Peter Boghossian & Auron Macintyre | Can Liberalism Work?
Jan 4, 2024
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Peter Boghossian, a philosopher and author known for his critiques of critical theory, joins Auron Macintyre, a right-wing commentator from The Blaze. They tackle the pressing challenges facing liberalism today, questioning if alternatives like traditionalism may rise. The duo discusses the geopolitical impact of rising powers like China and Russia, the intricacies of immigration and cultural integration, and the importance of high culture. They also challenge conventional views on fertility and intelligence in the age of AI, all while navigating the political dynamics within academia.
Peter Boghossian questions the resilience of liberalism against identity politics and critical social justice challenges, fearing potential institutional compromise.
Oren McIntyre argues that the intrinsic nature of liberalism erodes cultural norms, jeopardizing societal cohesion and leading to a need for localized governance.
Both speakers emphasize the educational system's role in shaping societal values, advocating for a return to foundational principles to restore cultural unity.
Deep dives
The Future of Liberalism
The discussion centers around the uncertain future of liberalism amid growing challenges to its principles. Peter Boghossian raises doubts about whether liberalism can withstand the pressures of identity politics and critical social justice ideologies encroaching on traditional values. He questions whether institutions are robust enough to maintain their integrity against these ideological shifts. Both speakers express skepticism toward the idea that liberalism has a clear and lasting trajectory, suggesting that its evolution may lead to new societal structures.
Cultural Cohesion and Tradition
Oren McIntyre argues that the decline of liberalism is largely due to its intrinsic nature of dissolving cultural norms and traditions, which are necessary for a cohesive society. He believes that as liberalism erodes these traditions, it becomes increasingly difficult for civilizations to maintain their identities. This cultural disintegration may lead to a future where societies are compelled to revert to more localized governance. Ultimately, he posits that the fragmentation resulting from liberalism will necessitate a re-evaluation of regional governance structures.
Geopolitical Ramifications
The conversation shifts to the geopolitical landscape, discussing the implications of liberalism's decline in the context of rising powers like China and Russia. Both speakers note that America’s current foreign policy may inadvertently weaken its position in a multipolar world. As alternative governance models arise, the speakers speculate on the potential for traditional and nationalist ideologies to gain traction. The notion that the West might have to reassess its liberal democratic ideals in response to external pressures is emphasized.
Immigration and National Identity
The issue of immigration is framed as a critical factor impacting national identity and the persistence of liberalism. Both speakers agree that open immigration policies, particularly from culturally disparate regions, may undermine societal cohesion. They contend that without vetting individuals entering a country, particularly those with potentially opposing values, liberal societies face existential threats. The conversation suggests that effective governance requires a firm understanding of which cultural identities can coexist within a nation.
The Role of Education in Cultural Transmission
Boghossian and McIntyre highlight the educational system as a pivotal battleground for the ideas shaping society. They argue that universities have become breeding grounds for ideologies that challenge liberal values, contributing to societal polarization. By examining educational reforms, they suggest that returning to foundational educational principles might help to restore a shared moral vision. This restoration is deemed essential for reviving the cultural and civic virtues that have historically guided societal development.