The Good Fight

The Conservative Case for Philosophical Liberalism

Jan 15, 2022

Harvey Mansfield, a prominent conservative thinker and professor at Harvard, joins Yascha Mounk to dissect the nuances of American liberalism. They discuss Donald Trump's impact on conservatism and explore Alexis de Tocqueville's timeless insights regarding democracy and individualism. The conversation highlights the tension between democratic ideals and the prevalence of political vulgarity, while also critiquing modern conservatism's challenges. Additionally, they consider strategies for restoring open discourse and fostering connections among voters across the political spectrum.

47:03

Episode guests

Harvey Mansfield

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Episode notes

Intro

4min

Conservatism and Liberal Values

6min

The Tensions of Democracy and Political Vulgarity

3min

Flaws and Tensions in Democracy

6min

The Dual Nature of Dignity in Political Discourse

3min

Navigating Modern Political Discourse

17min

Tocqueville's Insights on Democracy and Individualism

6min

Harvey Mansfield is the William R. Kenan, Jr. Professor of Government at Harvard University and a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution. One of the old guard of American conservative thought, he has taught at Harvard since 1962, and counts among his former students Andrew Sullivan, Francis Fukuyama, and Bill Kristol.

In this week’s conversation, Harvey Mansfield and Yascha Mounk discuss the nature of American liberalism, Donald Trump’s effect on conservatism, and Alexis de Tocqueville’s enduring relevance.

This transcript has been condensed and lightly edited for clarity.

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Podcast production by John Taylor Williams, and Brendan Ruberry

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