Concepts with Shawn Whatley

Update on the quest to define conservatism! After almost 100 episodes, I see a way to articulate conservatism coming into view. I hope to capture it all into a short book/long essay later this year. In the meantime, I offer a recap of liberalism and contrast it with conservatism. I also touch on inheritance, myth, and experience as themes within conservatism. I also tackle a summary of neoconservatism. Neocons remain the main opinion shapers on the non-left in Canada. Their eminence has waned in America, but it remains strong in Canada. We end with a review of upcoming guests. Looking forward to hearing what you think! Thanks again Shawn   Chapters and AI summary:   Host Shawn Whatley shares a scheduling update amid a busy summer and looks ahead to the podcast’s 100th episode, then continues his effort to define conservatism by contrasting it with liberalism. He critiques George Grant’s thin definition of liberalism and Grant’s claim about the impossibility of political conservatism, and instead uses Fukuyama/John Gray’s four-part account of liberalism (individualism, egalitarianism, universalism, meliorism) to frame key conservative objections: the involuntary obligations of life (especially family), equality before law alongside excellence, particularism over universal political templates, and prudential skepticism about reform. He adds conservative emphases on inheritance, regional myth/self-understanding, and shared experience. He then outlines three waves of neoconservatism—its origins, post–Cold War central-planning and interventionist tendencies, and a 2016-era “never-Trump” internationalist turn—before previewing upcoming guests Josh Mitchell, Tim Hagstrom, and Elizabeth Corey. 00:00 Big Questions Intro 00:14 Podcast Schedule Update 01:26 Defining Liberalism 04:56 Fukuyama Four Pillars 06:54 Conservative Pushback 10:45 Tradition Myth Place 13:51 Thin vs Thick Politics 14:58 Neoconservatism Origins 17:04 Second Wave Neocons 20:53 Third Wave Never Trump 22:41 Guests and Wrap Up

Jodi Bruhn offers a sobering take on Canada. Professor Bruhn is an expert on governance and constitutional thought. She says we might not appreciate the significance and potential fallout from the Supreme Court wading in the Notwithstanding Clause. We discuss civics education and whether there's an increased appetite for first principles. Thanks for checking this out! I look forward to your comments. Shawn Chapters and AI summary: Host Shawn Whatley interviews Dr. Jodi Bruhn about renewed interest in first principles, civics, and regime analysis in her University of Lethbridge courses, contrasting first-year and fourth-year students’ ability to identify clashing political principles behind current events. They discuss political science versus political philosophy, including critiques of Straussian textualism, and consider thinkers such as Aristotle, Voegelin, Bergson, and Carl Schmitt. Bruhn warns that the Supreme Court of Canada hearing cases involving the notwithstanding clause signals a misunderstanding of legislative supremacy and could provoke a political showdown with provinces like Quebec and Alberta, potentially risking Canada’s dissolution. They examine constitutional change constraints, separatism’s uncertain outcomes, leadership and ethical decay under unwritten constitutional conventions, demagoguery, and Bruhn’s account of Tamara Lich’s University of Calgary talk about the trucker convoy. 00:00 Supreme Court Warning 00:52 Meet the Guest 02:52 Teaching First Principles 05:26 Civics and Regimes 07:37 Political Science vs Philosophy 15:31 Teasing Out Principles 18:03 Notwithstanding Clause Clash 21:14 Charter and Judicial Review 23:34 Can Canada Rewind 25:26 Alberta Separation Scenarios 28:41 Schmitt and Conflict Horizon 29:57 Friendship Course Spectrum 31:29 Canadian Founding Enmities 33:27 Hooker and English Middle Way 35:42 Ideology and First Principles 37:31 Alberta Separation and Reconfederation 39:47 Constitutional Mismatch and Corruption 44:51 Demagoguery and Vital Breakthrough 47:33 Reading Bergson and Courage 49:10 Tamara Lich at University 51:11 Teaching Critical Thinking Finale

Tom Flanagan explains why we need Hayek's ideas about spontaneous order, institutions, and the limits of state control. Hayek will frustrate central planners and also anarchists. Libertarians can't depend on Hayek; he's too supportive of traditional institutions. Professor Flanagan has taught a generation of political science students at the University of Calgary. He's informed so much of what the Right assumes in Canada. He's generous, thoughtful, and resists capture into a neat, political box. Books mentioned: Grave Error: How The Media Misled Us (and the Truth about Residential Schools) Dead Wrong: How Canada Got the Residential School Story So Wrong Articles mentioned: Settler-Neoliberalism: Tom Flanagan and Friedrich Hayek on the Prairies | Canadian Historical Review Was Hayek a Gnostic? - VoegelinView   The long reach of the Calgary School | C2C Journal   Let me know what you think! Thanks again, Shawn   Chapters and AI summary Host Shawn Whatley interviews political scientist Tom Flanagan about Friedrich Hayek, focusing on spontaneous order versus top-down organization and the state’s proper role in enforcing rules without directing outcomes. Flanagan explains spontaneous order through examples like language, markets, common law, and even skiing etiquette, and argues modern governments often create chaos by trying to control systems such as Canadian healthcare through price and quantity setting, producing persistent shortages and waitlists. The conversation explores Hayek’s assumptions about property, justice as a feature of fair process and intention rather than outcomes, and practical questions about unintended consequences in politics. Flanagan also discusses Canada’s formation through sovereignty claims, treaties, and force, defending treaty-making as broadly just for its time. He contrasts Hayek’s limits on “spiritual problems” with Voegelin’s strengths and notes he is not an Alberta separatist. 00:00 Hayek In A Nutshell 01:00 Show Intro And Guest 04:56 Flanagan Meets Hayek 06:08 Spontaneous Order Explained 07:02 Language As Emergence 09:50 Markets And Simple Rules 11:55 State Control And Healthcare 16:55 Ski Hill Rules And Enforcement 22:20 Property Justice And Tradition 27:49 Colonialism And Civilizing Mission 30:28 International Anarchy And Empire 35:40 Treaties and Education 36:51 Hayek Order vs Organization 38:16 Canada Built by Force 39:22 Morris and Prairie Treaties 42:03 Mirage of Social Justice 47:55 Intentions vs Outcomes 49:29 Weber and Policy Consequences 56:17 Hayek Meets Voegelin 01:03:13 Spiritual Pathology Politics 01:04:46 State Supports Spontaneous Order 01:08:28 Alberta Separatism and Wrap

Evan Menzies shows why Albertans should be furious. As an Albertan himself, he understands. And as a political consultant, he sees even more reasons to be upset than most Albertans have heard of. He is frustrated and doesn't hide it. In spite of powerful reasons to be upset, he still thinks Alberta should stay. The rest of Canada isn't paying enough attention to this. Alberta separation wouldn't be an issue if Canada was well governed. It will continue to be an issue until our governance is fixed. Here's the article we discuss: An argument for Canada from an Alberta conservative. Thanks for listening!  Let me know what you think.   Chapters and AI summary:   Alberta Separatism Debate: Evan Menzies’ Argument for Staying in Canada Host Shawn Whatley interviews Evan Menzies, VP at Crestview Strategy and former Wildrose/UCP staffer, about his Substack article “An Argument for Canada from an Alberta Conservative” and the rise of Alberta separatism. Menzies explains why many Alberta conservatives feel exhausted and unheard—citing issues like equalization, Senate and House of Commons representation, pipeline barriers, and judicial “constitutional adventurism” (including MAID, mandatory minimums, and debates over the notwithstanding clause). He argues separatism is a risky, non-conservative “tear down to the studs” revolution that promises a utopia while forcing Alberta to rebuild institutions and constitutional order from scratch. Instead, he urges reform within Canada, appeals to patriotism and gratitude, warns against victimhood politics, and predicts Alberta’s growing demographic and economic weight will keep shifting Canada’s power westward. 00:00 Alberta Separation Stakes 01:07 Show Setup and Guest Intro 05:05 Why Albertans Feel Exhausted 08:02 Who Supports Leaving 11:50 Senate Imbalance Debate 15:40 House Seats and Time Zones 18:21 Equalization and Quebec Hydro 20:43 Courts and Constitutional Drift 25:04 Charter Pragmatism vs Principle 28:03 Why Stay In Canada 28:35 Three Reasons To Stay 31:05 Blank Slate Constitution Risks 33:04 Revolution Not Devolution 35:41 Communicating Conservatism Again 39:26 Patriotism Over Victimhood 45:05 Gratitude And National Story 49:39 Alberta Story Is Canadian 51:28 Make The 21st Century Canada 51:59 Closing Thanks And Moral Ground

Ashley Moyse is a bioethicist and theologian at Baylor University. In America, he hails from the political left. If he was in his native Saskatchewan, he'd be centre-left or perhaps even right-wing to some people.  Our conversation tackled technology, ethics, and humanity in professional education. How we can keep clinicians human and prevent them from becoming robots? Although we situate the conversation in the health sciences, the concepts apply to every corner of society: engineering, finance, public policy, and more.  Dr. Moyse has had some success in helping students see beyond the materialist reductionism of modern science. His work offers hope for other fields. Let me know what you think in the comments! Thanks for listening. Shawn Book mentioned: The Art of Living for a Technological Age   Chapters and AI summary Host Shawn Whatley interviews Dr. Ashley Moyse, associate professor of bioethics at Baylor University, about how technology, markets, and policy language reshape medicine and moral life. Moyse traces his path from neurophysiology and cancer-clinic work to theology and bioethics, including training in Australia and Oxford and creating the Columbia Character Cooperatives to form medical students through virtue-based practices. They critique the market metaphor of “provider,” arguing it distorts the clinician–patient relationship and turns people into producers and consumers of information. Moyse explains his book The Art of Living for a Technological Age and “techno-ontology,” expanding technology beyond devices to include moral and political techniques, and challenges Beauchamp and Childress’ four-principles framework as flattening ethics into efficient tools rather than lived moral struggle, formation, and attention over time. 00:00 Patients Not Data 00:45 Meet Dr Ashley Moyse 05:35 From Neurophysiology To Theology 08:39 Oxford Columbia Baylor Path 13:49 Techno Ontology Explained 14:54 Tools Beyond Gadgets 25:21 Four Principles Under Fire 32:55 Ethics As Struggle 33:46 Medicine as Craft 37:15 Virtue in Clinical Risk 39:19 Ethics Beyond Principles 43:05 Provider Language Critique 47:04 Metrics and Managerialism 49:53 Mentoring Against Positivism 58:32 Phenomenology in Practice 01:03:16 Technology as Principality 01:09:55 Closing Reflections

