Acton Line Kevin Vallier Is Infusing Fusionism with New Arguments
Jul 23, 2025
Kevin Vallier, a philosophy professor at the University of Toledo and associate director at the Institute of American Constitutional Thought and Leadership, brings fresh perspectives on American conservatism's fusionist tradition. He discusses the critiques of fusionism and argues for its theoretical depth. Vallier emphasizes the timeless interplay of liberty and virtue, calling for renewed philosophical dialogue to address contemporary fragmentation. He also explores the moral implications of power and the role of public spirit in governance, advocating for a blend of rigorous ethical discourse and intellectual pluralism.
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Fusionism's Three-Legged Stool
- Fusionism combines libertarian political economy with a Judeo-Christian moral worldview and a foreign policy all under a three-legged stool metaphor.
- Though distinct intellectually, these branches united primarily by their common opposition to socialism.
Breakdown of Fusionist Dialogue
- Fusionist consensus broke down as libertarians and social conservatives split politically and socially, halting deep conversations between their communities.
- Today, few figures are respected across both libertarian and traditionalist circles, reflecting the fragmentation.
Fusionism's Intellectual Thinness
- Fusionism lacks deep intellectual work connecting libertarianism and traditionalism despite both fields’ internal sophistication.
- Much fusionism rests on political alliance rather than strong theoretical engagement, which leaves it vulnerable.
