EconTalk Yuval Levin on A Time to Build
31 snips
Mar 2, 2020 
In this conversation, Yuval Levin, a political scientist and author, examines the declining trust in American institutions. He argues that individuals now see these institutions as platforms for personal gain rather than as guiding entities. The shift towards performative professionalism, particularly in academia and media, is highlighted, along with the impact of social media on collective efforts and community bonds. Levin shares insights on restoring trust and embracing personal responsibility to foster collaboration and a sense of common purpose.
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Evidence of Declining Trust
- Evidence for declining trust can be seen in surveys measuring public confidence.
- While mid-20th century trust was unusually high, the recent decline is significant.
Source of Trust
- Trust in institutions comes from the belief they form trustworthy people aligned with their mission.
- This molding process shapes individuals' ethics and behaviors within the institution.
Examples of Eroding Trust
- A journalist self-promoting on Twitter can erode trust in their role as a truth-seeker.
- A doctor influenced by pharmaceutical companies can compromise their perceived integrity.
