Samuel Moyn

Samuel Moyn, Chancellor Kent Professor of Law and History at Yale University, delves into the crisis of liberalism, tracing its roots to the Cold War. He examines how the disenchantment with liberalism today stems from economic inequalities and the rise of populism, sparked by figures like Trump. Moyn discusses the philosophical divide between Rawls and Nozick, advocating for a rethinking of liberal principles. He emphasizes the need to reinvigorate liberalism’s radical promise and suggests a shift from defensive to offensive strategies to adapt for the future.

Historian Samuel Moyn discusses how liberalism shifted during the Cold War, its connection to the conservative movement, and the rise of neo-liberalism and neo-conservatism. The podcast explores the impact of teleological historicism and Christian theology on Cold War liberalism, as well as the influence of Freudianism. They also address the concept of hope in liberalism and leftism.

Shadi Hamid, a foreign policy expert and author of "The Problem of Democracy," contends that America's influence often acts as a force for good, pressuring authoritarian regimes and supporting democracies. In contrast, Samuel Moyn, an academic and author of "Humane," argues that while there are worse global alternatives, America's interventions have caused significant harm. The debate dives into America's complex roles in democracy, climate challenges, and its resilience against authoritarianism, offering a nuanced view of U.S. actions on the world stage.

Samuel Moyn, a Yale law and history professor, critiques the judiciary's role during Trump's presidency, questioning the effectiveness of courts as a political counterbalance. Chris Maisano discusses class de-alignment, exploring the shift in working-class support from Democrats to Republicans. Evgenia Kovda dives into hipster nihilism, reflecting on cultural trends and their political implications. This conversation weaves through the complex interplay between class, politics, and cultural attitudes in America today.

Shadi Hamid, a foreign policy expert, defends America’s positive role in the world, despite its complexities. Samuel Moyn counters with a critique, emphasizing that America’s actions often overshadow its good intentions. They discuss the implications of Trump's return on American exceptionalism and project a future world dominated by China. The dialogue highlights the delicate balance of U.S.-China relations, critiques the U.S. military legacy, and engages the audience on their perceptions of America's global influence.