Jon Askonas, a political theorist and writer known for his insights on culture and media, delves into the complexities of modern communication and its influence on society. He critiques the Tower of Babel analogy in relation to social media's fragmentation of language. The conversation highlights the evolution of political dynamics from traditional media to online communities, addressing the impact on public perception. Askonas also examines societal anxieties about declining fertility rates and the search for spiritual renewal amid bureaucratic control.

Jon Askonas, professor at The Catholic University of America and a contributor to the New Atlantis and Compact, discusses technological change, conservatism's vulnerability to grift, democracy, the January 6th hearings, Rene Girard, and apocalypse.

Jon Askonas joins me to discuss his ongoing series of essays in The New Atlantis, "Reality: A Post-Mortem." Read the series here: https://www.thenewatlantis.com/collections/reality-a-post-mortem

J.D. Vance, a politician embodying a populist direction in the GOP, joins thought leaders Oren Cass, Marshall Kosloff, and Jon Askonas to discuss the implications of a potential Trump-Vance partnership. They delve into how Vance's nomination might shift Republican policy toward workers' concerns, tech regulation, and manufacturing. The conversation reveals tensions between populist rhetoric and tech reality, the future of AI innovation, and the evolving landscape of conservative thought as it grapples with new economic priorities.

Ari Schulman, Editor of The New Atlantis, and Jon Askonas, Professor of Politics at Catholic University of America, dive into the philosophical clash surrounding technology's role in society. They discuss fertility technologies, highlighting the ethical dilemmas of transhumanism and redefining parenthood. The conversation critiques Effective Altruism, contrasting it with traditional charity and urging a humanistic approach. They also navigate the complexities of AI ethics, emphasizing the alignment of technology with human values amidst rapid advancements.