Robert Kagan, Senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, discusses the anti-liberal history of conservatism and Trump's impact on the American right. They explore originalism, conservative labeling, and the dangers of authoritarianism in American conservatism.
The distinction between anti-liberalism and anti-state conservatism is crucial in understanding the roots of American conservatism.
Modern conservative factions tend to prioritize anti-left rhetoric over traditional anti-state principles, marking a shift in ideological focus.
The podcast raises concerns about the prevailing anti-left sentiment within American conservatism and its implications for political discourse.
Deep dives
Explanation of the Book's Central Theme
The book delves into the roots of anti-liberalism in the U.S., tracing it back to the American founders' differing economic views. It distinguishes between anti-liberalism and anti-state measures, highlighting that Hamiltonian support for government intervention did not equate to anti-liberal stances. The discussion explores how today's GOP seems more intent on controlling the state than reducing it, leading to a shift away from anti-state conservatism towards anti-left sentiment.
Discussion on Conservative Philosophies and Underlying Views
The narrative weaves through different strands of conservatism, reflecting on historical figures like Russell Kirk and Hayek, who championed liberal values within their respective ideologies. While recognizing the diversity within conservatism, the podcast exposes the prevalent shift towards anti-left rather than anti-state positions among modern conservatives. It underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of conservative factions and the push towards anti-left rhetoric over anti-state principles.
Evaluation of American Conservatism's Evolution
The podcast subtly critiques the evolution of American conservatism, noting a tension between anti-left and anti-state preferences within the conservative movement. By juxtaposing historical figures like Irving Kristol's distinction between the two conservative strains, it highlights a prevailing anti-left sentiment at the forefront, sometimes at the expense of anti-state ideals. This raises questions about the current state of American conservatism and its ideological orientations.
Assessment of Contemporary Political Dynamics
The podcast delves into the complexities of contemporary political dynamics, exploring how the emphasis on anti-left sentiments within the conservative circles has reshaped the discourse. It reflects on the prioritization of anti-left over anti-state arguments and the implications for American conservative thought. By scrutinizing the inherent tensions and thematic shifts in conservative philosophy, it provokes deeper reflections on the evolving landscape of conservative ideologies.
Concerns about the Illiberalism on the Left and Catastrophism on the Right
The episode delves into the contrasting ideologies between the left and right wings, highlighting concerns about illiberal tendencies on the left and catastrophism on the right. It discusses how both sides tend to focus on extreme caricatures of each other, leading to a culture war fueled by misconceptions and polarizations. The implications of catastrophism, where one believes in an impending crisis that justifies illiberal actions, are explored in the context of political discourse and decision-making.
Challenges and Risks in American Politics and Government
The podcast also examines the potential risks and challenges facing American politics and governance, particularly in relation to the actions and intentions of political figures. The discussion touches on concerns regarding power dynamics, the influence of individuals within administrations, and the impact on liberal values. It suggests a need for vigilance and proactive engagement to address perceived threats to democratic principles and institutions in the current political landscape.
Jonah is joined by Robert Kagan—a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and author of Rebellion: The Antiliberal Tradition That Is Tearing America Apart - Again—to debate Robert’s theory on the anti-liberal history of conservatism and why he thinks Trump is a logical product of the American right.
