Concepts with Shawn Whatley

#32 Mark Carney and Justin Trudeau are universalists. Donald Trump is not. What is universalism?

Prime Minister Mark Carney and Justin Trudeau are universalists. Donald Trump is a (rare) politician who, for the most part, doesn't seem to be a universalist.
Universalism is an essential concept to help us understand modern politics. It's a core pillar of liberalism, but many 'conservatives' are universalists also.
AI Summary
Understanding Universalism: A Deep Dive into Modern Political Philosophy In this episode, we explore the concept of universalism and its impact on contemporary politics. Using quotes from political philosopher Michael Freeden and examples from figures such as Prime Ministers Justin Trudeau and Mark Carney, we delve into how universal values are perceived and implemented in national and international contexts. The script also contrasts universalism with particularism, drawing on historical and current examples, including President Donald Trump's foreign policy. The discussion underscores the importance of situating values within historical and cultural contexts to better understand their application and efficacy in governance.
00:00 Introduction to Universalism
01:46 Defining Universalism
02:27 Examples of Universalism in Politics
06:24 Universalism vs. Particularism
09:45 Universalism in Practice
12:07 Personal Reflections on Universalism
18:44 Conclusion: The Importance of Understanding Universalism

#31 Simplifying liberalism. Start with individuals.

Go ask a professor for a simple definition of liberalism or conservatism. If they are honest, they won't give you a short answer. These terms are super complex. But we need somewhere to start.
In this short segment, I offer a place to start talking about liberalism: a theory with 4 pillars. The first pillar we discuss is individualism. We will discuss conservatism in other episodes. 
Part 1 of a 4-part series on liberalism
 
AI summary below:
Unpacking Liberalism: Understanding its Core Concepts and Individualism
In this episode, we embark on a detailed exploration of liberalism, tracing its origins back to the early 19th century and dissecting its various forms—old fashioned, philosophical, and modern. The focus is on understanding political terminology, the evolution of key political ideologies, and the foundational pillars of liberalism: individualism, egalitarianism, universalism, and meliorism. We delve into the nuances of individualism, discussing its implications in real-life scenarios and its historical roots in the ideas of John Stuart Mill. Join us as we clarify the complexities of political theory and its relevance in today's society.
00:00 Introduction to Liberalism
00:50 Understanding Political Terminology
01:09 Defining Liberalism
02:00 The Evolution of Political Isms
06:28 Core Concepts of Liberalism
07:13 Focus on Individualism
12:57 Challenges of Individualism in Practice
15:30 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics

#30 Geoff Russ -- Hope for Canada vs progressive internationalism

Geoff stands out as a new kind of writer on the non-left. He offers hope that embraces Canada's past without repudiation -- truly rare these days
Thanks for listening!
AI Summary
Shawn interviews Geoff Russ, a Vancouver-based writer, about the evolving concept of Canadian nationalism and identity. They discuss the need for newcomers to understand their obligations, the distinction between Canadian and American ideals, and the impact of progressive internationalism. Geoff Russ shares his views on post-nationalism, the importance of Canada's rugged history, and the challenges of maintaining a high-trust society. The conversation also touches on the failures of neoconservatism, the need for a positive vision of Canadian identity, and practical steps to revive a distinct Canadian culture. Don't miss this in-depth discussion on what it means to be Canadian in the modern era.
00:00 Introduction: Obligations and Civilization
00:21 Canadian Identity and Nationalism
00:50 Interview with Geoff Russ: Essays and Ideas
01:41 Post Nationalism and Modern Challenges
05:09 The Role of History and Freedom in Canada
10:18 Urban Issues: Vancouver's Downtown East Side
11:55 Government Responsibility and Individual Agency
16:17 Canada's National Identity Crisis
21:18 High Trust Society and Optimism for the Future
23:02 Rebuilding Canadian Nationalism
23:27 Citizenship and Cultural Unity
25:53 Historical Context and Identity
29:31 Neoconservatism and Modern Politics
34:53 Economic Policies and Free Market Debate
43:13 Canadian Identity and Resource Jobs
44:04 Concluding Thoughts and Future Questions

#29 Grant Havers on Leo Strauss, Conservatism, and Modern Political Issues

This episode goes deep into the philosophy of Leo Strauss and the modern Conservative movement by looking at Professor Haver's book on Strauss and Ango-American democracy.
I got too excited with the discussion and stopped paying attention to the recording quality. It's less than I would have hoped, but the content Grant shares is excellent.
I offer a longer summary than usual. Thanks for checking it out!
 
