Explore the intriguing dynamics of postliberalism and capitalism's triumph in today's society. The discussion critiques state-run grocery stores as flawed ideas while examining the philosophical missteps of Rousseau. Delve into the roots of economic resentment and how movements critique classical liberalism amid a rise in socialism. Discover the interplay between big business and government regulation, and reflect on the complexities of checks and balances in wealth redistribution, all while considering the pervasive nature of main character syndrome in contemporary narratives.
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insights INSIGHT
Why Socialism Persists Today
Socialist ideas remain popular largely due to societal negativity and resentment toward capitalism.
Economic hardships and lack of stake in traditional systems fuel this appeal.
insights INSIGHT
Government Grocery Stores Fail
State-run grocery stores are inefficient and expensive compared to competitive private markets.
Grocery stores survive on tiny margins and bulk buying already keeps prices low.
insights INSIGHT
Rousseau’s Anthropology Is Flawed
Rousseau's idea that humans were originally noble and uncorrupted in solitude is anthropologically false.
Humans naturally live in social groups and civilization reflects complex human nature, not corruption of an original perfection.
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Published in 1906, 'The Jungle' follows the life of Lithuanian immigrant Jurgis Rudkus and his family as they navigate the brutal realities of working-class life in Chicago's meatpacking district, known as Packingtown. The novel highlights issues such as public health hazards, extreme poverty, and the cruel treatment of workers and animals. Despite Sinclair's intention to expose labor abuses, the public reaction primarily focused on the sanitation issues in the meatpacking industry, leading to significant legislative changes, including the passage of the U.S. Pure Food and Drug Act and the Meat Inspection Act.
The Big Ripoff
How Big Business and Big Government Steal Your Money
Timothy Carney
In 'The Big Ripoff', Timothy P. Carney explores the symbiotic relationship between big business and big government, highlighting how this alliance often results in the exploitation of public funds and resources. The book delves into the mechanisms by which corporate interests and government policies intertwine, leading to crony capitalism and economic inequality.
Suicide of the west
How the Rebirth of Tribalism, Populism, Nationalism, and Identity Politics Is Destroying American Democracy
Jonah Goldberg
In 'Suicide of the West,' Jonah Goldberg argues that the principles of liberal democracy and capitalism, which he terms 'the Miracle,' are under threat from various forms of illiberalism. He contends that the West's prosperity and political stability are not inevitable but rather the result of unique historical and philosophical developments. Goldberg warns that complacency and the erosion of these principles due to partisanship, polarization, and identity politics could lead to democratic decline. He emphasizes the importance of gratitude for the achievements of Western civilization and the need to rediscover and uphold its founding ideals to prevent its downfall.
The triumph of conservatism
G. Kolko
George Kolko
Gabriel Kolko
This week’s Ruminant may have been recorded earlier this week, butit’s aged like fine wine, as postliberalism continues to delegitimize itself, capitalism continues to triumph, state-run grocery stores are still a really stupid idea, and Rousseau is still wrong.Plus: the roots of economic resentment and Jonah’s thoughts on the pervasive phenomenon of main character syndrome.
The Remnant is a production of The Dispatch, a digital media company covering politics, policy, and culture from a non-partisan, conservative perspective. To access all of The Dispatch’s offerings—including Jonah’s G-File newsletter, regular livestreams, and other members-only content—click here.
The Remnant with Jonah Goldberg 
