BYU Speeches Why Institutions Matter | Yuval Levin | 2025
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Feb 26, 2025 In this insightful discussion, Yuval Levin, editor of National Affairs and a leading voice at the American Enterprise Institute, emphasizes the crucial role of institutions in shaping our social fabric. He argues that institutions should be formative rather than performative, pointing to the need for a cultural shift towards idealism and community engagement. Levin also addresses the alarming decline of trust in these entities and calls for a renewed focus on personal responsibility to combat societal divisions and restore civic harmony.
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The Social Crisis and Institutional Failure
- America is facing a social crisis, marked by polarization, resentment, isolation, and despair.
- This crisis stems from a breakdown of trust and cooperation, rooted in a failure of institutions.
The Formative Role of Institutions
- Institutions are the forms of our common life, giving structure and purpose to collective actions.
- They are formative, shaping our habits, expectations, and ultimately, our character.
The Basis of Trust in Institutions
- Declining trust in institutions isn't solely about competence but also about their ethical and formative role.
- We trust institutions that shape individuals to be trustworthy and uphold their responsibilities.