Hermitix Kojève, Fukuyama, and the End of Liberalism with David Lloyd Dusenbury
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Dec 24, 2025 In a captivating discussion, David Lloyd-Dusenbury, a Senior Fellow specializing in political history, explores the interplay between Western and Chinese civilizations. He delves into the concept of 're-civilization' and critiques Fukuyama's 'end of history' thesis, linking it to Western complacency. Dusenbury highlights China's revival of Confucianism and argues for a Western reconnection with its Christian and classical roots. With insights into Kojève's philosophy, he examines how sacrifice and narratives from the humanities can guide cultural renewal.
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China's Deliberate Revival Of Tradition
- David Lloyd Dusenbury argues modern China's revival revalues Confucian and traditional culture rather than fully discarding the Cultural Revolution legacy.
- He suggests China both owes debts to the West and has resources the West should study for its own 're-civilization'.
Euphoria Made 'End Of History' Sticky
- Dusenbury ties Fukuyama's 'end of history' appeal to a 1990s mood of euphoria that rationalized triumphalism and complacency.
- He argues that this mood shortened liberal hegemony by prompting reckless policy choices rather than durable statecraft.
Shanghai Marxist's 500-Year Prediction
- David recounts asking a Marxist intellectual in Shanghai whether Christianity could become 'fine traditional Chinese culture.'
- The reply: maybe in 500 years Christianity will belong to fine traditional Chinese culture.