Rivalries

In Far Middle episode 178, Nick begins with a reflection on Christopher Columbus following the recent Columbus Day holiday, noting its significance for Italian Americans. Next, Nick recalls a trifecta of iconic and dramatic sports moments for the installment’s sports dedication. These baseball and hockey classics may not have been championship-winning games, but they’re often remembered as such.  Starting at Fenway Park, Nick remembers Game 6 of the 1975 World Series. He then recalls the "Miracle on Ice" at the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics, and then shifts six years later and 300 miles south to Shea Stadium for Game 6 of the 1986 World Series. Moving from rivalries in sports to rivalries in major American political parties and philosophies, Nick delves into the current state of American conservatism. Acknowledging the work of the Hudson Institute’s John Fonte, Nick analyzes the competing conservative views between National Conservatives and Freedom Conservatives.  These groups represent different "waves" of conservative thought, with Freedom Conservatives representing the "second wave” and National Conservatives associated with the "third wave.” Nick reviews the key differences between these groups, including their views on globalization, immigration, and the role of government in cultural issues. “What National Conservatives and Freedom Conservatives all agree upon, and for that matter classic or traditional Liberals and Libertarians like myself, is an affirmation of the idea of America as something special,” says Nick. “That they all agree on, even though they seem to disagree on everything else. The Left however, it views America as in need of a revolutionary transformation because it views America and its history as deeply problematic.”  From Conservatism and classic Liberalism and Libertarianism, Nick explores the economic philosophy of Friedrich Hayek and his influential book "The Road to Serfdom," drawing connections between Hayek's ideas and current Conservative movements. After reaffirming the dangers of state control and intervention into free markets and individual rights, Nick assesses the latest on America’s financial and employment situation—a recurring, albeit sobering, Far Middle topic. In closing, Nick concludes with a tribute to Pope John Paul II on the anniversary of his election as pope. Nick shares several interesting facts about the pontiff, including his prolific writing, extensive travels, and his role in opposing communism in Poland. For more on the “Miracle on Ice,” revisit the intro to Far Middle episode 80, “Welcome to the No-Growth Hotel.”