I asked Dr. Matthew Rowley for help with questions on political theology. It turns out he's another big supporter of independence for Alberta.  The current Supreme Court hearings last week are pouring fuel on the Alberta separatist movement. The Mark Carney Liberals are intervenors on the SCC hearing about Quebec's Bill 21 and use of the notwithstanding clause (s.33). Carney is asking the Supreme Court to do an end-run around the constitution bypassing the amending formula. Regardless of how the court rules, the fact that it had the gall to hear the case fuels Alberta's frustrations.  We do discuss Dr. Rowley's insights on political theology, but most of our time focussed on the revolutionary nature of the SCC this week. Please let me know what you think! Thanks for listening, Shawn   Chapters and AI summary Host Shawn Whatley interviews Dr. Matthew Rowley about the Supreme Court of Canada hearing Quebec’s Bill 21 and whether limits can be placed on the Charter’s notwithstanding clause (s.33), which Rowley argues would further politicize the Court and trigger a constitutional crisis. They discuss federal intervention, the Charter’s impact on legislative supremacy, court power, secularism, and how differing regional cultures and views of government fuel Alberta’s separatist momentum. Rowley contrasts Alberta’s self-reliant ethos with Eastern Canada’s greater trust in government, critiques legal instrumentalism and the loss of duties tied to rights, and emphasizes internal justice and external defense as core governmental roles. The conversation also addresses political theology, the foundations of Western civilization, declining legitimacy and honor in politics, and the need for deeper, honest public debate. 00:00 Charter More American 01:26 Supreme Court Showdown 02:03 Bill 21 and Section 33 06:14 Court Power Grab Fears 10:35 Alberta Separatism Case 11:54 Prairie vs East Cultures 14:05 Charter Control and Courts 17:32 Rural Life and Tools 20:09 Where Rights Come From 22:28 Rights Need Responsibilities 26:21 Too Many Laws Problem 30:38 Government Role and Good 34:27 Law as Moral Boundary 37:14 Political Theology Setup 39:37 Behavior Versus Intentions 40:15 Where Evil Really Lies 41:19 Free Church And Mainline 42:25 Faith Shown By Works 43:59 Christian Roots Of The West 45:51 Conservatism As A Living Tree 49:12 Canada Loses First Principles 51:36 State Replacing God 54:10 Legitimacy And Stoplights 55:07 Crisis Of Secular Confidence 57:43 Young People Return To God 01:00:37 Responsible Government And Honor 01:05:07 Rebuilding Ancient Paths 01:08:33 Civitas And Honest Dialogue 01:10:45 Ralph Klein And Telling Truth 01:12:30 Closing Reflections And Farewell

Can AI replace teachers? Would students benefit? Should classical schools -- great books curricula -- use AI?  I tried very hard to get Dr. Grant Havers into trouble in this episode. But he was too smart to say anything that would offend school administrators. Instead of picking a side in the pro- vs anti-AI debate, Dr. Havers worked to bring out issues and objectives. If we trust AI to think for us, what does that say about our own ability to think? This debate will continue to invade every knowledge-based profession over the next few years. Maybe we will all be retraining as plumbers and electricians? Looking forward to hearing what you think! Thanks again, Shawn   Chapters and AI summary   Host Shawn Whatley interviews Professor Grant Havers, chair of Philosophy at Trinity Western University and author of The Medium Is Still the Message, about AI’s role in education, especially in Great Books and classical Christian settings. Havers argues educators must study and discuss AI because media create “invisible environments” that reshape minds beyond intended uses, while warning against introducing AI into classrooms or outsourcing intellectual tasks like summarizing Plato. He questions why teachers would trust AI to write emails or handle routine work, suggesting it reflects a questionable belief that AI “thinks” better than humans, and distinguishes information processing from intelligence, intuition, and creativity. Framing AI as a new version of Plato’s cave, he calls for renewed emphasis on dialogue-based education, responsibility for beliefs, and awareness of technology’s addictive, idolatrous pull, while noting AI’s rapid real-time effects, including concerns about autonomous weapons in war. 00:00 AI in Education Today 00:42 Meet the Guest 03:22 Why Schools Want AI 05:09 Medium Shapes Minds 06:55 Outsourcing Thinking 11:02 AI as the New Cave 13:34 Mundane Tasks Debate 21:55 Addiction and Tradeoffs 23:42 Study Tech to Resist 27:02 Print Culture and Tropos 28:42 Medium Shapes the Mind 31:31 Intellectual Virtue and Soul 33:30 Left Brain Right Brain Limits 37:26 Reviving Dialogue Education 40:09 AI Empathy and Truth Seeking 43:30 Poison Books and Paradox 47:10 Idolatry Addiction and Narcissus 50:09 Hopeful Outlook and AI War 52:39 Book Wrap Up and Farewell

Dr. Paul Gottfried packages his writing in dynamite and grit. He uses an academic style which is now almost extinct on the political right. No one tries to provoke in order to make a point anymore. The Left still uses it all the time, but not the Right. You cannot listen to Gottfried with modern antennae tuned to gasp at every offence. If you do, you will miss the impact of his next three punches. I lack the courage to match Gottfried's approach. I'd like to think it's because he's old enough to not care anymore, but he was doing the same things 30 years ago. Perhaps he's spent so much time reading historical writers that he adopted their approach? Whatever the means and ways of Dr. Gottfried, you really need to know about his thought and content.  Books discussed: After Liberalism: Mass Democracy in the Managerial State The Essential Paul Gottfried: Essays from 1984-2024 Multiculturalism and the Politics of Guilt   Let me know what you think! Thanks again, Shawn   Chapters and AI summary: Host Shawn Whatley interviews Dr. Paul Gottfried, editor-in-chief of Chronicles Magazine, about his claim that “liberal democracy” no longer exists and functions as a self-justifying label for the welfare/managerial state and its hegemonic class. Gottfried argues liberalism was a 19th-century bourgeois worldview favoring constitutional limits, civil society, markets, property, nation-states, and restricted suffrage, and that it largely died in the early 20th century as mass democracy and collectivist ideologies replaced it. He critiques Straussian influence on U.S. conservatism, rejects natural rights as a fiction rooted in communities, and disputes claims that progressivism was imported from German philosophy. Discussing Carl Schmitt, he emphasizes intensifying friend–enemy conflict and collapsing common ground, calling the U.S. Constitution’s original design effectively a “dead letter” absent a supporting cultural tropos. He also promotes Chronicles’ 50th anniversary dinner at the Willard Hotel on April 9. 00:00 Does Liberal Democracy Exist 00:43 Meet Paul Gottfried 05:30 Lukacs Quote And Thesis 07:22 Mass Democracy And Welfare State 11:06 Defining 19th Century Liberalism 13:57 Liberalism Family And Stability 17:27 Roots From Greeks To Hegel 19:45 Strauss And The Neocons 22:55 Jaffa Marini And Natural Right 26:42 Grant And Universal State 29:08 Conservatism Incorporated Critique 33:12 Provocation And Dead Letter Constitution 33:45 Constitution Under Threat 34:34 Original Design vs Judges 35:24 Tropos and Postliberal Age 36:59 Protestant Roots of Republicanism 41:38 Welfare State and State Churches 47:34 Schmitt and Friend Enemy Politics 53:24 Managerial State and Control 55:53 Universalism vs Particularism 01:01:30 Closing Reflections and Plugs

Sam Duncan has worked in government for Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Ontario Premier Doug Ford. He is current VP at Wellington Advocacy. We discuss a powerful article Sam wrote titled: Toward a conservative counter-elite. Sam's article almost has enough content to outline a whole book. He diagnosed Canada's problems, uncovers the causes, and offers a detailed list of almost a dozen solutions. I was able to press Sam on managerialism and the tendency for Conservatives to act like Liberal professional managers when in power. This is something I haven't sorted for myself: How do we fix things without becoming managerialist ourselves? Sam is eloquent and very good on his feet. Let me know what you think! Thanks so much for listening. Shawn   Chapters and AI Summary Host Shawn Whatley welcomes Sam Duncan, VP at Wellington Advocacy and former advisor to Doug Ford and Stephen Harper, to discuss Duncan’s article “Toward a Conservative Counter Elite.” They argue Canadian conservatism lacks an emotional narrative and compelling national story, while politics often operates as a “uniparty” with small philosophical differences under liberal frameworks. Duncan reflects on conservatives’ failure to translate electoral success into lasting policy and cultural change and calls for developing a conservative counter-elite by reforming institutions that recruit and train leaders, rather than being merely anti-elite. The conversation covers populism, the need for unifying myths after the collapse of British identity, the impact of Pierre Elliott Trudeau’s post-national multicultural vision, strengthening families and communities, the limits of managerialism, and building think tanks and long-term idea ecosystems to pressure politicians and sustain reforms. 00:00 What Conservatism Lacks 00:47 Show Intro and Guest 03:26 Why Write Counter Elite 05:42 Uniparty Explained 09:23 Populism Without Winning 12:38 Narrative Versus Demagoguery 15:56 Canada’s Missing Myth 20:25 Elites Formed Constrained Empowered 25:51 Selection and Institutional Coding 31:20 Beyond Policy Tweaks 32:12 Family First Principles 34:39 Daycare State Alternatives 36:13 Property Owning Democracy 38:01 Massey Commission Today 40:25 Building Conservative Institutions 43:34 Reforms That Stick 46:58 Politics Is Contest 49:38 Winning Versus Ideas 55:21 Managerialism And COVID 56:53 Public Service Renewal 01:02:55 Generational Conservative Shift 01:05:00 Tropos And Regime Roots 01:06:58 Closing Reflections

Professor Barry Cooper is an Albertan. This fact transcends location. It speaks to a prairie self-understanding, a prairie myth, that stands apart and distinct from the Laurentian myth. For example, Cooper says bilingual Canada is a "huge myth outside Laurentian Canada." Professor Cooper argues that George Grant did not understand the prairie mindset. He was a Laurentian, and as such, Grant was clueless about Alberta. He reflects the Garrison mindset of the Laurentians: Alberta is a place you go to get stuff. Cooper thinks Alberta independence is an inevitability. He cannot see any way to meld the two myths (mythoi) together. They are chalk and cheese. We touch on education, technology, and political ideologies. Professor Cooper promotes a non-ideological stance. Perhaps in the future we can tackle whether this is even possible. It seems to assume a fact-value distinction, value relativism, which assumes what it seeks to avoid. But again, we will have to pursue this another day. Professor Cooper points us to prairie history written by historians who actually understand the west. Stop reading only history written by Laurentians who do not understand their subject. Barry Cooper's influence on Canadian political thought has been huge. Don't miss this episode! Looking forward to hearing what you think. Thanks again! Shawn     Chapters and AI summary Host Shawn Whatley interviews political scientist Barry Cooper, a fourth-generation Albertan and senior fellow at the Frontier Centre, about how technology shapes consciousness (“technology is its use”), the impact of screens and AI, and why we often misunderstand technology as something we control. Cooper contrasts a Laurentian “garrison mentality” with a Western pioneer mindset, arguing that central Canada misunderstands Western Canada—a gap he says even George Grant exemplified despite Cooper’s friendly acquaintance with him. They discuss myth as a lived self-understanding, Canada’s east–west versus north–south alignments, COVID-era authoritarian responses, and Cooper’s view that Canada is not truly bilingual outside parts of Ontario and Quebec. Cooper concludes Alberta independence is “not if, but when,” unless central Canada addresses core policy grievances like pipelines and transfer payments. 00:00 Tech Shapes Us 00:34 Alberta Independence Myths 01:13 Meet Barry Cooper 05:38 George Grant And The West 08:04 Prairie Experience Vs Laurentian Vision 13:42 How Cooper Was Educated 17:15 From Farmers To Thinkers 18:40 Teaching Ideology And Wokeness 22:56 Technology Is Its Use 27:42 Myth And The West As Resource 28:57 Myth and Selfhood 31:22 Prairie Pioneer Mindset 32:56 Pipelines and Leverage 37:14 Garrison COVID Politics 40:41 Reading the West 41:56 Bilingualism Myth 47:13 Alberta Future and Independence 49:07 Beyond Left Right Labels 51:46 Local Historians and Wrap Up

