David Brooks, a contributing writer for The Atlantic and commentator for PBS, dives into the complexities of American democracy with Sam Harris. They discuss the decline of social trust and the dangers of identity politics. Brooks reflects on the evolving political landscape, including the implications of the 2024 presidential election and the impacts of economic inequality. They also critique the moral challenges faced by both political parties and offer insights on the Biden administration's performance amidst rising skepticism and controversy.
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Early Writing and TV Debut
David Brooks has been writing since he was seven, inspired by "Paddings and the Bear".
His first TV appearance was a debate with Milton Friedman at age 21.
insights INSIGHT
Career Path and Influences
David Brooks's career has spanned various roles, from police reporter to NYT columnist.
He admires writers like Jane Jacobs and Irving Kristol, aiming for insightful commentary beyond daily news.
insights INSIGHT
Political Heroes and Values
David Brooks's political heroes are Edmund Burke and Alexander Hamilton.
He values epistemological modesty and energetic government supporting individual success.
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In 'The Second Mountain', David Brooks explores the concept of two mountains in life: the first mountain, which represents individual success and ego-driven achievements, and the second mountain, which symbolizes a life of deeper meaning, commitment, and contribution to a greater good. Brooks argues that our society's extreme individualism has torn the social fabric, and the path to repair is through making deeper commitments to a spouse and family, a vocation, a philosophy or faith, and a community. The book is both a personal reflection on Brooks' own life journey and a broader social commentary, offering practical advice and stories of people who have lived joyous, committed lives[2][4][5].
Coming Apart
Why Relationships End and How to Live Through the Ending of Yours
Daphne Rose Kingma
In 'Coming Apart,' Daphne Rose Kingma provides a refreshing perspective on relationships by arguing that relationships are not always meant to be forever. She suggests that relationships serve as vehicles for personal growth and development, and their endings are often a natural part of this process. Kingma explains that people choose relationships based on their developmental needs, which are rooted in childhood experiences. The book offers practical advice and a process for working through the ending of a relationship, including a personal workbook to help readers heal and move forward. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the lessons learned from each relationship and finding joy and appreciation in the experiences shared with partners.
The Road to Character
David Brooks
In 'The Road to Character,' David Brooks delves into the lives of some of the world’s greatest thinkers and leaders to illustrate how they built strong inner characters. The book contrasts 'résumé virtues' (external achievements) with 'eulogy virtues' (internal character strengths like kindness, bravery, and honesty). Brooks examines figures such as Frances Perkins, Dwight Eisenhower, Dorothy Day, and others, highlighting their personal struggles and the virtues they developed. He argues that modern society often prioritizes external success over internal character, and he provides practical advice on how to rebalance these aspects of life. The book is a call to rethink priorities and strive for a life marked by humility, moral depth, and meaningful relationships[2][4][5].
How to Know a Person
The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen
David Brooks
David Brooks's "How to Know a Person" delves into the complexities of human relationships, exploring how we perceive and understand others. The book emphasizes the importance of empathy, active listening, and self-awareness in building meaningful connections. Brooks challenges readers to move beyond superficial judgments and embrace a deeper understanding of themselves and those around them. He argues that true connection requires vulnerability and a willingness to be seen authentically. Ultimately, the book offers a practical guide to fostering richer, more fulfilling relationships.
Paddings and the Bear
Paddings and the Bear
No subtitle available.
George Marsden
No description available.
The Age and Destiny of Man
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Reinhold Niebuhr
Sam Harris speaks with David Brooks about the state of American democracy and the liberal world order. They discuss the weakness of moral individualism, the loss of social trust, the dangers of identity politics, what happened to the Republican Party, the hatred of elites, the 2024 Presidential Election, the Trump indictments, the war in Ukraine, moral force, the roots of liberalism, the various flavors of Trump support, the Biden presidency, Hunter Biden’s laptop scandal, Biden’s prospects in 2024, Nikki Haley, economic inequality, the problems with meritocracy, the state of media and social media, the lure of conspiracy thinking, the politics of recognition, our handling of the Covid pandemic, our difficulties acknowledging uncertainty, our withdrawal from Afghanistan, the limits of American power, and other topics.
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Learning how to train your mind is the single greatest investment you can make in life. That’s why Sam Harris created the Waking Up app. From rational mindfulness practice to lessons on some of life’s most important topics, join Sam as he demystifies the practice of meditation and explores the theory behind it.
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