Marc Dunkelman Dunks on Progressives to Explain "Why Nothing Works"
Feb 19, 2025
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Marc J. Dunkelman, author of "Why Nothing Works: Who Killed Progress—and How to Bring It Back," discusses the institutional failures plaguing modern society. He contrasts historical visions of progress from Hamilton and Jefferson, critiquing current government inefficacy, especially under the Biden administration. Dunkelman emphasizes the need for self-reflection within progressivism to restore public trust. The conversation also delves into Ukraine's rare earth minerals and the geopolitical implications, revealing the complexities behind resource agreements.
Marc Dunkleman highlights the struggle between centralized power and individual autonomy in achieving effective governance and progress.
The podcast discusses the complexities of infrastructure projects, showcasing regulatory challenges and public resistance that hinder advancements in crucial initiatives.
Deep dives
Donald Trump's Misconceptions on Ukraine
Donald Trump has made several inaccurate statements regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine, falsely claiming that Ukraine initiated the conflict and that its president, Volodymyr Zelensky, has an unpopular approval rating. In reality, reliable polls indicate that Zelensky's approval hovers around 50%, contradicting Trump's assertions and aligning more closely with common perceptions. Furthermore, Trump's proposed peace deal appears to focus on granting Russia significant advantages while undermining Ukraine's autonomy, which raises concerns about its viability and fairness. This approach is characterized as a surrender rather than a genuine attempt at peace, reflecting a disregard for Ukraine's sovereignty and long-term stability.
Ukraine's Rare Earth Minerals and Economic Concerns
The discussion around Ukraine's rare earth mineral resources highlights their potential value and the geopolitical implications of access to these materials. Trump has signaled a strong interest in securing these deposits, suggesting that they could play a role in negotiations to end the conflict. However, doubts remain about the viability of extracting these resources, as they are largely based on outdated Soviet assessments that may not accurately reflect current conditions. Additionally, the push for access appears to prioritize U.S. interests over Ukraine's, risking exploitation rather than fostering a cooperative economic relationship.
Conflicting Visions of Progress and Governance
A key theme in progressive political discourse is the tension between two opposing visions for achieving progress: one that centralizes power for large-scale projects and another that emphasizes individual autonomy and resistance to authority. This dichotomy, represented by figures such as Hamilton and Jefferson, influences current governance challenges, leading to stagnation and ineffective implementations of programs. Examples include the disappointing rollout of internet connectivity projects, where a significant portion of allocated funds remains unutilized due to systemic inefficiencies, rather than outright incompetence. Recognizing and addressing this conflict is essential for effective governance and restoring public trust in governmental institutions.
Challenges in Infrastructure Development
The podcast emphasizes the difficulties in advancing infrastructure projects, exemplified by the failed attempt to build a power line from Canada to New England for renewable energy. Regulatory hurdles and public opposition have significantly delayed or halted such initiatives, demonstrating a broader issue within American governance where the ability to resist powerful projects can outpace the ability to implement them. This regulatory landscape reveals a growing cultural aversion to centralized power and a reluctance to compromise on necessary trade-offs for progress. The ongoing debate raises critical questions about how society can balance individual rights with the collective need for infrastructural advancement and sustainable development.
On The Gist, Marc J. Dunkelman, author of Why Nothing Works: Who Killed Progress―and How to Bring It Back, joins to discuss why modern institutions fail at delivering progress and what can be done to fix them. Plus, Trump’s latest feud with Zelensky over Ukraine aid, and in The Spiel, the most electrifying deep dive into rare earth elements you never knew you needed.