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Unpopular Front Podcast

Talking to Political Scientist Henry Farrell with Max Read

Feb 27, 2025
Henry Farrell, a political scientist at Johns Hopkins and author of 'Underground Empire,' dives into the complex interplay between tech and politics. He critiques the 'great man theory' dominating Silicon Valley’s ideological landscape, discussing how key texts influence leadership. Farrell unpacks the Pizzagate conspiracy, highlighting social media's role in distorting public perception. He warns against the dangers of micro-targeting in political communication and optimistically navigates the potential futures of society amidst technological upheaval.
54:12

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Quick takeaways

  • The emergence of a Silicon Valley reading canon reflects the intellectual ambitions of tech leaders, shaping their self-identity as world-makers.
  • Silicon Valley entrepreneurs often selectively adopt fragmented narratives, influenced by figures like Ayn Rand, to justify their actions and aspirations.

Deep dives

The Silicon Valley Reading Canon

The emergence of a Silicon Valley reading canon is highlighted, initiated by figures like Patrick Collison of Stripe. This canon includes a diverse array of books reflecting the dominant intellectual traditions within Silicon Valley, as indicated by a specific list of 43 titles compiling opinions from influential thinkers. Notable books include histories of iconic figures and fictional works, suggesting a fascination with 'great men' and their transformative capabilities despite their flaws. The appeal of these narratives showcases a culture of values that shapes the self-identity of Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, as they regard themselves as world-makers tackling immense challenges.

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