American Reformer Podcast #26: Fighting Dirty is Better than Dying
Sep 14, 2023
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Ben Crenshaw, a 2023 Cotton Mather Fellow and PhD candidate at Hillsdale College, joins Josh and Timon to unpack his recent article, 'The Power of Nationalism: A Defense,' the nature of the American Constitutional Order and its possible futures. They discuss studying politics at Hillsdale, the life of Jonathan Mayhew, and understanding nationalism. They also delve into the concept of natural rights and the dysfunction of government, exploring future possibilities like a more aggressive executive posture or a weakened national status.
Rediscovering American nationalism is crucial to counter accusations of authoritarianism.
Balancing individual rights with the common good is essential for a more effective political order.
The need to cautiously navigate the challenges of nationalism and federalism to uphold state sovereignty and national unity.
Deep dives
The Importance of Rediscovering American Nationalism
The podcast episode explores the need to rediscover American nationalism in order to counter accusations of authoritarianism. It emphasizes the understanding of nationalism as rooted in Protestant political thought and argues that it should be viewed as a means to protect natural rights, promote justice, and pursue the common good. The podcast also discusses the importance of federalism in balancing national and state powers, highlighting the need to restore local self-government. It explores the potential scenarios of reinvigorated federalism or a return to a confederate-like structure as possible ways to address the current challenges facing the nation.
The Ends of Government and the Case for Natural Rights
The podcast delves into the ends of government and its purpose prior to discussing the structure of government. It emphasizes the necessity to consider multiple goals, such as self-preservation, protection of natural rights, justice, and the pursuit of happiness. The discussion highlights the importance of balancing individual rights with the common good and the need to move beyond a solely individualistic understanding of rights. It also explores the overlap of natural rights and the concept of the common good in the context of national unity.
Restoring Federalism and Navigating Potential Outcomes
The podcast examines the role of federalism in the American political context. It discusses the challenges posed by accusations of excessive nationalism and the potential impact on local self-government. The episode presents a range of possible outcomes, including a muscular executive approach to restore federalism, a return to a confederate league, or a continued consolidation of power in the federal government. The discussion considers the complexities of balancing state sovereignty and national unity in the pursuit of a more effective and responsive political order.
Cautionary Considerations and the Need for Political Will
The podcast acknowledges the possible risks and challenges that may arise in the pursuit of nationalism and federalism. It highlights the need for cautious and prudent decision-making, recognizing that different scenarios could result in either a greater emphasis on local self-government or potential conflicts between states. The episode emphasizes the importance of political will and ambition to drive meaningful change, urging conservatives to reclaim their understanding of the common good and act in pursuit of it.
Conclusion: Provoking Thought on the Path Forward
In conclusion, the podcast episode provokes thought on the path forward for American nationalism and federalism. It emphasizes the need to reframe the discussion by exploring the historical roots and purposes of nationalism and the ends of government. It encourages a nuanced approach that balances individual rights, the common good, and state sovereignty. The episode urges conservatives to embrace ambition, political will, and a willingness to fight for their vision of a more effective and responsive political order.
Ben Crenshaw, a 2023 Cotton Mather Fellow and PhD candidate at Hillsdale College, joins Josh and Timon to unpack his recent article, "The Power of Nationalism: A Defense," the nature of the American Constitutional Order and its possible futures.
Show Notes:
The Power of Nationalism: A Defense - American ReformerFellowship - American Reformer
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