The Gist Conor Heffernan on Why "Ego Is A Transhistorical Phenomenon"
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Feb 4, 2026 Conor Patrick Heffernan, historian and author of When Fitness Went Global, explores the rise of physical culture and why he lifts heavy stones in graveyards. He traces stone lifting’s global roots. He narrates the rise of strongmen and vaudeville, and profiles Eugen Sandow as the first fitness influencer who turned strength into spectacle and commerce.
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Nationalizing Elections Is Unworkable
- Mike Pesca argues Donald Trump's proposal to nationalize elections is alarming but constitutionally impossible.
- He urges attention to the idea's provenance while noting it likely cannot be executed under current law.
Family Stone Lifting In Graveyards
- Conor Heffernan describes lifting historic stones with his son in graveyards as a family pastime and tradition.
- He avoids desecrating graves while seeking stones his son can lift alongside older, heavier stones.
Stone Lifting Is Transhistorical
- Heffernan traces stone lifting worldwide and across eras as a celebration of strength and ritual.
- He highlights that ego and honor drove public displays of strength long before modern gyms existed.
