the new right. Critics deride fusionism as an outdated consensus, but Vallier posits that it remains a vital discourse for addressing contemporary societal challenges. By examining the intellectual legacies of historical figures like Frank Meyer and Russell Kirk, Vallier articulates the need for a thoughtful synthesis of traditional values and modern political realities. This analysis encourages a renewed investigation of fusionism's principles to provide coherent guidance for future conservative thought.
Revisiting the Culture-Politics Dynamic
From a methodological standpoint, Vallier proposes a nuanced examination of the relationship between culture and politics in shaping society's moral framework. He critiques the simplistic notion that political power can compel cultural change, suggesting instead that cultural attitudes are foundational to political realities. This perspective promotes the idea that successful political change must be grounded in a deeper understanding of cultural norms and values. By disaggregating the elements of culture and politics, Vallier argues for a more strategic approach to fostering positive societal transformation without resorting to authoritarian measures.
Future Directions in Conservative Thought
Vallier envisions a transformative future for conservative thought, facilitated by closer collaboration between think tanks and academic institutions. He advocates for a systematic exploration of key puzzles facing contemporary conservatism, such as the meanings of liberty and virtue, the benefits and risks associated with economic dynamism, and the cultural underpinnings of political authority. This interdisciplinary approach aims to equip young scholars and practitioners with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of modern governance while remaining true to foundational conservative principles. Overall, Vallier's work aspires to revitalize fusionism as an ongoing, dynamic conversation rather than a static ideology.
In this episode, Dan Hugger speaks with Kevin Vallier, professor of philosophy at the Institute of American Constitutional Thought and Leadership, about his book-in-progress on American fusionism. How exactly do religion and liberty go together? What can theologians and social scientists learn from each other? Why is fusionism still the only intellectually serious option on offer for American conservatives, and how can it be developed futher?