The LRB Podcast Ronald Reagan’s Make-Believe
Jan 23, 2025
Jackson Lears, a Professor of History at Rutgers University and an insightful author, delves into the complexities of Ronald Reagan's persona in this engaging discussion. Lears explores Reagan's rise from humble beginnings to the Hollywood spotlight and eventually the White House. He highlights how Reagan's cinematic background shaped his nuclear policy, revealing a fascinating disconnect between idealism and reality. The conversation further examines the lasting implications of Reagan's economic and foreign policies, including their deepening effects on inequality and the emergence of Christian nationalism.
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Hollywood's Influence
- Reagan's persona was shaped by 1930s-40s Hollywood, embracing its straightforward moral universe.
- This influenced his political views and his congenial way of delivering them.
Reagan's Appeal
- Reagan's simple answers appealed to a public yearning for clarity. This, coupled with his charm, made him an effective communicator.
Reagan's Childhood
- Reagan's hardscrabble Midwestern childhood included a drunk father and fiery family arguments.
- He distanced himself from emotional complexity, impacting family and presidential leadership.
