WarRoom Battleground EP 847: Next Man Up

In 'Return of the Strong Gods,' R.R. Reno argues that the post-war consensus, which aimed to create an 'open society' free from the dogmas that led to World War II, is breaking down. He contends that the strong gods—powerful loyalties to nation, clan, and religion—are returning as people seek meaning and community. Reno traces the historical roots of this shift, critiquing the relativism and multiculturalism that have eroded traditional values. He advocates for a return to classic human values such as patriotism, family, and historic Christianity, warning that the absence of these strong gods could invite darker alternatives.

In 'Antifragile', Nassim Nicholas Taleb introduces the concept of antifragility, which goes beyond resilience or robustness. Antifragile systems thrive on volatility, randomness, and stressors, using them as sources of growth and improvement. Taleb contrasts antifragility with fragility, which is harmed by disorder, and robustness, which resists change. The book applies this concept to various domains, including economics, medicine, and personal development. Taleb argues that embracing uncertainty and allowing for controlled exposure to stressors can lead to greater adaptability and long-term success. 'Antifragile' offers a new perspective on risk management and decision-making in an unpredictable world.