Sin Nation: Have Gambling, Porn & Weed Replaced American Values? episode artwork

EPISODE · May 12, 2026 · 27 MIN

Sin Nation: Have Gambling, Porn & Weed Replaced American Values?

from The Smerconish Podcast · host Michael Smerconish

Michael Smerconish reacts to a provocative Axios piece arguing that America is becoming a modern “Sin Nation” — where gambling, marijuana, pornography, and digital vice are no longer hidden, but legalized, monetized, and normalized. From “It’s a Wonderful Life” and Robert Putnam’s "Bowling Alone" to declining faith, patriotism, and community involvement, Michael explores whether America is losing the social glue that once held it together — and whether technology, capitalism, and politics accelerated the shift. Listeners weigh in on everything from Vegas culture and junk food to loneliness, digital life, and the erosion of real-world relationships. Original air date 12 May 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Smerconish reacts to a provocative Axios piece arguing that America is becoming a modern “Sin Nation” — where gambling, marijuana, pornography, and digital vice are no longer hidden, but legalized, monetized, and normalized. From “It’s a Wonderful Life” and Robert Putnam’s "Bowling Alone" to declining faith, patriotism, and community involvement, Michael explores whether America is losing the social glue that once held it together — and whether technology, capitalism, and politics accelerated the shift. Listeners weigh in on everything from Vegas culture and junk food to loneliness, digital life, and the erosion of real-world relationships. Original air date 12 May 2026.

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Sin Nation: Have Gambling, Porn & Weed Replaced American Values?

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This episode was published on May 12, 2026.

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Michael Smerconish reacts to a provocative Axios piece arguing that America is becoming a modern “Sin Nation” — where gambling, marijuana, pornography, and digital vice are no longer hidden, but legalized, monetized, and normalized. From “It’s a...

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