Faithful Politics Joshua Cohen on William F. Buckley and the Lost Art of Friendship Across Difference
Will and Josh welcome Joshua Cohen, author of William F. Buckley Jr.’s Guide to Friendship in a Polarized Era, to explore what one of the most influential conservative thinkers can teach us about civility, humor, gratitude, and cross-ideological friendship. Cohen explains why Buckley’s Catholic faith shaped his approach to public life, how his friendships with liberals reveal a blueprint for healthier political engagement, and why long-form conversations matter more now than ever. The episode covers Firing Line, the Buckley–Vidal clashes, truth-seeking, and what it means to disagree without becoming disagreeable.
Additional Resources
Book: William F. Buckley Jr.’s Guide to Friendship in a Polarized Era https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9781956454925
Joshua Cohen’s podcast: Eyewitness History https://www.historyonthenet.com/eyewitness-history
Guest Bio
Joshua Cohen is a writer, interviewer, and host of the podcast Eyewitness History, where he speaks with people who lived through major historical events. His book on William F. Buckley Jr. examines how the legendary conservative icon modeled civility, curiosity, and deep friendship across ideological divides. Cohen’s work blends history, ethics, and public life with a focus on how ideas shape real-world choices.
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