Ron Dart seems to embody generosity. It's hard to find a hard edge in him. Even when he states an opinion strongly, he always works to understand your side of the issue.  Ron and I approach things from different angles, but we both try to embody the same method. Of course, his is far more honed and nuanced, educated and articulate. But I think our conversations reflect a genuine desire to understand -- attentive listening as Professor Dart calls it. This episode gets into questions we all need to ask about Canada, what holds us together, and what is our understanding of first principles. Please tell me what you think of it! Thanks so much for listening. Shawn   Chapters and AI summary Host Shawn Whatley interviews Professor Ron Dart about why philosophy is needed today and how Canada sought a post–World War II cultural identity through the Massey Commission (1948–1951), commissioned by Prime Minister Louis St. Laurent. They discuss the report’s emphasis on national “intangibles,” unity in the realm of ideas, and George Grant’s controversial philosophy submission, requested by his uncle Vincent Massey, which argued philosophy is not a technique but a wisdom-seeking discipline that must avoid becoming purely negative skepticism and must relate scientific and technical knowledge to moral and spiritual questions. Dart recounts Grant’s clashes with U of T’s Fulbert Anderson, Grant’s resignation from York University over curricular control, and how this led to Grant’s role in founding McMaster’s interdisciplinary Religious Studies program. They also explore contemplative vs. active life, faith as a human issue, limits of rationalism, and Sophocles’ Antigone as a warning about rigid polarization. 00:00 Why Philosophy Now 00:30 Meet Ron Dart 01:22 Massey Report Origins 03:27 Canada Identity After War 06:26 Key Massey Quotes 08:08 Visionary or Postmortem 12:12 Grant vs York University 18:28 Conscience and Aftermath 22:49 Baptists and Classics at Mac 25:19 Grant on Faith and Technique 28:03 Vita Activa vs Contemplation 3 5:40 Not Knowing and Faith 40:43 Polanyi and Tacit Knowledge 42:06 Bayes and Uncertainty 43:08 Defeasible Warrant 43:36 Nietzsche Apollo Dionysus 46:12 Limits of Rationalism 48:52 Grant and Bacon Nuance 50:25 Philosophy Not Cumulative 53:12 Against Chronological Snobbery 55:40 Catholicity of Traditions 01:00:02 Antigone and Culture Wars 01:03:28 Frozen Reason Tragedy 01:07:32 Choosing Sides Carefully 01:13:00 Aeschylus and the Enemy 01:14:52 Tightrope of Tensions 01:17:40 Concluding Reflections

Mia Hughes has no qualms about saying the Emperor has no clothes. She says what the rest of us cannot say, because we must stay within the boundaries of what our licences require. Transgender medicine strikes at the core of what medicine is; at what it means to care for patients. Should doctors do whatever patients want, or should doctors do whatever saves life and limb? There could not be a greater debate.  Should technology determine what we can and should do or should technology submit to something else? Powerful, powerful discussion.  Please take a moment to absorb it. Reflect. Tell me what you think. Thank you so much for listening! Shawn https://genspect.org/international/genspect-canada/ https://nationalpost.com/opinion/shawn-whatley-doctors-have-gone-silent-on-gender-dysphoria-thats-not-good-for-patients     Chapters and AI summary: Host Shawn Whatley interviews Mia Hughes, director of Genspect Canada, about what she calls the ideology-driven culture of gender medicine and her reporting on leaked internal WPATH communications (“WPATH files”). Hughes describes WPATH’s evolution from the Harry Benjamin International Gender Dysphoria Association into an activist-influenced organization, arguing its guiding principle became “de-psychopathologization,” prioritizing patient autonomy and access to hormones and surgeries over evidence and clinical safeguards. They debate medical ethics, consumerist medicine, differential diagnosis, and how harm should be defined, including comparisons to anorexia and apotemnophilia. Hughes presents her framework of transgender identification as an “extreme overvalued belief,” criticizes self-report outcomes as proof of benefit, and discusses detransition experiences. The episode ends with her account of confronting evidence-based medicine pioneer Gordon Guyatt over McMaster’s statement calling pediatric gender interventions “medically necessary.” 00:00 What Guides Gender Medicine 00:34 Meet Mia Hughes 05:52 Courage and Whistleblowing 07:14 Inside the WPATH Files 12:57 How WPATH Changed 15:19 Activism Takes Over 19:41 Devils Advocate Ethics 23:10 Overvalued Idea Theory 29:23 Contagion and Guardrails 31:52 Measuring Success and Harm 36:29 Evidence Limits and Harm Redefined 39:32 Paraphilias and Body Fixation 40:22 Patient Blackmail Ethics 41:08 Consumer Medicine Debate 43:00 Gender Care Lifesaving Claim 46:44 Liberalism Versus Medical Limits 49:57 Detransition And Overvalued Belief 54:40 Demanding Differential Diagnosis 56:46 Repathologizing And Root Causes 01:03:52 Gordon Guyatt Controversy 01:11:50 What We Missed And Wrap

Professor von Heyking just left Lethbridge Alberta and moved to Arizona to help lead the Civics program at ASU. Our discussion pivoted around differences between USA and Canada, civics education, and how constitutions differ on each side of the border. This episode ran more like a visit between friends. We jumped between topics too much, laughed too much, and were probably too open about our opinions.  In my opinion, this is precisely when magic happens.   Check out the ASU homepage. And here's a piece John wrote for The Hub: Canada’s universities are failing to provide proper civic education. Here’s how Alberta can correct course Thanks again for listening! Shawn   Chapters and AI summary Host Shawn Whatley interviews Professor John von Heyking, now associate director and professor at Arizona State University’s School of Civic and Economic Thought and Leadership, about its legislature-initiated mission to address America’s civic literacy and viewpoint-diversity gaps through teaching classics (Plato, Aristotle), constitutionalism, and political history while maintaining academic freedom. They discuss differences between American and Canadian political systems, including Westminster party government, responsible government, confidence, and Bagehot’s “dignified” vs “efficient” constitution, contrasting with U.S. separation of powers and elections as key “venting points” for civic efficacy. The conversation ranges over written vs unwritten constitutional “preludes,” the Declaration’s “self-evident” truths, the moral warrant for dignity, and debates over liberalism’s meaning and origins. Von Heyking argues CBC portrayals are misleading and that America is not a fascist state, noting more Canadians move to the U.S. than vice versa. 00:00 Is America Great? 00:57 Meet John von Heyking 04:17 Inside ASU Civics School 07:50 Funding and Legislature Support 10:14 Academic Freedom and Curriculum 11:35 Student Demand and Recruiting 14:36 Wokeness and Civics Funding 19:32 Patriotism and Civic Efficacy 24:29 Bagehot and Parliament Debate 30:05 Cabinet Government Metaphors 33:18 Responsible Government Touching Power 35:57 Westminster Boot Versus Impeachment 38:14 Written and Unwritten Constitutions 43:18 Self Evident Truths and Equality 48:29 Warrant Dignity and Christian Roots 54:19 Walsh Liberalism and Its Origins 01:00:52 Media Myths and Closing Thoughts

Do ideas determine elections? Or should we forget about ideas and focus on issues? Dan Pitt has experience with both theory and practice. He teaches and writes books about political theory. And he's been involved with several election campaigns, including serving as a candidate in a recent by-election. Power rests with ideas. Unless we shape ideas, forming government can mean you are simply in office but out of power. Check out Dan's book he co-edited with Ferenc Hörcher: Intellectual Conservatism from Burke to Scruton And tell me what you think of this episode! Thanks again, Shawn Chapters and AI summary Host Shawn Whatley welcomes back Professor Dan Pitt, a research fellow at the University of Buckingham and member of the Centre for Heterodox Social Science, to discuss bridging political theory and practice. Pitt reflects on a busy 2025—publishing articles, promoting his book Intellectual Conservatism (from Burke to Scruton), running as a Conservative candidate in the Long Eaton North council by-election (finishing second, 23 votes behind after starting third), and welcoming a newborn daughter, Marigold. The conversation centers on Pitt’s argument that conservatives must fight on both the intellectual/cultural level and the practical electoral level, because losing the battle of ideas leads to losing elections (“in office but not in power”). They discuss his campaign slogan—sound economics, cultural revival, and flourishing local communities—and how these themes connected with voters through everyday concerns like household budgeting, passing culture to children, and strengthening local “little platoons.” Whatley and Pitt explore the tension between conservatism and the Conservative Party, including the idea that conservatism is broader than party politics (cultural, theological, and rooted in views of human nature) and that the British Conservative Party contains a liberal strand due to historical mergers, meaning it is never purely conservative. Pitt rejects the claim that conservatism is simply liberalism, arguing that liberalism itself is diverse and that conservatism and liberalism have influenced each other while remaining distinct in views of the person, knowledge, markets, law, and custom. They discuss Stanley Baldwin’s legacy—his unifying “one nation” vision, his Christian-inflected rhetoric, his electoral success, and his emphasis on national greatness and social cohesion—along with questions of assimilation, multiculturalism, and how to build unity through education, shared history, heroes, and a national story that invites newcomers without erasing their identities. Pitt also addresses conservative views of property as responsibility, identity, and character-building, Baldwin’s approach to industrial relations aligning labor and capital, and Baldwin’s anonymous voluntary financial contribution to help pay war debt. The episode closes with Pitt on gratitude, the challenge of criticizing government policy without repudiating one’s country or people, and a preview of his upcoming June book, The Conservative Party in the Constitution (Manchester University Press), covering topics from local government and devolution to Northern Ireland and the constitutional outlook up to Rishi Sunak. 00:00 Do Ideas Still Matter? Culture, Politics, and ‘In Office but Not in Power’ 00:43 Meet Professor Dan Pitt: Book, Baby, and a Run for Office 04:35 Why ‘Intellectual Conservatism’ Tries to Bridge Theory and Practice 06:41 Two-Level Politics: Winning Elections vs Winning the Battle of Ideas 09:42 Doorstep Conservatism: Sound Economics, Cultural Revival, Local Flourishing 12:57 Conservatism vs the Conservative Party: Untangling Big-C and small-c 17:36 Is Conservatism Just Liberalism? Where They Overlap—and Where They Don’t 22:31 New Conservatism & Stanley Baldwin: One Nation, Unity, and National Greatness 29:08 Christian Politics Today: Unity in a More Secular Age 31:04 Baldwin’s Big Tent: Courting Methodists & the Non‑Conformist Vote 32:11 Electoral Machine: How Baldwin Built Landslides (and Beat Thatcher’s Swing) 33:12 Multiculturalism & the Challenge of a Shared National Story 35:18 Assimilation Through Education: Rebuilding Roots, Heroes, and Civic Belonging 39:57 Optimism, Tradition, and the ‘Tory Hope’ for the Future 44:02 Why Property Matters: Duty, Identity, and the Conservative Case for Ownership 47:37 Baldwin’s Industrial Relations: Aligning Capital & Labor + Anonymous Patriotism 51:28 Is Conservatism Just Class Interest? Debunking the ‘Party of the Rich’ Myth 56:13 What Keeps Him Up at Night: Gratitude, Ambition, and Criticizing Without Repudiating 01:00:29 Wrap-Up & What’s Next: The New Book on the Conservative Party and the Constitution

