Dan Edelstein

Join Dan Edelstein, a Stanford professor and author specializing in revolutionary thought, as he unravels the evolution of the concept of revolution from ancient skepticism to Enlightenment optimism. Edelstein illustrates how classical views feared the chaos of revolutions, contrasting sharply with later ideas that saw them as catalysts for progress. The conversation touches on pivotal moments like the French Revolution, the cyclical nature of political upheaval, and the lasting legacies of these transformative ideas on modern governance.

Dan Edelstein, the William H. Bonsall Professor of French at Stanford University, explores the intricate history of revolution in his latest work. He discusses how ancient thinkers like Thucydides viewed revolutions as chaotic threats to stability. The podcast delves into the Enlightenment's shift towards seeing revolutions as necessary for progress, with Edelstein highlighting the complexities of modern uprisings and their violent outcomes. He also addresses America's vulnerability to revolution and the delicate balance between reform and stability in today's political landscape.

In this engaging conversation, historian Dan Edelstein, a professor at Stanford University, explores the evolution of the concept of revolution. He discusses how classical thinkers like Plato and the American Founders viewed revolutions as societal threats, advocating for balanced governance. Edelstein reveals how the Enlightenment shifted attitudes toward history as progress and examines the French Revolution's transformative impact. He also highlights the dangers of anti-pluralism and internal regime changes, emphasizing the delicate balance between stability and hope for change today.

Dan Edelstein, the William H. Bonsall Professor of French at Stanford, discusses his new work, exploring how philosophical views on revolution evolved from ancient chaos to modern progressivism. He examines Greek and Roman fears of revolution, the conservative nature of British transformations, and the Enlightenment's shift towards viewing history as progress. Edelstein highlights the complexities and risks of revolutions today, dissecting their implications on democracy and governance, while reflecting on lessons from 20th-century upheavals.

Dan Edelstein, a Stanford professor known for his expertise in French political thought, delves into his book about the evolution of revolutionary ideas. He discusses how classical philosophers viewed revolutions as catastrophic, preferring stability. The Enlightenment shifted this perspective, framing revolutions as essential for progress. Edelstein examines modern revolutions, highlighting their tendency to breed violence and division. He poses critical questions about the United States' resilience to upheaval and calls for a rethinking of expectations around political stability and compromise.