The Origins of Western Exceptionalism

The podcast explores the origins of Western exceptionalism, which is often attributed to factors such as prosperity, tolerance, innovativeness, and freedom. However, the speaker argues that the signing of the Concordat of Verms in 1122 played a crucial role in shaping Western exceptionalism. The Concordat established new rules for the selection of bishops, changing the incentive structure for secular rulers and church leaders in relation to economic growth. The book, 'The Invention of Power: Popes, Kings, and the Birth of the West', demonstrates that the terms of the Concordat led to a new game theoretic environment, where kings gained bargaining power with the church over the selection of bishops in wealthy dioceses. This new strategic environment ultimately contributed to the prosperity and unique characteristics associated with Western civilization.