Victor Davis Hanson Interviews David Mamet

11 snips

Jun 7, 2025

Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and filmmaker David Mamet joins for a lively discussion. He dives into his new book, *The Disenlightenment*, critiquing modernity's impact on discourse. Mamet sheds light on the resurgence of anti-Semitism in academia and the chaotic political landscape shaped by wokeism. He also critiques Hollywood's struggles amid current geopolitical tensions and the challenges faced by aspiring filmmakers. His insights on the shifting dynamics of the Democratic Party and higher education are both provocative and thought-provoking.

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INSIGHT

Wokeism as Disenlightenment

David Mamet sees "wokeism" as a perversion of the Enlightenment that leads to chaos and self-destruction.
He highlights contradictions like trans activism and pro-Palestine activism coexisting despite inherent conflicts.

INSIGHT

The 'Open City' Society Analogy

Mamet compares modern U.S. society to an "open city" where power vacuums invite chaos and factional looting.
He sees the Biden administration as a coup that left no unifying authority, enabling disparate groups to act lawlessly.

INSIGHT

Institutional Nihilism Explained

Progressive institutions wield power destructively without public support, intending to damage society rather than build.
Mamet describes this nihilism as a deliberate assault on established systems and norms.

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Richard Pevear

The Theory of the Leisure Class

An Economic Study of Institutions

Thorstein Veblen

In 'The Theory of the Leisure Class', Thorstein Veblen presents a critical analysis of the social and economic behaviors of the upper class, arguing that economic life is driven by social vestiges from pre-historic times rather than by notions of utility. Veblen introduces concepts such as 'conspicuous consumption', 'pecuniary superiority', and 'vicarious leisure', highlighting how the leisure class demonstrates its economic superiority through non-productive activities and the display of wealth. The book challenges contemporary economic theories by emphasizing the role of social and cultural factors in shaping economic behaviors and critiques the wasteful and exploitative nature of the leisure class's activities[1][3][5].

The Disenlightenment

Politics, horror, and entertainment

David Mamet

In "The Disenlightenment", David Mamet delves into the horror of recent years, seeking a common theme among incomprehensible events and actions. He examines diverse issues—from gender policies in sports to accusations against Israel—to uncover a unifying force. Mamet suggests these phenomena resemble an "open city," vulnerable to marauding gangs pursuing their agendas without accountability. This perspective reflects a view of contemporary society as fragmented and lacking a cohesive program or leadership. Mamet's analysis offers a critical lens on the perceived chaos and disjointedness of modern political and cultural landscapes.

War and Peace

Leo Tolstoy

Set during the Napoleonic Wars, 'War and Peace' follows the lives of several Russian aristocratic families, including the Bezukhovs, the Rostovs, and the Bolkonskys. The novel spans from 1805 to 1820 and is known for its realistic detail and psychological analysis. It explores the impact of Napoleon's invasion of Russia on the characters and society, delving into themes of love, family, war, and personal growth. The novel includes historical events such as the Battle of Austerlitz, the Treaties of Tilsit, and the French invasion of Russia, intertwining historical and fictional elements[3][4][5].