We return to a persistent challenge for conservatives. What do we do with intellectuals? Can politicians trust them? What role, if any, do intellectuals play in conservative politics? Dr. Ferenc Hörcher argues that intellectuals have a different job than politicians, but each can benefit from the other. In the ideal case, intellectuals avoid telling politicians what do, and politicians foster an appetite for intellectual discourse.  We return to a discussion about Intellectual Conservatism: From Burke to Scruton, a book he co-edited with Daniel Pitt. It's priced as an academic book, but anyone interested in political thought and history would benefit from it. Ferenc displays the best of what it means to be an intellectual conservative: openness, generosity, humour, breadth of interest, nuance, and much more.  Looking forward to hearing what you think! Thanks again, Shawn Chapters and AI summary Host Shawn Whatley welcomes back Dr. Ferenc Hörcher, head of the Research Institute for Politics and Government at Ludovika University of Public Service in Hungary and senior research fellow at the Institute of Philosophy of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, to discuss Intellectual Conservatism: From Burke to Scruton, a book he co-edited with Daniel Pitt. Hörcher explains why political conservatives often fear intellectuals, citing 20th-century examples of intellectuals introducing destructive ideas into politics, but argues for a division of labor: politicians govern while intellectual conservatives think about politics and provide long-term perspective. The conversation emphasizes the book’s practical focus and its intellectual-historical narrative of Anglo-American conservatism, and Hörcher argues conservatives need not fear classical liberalism, since Anglo-American conservatism reacts to liberalism while retaining respect for its core achievements such as individual liberty and constitutional traditions. Drawing on his experience growing up in communist Hungary and gaining freedom in 1990, Hörcher says he values the West’s non-communist traditions—including liberalism, Christian democracy, and democratic socialism—and rejects culture-war framing in favor of prudential problem-solving on issues like education, migration, climate, and demography. They discuss Oakeshott’s critique of rationalist planning and the post-liberal debate (including British political theology strands and American figures like Patrick Deneen and Adrian Vermeule), with Hörcher expressing doubts about post-liberalism as a political solution while affirming liberal institutional achievements such as rule of law, free speech, and academic freedom. Hörcher distinguishes liberal and conservative individualism by stressing community, responsibility, and the fragility of freedom; he connects property ownership and markets to moral formation, describing Thatcher’s project as moral rather than merely economic and arguing market exchange is inherently personal and bound up with dignity, trust, and responsibility. In closing, Hörcher says politics must be approached with awareness of human mortality and highlights Roger Scruton’s later emphasis on “oikophilia,” love of home, urging civic participation, care for local communities, and sustaining Western culture through civility. 00:00 Are Conservatives Afraid of Intellectuals? (Cold Open) 00:38 Meet Dr. Ferenc Hörcher + What This Episode Covers 04:29 Host’s Big Question: Is Conservatism ‘For’ or ‘Against’ Things? 06:35 Why ‘Intellectual Conservatism’ Matters: Division of Labor with Politicians 11:20 Why Leaders Should Read: Long-Term Perspective vs. Media Politics 15:50 Conservatism & Liberalism as Shared Anglo-American Political Culture 17:55 Coalitions, the ‘Non-Left,’ and the Postliberal Challenge 20:30 Hörcher’s Central European Lens: Freedom After Communism 26:47 Pivot to Oakeshott: Rationalism, Planning, and Political Opponents 31:18 When Liberalism Shifts: Utopianism, Equality, and the Return of ‘Planners’ 34:34 Philip Blond on Universalism: Liberalism as the West’s New ‘Universal’ 35:55 Post-Liberalism as Political Theology: Faith, Secularism, and Liberalism’s Roots 39:23 Is John Gray a Post-Liberal? Zigzags, British vs. American Currents, and a New Wave of Books 42:27 What Post-Liberals Actually Critique: Defending Liberal Institutions While Reviving Virtue 48:30 Conservative vs. Liberal Individualism: Community, Fragility of Freedom, and Responsibility 55:48 Property, Markets, and Moral Formation: Thatcher, the Middle Class, and Stewardship Across Generations 01:04:50 Dignity, Trust, and Exchange: From Healthcare to Why Humans Aren’t Machines (or AI) 01:10:23 Final Reflection: Mortality, Scruton’s ‘Oikophilia,’ and Civility Through Local Participation

Franco Terrazzano knows taxes. As Director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, he's the one in front of media calling on government for accountability on tax spending. But behind the pizzaz lies a deep thinker. Franco loves the nerdy arguments buried in books few people read. They inform his tirades on social media. So don't be fooled, he's not just a talking head. I kept trying to pull our discussion into the ideas behind the nonsense. However, Franco's outrageous examples of waste make ideas seem irrelevant. How can we even get to a theoretical discussion given so many examples of taxation lunacy?  Be sure to check out The Canadian Taxpayers Federation and Franco's new book: Axing the Tax-The rise and fall of Canada's carbon tax.  Chapters and AI summary: Unveiling the Hidden Costs: A Deep Dive into Canadian Taxes with Franco Terrazzano In this episode of Concepts with Shawn Whatley, Franco Terrazzano, the director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation and author of 'Axing the Tax,' delves into the intricate world of Canadian taxation. Terrazzano discusses why taxes are a significant issue for the average Canadian family, far beyond just the financial burden. The conversation touches on wasteful government spending, the philosophy behind taxation, and the accountability (or lack thereof) in how tax dollars are spent. Together, they explore examples of extravagant expenditures by the government, the role of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, potential tax reforms, and the deeper ideological considerations behind tax policies. The episode also offers insights into the broader implications of government intervention in various sectors, emphasizing the need for prudence and accountability. 00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Taxes 00:17 Meet Franco Terrazzano: Tax Expert and Advocate 02:25 Highlighting Government Waste 05:19 The Role and Achievements of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation 08:13 Debating the Nature of Taxation 13:04 Government Spending and Accountability 15:13 Historical Context and Current Challenges 23:39 Legal Battles and Victories 26:09 Philosophical Underpinnings and Influences 29:14 Introduction to Professor Flanagan and Canadian Taxpayers Federation 30:41 Balancing Seriousness with Humor in Advocacy 32:50 Healthcare and Government Spending Issues 37:01 Central Planning and Economic Policies 40:10 Taxation and Government Accountability 52:36 Personal Reflections and Final Thoughts

Barry Bussey has spent decades thinking about freedom and working around the legal edges of it. Most people don't think about freedom until it's compromised. Barry thinks about it all the time. Canada has led the world as a test case on the limits of freedom with our MAiD (euthanasia) legislation, approach to COVID, and the Emergency Measure's Act. These are complex legal issues. I always learn something when I talk with Barry. Let me know what you think of this episode! Thanks again for listening. Shawn 210 degrees Celsius: 16 ways the truckers ignited Canada for the long haul First Freedoms Foundation   Chapters and AI summary: Essential Conversations on Freedom and its Limits with Barry Bussey In this enlightening episode, host Shawn Whatley welcomes Barry Bussey, a prominent lawyer and founder of the First Freedoms Foundation, to discuss the intricacies of freedom and its limits. The dialogue spans a broad array of topics, including the role of courts and legislatures in determining freedoms, the history and influence of Canada's Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and the impact of governmental and bureaucratic decisions on personal liberties. Barry shares insights from his recent book on the Freedom Convoy of 2022, reflecting on the societal implications of enforced mandates and the essential freedoms of speech, religion, and personal security. They also delve into the philosophical foundations of freedom, trace its historical evolution, and discuss potential future threats, including the rise of artificial intelligence and digital control. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the delicate balance between freedom and governance. 00:00 Introduction: Exploring the Limits of Freedom 00:48 Historical Context and Legal Foundations 01:14 Meet Barry Bussey: Advocate for Freedom 03:12 Founding the First Freedoms Foundation 07:56 Challenges and Achievements of the Foundation 13:30 The Role of Judges and Legislatures in Defining Freedom 24:05 The Charter and Its Implications 30:17 The Common Law Tradition and Human Rights 36:29 The Power of Courts and Euthanasia Debate 38:30 Judicial Oversight and Executive Power 41:09 The Emergencies Act and Government Authority 44:49 The Role of Bureaucracy and Executive Decisions 46:14 Introducing the Book: 210 Degrees Celsius 48:27 The Trucker Convoy and Government Mandates 54:15 Reflections on the COVID-19 Pandemic 58:19 Concerns About Artificial Intelligence and Future Freedoms 01:04:19 The Importance of Physical Books in the Digital Age

Barbara Kay has written professionally about issues on the non left since the 1960s. We might want to say she had a 'front-row seat', but that would be wrong. Her writing went beyond simple observation. She helped shape conservative opinion in Canada for half a century. Barb wrote a piece on Norman Podhoretz, when he passed in December. She mentions reading everything he had ever written: books and articles; editorials in his role as senior editor of Commentary Magazine, everything. Podhoretz was one of the brilliant Jews from New York who left the 1960's liberalism and discovered conservatism. Irving Kristol, the 'godfather of neoconservatism', said neoconservatives were "liberals who have been mugged by reality." Of course, most neocons weren't Jews; they included a broad swath of Catholic and Protestant thinkers. But the Jews stood out, in part, because they brought their bellicose, New York attitude into right-wing politics. They applied revolutionary zeal from their former communist and Trotskyite experience to conservatism. They transformed the old conservatism of the American Republican party into something new in North America: neoconservatism. After the Iraq war, neoconservatism became a term of derision. It became re-interpreted as nothing but a blend of zionism -- Christian and Jewish -- with hawkish foreign policy.  This redefinition was a profound mistake. It dismisses a whole political mindset, while at the same time shielding it from serious discussion. Like so many other words silenced by political correctness, neoconservatism can no longer be critiqued for its strengths and weaknesses. We need to celebrate the brilliance of Podhoretz and Irving Kristol, while also critiquing where neoconservatism failed. Neoconservative thought remains a central part, perhaps even the embodiment, of modern political conservative opinion. If we want to understand how best to apply conservatism to current issues, we need to dig deep into the neocon mindset. Please let me know what you think! Barbara Kay: 60 years ago, Norman Podhoretz's writing led me to conservatism   AI Summary  In this episode, Shawn Whatley engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Barbara Kay, a renowned columnist and author. They delve into the origins, evolution, and nuances of neoconservatism, exploring the influential works of Norman Podhoretz and Irving Kristol. Barbara shares her insights on conservatism, its philosophical underpinnings, and its enduring relevance in today's political landscape. They also touch on various contentious issues such as the limitations of human nature, the impact of anti-Americanism, and the evolution of liberalism. Tune in for a deep dive into the intellectual journey that shapes conservative thought. 00:00 Introduction to Neoconservatism 00:09 Defining Conservatism and Classical Liberalism 01:32 Meet Barbara Kay 01:40 Norman Podhoretz: A Legacy in Neoconservatism 02:10 The Jewish Connection to Neoconservatism 02:54 Barbara Kay's Tribute to Norman Podhoretz 05:27 Podhoretz's Intellectual Journey 07:32 The Role of Intellectuals in Conservatism 10:14 Neoconservatism and Universalism 17:32 The Balance Between Universalism and Particularism 32:02 The Importance of Moral Clarity 36:54 Modern Neoconservatism and Its Challenges 39:10 The Banality of Evil and Rationalization 40:29 Calvinism and the Rejection of Scholasticism 41:38 Jewish Perspectives on Evil 43:01 Conservatism and Human Nature 48:38 Neoconservatism and Its Critiques 01:06:04 The Role of Education in Society 01:10:18 Concluding Thoughts on Conservatism and Hope

Prime Minister Mark Carney's Davos speech made liberals swoon and conservatives nod in admiration. Are the accolades warranted? Or are we being fooled by eloquence? I couldn't resist recording something about The Speech. In this episode I offer three big points: 1. Carney appears to use a sycophantic foreign policy strategy. Is it rational? Will it work? 2. Carney appropriates brilliance to serve his own ends. Is that fair or justified? 3. The speech itself is confused. Do the speech writers understand how liberalism and marxism are both siblings of the Enlightenment? Canada is in a better place with a more intelligent, less narcissistic leader. However, we should worry when our PM strikes alliances with a sworn enemy of our closest neighbour. Let me know what you think! Cheers   My Patreon   AI summary and chapters:   In this episode of Concepts, Shawn Whatley critically examines Mark Carney's recent speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Whatley highlights Carney's inconsistent foreign policy positions, eloquence devoid of genuine understanding, and a fundamental confusion born out of Enlightenment principles. Through three main points—Carney's sycophantic behavior, the content, and the inherent contradictions in his speech—Whatley unpacks why Carney's approach is problematic. Join the conversation and explore the complexities behind Carney's ideas and their implications. 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:34 Foreign Policy Critique 03:00 Analyzing the Speech 05:44 Fundamental Confusion and Enlightenment 11:28 Conclusion and Call to Action

