Context with Brad Harris

The podcast dives into the controversial role of the SEC, questioning whether it prioritizes investor protection or favors established players. It highlights the tension between innovation and bureaucratic overreach, particularly with crypto companies like Ripple Labs and Coinbase. Discussions include the dangers of regulatory capture and how it stifles American ingenuity. The dialogue urges a reevaluation of bureaucracies to revive the spirit of innovation and tackle the challenges posed by entrenched financial regulations.

The discussion delves into Friedrich Hayek’s warnings about the dangers of centralized planning. It reveals how tyranny can creep in under the guise of progress, threatening individual freedoms. The conversation stresses the importance of free markets as a bulwark against oppression. There's a compelling examination of the gradual decline of liberties in favor of collectivism, urging listeners to reclaim true freedom through personal responsibility and growth. Hayek's insights prove alarmingly relevant in today's socio-political landscape.

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There’s a lot that’s dividing Americans right now - lots of divisive narratives that have captivated lots of people. One of those narratives features the apparent widening political divide between urban and rural culture. But, the truth is that the evolution of America’s urban and rural communities has always been symbiotic. One of the best historical case studies of that symbiosis highlights the city of Chicago and the rural American west, documented by William Cronon in his award-winning book, Nature’s Metropolis: Chicago and the Great West, published in 1991. In this episode, we reconsider the relationship between urban and rural in light of that history. To help support Context and access bonus content, join me on Patreon. Learn more on my website.

The podcast explores George Orwell's 'Notes on Nationalism', discussing the impact of tribalism on democracy, the pathology of tribalism including obsession and indifference to reality, the influence of tribalism in media and intellectual circles, and the complexity of tribalism and the moral compass.

This podcast explores the threats facing universities, such as rising costs and bureaucratic bloat. It also discusses excessive spending on diversity and inclusion, and the trend of self-criticism within academia. The origins and development of medieval universities are also explored, highlighting the limited education during the Dark Ages and the role of printing press in establishing university libraries.

Philosopher and author Stephen Hicks discusses the origins and influence of postmodernism, the shift from modernism, and its impact on politics, academia, and education. Emphasizes the importance of liberal democracy, preserving historical sanity, and liberal arts education in fostering independent thinking. Also mentions Hicks' upcoming book on liberalism and his work on philosophies of education.

The podcast explores the concept of historical cycles and the patterns and predictions for America's next crisis. It discusses the impact of generational turnover on society and explores the rise of populism. The importance of historical perspective in breaking free from the cycle of history is emphasized.

Delve into the chaos, warfare, and religious persecution of the 14th century. Learn about the pivotal role of knights in medieval Europe. Explore the struggles and daily routines of people living in medieval Europe. Discover the devastating impact of the Black Death and its uneven death rates. Uncover the embrace of secular humanism and its role in the Renaissance.

This podcast explores the relevance of George Orwell's novel 1984 in today's society, discussing themes such as surveillance, propaganda, technology, and totalitarianism. It delves into the parallels between the dystopian world of 1984 and contemporary society, highlighting the indoctrination of children, erosion of truth, and manipulation of objective information. The deconstruction of reality and control of the past are also examined, along with the corrosive effects of the quest for power on movements. Ultimately, the podcast emphasizes the ongoing importance of defending freedom, truth, and liberal democracy.