Eminent Americans Left Behind
Sep 25, 2025
Sam Kahn, a writer and publisher known for his critiques of the American left, joins David Sessions, a public intellectual and labor commentator. They delve into their personal relationships with the left, exploring whether liberalism and leftism are philosophically aligned. Kahn provocatively argues that the current left undermines broader coalitions, while Sessions reflects on his journey through various political movements. They discuss potential winning issues for liberals and the costs of their political shifts, all while contemplating the future of democratic discourse in a evolving media landscape.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Left Lacks A Practical Theory Of Power
- Sam argues the left lacks a coherent theory of power and governance, rooted in its original Rousseauist assumptions.
- He worries collectivist answers neglect inevitable centralized power and its temptations.
Rebuild State Capacity To Check Power
- Sam and Dunkelman's view: rebuild a stronger centralized state that can act as countervailing power versus monopolies.
- Use government capacity to regulate, break trusts, and craft a renewed social contract.
Politics Must Read The Contemporary Room
- Sam says politics must 'read the room' and adapt to the current electorate rather than reciting old left doctrines.
- He argues the labor-based Roosevelt coalition isn't the immediate path today; winning requires different coalitions.
