The Good Fight

Cass Sunstein, Robert Walmsley University Professor at Harvard, discusses the intricacies of liberalism and its critiques from both ends of the political spectrum. He explores John Stuart Mill's 'experiments in living' and argues that liberalism's battle is often against the misperceptions that undermine it. Sunstein contrasts economic theories from Hayek and Mill, emphasizing freedom over regulation. Delving into the core principles of liberalism, he advocates for a moral discourse to reclaim its virtues and values in an era of growing illiberalism.

Tyler Cowen, an influential economist and co-author of the blog Marginal Revolution, joins Yascha Mounk to discuss the future of global economies. They explore the transformative effects of AI and the challenges posed by declining birth rates. Cowen shares insights on how young adults should navigate personal finances amid evolving job landscapes. The conversation also touches on the US-China competition and the vital role of education in adapting to technological changes. Expect intriguing perspectives on economics and societal evolution!

Musa Al-Gharbi, an assistant professor at Stony Brook University and author of 'We Have Never Been Woke,' engages in a thought-provoking discussion about the elite's claims to oppression. He critiques the concept of 'wokeness,' emphasizing the disconnect between elite activists and the wider communities they claim to represent. The conversation tackles the complexities of asymmetric multiculturalism and suggests the need for a more consistent approach to social identities, all while advocating for shared values to foster inclusivity.

In this enlightening conversation, Jonathan Haidt, a Professor of Ethical Leadership at NYU, tackles why reasonable people can turn into angry mobs. He delves into emotional fragility in today's culture and the tribalism stemming from political ideologies. Haidt highlights the psychological distinctions between the left and right, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue. The discussion also touches on the nuances of nationalism versus patriotism and how positive group identities can foster cooperation in an increasingly divided society.

Arlie Hochschild, an author and sociology professor, dives into the emotional landscape of American politics. She discusses the pride and disillusionment felt by white working-class communities and how this impacts their support for Trump. Hochschild also explores the shifting allegiances of Latino voters, particularly in Miami, shedding light on their motivations. The conversation emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding diverse political perspectives to bridge divides.

Join Sabina Ćudić, a Bosnian politician; Steven Pinker, a Harvard psychologist; and Francis Fukuyama, a political scientist, as they tackle pressing political issues. They delve into Trump’s firings and their implications for civil service. The group also discusses the need to rejuvenate liberalism in a populist age and how AI is reshaping society. The conversation ventures into the intersection of governance and ideology, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in addressing contemporary challenges.

David Enoch, a prominent philosophy professor at Oxford and the Hebrew University, dives into the fraught landscape of liberalism and its moral foundations. He argues that liberalism needs to shed its neutral facade, advocating for moral objectivism to regain public trust. The discussion touches on complex issues like the implications of current global conflicts and the importance of speaking out against oppressive practices. Enoch emphasizes the need for a principled stance on autonomy and the intricate balance required in navigating political realities.

Christine Rosen, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and columnist for Commentary magazine, joins Yascha Mounk to tackle the unsettling impacts of the digital age. They discuss the downsides of online dating and the heightened anxiety surrounding face-to-face interactions. Rosen highlights how constant online presence complicates relationship development and diminishes meaningful connections. They also explore the societal ramifications of public shaming and the challenge of forming authentic identities in a world dominated by digital surveillance.

Miles Taylor, a national security expert and former chief of staff at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, opens up about the tumultuous Trump administration. He reveals how 'adults in the room' attempted to uphold the rule of law amidst chaos. Taylor shares insights on the misuse of executive power, the chilling effects of political retribution, and the moral dilemmas public servants faced. He also discusses the implications of his anonymous op-ed on internal resistance and the importance of maintaining free speech in a hostile political climate.

Thomas Chatterton Williams, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author, dives deep into the cultural and political fallout of the summer of 2020. He discusses the complexities of the racial justice protests and the subsequent backlash, emphasizing the abandonment of key ideas from that moment. Williams also critiques the misallocation of political anger during the Trump era and the nuanced challenges of Black representation in media. He addresses the impact of pandemic-driven cancel culture and the evolving skepticism among minority groups towards established political narratives.