Description:

Families are increasingly finding themselves trapped in a whirlwind of competition for their kids. From rigorous sports clubs to the college admissions process, parents are forced to concentrate more on what everyone else is doing as opposed to what is best for their family. This unhealthy dynamic has led to a decline in civic associations and other institutions that are critical for community and human development. How can parents better adapt to these changing times and attempt to rewrite the social contract?

In this episode, Naomi and Ian are joined by Matt Feeney, author of "Little Platoons: A Defense of Family in a Competitive Age." Matt discusses how a harmful culture of competition is causing children to miss out on key developmental milestones and skills needed for a successful life. Matt notes the importance of school counselors and parents working together to combat unhealthy incentives.

Resources:

Sports Families: The Hungry System of Club Sports | Matt Feeney | Institute for Family Studies

Bread and circuses: The replacement of American community life | Lyman Stone | American Enterprise Institute

Show Notes:

00:35 | What are “Little Platoons” and how does this concept shape our understanding of the family?

06:55 | Why parents are reluctant participants in a hyper-competitive environment

09:20 | What is lost in the lives of kids by our cultural obsession over sports and extracurriculars?

11:45 | Why the college admissions process is interfering in the moral autonomy of the family

15:20 | How can parents push back against these harmful incentives?

A Conversation with Gerald Bray