The Hayekian Triangle: James Buchanan and the Challenge of Self-Government

On the second episode of The Hayekian Triangle, Virgil Storr, Peter Boettke, and Chris Coyne examine James Buchanan’s views on human nature and self-government. They place Buchanan’s essays “Natural and Artifactual Man” and “Afraid to Be Free” in conversation, exploring the tension between human beings’ capacity for self-creation and their desire for protection from uncertainty and responsibility. The discussion considers education as a transformative process, the relationship between freedom and accountability, the dangers of state paternalism, the role of civil society, and the challenge classical liberals face in offering a compelling alternative to dependence on the state. The trio also reflect on Buchanan’s intellectual legacy, the importance of lifelong learning, and the conditions necessary for a self-governing society.**This episode was recorded on July 31, 2026**If you like the show, please subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and tell others about the show! We're available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and wherever you get your podcasts.Check out our other podcast from the Hayek Program! Virtual Sentiments is a podcast in which political theorist Kristen Collins interviews scholars and practitioners grappling with pressing problems in political economy with an eye to the past. Subscribe today!Follow the Hayek Program on Twitter: @HayekProgramFollow the Mercatus Center on Twitter: @mercatusCC Music: Twisterium