The Good Fight David Brooks on Knowing Others (and Ourselves)
Oct 28, 2023
David Brooks, a writer and columnist at the New York Times, discusses the role of character development in building strong liberal societies. They cover topics such as the term 'bourgeois bohemians,' inspiring social connections between individuals of all backgrounds, the spread of ideologies through social media, loneliness and lack of close friendships, liberalism's ambivalence, and defending liberal values while remaining open to critiques.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Politics as a Substitute for Morality
- Societal fragmentation fuels unhealthy politics, creating a moral vacuum.
- People seek moral affirmation through political division, but it doesn't fulfill their needs.
The Rise of the Bobos
- David Brooks coined "Bobos" (Bourgeois Bohemians) after observing a cultural shift in his hometown.
- The old WASP elite was replaced by a new elite blending 60s values and 90s money.
The Decline of the WASP Elite
- The old WASP elite has declined significantly, replaced by a meritocratic system.
- This shift was driven by a need for broader talent and expertise, not just inherited privilege.