Cole Hogan is a political strategist who played key roles in the elections of Premier Doug Ford and Premier Jason Kenney. He's a student of Canadian politics past and present and frequent pundit on major media outlets in Canada. Cole explains how Pierre Elliott Trudeau focussed on reshaping Canada. Economic issues seemed to bore him. PE Trudeau reshaped the Canadian constitution in his own image in the 1980s. Conservatives have been off balance ever since. Having lost ceded the platform to Trudeau's priors, conservatives have tried to argue within the framework Trudeau built.  A new, younger batch of conservatives want to change the framework. They are tired of losing by rules set by the opposing team. They want to play offence.  Cole explains how the New Right wants conservatives to win on culture, national identity, and social concerns, not just pocket-book issues. He calls younger voters to get involved. "Participation is a solution in itself," he says. Whether you agree with Hogan or not, you have to admit conservatism is changing shape in Canada. Fascinating to see what emerges! Check out Cole's articles and website below. And remember, Patreon members get to see the content a bit early. I respond to comments there first. (Everything is free, but you need to subscribe). Thanks for checking this out! Shawn   If conservatives shun Canada’s institutions, how can we possibly reform them? Red Tory? Blue Liberal? These terms mean nothing anymore The right can no longer hide from Pierre Trudeau's legacy   ColeHogan.ca   Summary + Chapters (AI) Dive into the world of Canadian politics with Shawn Whatley and guest Cole Hogan, a political strategist and communications expert. This episode explores the lasting impact of Pierre Elliot Trudeau on Canada's identity, the challenges faced by the conservative movement, and the necessity of engaging with national institutions. Learn about the significance of participation in politics and the evolving landscape of Canadian conservatism. Discover why young Canadians are crucial to shaping the future and how the conservative movement can navigate contemporary social and cultural issues, shedding light on the importance of being involved and informed. 00:00 Introduction to Pierre Elliot Trudeau's Impact on Canadian Politics 00:21 Guest Introduction: Cole Hogan 00:33 The Conservative Movement and Trudeau's Legacy 01:51 The Right's Shift in Focus: From Economics to Social Issues 03:22 The Charter of Rights and Freedoms: A Defining Document 04:40 Conservative Strategies and Historical Context 10:43 The Role of Canadian Institutions and Young Conservatives 19:21 Challenges and Opportunities for Young Conservatives 23:24 Encouraging Civic Participation 27:28 Getting Involved in Civic Committees 29:41 Conservative Perspectives on Policy 30:41 Challenges of Federal Programs 32:10 Humility in Policy Making 35:50 The Role of Opposition in Governance 40:05 Red Tory vs. Blue Tory 44:19 Engaging the Public in Politics 50:28 The Impact of the Pandemic on Trust in Government

JJ McCullough offers a window into Canada. JJ keeps his 1 million followers front of mind. He speaks so they will understand. He focusses on what matters to them. In that sense, JJ is a better politician than many politicians: he never forgets his constituency. Don't be fooled by JJ's high-energy, youthful style. He puts a ton of research into his videos.  The non left needs to pay attention when JJ speaks. You don't have to agree with him! In fact, JJ makes of point of raising things that will provoke discussion and (some) disagreement. He's the guy at the parade shouting about the Emperor's clothes. JJ has strong opinions on the monarchy. His comments about the governor general were especially good, I thought. He didn't convince me that we should abandon the monarchy in Canada, but he did make me think. What I appreciate most about JJ is his willingness to have a conversation.    JJ's YouTube Channel  Canada's Constitution is Weird   AI summary: Join Shawn Whatley and popular YouTuber JJ McCullough as they tackle the controversial topic of the monarchy's relevance in Canada. JJ shares his strong opinions on the monarchy, arguing that it has long been irrelevant to most Canadians, including conservatives. They explore the role of the Governor General, the monarchy's symbolic nature, and its political implications. In addition to the monarchy debate, the discussion spans various cultural and political issues, including American interventionism, immigration, and the complexities of gender and identity politics. With JJ's energetic communication style and deep research, this episode promises to be both thought-provoking and engaging. Don't miss out on this intellectual exchange—hit like and subscribe! 00:00 Introduction: The Relevance of the Monarchy in Canada 00:25 Meet JJ McCullough: YouTuber and Political Pundit 02:01 Debating the Monarchy's Role in Canada 04:55 The Symbolism and Perception of the Monarchy 09:44 The Governor General's Role and Public Perception 16:00 Comparing Canadian and American Views on Monarchy 21:13 The Future of the Monarchy in Canada 25:59 Pivot to Global Politics: Venezuela and Trump 32:29 Defining Conservatism vs. Right-Wing Politics 33:02 Trump's Foreign Policy and American Power 35:32 Liberal Media and Trump's Stance on Ukraine 36:57 Domestic Politics Influencing Foreign Policy 43:12 Cultural Debates: Neutrality vs. Activism 49:50 Advice for the Conservative Party 58:22 Trans Rights and Political Challenges 01:02:19 Concerns About Anti-Americanism in Canada 01:05:03 Final Thoughts and Appreciations

This episode was a breakthrough for me. Conservatism is the mediation between the universal and the particular. I know this sounds nerdy, but I think this is an essential challenge that thinkers on the non-left must work through. We believe that some truths are true everywhere, all the time, but that does not that mean, as liberalism asserts, that truth is true everywhere all the time in all places. Are there truths that are only true in a particular place and time? Does it make us relativist post-moderns to entertain such heresy? Using Dr. Geddert's notion of 'mediation between the universal and particular', conservatism offers a path to sanity between the two extremes. I hope you find this episode as helpful as I did. Yes, we have some truths that are universal, for example, humans have inherent dignity wherever we find them. AND we have some truths that are particular, for example, common law works well in the Anglosphere, but we shouldn't expect it to work well in other places. I hope you find this episode as useful as I did! Please let me know what you think. Thanks again for tuning in! Shawn   Article: Liberty without liberalism    AI summary:   In this episode of Concepts, host Shawn Whatley discusses the tension between universalism and particularism in politics with guest Jeremy Geddert, an associate professor of political science. Geddert explains how conservatism uniquely mediates between these two extremes, avoiding the pitfalls of both left and right liberalism as well as Schmidttian Postmodernism. They explore themes such as the historical roots of Canadian and American political philosophies, the concept of political technology, the role of virtue in politics, and the importance of acknowledging our inherited traditions. Geddert also highlights insights from his upcoming article 'Liberty Without Liberalism' and shares his views on the influence of enlightenment liberalism and modernity. This episode provides a deep dive into the philosophical underpinnings of conservatism, offering valuable perspectives on contemporary political debates. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and support on Patreon! 00:00 Introduction: The Universal vs. The Particular in Politics 01:04 Guest Introduction: Meet Jeremy Geddert 01:50 Exploring Universalism and Particularism 05:07 Historical Context: American and Canadian Liberalism 10:36 The Role of Religion in Early Colonies 15:59 Modernity and Political Technology 28:06 The Evolution of Liberty and Liberalism 34:07 The Role of Love and Tradition in National Identity 35:04 The Link Between Efficiency and Dignity 39:49 Critique of Modern Liberalism 44:07 The Waves of Modernity and Their Impact 48:54 Conservatism as a Mediator Between Universal and Particular 55:36 The Importance of Metaphysics and Theology 01:00:12 Revelation and Human Connection 01:05:02 Concerns and Hopes for the Future

What's wrong with Canada, and what can we expect to happen next? David Leis has spent decades in Canadian politics, and he's worried. Canada is in decline. We need leadership to change course, not simply a change in government. He packages his concern in terms of data, comparisons with other countries, and political argument. As President and CEO of the Frontier Centre for Public Policy, he has a ton of evidence to draw upon. But his concern springs from a deep love for Canada. It generates an urgency that breaks through, as it did in this episode around the half-way mark. David gives me hope. He's one of many Canadians on the non-left who believe Canada could be so much better. Life doesn't need to be this hard. I'd love to hear what you think of the episode! And in case you missed it, I post this content early on my Patreon account (free).    AI summary:   In this episode of Concepts, Shawn Whatley is joined by David Leis, President and CEO of the Frontier Center for Public Policy, to discuss the current socio-economic and cultural issues facing Canada. They explore how radical leftist ideologies have infiltrated Canadian institutions and the resulting decline in societal and economic stability. David Leis delves into the importance of empowering citizens through education reform, fostering market competition, and ensuring government accountability. The conversation stresses the urgency for renewed leadership and a return to foundational principles to avert further decline. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of Canada and practical solutions for a national revival. 00:00 Introduction: The Crisis in Canada 00:51 Meet David Leis: Background and Expertise 01:18 The Urgency of Canada's Situation 03:19 Defining Decline and Leadership 07:36 The Role of Government and Citizens 14:17 Cultural Foundations and Civic Education 17:54 Challenges and Solutions for Canada's Future 30:34 The Stakes of Institutional Capture 31:33 Challenges in Education Reform 32:30 Innovative Education Models 35:07 Economic Decline and Urgency for Change 37:03 The Canadian Wheat Board and Agricultural Renaissance 38:16 Crown Corporations and Productivity Issues 41:12 Balancing Free Enterprise and Culture 44:01 Call for Leadership and National Renewal

Does it makes sense to maximize liberty in the economy and yet limit it at a personal level? Is it even possible? Alex MacDonald says it doesn't make sense. We never make economics the ultimate priority for family decisions, why do we think it's ok to prioritize economy at a national level? This discussion gets to the heart of debate within the conservative movement. Of course, we need a strong economy. But should economic concerns always trump all other issues? Is money our ultimate social good? Alex offers solid answers; ones we don't usually hear from those on the non-left.  Equally fascinating for me was the fact that Alex is sharing answers at all. For the last several decades, staffers and consultants have kept quiet about culture. Conservatives win on the economy, so we should focus conversation on the economy. Don't mention culture, if you want to be included in policy discussions. Today, culture is back. Canadians are tired of being told their country is rotten, its founding is illegitimate, and perhaps it isn't even a nation at all. It's just a post-national state. Voters don't want to see people burning Canadian flags and blocking streets with smoke-filled protests. It will be fascinating to see how Conservative leaders respond to this palpable change in public discourse.   Articles mentioned: In doubt of fusionism The King and love of country   AI summary: Shawn Whatley welcomes public policy and government relations expert Alex MacDonald to discuss the juxtaposition of economic liberty and social tradition. They delve into the principles of fusionism, balancing market efficiency with moral and social values, and the relevance of the monarchy in contemporary Canada. Through their engaging dialogue, they explore how these foundational ideas shape our communal life and public policy, drawing on historical context, philosophical insights, and current political debates. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode filled with deep reflections on the core values guiding our society. 00:00 Introduction: Balancing Liberty in Economy and Personal Life 00:54 Meet the Guest: Alex MacDonald 01:26 Exploring Fusionism in Politics 02:39 Debating Economic Liberty vs. Social Continuity 04:18 Fusionism: A Deeper Dive 19:01 Healthcare and Libertarianism 21:57 Conservatism and Market Forces 31:36 Philosophical Reflections on Conservatism 37:12 Philosophical Concerns About Fusion 37:34 Market Efficiency vs. Moral Life 39:32 Moral Decay and Individualism 41:27 The Irony of Side Hustle Culture 48:05 Autonomy vs. Freedom 56:46 The Role of the Monarchy in Canada 01:10:56 Concerns for Future Generations

Christmas greetings plus one big idea. Why read? Better yet, why buy books you will never be able to read? Don't overestimate what you know. Building a personal library of more books that you can ever read will remind you of how much you do not know. It creates a presence in your home of intentional ignorance. I got the idea from this article: Umberto Eco's Anti-Library  Thank you so much to my audience and guests! It has been far more fun and informative than I expected. Wishing you all the best for Christmas and the New Year! Shawn AI summary: In this Christmas special, Shawn Whatley delves into the concept of 'Intentional Ignorance,' inspired by Umberto Eco’s extensive library, to emphasize humility in the pursuit of knowledge. He also reflects on the true meaning of Christmas, including the proper way to receive gifts with gratitude, and the importance of being honest about our inherited cultural attachments. Join the conversation as Shawn intertwines philosophical insights with personal anecdotes to celebrate the Christmas season meaningfully. 00:00 Christmas Greetings and Introduction 00:15 Exploring the Concept of Intentional Ignorance 01:34 The Quest for Certainty and Its Pitfalls 03:33 Connecting Knowledge and Humility 05:42 Embracing Christmas Traditions 06:38 The True Meaning of Christmas Gifts 08:44 Approaches to Receiving Gifts 09:33 Reflections on Gift Giving and Receiving 14:01 Podcast Reflections and Future Plans 15:19 Final Christmas Wishes

