Journalist and politician Daniel Hannan joins Jonah Goldberg on The Remnant to explore America's decline of humor, the impact of recessions on populism, the potential benefits of political apathy, and the United Kingdom's post-liberal movement.
The podcast highlights the decline of humor and the emergence of polarization in American society since around 2012.
It emphasizes the harmful effects of contempt and negative polarization in politics, urging for a more civil and respectful discourse.
Deep dives
The Shift from Talking to Reporting on the News
The podcast discusses the difference between talking and reporting the news, highlighting the importance of reporters in the field. It emphasizes the value of having reporters who can provide firsthand information and insights on important stories.
The Decline of Rational Optimism
The podcast explores how the lockdown and the response to it, along with continuing authoritarianism and talk of World War III, have challenged the rational optimism that existed before. It reflects on the changing landscape since the publication of influential books in 2011 that promoted a positive outlook on the world.
The Loss of Humor and Rise of Polarization
The podcast discusses how humor and the ability to poke fun at hypersensitivity and progressivism seemed to decline around 2012, coinciding with the re-election of Barack Obama. This loss of humor and the emergence of polarization have contributed to a sense of a divided society and a shift towards a more aggressive form of politics.
The Danger of Contempt and Negative Polarization
The podcast explores the consequences of contempt and negative polarization in politics. It highlights the harmful effects of dehumanizing and devaluing opponents, leading to a growing divide and a decline in civility and respect. It warns against the dangers of allowing contempt to poison political discourse and debates.
Has America lost its sense of humor? In Jonah’s view, only a Brit with a distinctly stiff upper lip can answer that question. He’s joined on today’s Remnant by journalist and politician Daniel Hannan, who’s back on the show to explore when and why America began to take a turn for the crazy. Why do recessions lead to populism? Is political apathy actually a good thing? And has the United Kingdom become besotted by its own post-liberal movement?