

Conservatism, if You Can Keep It
32 snips Jul 2, 2025
Matthew Continetti, director of domestic policy studies at the American Enterprise Institute and columnist for the Free Press, discusses the legacy of William F. Buckley Jr. He critiques Sam Tanenhaus' biography, diving into Buckley's profound influence on conservatism. The conversation covers the evolution of American conservatism, highlighting its foundational principles and tensions with classical liberalism. Continetti also explores the diverse factions within the new right movement and the ongoing struggle to maintain a coherent conservative identity in today's political landscape.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Disappointing Buckley Biography
- The Sam Tanenhaus biography of William F. Buckley Jr. is both too long and ultimately disappoints by rushing through the last third of Buckley's life.
- It focuses more on the broader middle American political revolution than on conservatism itself, neglecting key conservative ideas and figures.
Buckley's Witty Book Margins
- Buckley once gave friend Norman Mailer a book with a note scribbled in the margin next to his name.
- He knew Mailer would immediately look himself up, showcasing Buckley's wit and personality.
Buckley's Intellectual Style
- Buckley wasn't merely a theatrical personality; he was a significant intellectual who found his voice writing autobiographically.
- His attempt at a formal conservatism book failed because his strengths lay in engaging storytelling and personal reflection.