Many of our most popular ideas today are medieval. We are all, in some way, medieval thinkers. Dr. Michael Bonner applies his experience as a historian and political consultant to the current crisis of liberalism. He explains what's going on by reaching back several thousand years. Although this episode is heavy, his book is highly readable. He covers 2000 years of history in 200 pages. It helps if you know the people he references, but even if you don't, you can follow along. Great writer. Books: The Crisis of Liberalism: The Origin and Destiny of Freedom In Defense of Civilization: How Our Past Can Renew Our Present   Looking forward to hearing what you think. Thanks again!     AI Summary In this episode of Concepts with Shawn Whatley, historian Dr. Michael Bonner discusses his latest book, 'The Crisis of Liberalism: The Origin and Destiny of Freedom.' Delving into 2000 years of history, Bonner explores the roots and future of liberalism, highlighting its medieval origins and the inherent challenges it faces today. They question whether contemporary liberalism can offer meaning and community, touching on topics like personal freedom, historical continuity, and the secularization of Christian values. Tune in to learn how these complex ideas affect our society and where we might go from here. 00:00 Introduction: The Crisis of Liberalism 00:57 Meet Dr. Michael Bonner 01:11 Overview of 'The Crisis of Liberalism' 01:45 Historical Context and Liberalism 02:39 Defining Liberalism and Its Challenges 04:54 Philosophical Foundations of Liberalism 11:23 Medieval Roots of Modern Liberalism 13:28 The Evolution of Liberal Thought 33:33 Hegelian View of History and Liberalism 34:36 Challenging the Liberal Establishment 35:04 Medieval Ideas in Modern Times 35:30 The Axioms of Liberalism 37:15 The Self-Evident Truths 39:08 The Evolution of Christian Thought 44:44 The Paradoxes of Liberalism 54:19 The Religion of Humanity 01:03:54 The Future of Liberalism 01:06:09 Concluding Thoughts

I'm trying something new: this is a lightly edited transcript from the start of the episode: Thanks for listening! Shawn: What do young people want these days? Do they want total unfettered freedom or do they want to be challenged? Check it out. Kate: This is what I love talking about with young people, because they are ready to rise to this challenge, right? Young people want to be challenged. They want to do things that instil order, they want to go to the symphony and know that there are rules and you don't clap between movements and you should have printed program notes and that it's gonna be programmed in a certain way. Shawn: Welcome to Concepts. My name is Shawn Whatley. Today we have Kate Marland with us. Kate has a fascinating education. She started out in the fine arts, getting a Bachelor of music, studying viola, at Ottawa and McGill. From there, she went on and did a Master's of Arts in fashion studies at Ryerson with a focus on the opera. Then she went on and became a lawyer, and she's worked as a lawyer for some time. And then she worked in management. She was the recent manager of the Liberty and Leadership program at the Montreal Economic Institute, and most recently, she's become a contributing editor at the new, media Outlet Without Diminishment on Substack. She has brought together her background in the fine arts or high culture, as she calls it, and is applying it to today's moment, and right now she finds that especially young people aren't so happy with this life that seems to say, “Leave home, go to school, get a great degree, go get a great job. Live in a box in a large city and make sure you earn lots of money and pay lots of taxes and keep the economy going.” She said, young people are finding that that's not a great life and there's more to life than that. And the exciting thing about it, or the challenging thing about it is. She and others with her at Without Diminishment are saying not only are we finding that this life is empty and that we need more, but they're also finding that there's a role for government in all this. So a simple change in tax policy can completely diminish a particular culture, whether it's high arts, symphony, et cetera. And Kate's message here is that Conservatives need to pay a whole lot more attention to preservation of high culture. And again, her background is, uh, music symphony. So our discussion ranged across the tension between an economic liberalism or libertarianism. We talked about how experience shapes our aesthetic sense. And we talked about Without Diminishment itself and what they're trying to achieve there and whether or not it's wise to have government impose itself in a way that impacts culture We talked about the recent couple episodes we've had with, Anthony Koch and Sean Speer, and their ongoing discussion about culture being a central objective for government to fulfill and protect and foster. Overall a fascinating discussion. Kate is really pouring herself into studying and developing thoughts in this space on culture beyond simply economics. And what role does government have to play? In fostering an environment in which culture can flourish. Anyways, fascinating discussion. I hope you enjoyed as much as I did. Don't forget to hit like and subscribe. It really makes a big difference. I try not to bug you about it, but let's get on with the show.   AI Summary:   In this episode of Concepts, host Shawn Whatley delves deep into what young people really want today with guest Kate Marland. With a rich background in music, fashion, and law, Marland discusses the need for conservatives to embrace and preserve high culture, such as opera and symphony, to foster a spiritually fulfilling society. The episode covers topics such as the intersection of economics and aesthetics, the limitations of libertarianism, and how government policies impact culture. The conversation also ventures into the role of institutions like Without Diminishment and the Montreal Economic Institute in shaping a future that values beauty, tradition, and community. Ideal for anyone keen on exploring how cultural pursuits and economic policies can coexist in a meaningful way. 00:00 Introduction: What Do Young People Want? 00:33 Meet Kate Marland: A Diverse Background 01:17 Kate's Journey and Insights on Culture 01:52 The Role of Government in Culture 03:52 Discussion on Kate's Article 07:56 Balancing Libertarianism and Cultural Appreciation 19:10 Challenges and Value of High Culture 31:17 The Conservative Dilemma: No Perfect Result 32:18 The Malaise of Modern Society 33:16 The Disconnection of Young People 36:25 The Appeal of Tradition and High Culture 37:44 The Role of Government and Institutions in Culture 45:29 Without Diminishment: A New Approach 57:49 The Tension Between Capitalism and Human Value 01:01:19 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Here's the other half of the Koch-Speer debate. As usual, Sean Speer offers a nuanced response that seeks to learn at least as much as he hopes to inform. This whole conversation is essential for Canadians right now, conservatives especially. Its outcome determines the entire cant of the Conservative Party of Canada. Sean laid out his argument here also: Six reasons why a state-imposed conservative culture is a terrible idea.  Book mentioned: What Is Conservatism?: A New Edition of the Classic by 12 Leading Conservatives Thanks so much for checking this out!   AI summary: In this episode of Concepts, host Shawn Whatley welcomes back Sean Speer, lecturer at the Munk School of Public Policy and a senior fellow at the Public Policy Forum. They delve into the ongoing debate within Canadian conservatism: Is culture a product of will or inheritance? They explore the implications of this divide, the role of state neutrality, and what it means to be a conservative in Canada today. Drawing on historical context, personal experiences, and current issues, this conversation provides rich insights into the evolving conservative movement. Join them for a stimulating discussion on the nature of culture, politics, and society. 00:00 Introduction: Culture and Will vs. Inheritance 00:45 Meet Sean Speer: A Conservative Thought Leader 01:12 Debate on State Neutrality 03:10 Fusionism and Canadian Conservatism 04:24 Sean Speer's Journey and Reflections 05:26 Historical Context and Modern Conservatism 12:12 Institutional Neutrality: Myth or Reality? 20:37 Personal Reflections on Conservatism 35:12 Exploring Individual and Collective Purpose 36:31 The Role of the State in Society 36:39 Edmund Burke and Constitutionalism 38:40 Institutional Changes and Public Neutrality 42:41 Cultural Inheritance vs. Will 50:29 Historical Perspectives on Market Forces 54:58 The New Right and Intellectual Conservatism 01:01:04 Challenges of Pluralism and Trust in Government 01:09:01 Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook

Anthony says conservatives don't understand politics. He argues in Without Diminishment that "The state is the architect of culture, not a spectator." Conservatives will keep losing until they realise that the must pick a side, when they form government. They cannot aim to simply manage the state. They need to shape it. This is a hot debate in Canada right now. Anthony says there is no such thing as a neutral institution. All institutions pick sides. It's impossible to avoid. Sean Speer takes the other side of the debate. We will post his episode on Thursday this week. Anthony and Sean are two of Canada's leading political thinkers. You don't want to miss this!   AI summary:   In this episode of Concepts, Shawn Whatley hosts Anthony Koch, a consultant, entrepreneur, and managing principal of AK Strategies. They delve into the ongoing intellectual debate with Sean Speer on whether the government should remain neutral on cultural issues or actively support and protect a distinct Canadian culture. They explore how deeply embedded visions of culture influence our institutions, including government agencies, universities, NGOs, and not-for-profit organizations. The discussion covers case studies such as recent BC elections, where cultural issues like drug policy, sex education, and refugee acceptance played significant roles. Anthony argues against the myth of neutrality, emphasizing that state institutions have never been neutral and always impact culture. He discusses the importance of a cohesive cultural identity, the challenges of multiculturalism, and the need for conservatives to articulate and implement a clear vision for Canada's future. The episode provides a fascinating and comprehensive analysis of the intersection between culture and politics, offering insights into how conservatives can reclaim cultural ground. 00:00 Introduction: Government's Role in Culture 00:45 Meet the Guest: Anthony Koch 01:26 Debate Overview: Government Neutrality in Culture 02:10 Anthony's Perspective on Cultural Influence 04:31 Historical Context: State and Culture 06:17 The Role of Education in National Identity 11:34 Conservative Strategies and Critiques 13:04 The Impact of Political Leadership 14:33 The Trudeau Legacy and Canadian Identity 16:35 Conservative Vision for Canada's Future 21:31 Judicial Influence and Political Conservatism 32:55 Healthcare Reform and Structural Change 36:01 Introduction to Failing Policy Philosophy 36:13 Infrastructure Argument in Immigration 37:02 Welfare State and Demographic Assumptions 38:08 Economic Contributions of Immigrants 39:24 Cultural Integration Challenges 43:28 Historical Context of Immigration 46:26 Modern Immigration and Cultural Identity 52:25 Political and Cultural Shifts in Canada 01:04:05 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

