Intelligence Squared Terry Eagleton in conversation with Roger Scruton
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Dec 18, 2015 
Terry Eagleton, a prominent literary critic and left-wing thinker, joins Roger Scruton, a conservative philosopher known for his work on aesthetics and culture. The two engage in a spirited debate about the divide between left and right ideology. They discuss cultural shifts, the role of universities, and the importance of tradition and belonging. While agreeing on the need to oppose commodified culture, they explore the implications of Marxist thought and the challenges of engaging with cultural hierarchies. Their insightful exchange highlights the complexity of cultural conversation today.
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Culture Became Commodified And Combative
- Culture transformed into a commodified industry across the 20th century, eroding its role as a critical distance from society.
- As culture merged with identity and politics, it became something people are now willing to kill for, not a unifying surrogate for religion.
University Visit Reveals Managerial Priorities
- Terry recounts a university president proudly showing business courses and reacting coldly to critique about lacking critical culture.
- The president's curt response and gadget dismissiveness illustrate universities' managerial turn.
Culture As Practical Wisdom
- Cultural education can be a form of practical wisdom that teaches how to feel and act within a community.
- Roger Scruton argues music especially mirrors our emotional and social nature and can be imparted to change young lives.