AI summary:
In this episode, we discuss with Grant Havers, Chair of the Department of Philosophy at Trinity Western University, his book 'Leo Strauss and Anglo-American Democracy: A Conservative Critique.' We dive into several key topics, including the concept of universals within liberal political philosophy, the idea of the open society and its potential threats to democracy, and the principle of Fusionism blending tradition with free market thinking. The conversation also covers the intricate relationship between conservatism and capitalism, the role of Christianity in political philosophy, and future technological impacts like AI and transhumanism. Despite technical issues with the recording, this engaging discussion is valuable for those interested in political philosophy and Canadian conservatism. 00:00 Introduction to the Episode 00:54 Key Discussion Points 05:39 Introducing Grant Havers 05:59 Diving into Leo Strauss 11:44 Universals and Historical Context 20:34 Neoconservatism and the Managerial State 25:57 Strauss's Concerns on Open Society 31:30 Conservatism and Anti-Communism: A Complex Relationship 32:46 Misconceptions About Conservatism 34:55 Fusionism in Conservative Thought 37:02 The Tension Between Conservatism and Capitalism 42:55 Strauss's Views on Reason and Revelation 50:20 Hegelian Philosophy and Historical Necessity 57:33 Technological Change and Its Implications 01:00:13 Closing Thoughts and Future Discussions

#28 Jodi Bruhn: Political Myths, the non-left voter, and COVID fallout

Professor Bruhn is a unique thinker. She calls herself someone of the 'non-left'. Her advocacy on indigenous issues does not rest on the more common progressive principles. 
I hope you enjoy the episode!
AI summary:
In this episode, Shawn dives into Canadian political thought with Dr. Jodi Bruhn. They explore topics such as the conservatism of Pierre Poilievre, political and social myths that shape Canada, the comparison between Canadian conservatism and American Republicanism, and the implications of government actions during the COVID-19 pandemic on civil liberties. Dr. Bruhn also touches on her work related to Indigenous affairs and the complex dynamics within Canadian politics today. This episode is a deep dive into varied and complex political ideas that are crucial for understanding Canada's current climate.

#27 Ted Morton: The Charter Revolution & Conservative Politics

Ted Morton offers a perspective you cannot find anywhere else in Canada. He's an academic, turned politician, returned academic from Alberta. 
If you want to understand Canadian politics, you simply have to spend time digging into Alberta. Ted has a great sense of humour and seems to love chatting about the thorniest political issues. He jokes that he doesn't have to worry about what he says now that he's retired.
I hope you enjoy the episode as much as I did!

#26 Another short introduction. Why would an MD bother with politics?

Our lives are shaped by the political systems in which we live. When our country starts to struggle, we need to revisit the ideas that animate the programs and structures around us.
In just under 5 minutes, I explain why we need to focus on political ideas now, and why philosophical conservatism offers a (paradoxically) new and fresh way to think.
If you agree and think that this is a worthy quest, please click like and subscribe. It seems like a small thing, but it makes a huge difference. Reviews, comments, and feedback greatly improve the chance of a podcast's survival, no matter where you find it.
Also, please consider becoming a supporter through my Patreon (coming soon)
Thanks again. I look forward to hearing from you soon!
Shawn

#25 Ginny Roth on Political Myths, Biggest Election Misses, Trump, and Canada's Future

Ginny returns to answer common Canadian myths and misconceptions, as well as offering analysis on the upcoming election. 
We start out with four familiar comments or questions:
Is the Conservative Party uncaring, especially about people in need?
Will Pierre Poilievre end up spending as much as Mark Carney?
The CBC is Canadian. Isn't it a trusted source for unbiased information?
Carney is really nothing like Justin Trudeau.
Then we get into meatier fare:
Biggest missed opportunities in the election?
Should we listen to separatist fear mongering? 
What's required to rebuild Canada-USA relations?
If Carney wants to implement Trudeau 2.0, do we have the capacity to even try?
Please like, subscribe, and share a comment -- Thank you!!

#24 Jeremy Geddert: Canadian Nationalism & George Grant

Canadian Conservatism, National Identity, & Critique of Post-Colonialism
In this episode, Shawn interviews Professor Jeremy Geddert about George Grant, renowned Canadian philosopher and author of 'Lament for a Nation'. They delve into Grant's critique of the Laurentian elite, his perspectives on Canadian nationalism, conservatism, and his critique of contemporary progressive politics. Geddert examines Grant's views on state and identity, comparing left and right Hegelian philosophies, as well as addressing the evolution of Canadian nationalism and its distinction from American identity. The discussion also touches on historical perspectives and the implications for Canada's future.

#23 Sean Speer: High Stakes Politics & Challenges for Canada's Next Prime Minister

Sean Speer, Editor at Large at The Hub, paints a stressful (dire?) picture of what faces the next prime minister. The need to secure a stable economic and security agreement with the United States may, paradoxically, compromise the Prime Minister’s political future. They might not be able to secure an agreement that any Canadians will like.
What will America want in return for an improved trade relationship? Will we have to change policies on supply management, internet regulation, and customs?
We end by discussing the shifting political dynamics among the so-called ‘tech bros' and their alignment with conservative politics, and what that might mean for Canada.
The stakes couldn’t be higher for this election. I hope you enjoy the episode.