Matt Spoke builds communities, develops housing, creates start-up companies, serves on boards of directors, plans grass-roots political conferences, and raises a family. Matt embodies a conservative life.  I first met Matt at the Project Ontario conference he organized (with help from others) in Toronto. He speaks well, listens closely, and can carry a conversation as though you've known him forever. I admired his polish and walked away assuming he must be a management-consultant type: impressive, but too careful to say anything sharp. I was wrong. Matt wrote a piece for Without Diminishment titled The First Institution. "Cultural renewal begins not in an election, not in a campaign, but in the ordinary work of raising kids and holding families together." Fantastic presentation of real-life conservatism. We need more people like Matt; people who can bridge the gap between theory and practice. Ideas are essential, but we also need live them.  Thanks again for checking this out. Let me know what you think!   AI Summary:   In this episode of 'Concepts' with Shawn Whatley, board member of the Canada Strong and Free Network, Matt Spoke discusses his impactful work with Project Ontario. They delve into the framing of political conversations, the importance of building businesses, and policies to create a strong, economically vibrant Canada. Matt shares how his experience as an entrepreneur and father translates to his views on conservatism and societal improvement. The conversation touches on the challenges of integrating immigrants, fostering community trust, and the critical role of education in shaping future citizens. Join us for an insightful discussion on the conservative vision for Canada's future. 00:00 Introduction: Setting the Stage for Political Conversations 00:25 Meet Matt Spoke: Developer, Organizer, and Community Insider 02:46 Project Ontario: Addressing Ontario's Drift 06:35 Challenges and Opportunities in Ontario's Policy Landscape 09:24 Conservatism in Office vs. Out of Office 14:02 The Role of Naivety and Innovation in Politics 18:16 Family and Conservatism: A Personal Perspective 28:19 Building Community in an Urbanized Society 32:18 The Role of Trust in Building Community 32:47 Cultural Cohesion in Diverse Urban Areas 33:30 Immigration and Shared Canadian Identity 33:58 The Decline of Community Watch and Social Trust 34:26 Extending an Olive Branch to Newcomers 36:38 Challenges of Integration and Multiculturalism 38:07 The Importance of Shared Culture and Vision 42:41 The Role of Leadership in Fostering Culture 43:54 Economic Policy and Cultural Impact 52:13 The Value of Family and Optimism for the Future 01:00:15 Education's Role in Shaping Society 01:02:18 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Ben Woodfinden is a former director of communications for Pierre Poilievre. He has practical experience inside politics mixed with theoretical study and work as a consultant. When Ben speaks, people listen. Debate about first principles has finally returned to the Canadian non-left. A new, mostly younger group of conservative writers and speakers have challenged the status quo. Young people, especially, find that Canada does not work well. Home ownership is a fairytale. Safe cities are nostalgia. And Canadian patriotism is embarrassing and unkind. The new right refuses to accept these presuppositions. They want politicians who have a vested interest in celebrating Canada itself. What does this mean for conservative politics? How will this debate turn out? Ben Woodfinden makes sense of it all for us. Links: Still Lamenting? Canada, Grantian Conservatism in the Twenty-first Century, and the Paradoxes of Grant’s Conservatism Reading Grant in the 21st Century The new conservative fight isn't red vs. blue. It's young vs. old The Enduring Appeal of Red Toryism   AI Summary: The New Right and Red Toryism: A Deep Dive with Ben Woodfinden In this episode of Concepts, Shawn Whatley hosts Ben Woodfinden, a consultant, doctoral student, and political theorist, to discuss the dynamics of the new right in Canada. Ben, a prominent contributor to conservative circles, highlights the generational divide in conservatism, and explores whether the real issue is young versus old rather than red versus blue. The discussion delves into political philosophy, particularly focusing on Red Toryism, a distinct Canadian tradition combining status interventionism for conservative ends. Ben also touches on the philosophical underpinnings of conservatism, the importance of grounding politics in first principles, and the future of Canadian identity. This thought-provoking episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of Canadian conservatism. 00:00 Introduction: The New Right in Canada 00:27 Meet Ben Woodfinden: A Conservative Thought Leader 01:08 The New Conservative Fight: Young vs. Old 01:21 Diving into Red Toryism 01:55 Understanding the Conservative Movement 02:20 Ben Woodfinden's Insights on Conservatism 04:30 Generational Divides in Conservatism 08:55 Philosophical Foundations of Conservatism 09:46 The Role of Government and Human Nature 18:12 Classical Liberalism vs. Conservatism 27:03 Liberalism's Historical Context and Limits 30:18 Red Toryism and Human Nature 30:54 Exploring Different Perspectives on the State 31:49 Understanding Toryism and Red Toryism 32:46 The Evolution and Misinterpretation of Red Toryism 33:49 The Canadian Conservative Tradition 35:54 The Role of the State in Canadian Society 41:16 George Grant's Influence and Philosophy 43:00 Modern Reflections on Grant's Ideas 56:08 The Importance of Belief Systems in Modern Society 59:54 Concluding Thoughts on Canadian Identity

Canada cannot continue unless we share a common sense of what we love. In BC, young students learn from daily land acknowledgements that they can never really call Canada their own. It belongs to someone else. Students in Vancouver sing two national anthems, Canada’s and another belonging to coastal indigenous people. This goes beyond education and cultural awareness. These students learn to venerate indigenous nations to which they can never belong. New Canadians learn that Canada isn’t something to love and celebrate. It’s something shameful, something to repudiate. How long can Canada survive this continuous indoctrination? Dr. Caroline Elliott has spoken up with courage and grace. She presents as a thoughtful, concerned parent of young children, who also happens to be extremely well educated and researched in the fundamental principles of democracy. When you listen to Dr. Elliott, you will hear the heartbeat behind the Without Diminishment team. Thanks for checking this out!   AI summary: Join Shawn Whatley and Dr. Caroline Elliott as they explore the complex and pressing issues facing Canada today, from land acknowledgements in schools to indigenous land claims and the challenging dynamics of Canadian liberal democracy. Dr. Elliott, a PhD and co-founder of Without Diminishment, provides her insights on the evolving landscape of Canadian identity, the impact of progressive ideologies in education, and the importance of upholding democratic principles. This episode offers a thought-provoking conversation about the potential future of Canada, the integration of new Canadians, and what it means to be cohesive as a nation. Tune in for an engaging discussion that navigates the difficult terrain of heritage, legitimacy, and the principles that could hold Canada together. 00:00 Introduction: The Future of Canada 00:10 Land Acknowledgements in Schools 01:22 Interview with Dr. Caroline Elliott 01:49 Provocative Pieces in the National Post 03:23 Discussion on Democratic Principles 05:29 The Role of Without Diminishment 08:26 Cultural Identity and Western Values 22:31 Constitutional Challenges and Indigenous Governance 29:49 Reconciling Democratic Principles with Ancestry-Based Membership 30:04 Debate on Charter Application to Indigenous Governments 31:10 Indigenous Perspectives on Development and Community Impact 34:02 Complexities of Indigenous Governance and Public Interest 37:29 Political Interests and Indigenous Issues 40:45 Changing World and New Normals 45:25 Education and Cultural Integration Challenges 54:15 Concluding Thoughts on Canadian Identity and Inspiration

Want to be active in the public square? Join the symphony. Get involved in what you love. Be public about your pursuit of the true, the good, and the beautiful. Ray Pennings has spent his life building a winsome and articulate defence of religion in the pubic square. It is not weird to admit we have religious beliefs (including non belief); it's weird to pretend we do not have them. Canada and USA differ with respect to our approach to religion in the public square. We discuss the latest research from Cardus: a very large survey of over 10,000 people (5,001 in each country) on religiosity. It goes far beyond anything Stats Canada offers. Boomers continue to keep religion out of the public square and polite conversation. Gen Z increasingly does the opposite. Canada and USA are in the midst of a generational change in social thought and politics. Links: Cardus  How Canada-US religious differences affect politics  AI Summary: Join host Shawn Whatley as he sits down with Ray Pennings, co-founder and executive VP of the Think Tank Cardus, to discuss the role of religion in the public square. They delve into the findings of a recent study comparing Canadian and American religiosity, explore the perceived hostility towards religious commitment in Canada, and discuss the broader implications for society. Tune in for an articulate and nuanced discussion on civic engagement, the intersection of faith and politics, and the importance of maintaining hope and authenticity in public life. 00:00 Introduction: Religion in the Public Square 00:36 Meet Ray Pennings: Co-Founder of Cardus 00:54 Study Insights: Comparing American and Canadian Religiosity 01:20 Separation of Church and State: A Deep Dive 02:20 Charitable Giving and Volunteer Work 02:42 Press Release Highlights: Provocative Findings 03:14 Survey Methodology and Key Findings 08:07 Historical Context: Religion and Politics in North America 15:46 Religious Demographics and Trends 25:36 Political Implications of Religious Demographics 31:46 Political Party Dynamics in Canada 32:18 Faith in Public Life: A Complex Landscape 33:20 Historical Influence of Religion in Canadian Politics 34:09 The NDP and Social Gospel Movement 35:14 Tommy Douglas and Fiscal Conservatism 36:15 Christianity and Political Spectrum in Canada 37:40 Separation of Church and State: Risks and Realities 40:43 Principled Pluralism and Religious Freedom 42:05 Institutional Roles and Public Life 45:24 Core Beliefs and Public Engagement 48:36 Survey Insights and Public Perception 01:02:39 Final Thoughts and Summary

Toryism has faded in Canada, but it still gets blamed for backsliding and bad behaviour in Conservative Party politics. (Full disclosure: I have never seen myself as a Tory, neither High, Low, Red, Blue, or traditional.) Political labels, especially old ones, mean nothing without definition. Even with working definitions, labels often bleed into each other at the edges, especially upon application to policy and law. Since Toryism continues to get blamed for influencing how Canadian Conservatives think, trying to uncover and define Toryism seems a worthy exercise. Ron Dart challenged me. He has a deep understanding of classics, which I admire. I will have to visit with him again to understand his deference to the state, as I see it. Professor Dart is a delightful man: erudite, kind, thoughtful, and magnanimous. I hope you enjoy this as much as I did!   AI Summary In this episode of Concepts, host Shawn Whatley engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Professor Ron Dart, an expert on Toryism and the author of over 40 books, including 'The North American High Tory Tradition.' Together, they explore the nuances of Toryism and Red Toryism in Canada and the common misconceptions surrounding them. The conversation also delves into broader themes such as the role of the state, individualism, and the importance of historical memory and contemplation in contemporary society. Professor Dart provides insightful commentary on figures like George Grant, Stephen Leacock, Edmund Burke, and more, challenging prevalent assumptions and offering a deep analysis of political and philosophical traditions. 00:00 Introduction: Is Toryism Dead in Canada? 00:18 Exploring Toryism and Red Toryism 00:39 Meet Professor Ron Dart 00:51 The North American High Tory Tradition 01:36 Challenging Perceptions of State and Society 02:35 The Role of Innovation in History 05:00 Defining Toryism 08:32 The Fragmentation of Toryism 10:36 Red Toryism and Its Historical Context 16:45 Healthcare and the Role of the State 26:12 Toryism and Anglicanism 39:43 The Reformation and Individualism 48:23 Exploring Human Nature and Identity Politics 48:51 The Culture War and Liberalism's Tensions 51:51 Aristotle's Wisdom and the Role of Friendship 55:09 Hegel, Charles Taylor, and Liberalism 56:42 Critiquing Modern Liberalism and Conservatism 01:08:47 The Importance of Memory and Contemplation

Conservative voters around the world are leaning into culture and away from economic issues. Sam Routley's research found that Canadian conservatives cling to the 1980's fusionism of traditional social policies and libertarian economics. Can the 1980's fusionism hold? Will economic determinism help Conservatives to win elections today? Links to articles Decoding Canada's Conservative Coalition Sam's Substack: The Country of Our Defeat John Gray: Why I Am Not a Post-liberal   AI Summary In this episode of Concepts with Shawn Whatley, Shawn dives into the evolving nature of Canadian conservatism. Joined by Sam Routley, a PhD student from the University of Western Ontario, the discussion begins with a basic inquiry: Are Canadian conservative ideas stuck in the past, or is there a renaissance in understanding what conservatism means today? They delve into Routley's research on the 'Decoding Canada's Conservative Coalition' piece, exploring the historical adherence to fusionism between free-market libertarianism and social traditionalism in Canada versus changes observed in other countries. Shawn further probes into whether economic policies alone can address contemporary societal issues or if a broader conversation about cultural and social values is necessary. Throughout the episode, they explore the nuances of economic determinism, the role of culture in conservative politics, and the future direction of conservatism in Canada. Don't miss their thoughtful and engaging exploration of these pressing topics in modern conservatism. 00:00 Introduction: Canadian Conservative Voters 00:47 Welcome to Concepts with Shawn Whatley 01:02 Interview with Sam Routley: Decoding Canada's Conservative Coalition 01:37 Fusionism in Canadian Conservatism 02:03 Canada's Conservative Coalition: Research Findings 02:58 Discussion on Economic Determinism and Cultural Issues 03:42 Sam Routley's Article and Substack 07:54 Fusionism Explained: US vs. Canada 25:37 Economic and Cultural Forces in Politics 33:33 The Role of Culture in Leadership and Innovation 35:32 The Cultural Focus of Conservatism 36:11 Economic vs Cultural Perspectives 37:11 The Role of the State in Culture 38:37 Contemporary Cultural Issues 42:06 Intellectual Conservatism and Canada's Future 47:31 The Importance of Foundational Values 54:18 The Debate on Liberalism and Conservatism 01:03:33 Concluding Thoughts on Cultural and Political Change

