In this episode, Richard Reinsch, Editor in Chief of the Civitas Outlook at the University of Texas, delves into the reimagining of conservatism. He discusses the importance of reforming institutions from within, especially in the face of progressive ideologies in higher education. The conversation explores the historical context of conservative thought, the impact of electoral outcomes, the nature of politics and free speech, and the pressing need to balance idealism and realism for the future of the Republican party.
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Reclaiming Institutions
Conservatives should focus on reclaiming existing institutions rather than creating new ones.
Influencing established institutions offers broader cultural impact compared to parallel alternatives.
insights INSIGHT
Horseshoe Theory
The right's abandonment of classical liberal principles has led to some convergence with the illiberalism of the left.
This raises concerns about the future of conservatism.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Trump's Mandate Claim
Donald Trump claimed the greatest mandate in 129 years, despite having the 44th largest electoral win.
This highlights the disconnect between rhetoric and reality in contemporary politics.
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The conservative intellectual movement in America since 1945
George H. Nash
This book, first published in 1976 and revised in later editions, explores the development of the conservative intellectual movement in America since 1945. Nash identifies three primary strains of conservative thought: libertarianism, which resists the expansion of the state and advocates for individualism and private enterprise; traditionalism, which seeks a return to traditional religious and ethical absolutes in response to the secular and rootless mass society; and militant, evangelistic anticommunism. The book examines how these diverse streams interact and sometimes conflict, highlighting key figures such as William F. Buckley Jr. and the influence of the magazine 'National Review'. Nash's work is considered a foundational study in the field of American conservatism[1][3][5].
American Covenant
How the Constitution Unified Our Nation—and Could Again
Yuval Levin
In 'American Covenant,' Yuval Levin argues that the U.S. Constitution is not the source of contemporary political discord but rather the solution. The book blends historical analysis with practical insights, highlighting the framers’ sophisticated understanding of political division and the Constitution’s power to facilitate constructive disagreement and forge unity. Levin provides a hopeful and insightful perspective, rooted in American political tradition, and offers practical solutions for reforming aspects of the constitutional order that have malfunctioned.
God and man at Yale
the superstitions of "academic freedom"
William F. Buckley
Written in 1951, God and Man at Yale is a critical examination of Yale University's undergraduate education by William F. Buckley Jr., who had just graduated from the institution. The book argues that Yale's faculty were undermining the university's founding ethos of Christian humanism by promoting atheism, collectivism, and Keynesian economics. Buckley criticized specific courses and professors for their hostility to religion and individualism, suggesting that this was a betrayal of the values held by Yale's alumni. The book is considered a seminal work in the American conservative movement and had a significant impact on Buckley's career and public profile.
Once again, Jonah Goldberg has received countless requests from the children of the world for some serious conservative eggheadery for Christmas. Ever benevolent, Jonah has obliged by hosting Richard Reinsch, the Editor in Chief of the Civitas Outlook at the University of Texas to discuss how conservatives can reform existing institutions from the inside out. Jonah and Richard also cover the legitimacy of Trump’s perceived mandate, the merits of competitive federalism, the storied history of conservative doomcasting, and the future of the Republican party.
The Remnant is a production of The Dispatch, a digital media company covering politics, policy, and culture from a non-partisan, conservative perspective. To access all of The Dispatch’s offerings—including Jonah’s G-File newsletter, weekly livestreams, and other members-only content—click here.
The Remnant with Jonah Goldberg 
