Concepts with Shawn Whatley

#5: Sean Speer - The Intersection of Pluralism, Conservatism, and Modern Society

The Intersection of Pluralism, Conservatism, and Modern Society with Sean Speer In this insightful episode, we are joined by Sean Speer, a prominent lecturer at the Munk School of Public Policy and Editor at Large at The Hub, to explore the complex landscape of Canadian conservatism and its intersections with pluralism, liberalism, and modern societal challenges. Sean discusses the significance of pluralism in his political worldview, the nuanced differences in conservatism across cultures, and the impact of figures like Donald Trump on conservative politics. He touches on the challenges and opportunities of preserving Canada's cultural heritage in the face of changing demographics and political ideologies, and delves into topics such as populism, techno-conservatism, and the distinctiveness of North American conservatism. This episode also examines the roles of institutions and political leaders in guiding a psychologically and socially healthy society in today's world.https://thehub.ca/section/podcast-video/ 00:00 Introduction to Pluralism and Conservatism 01:07 Welcoming Sean Speer 01:49 Defining Conservatism in Canada 04:16 Trump and American Conservatism 07:26 Canada's Identity and Trudeau's Post-National State 13:00 Challenges of Pluralism and Society 20:42 Economic Determinism and Cultural Shifts 27:54 The Role of Religion and Myth in Society 39:21 Conservatism and Institutional Capacity 47:41 Populism, Tech Conservatism, and Canadian Identity 52:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit shawnwhatley.substack.com

#4: Matt Bufton on Libertarianism & Canada

In this episode, Shawn hosts Matt Bufton, co-founder and executive director of the Institute for Liberal Studies in Canada. They delve into common misconceptions about libertarianism, drug policy, political ideologies in Canadian politics, and the meaning of a social contract. Matt shares his views on the principles of liberty, spontaneous order, and the balance between personal freedom and societal rules. The discussion also touches on the implications of recent political events, healthcare, and Canada's identity as a nation-state. 00:00 Introduction to Libertarian Views on Drug Legalization 00:50 Meet Matt Bufton: Advocate for Liberal Studies 01:28 Understanding Canadian Political Parties 03:19 Defining Liberalism in Modern Politics 05:55 Libertarian Perspectives on Drug Policy 08:05 Challenges of Libertarianism in Practice 19:31 Spontaneous Order in Society and Sports28:15 NHL Rules and Voluntary Associations 28:57 Common Good and Shared Norms 30:09 Public Policy and Health Inspections 33:12 Religious Tolerance in Canada 35:42 Libertarianism and Social Contracts 40:56 Canada's National Identity 47:26 Libertarianism and Family Obligations 49:38 Final Thoughts and Reflections This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit shawnwhatley.substack.com

#3: Ginny Roth - The Shifting Landscape of Conservatism in Canada

Explore the evolving landscape of conservatism in Canada with guest Ginny Roth, a noted political advisor and columnist. The conversation covers the changing demographics among conservative voters, the tension between policy and ideas, and the cultural shifts impacting public sentiment. The conversation delves into the importance of family, national identity, and economic nationalism while also exploring the interplay between conservatism and liberalism in shaping Canada's future. Tune in to understand how these dynamic trends could reshape the country's political and cultural landscape. 00:00 Introduction: The Housing Crisis and Life's Purpose 00:42 Welcoming Ginny Roth: A Political Powerhouse 01:06 Defining Conservatism in Canada 01:47 The Realignment of Conservative Voters 02:52 Economic and Cultural Shifts 05:54 Leadership: Ideas vs. Policies 09:02 The Evolution of Conservative Ideas 22:26 Challenges of Pluralism and National Identity 33:42 Economic Nationalism and Tariffs 37:08 Final Thoughts: Embracing Change and Ideas This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit shawnwhatley.substack.com

# 2: Tom Flanagan - The Evolution of Conservatism and Liberalism in Canada

Professor Tom Flanagan, a prominent conservative intellectual in Canada, delves into the intricate history and evolving definitions of conservatism and liberalism within Anglo-American democracies. He provides a detailed analysis of how these political ideologies have shifted over centuries, focusing particularly on the Canadian context. From Britain's influence to the rise of social issues and free market economics, Flanagan and host Shawn discuss the fluid nature of political labels and the emerging concept of 'national conservatism.' The conversation also covers modern challenges such as free trade casualties, identity politics, and the enduring principles that might define future political landscapes in Canada and beyond. This thoughtful discussion is a must-watch for anyone interested in the complex dynamics of political thought and history. 00:00 Introduction to Free Trade and Its Impact 00:23 Welcoming Professor Tom Flanagan 00:54 Historical Context of Conservatism 01:15 Evolution of Political Terms 03:20 Conservatism in the 19th and 20th Century 05:54 Modern Conservatism and Free Market Economics 12:38 Challenges and Shifts in Contemporary Conservatism 19:23 The Role of Government and Social Issues 34:46 National Identity and Political Unity 42:26 Final Thoughts and Reflections This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit shawnwhatley.substack.com

# 1: Peter Copeland - Exploring Conservatism and Liberalism in Canada

In this episode, Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of Domestic Policy at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, delves into the philosophical underpinnings of conservatism and liberalism in Canada. The discussion covers the evolving political landscape, the balance between individual freedom and community values, and the impact of immigration and social policy on Canadian society. Peter also shares his personal journey towards understanding the good life through intellectual and spiritual pursuits. This thought-provoking conversation addresses the meaning of conservatism, the role of classical liberalism, and the search for a common good in modern Canada. 00:00 Introduction to the Common Good 00:46 Meet Peter Copeland 01:13 Understanding Conservatism in Canada 01:29 Classical Liberalism vs. Social Conservatism 03:42 The Shift in Conservative Thought 04:13 Differences Within Conservatism 06:13 Fusionism and Modern Challenges 07:22 Classical Liberalism's Internal Contradictions 09:03 The Role of the State and Society 24:11 Populism and Political Shifts 28:36 Canada's Identity and Unity 41:39 Concluding Thoughts and Future Directions https://pcopelanwrites.com/about-the-... https://macdonaldlaurier.ca/cm-expert... This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit shawnwhatley.substack.com