The Auron MacIntyre Show John C. Calhoun's Disquisition on Government | Guest: Ryan Turnipseed | 7/16/25
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Jul 16, 2025 Ryan Turnipseed, a historian specializing in American history and political thought, dives deep into the life and legacy of John C. Calhoun. They discuss Calhoun's political career and his influential work, "A Disquisition on Government," particularly his concept of the concurrent majority aimed at protecting minority voices. The conversation reveals the historical context of tariffs and state nullification in America, alongside an exploration of how media serves political control in democracy. This engaging dialogue sheds light on the relevance of Calhoun's ideas in understanding today's political landscape.
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Government from Social Conflicts
- Calhoun sees government as a mechanism to manage personal conflicts within society's established social structures.
- He rejects the state of nature concept, emphasizing pre-existing social bonds and traditions.
Social Structures Limit Power
- Written constitutions don't enforce themselves and require supporting social interests to limit government overreach.
- Calhoun emphasizes the necessity of social groups' participatory power alongside constitutional text.
Concurrent Majority Explained
- Calhoun contrasts numerical majority rule with concurrent majority, requiring all groups to concur to avoid tyranny.
- Concurrent majority grants minorities veto power to protect their interests and maintain harmony.
