The Man Who Invented Conservatism: Daniel J. Flynn on Frank Meyer’s Life and Legacy

Roger welcomes Daniel J. Flynn, senior editor at the American Spectator and visiting fellow at the Hoover Institution, for a conversation about his new biography, “The Man Who Invented Conservatism: The Unlikely Life of Frank S. Meyer.” Flynn explores the fascinating journey of Meyer, a former communist who became one of the most influential conservative thinkers of the 20th century and whose ideas still shape conservative thought today.They discuss Meyer’s early years as a communist organizer at Oxford, his dramatic break with the party, and his later role as literary editor of National Review. Flynn highlights Meyer’s enduring contribution to American conservatism through his philosophy of “fusionism,” the idea that freedom and virtue must coexist for a society to thrive. Additional topics include Meyer’s clashes and friendships with figures such as William F. Buckley Jr., Brent Bozell and Rose Wilder Lane; his mentorship of emerging writers; and the extraordinary archival discoveries that made this biography possible.Daniel J. Flynn is the author of seven books, including his most recent title, “The Man Who Invented Conservatism: The Unlikely Life of Frank S. Meyer.” His work has appeared in the Wall Street Journal, Los Angeles Times, Chicago Tribune and City Journal. He also served as a reservist in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1994 to 2002 and was honorably discharged with the rank of sergeant.The Liberty + Leadership Podcast is hosted by TFAS president Roger Ream and produced by Podville Media. If you have a comment or question for the show, please email us at [email protected]. To support TFAS and its mission, please visit TFAS.org/support.Support the show