The Remnant with Jonah Goldberg

Join Charles Fain Lehman, a fellow at the Manhattan Institute and a writer for The Dispatch, as he dives into the murky waters of drug addiction, legalized gambling, and the implications of unrestricted access to vice for young men. The conversation highlights the rising concerns around sports gambling and its mental health effects, while also addressing the societal risks linked to rampant access to online porn and marijuana. Lehman brilliantly connects these topics to broader themes of urban governance and public policy, making for an enlightening discussion.

Tim Carney, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and author, dives into a provocative investigation of a brothel disguised as a spa in Falls Church. He discusses the local law enforcement's challenges and community reactions, revealing the complexities behind prostitution debates. The conversation also critiques overparenting, explores declining birth rates, and examines crony capitalism's impact on family dynamics and community values. Carney's insights offer a thought-provoking look at the intersection of societal expectations and individual choices.

The podcast takes a deep dive into the societal reactions to mass shootings, championing 'thoughts and prayers' as an essential form of empathy. It scrutinizes the growing tensions within the GOP, contrasting traditional conservatism with Trump's populist influence. Discussions reflect on FDR's New Deal, critiquing its effectiveness and historical misalignments. The complexities of the vice presidency under Trump are also explored, alongside the implications of corporate influence on government and a commentary on declining quality in modern science fiction.

In this engaging conversation, Cass Sunstein, a renowned legal scholar and author, dives into the essence of liberalism, describing it as fundamentally about being a mensch. He explores the intriguing concept of 'nudging' in public policy, illustrating its potential to enhance decision-making. The duo delves into the notion of 'abundance' in governance and critiques regulatory burdens that stifle individual opportunity. Sunstein also examines the relationship between liberal capitalism and societal tolerance, highlighting how economic interactions can foster understanding across cultures.

Lord Daniel Hannan, a member of the House of Lords, shares insights on UK politics and the legacy of the Conservative Party. He breaks down the new speech laws and their implications for free speech. Hannan explores the historical roots of Tory and Whig politics, emphasizing their influence on American political discourse. The conversation also delves into the complexities of governance and modern challenges faced by democracies. With humorous anecdotes, Hannan highlights the importance of understanding these historical narratives in today’s political landscape.

Jonah Goldberg dives into the recent FBI raid on John Bolton's home, sparking debates on political hypocrisy. He delves into the murky waters of political labels, challenging the good versus evil narrative that clouds modern discourse. The influence of Laura Loomer and echoes of McCarthyism are scrutinized, connecting past fears to today's politics. Discussions on guaranteed income reveal complexities in poverty and the importance of personal responsibility. Throughout, the effects of capitalism and misinformation on voting practices add to the ongoing political conversation.

Carole Hooven, an evolutionary biologist and author of 'T: The Story of Testosterone,' dives deep into the intricate complexities of gender and sex. She discusses how testosterone shapes behavior and gender differences, alongside the impacts of historical context on modern gender identities. Hooven challenges societal narratives, emphasizing the significance of respectful discourse in discussing transgender issues. The conversation also explores the cultural influences on male sexual behavior and the science of epigenetics, revealing how our biology and environment intertwine.

Emmett Rensin, author of The Complications: On Going Insane in America and a voice for mental health advocacy, joins for an insightful dialogue. They delve into the history and complexities of the insanity defense, sharing personal experiences with schizoaffective disorder. The conversation highlights societal neglect of mental health, the challenges of identity politics, and the delicate balance between civil liberties and public safety. They also explore the phenomenon of auditory hallucinations and the intersection of mental illness with conspiracy theories, encouraging a deeper understanding and care.

Dive into a strategic analysis of the high-stakes chess match between Trump and Putin, where historical parallels to appeasement emerge. Explore the complexities of postmodern thought and its influence on political narratives, including the absurdity of internet searches for criminal intent. Discuss the dangers of redefining truth for political gain and critique contemporary leadership amid urban crime disparities. Finally, venture into humanity's relationship with nature, weighing the balance between growth and ecological responsibility.

Jonah Goldberg chats with Barry Strauss, an Emeritus professor at Cornell and senior fellow at the Hoover Institution, about his book 'Jews vs. Rome'. They delve into the epic clashes between Jews and the Roman Empire, highlighting the Siege of Masada and the Bar Kokhba revolt. Strauss discusses the lasting cultural impacts of these uprisings and draws parallels to modern geopolitical issues. The conversation also touches on historical narratives, Jewish resilience, and the complexities of identity in the Middle East.