Kevin Vallier, expert on integralism, discusses the rise of the intellectual movement on the religious right known as integralism. Topics include the history and philosophy of integralism, exploring Catholic integralism, the relationship between state and church, the evolution of political views, therapy culture in political ideologies, similarities between extreme ideologies, navigating integralism and church teachings, and religious alternatives to liberalism.
Integralism emphasizes the state's role in promoting eternal spiritual goods for the common good.
Integralists value a rich intellectual lineage from various historical periods to support their beliefs.
Catholic integralism faces challenges in gaining influence due to moral inconsistencies and theological dilemmas.
Deep dives
The Intellectual Appeal of Integralism
Integralism presents a movement grounded in the idea that the state should be concerned with promoting the whole human good, not just temporal goods, but eternal spiritual goods as well. This approach, emphasizing a symmetric focus on the ultimate good, appeals to those who believe in the importance of eternal goods such as spiritual well-being and communal salvation.
Historical and Intellectual Lineage
Integralists often highlight their rich intellectual lineage, tracing back to figures defending integralism in different epochs like the 17th and 19th centuries. The connection to a deep intellectual tradition reinforces their sense of validity and intellectual engagement, providing a historical context for their beliefs and principles.
Integration of Religion and Human Good
Integralism combines a dedication to taking religion seriously and advocating for the whole human good, including the eternal spiritual welfare of individuals and communities. This approach aligns with the idea that the state should prioritize spiritual and eternal concerns in addition to material and temporal aspects, creating a comprehensive vision of the common good.
Respect for Institutional Authority
Integralists often demonstrate respect for institutional authority, particularly towards religious figures like the Pope. By avoiding direct criticism of hierarchical leaders, they maintain allegiance to established institutional structures and traditions, aligning with the belief that adherence to the hierarchy is essential for the movement's preservation and influence.
Critique of Catholic Integralism's Strategy and Ideology
Catholic integralism's strategic approach, characterized by associating with figureheads like LeBron and aiming for regime change, is critiqued for its flawed ideology and potential for failure. The movement's reliance on Vermeule's writings and theories, focusing on elite capture and state transition, raises concerns about feasibility and the risk of a violent transition. The theory's emphasis on consciousness raising and elite control overlooks the impracticality of their transitional plan and the potential for adverse outcomes, highlighting internal tensions and moral inconsistencies.
Challenges Faced by Catholic Integralism and Inconsistencies with Church Teachings
Catholic integralism faces significant challenges in gaining influence within the Catholic Church and transitioning to a new state order. The movement's reinterpretation of church doctrine, particularly around religious coercion and baptism, presents moral and theological dilemmas, creating tension with the church's teachings on religious freedom. The inconsistent moral commitments of the integralists, regarding religious coercion for the baptized versus the unbaptized, highlight the internal conflicts and extreme minority position of their views within the broader Catholic tradition.
Kevin Vallier returns to the podcast to breakdown the lastest intelectual movement on the relgious right - intergralism. What is it, where did it come from, and what should liberals and conservatives make of it?
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
