Auron MacIntyre, an insightful author and former teacher, explores themes from his new book about how liberal democracies can transform into tyrannies. The discussion centers on the tension between personal freedom and government authority. Auron critiques modern conservatism and highlights the dangers of a culture lacking shared values. He delves into the dynamics of governance, comparing the behaviors of 'foxes' and 'lions', and argues that the total state is doomed due to its flawed structure. A thought-provoking analysis of society and power dynamics.
The evolution of governance has shifted toward a 'total state' model, compromising individual freedoms through increased state control and dependency.
The role of the managerial elite in contemporary governance is leading to systemic failures, potentially paving the way for more organic community structures.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Power
The discussion centers around the evolution of power and government structures in modern society, particularly how the traditional understanding of constitutional governance has been altered. The speaker recounts his journey of exploration into authors such as Mencius Moldbug and Wilfredo Pareto, whose insights helped him comprehend how the modern managerial state formed. He emphasizes that the political framework within which the average person operates has diminished the effectiveness of constitutional protections, leading to a new form of governance that circumvents foundational principles. The complexity of modern government dynamics has made it increasingly difficult for individuals to grasp how these changes have occurred and why they are significant.
Understanding the Total State
The podcast elaborates on the concept of the 'total state,' a term coined by Carl Schmitt, and its implications for contemporary society. The total state arises from the state's need to permeate all aspects of social life to maintain sovereignty, creating a culture of constant propaganda and social compliance. The speaker argues that this pervasive state power distorts personal freedoms by taking over responsibilities that were once handled by communities and families, all under a cloak of supposed liberation. Through this redefinition of societal responsibilities, individuals may feel freer but have, in fact, ceded significant authority and autonomy to the state.
The Illusion of Freedom
In examining personal freedoms within the context of a total state, the discussion reflects on how people perceive their liberties amidst expanding governmental control. The speaker highlights the complexity of modern freedom, arguing that while individuals may enjoy newfound rights, these freedoms come with strings attached due to the lack of personal responsibility shifted to the state. This dynamic creates a false sense of liberation, as people are now less connected to their communities and more reliant on governmental structures for essential life functions. Ultimately, the conversation underscores how the illusion of freedom is often a product of dependence on a powerful state that dictates the terms of that freedom.
The Future of the Managerial Elite
The conversation concludes with a critical examination of the managerial elite and their role in shaping contemporary governance, specifically how their unique blend of authority is leading to systemic collapse. The speaker asserts that the dependencies created by managerialism result in diminishing returns, as institutions struggle to adapt to the complexity of modern governance. Although the collapse of these structures could lead to societal upheaval, it also presents an opportunity for a resurgence of more organic social frameworks that prioritize shared moral vision and community engagement. This potential renaissance is framed not as a return to the past, but as a necessary evolution toward a more viable future for individuals and communities.