Young conservatives aren't falling in line. Alex says, "We don't care. I'm not incentivized to look the other way. I don't need an invite to a table of six at Terroni in the back room to talk about continuing the status quo." In a world when young voters can't afford a house in Canada, you'd think they'd obsess about economics. They don't. They care as much about culture as being able to afford a home. Alexander Brown works at the front of this young conservative uprising. Enjoy! Links: Without Diminishment National Citizens' Coalition Against Andrew Coyne-ism JunoNews AI Summary  In this episode, host Shawn Whatley is joined by Alexander Brown, a prolific writer, journalist, managing editor, and co-founder of Without Diminishment. Alexander also serves as the director of the National Citizens Coalition and hosts a show on Juno News. The conversation delves deep into the frustrations of young voters in Canada, particularly focusing on cultural and economic challenges. They discuss the conservative party's hesitancy to engage in cultural debates and the significance of platforms like Without Diminishment that aim to bridge this gap. Highlighting the growing discontent among young Canadians over issues like home ownership and social cohesion, Alexander and Shawn explore the potential for a rejuvenated conservative movement that does not shy away from cultural conversations. The episode also touches upon the platform's innovative and sometimes controversial content, the importance of addressing young people's concerns, and the broader implications of ignoring cultural issues in Canada's political discourse. 00:00 Introduction: Frustrations of Young Canadian Voters 00:07 The Struggles of the Middle Class 00:26 The Importance of Common Sense and Normalcy 01:34 Introduction to the Guest: Alexander Brown 02:08 Cultural Discussions in Conservative Politics 03:23 The Role of Without Diminishment 04:01 Challenges and Criticisms 05:27 The Need for Cultural Conversations 13:44 The Role of Economics in Politics 26:15 Project Ontario and Conservative Thought 28:31 Net Migration and Healthcare Challenges 28:57 Conservative Campaign Reflections 30:09 Economic Policies and Critiques 32:03 Leadership and Conservative Values 39:17 Mike Harris's Legacy 42:44 National Citizens Coalition 53:10 Challenges for Young People 56:47 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Is secular humanism a distortion of an older conservative humanism? And why are conservatives so obsessed with international trade? The French Enlightenment philosopher Montesquieu argued that international trade promotes peace. He called it doux commerce, gentle commerce.  In what sense is this a conservative idea? Fascinating and somewhat subversive discussion with Alexander Rosenthal-Pubul!  AI Summary: In this episode of Concepts, host Shawn Whatley interviews Dr. Alexander Rosenthal-Pubul about his co-authored book 'The Wisdom of Our Ancestors: Conservative Humanism and the Western Tradition.' They discuss the evolution and definition of conservatism, its distinction from classical liberalism, and its intersection with nationalism and universalism. Dr. Rosenthal-Pubul offers insights on ancient versus modern liberty, the cultural impact of the Enlightenment, and the importance of maintaining humanism in education and society. This thought-provoking discussion delves into pressing issues in the conservative intellectual movement and the challenges of upholding a coherent conservative philosophy in contemporary times. 00:00 Introduction to Conservatism and Classical Liberalism 00:07 Enlightenment Ideas and Commerce 01:16 Introduction of Dr. Alexander Rosenthal-Pubul 01:38 Discussion on 'The Wisdom of Our Ancestors' 02:07 Nationalism vs. Universalism 02:21 Commerce and Conservatism 07:40 Classical Liberalism and Conservatism 09:49 Defining Conservatism 12:32 Education and Tradition 16:26 Universalism vs. Particularism 21:46 Nationalism and Post-Liberalism 28:43 Liberty and Coercion 32:17 Harmonizing Virtue and Liberty 33:28 The Paradox of Freedom and Rationality 34:29 The Enlightenment's Optimism and Its Limits 35:16 The Role of Culture in Human Behaviour 36:06 Balancing Enlightenment and Conservatism 40:11 The Evolution of Humanism 42:00 Classical, Christian, and Modern Humanism 46:01 The Instrumental View of Knowledge 50:42 Conservatism's Cultural Crisis 53:48 Final Thoughts on Conservatism and the West

What guides politics? What matters most in political decision making? Since the 1980s, conservatives have looked to economics for guidance: economic growth, tax cuts, and decreased government spending capture the heart of political thought in North American Conservative political parties. This sparks two questions. 1) How well did this approach perform? and 2) Will this approach address current social concerns, such as infertility, mass immigration, ethnic unrest, drug supply, public safety, or 'medical assistance in dying'/euthanasia? Economics is a powerful tool. But it remains silent on the most salient issues today. Dr. Tim Sargent PhD economics explains why. AI Summary: Join Shawn Whatley as he sits down with Tim Sargent, a PhD economist with 28 years of experience in the Canadian federal public service. Together, they explore what it means to be a Canadian and discuss whether economics alone can address today's pressing issues such as fertility rates, immigration, defense, security, and more. Tim shares his unique insights on the interplay between classical liberalism and conservatism and underscores the importance of loyalty, duty, and communal values. Don't miss this deep dive into the challenges and opportunities facing Canada today. 00:00 Introduction: Can Economics Save Canada? 01:12 Guest Introduction: Meet Tim Sargent 03:57 Defining Canadian Identity 05:43 The Role of Geography and History 10:11 Regional Differences in Canada 17:46 Economics as a Servant, Not a Master 21:38 The Limits of Economics 27:55 The Need for Broader Solutions 31:26 Shifting Immigration Debates in Canada 32:19 Economic and Social Strains of Immigration 32:39 Conservative and Left-Wing Perspectives on Immigration 34:29 Reevaluating Feminism and Women's Happiness 35:36 The Role of Economics in Policy Making 36:48 Conservatism vs. Classical Liberalism 37:24 The Appeal of Classical Liberalism 39:29 Conservatism's Empirical Approach 41:07 Challenges for Modern Conservatism 50:37 Economic Policies and Conservatism 01:01:47 The Fertility Crisis and Cultural Issues

This episode is (ostensibly) about medicine, not politics. What does human-centred care mean in a world of AI? Are doctors becoming obsolete, when it comes to decision making? When should we hand over our clinical judgement to AI? I asked Ross Upshur for his thoughts on logical positivism. Are most doctors positivists?   "Despite it being... as a philosophical and epistemological doctrine... been rather thoroughly discarded... a long time ago. It's the self understanding of our profession," Ross said. Of course, ideas about what counts as knowledge are inseparable from our political assumptions. So although we do not mention politics in this episode, these ideas are core to how we approach medical 'systems', 'planning', and politics in general. Articles: "Three problems with big data and AI in medicine" (Chin-Yee & Upshur, 2019) "Looking for rules in a world of exceptions: reflections on evidence-based practice" (Upshur, 2005) Book: How Doctors Think: Clinical Judgment and the Practice of Medicine by Kathryn Montgomery (2012)    AI summary: In this episode of Concepts with Shawn Whatley, we are joined by Dr. Ross Upshur, head of the Division of Clinical Public Health at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto. With over 30 years of experience in the intersection of theory and practice in medicine, Dr. Upshur provides a comprehensive discussion on the role of AI in medicine, the limitations of evidence-based practices, and the critical importance of human judgment and patient history. We explore the impacts of AI and big data on clinical care, the pitfalls of technological dependence, and the ethical ramifications of potential AI-driven healthcare. This thought-provoking conversation dives deep into the philosophical and practical aspects of modern medical practices, providing listeners with valuable insights into the future of healthcare and what it means to retain human-centered care in an increasingly automated world. 00:00 Introduction: Can AI Replace Doctors? 00:02 The Limits of Evidence in Clinical Practice 00:41 AI and Evidence-Based Medicine 01:03 Wearables and Real-Time Data: A Misguided Direction? 01:35 The Public's Frustration and Acceptance of AI 01:44 Human-Centered AI vs. Bot Care 02:19 Welcome and Guest Introduction 02:56 The Evolution of Evidence-Based Medicine 03:53 The Gap Between Theory and Practice 05:26 Patient Stories: The Heart of Clinical Medicine 10:21 AI's Role in Future Healthcare 11:00 The Challenges of Big Data and AI 14:18 Epistemological Concerns with AI 18:38 The Human Experience vs. Quantifiable Data 25:42 Clinical Tools and Judgment 32:38 The Role of Clinical Judgment in Patient Care 33:48 Challenges with Evidence-Based Medicine 34:10 Interprofessional Model of Care 35:29 The Inferential Gap in Medical Practice 38:08 Philosophical Perspectives on Medical Practice 40:02 The Future of Clinical Judgment in the Age of AI 43:27 The Importance of Practical Wisdom in Medicine 48:09 Concerns About AI and Automation in Medicine 53:31 Final Thoughts and Reflections

"Politics offers yesterday's answers to today's questions." Grant Havers has been reading McLuhan for 30 years, and it shows in his new book "The Medium is Still the Message: Marshall McLuhan for Our Time." It's rare to find a book so applicable to our time, especially one written by a philosophy prof! This book is excellent. I expect it will become THE book to reference when you write about McLuhan. AI Summary: In this episode of Concepts, host Shawn Whatley and guest Professor Grant Havers, chair of the Department of Philosophy at Trinity Western University, explore the enduring relevance of Marshall McLuhan's ideas. They discuss how McLuhan's theories help make sense of current technological phenomena such as artificial intelligence, social media, and autonomous weapon systems. Havers explains how McLuhan argued that the rise of the electric and digital ages marked the end of the print age, leading to significant cultural and political shifts. They also delve into the concept of how new media creates environments that shape human behavior and societal structures. Furthermore, the conversation touches on McLuhan's conservative perspectives, the implications for contemporary politics, and the challenges of living in a post-literate society. 00:00 Introduction to Marshall McLuhan's Relevance Today 00:19 The Death of Liberalism and the Rise of Digital Age 01:34 Welcome and Introduction of Professor Grant Havers 05:08 Marshall McLuhan's Biography and Early Life 12:44 Understanding 'The Medium is the Message' 18:39 The Impact of New Media on Society 24:15 Formal Causality and Autonomous Weapon Systems 28:48 Literate vs. Post-Literate Society 37:54 Critique of Post-Liberalism 40:58 Reflections on Historical Perception 42:16 The Evolution of Capitalism 47:54 The Paradox of Reality and Media 54:04 Literacy, Simultaneity, and Progress 01:00:19 Discarnate Identity and Gnosticism 01:17:04 McLuhan's Conservative Perspective

Boomers have a worldview "frozen by fortune, not forged in fire." Through no fault of their own, the boomer generation remains blind to aspects of current reality from their experiences growing up in the post-WWII era. That era has ended. For more on this, check out Dr. Nicholson's guest post on Peter Boghossian: The Boomerang    Our discussion tackles Trump, scientism, climate change, 'masculinity crisis' (Calum says it's an immaturity crisis), and much more. Links below and AI summary follows at the bottom:   Co-edited book: Climate Migration: Critical Perspectives for Law, Policy, and Research  Check out Calum's Substack: Notes from the Isthmus  You can find more of his work at the Danube Institute:  Calum's Linktree  AI Summary Join Shawn Whatley as he interviews Dr. Calum Nicholson, a lecturer at the Cambridge PACE program and director of research at the Danube Institute, about the significant cultural shifts from the boomer generation to today. They delve into the differences in material security perspectives across generations, the role of science in society, the impact of neoliberalism, and discuss Dr. Nicholson's thoughts on climate change and the social sciences. Additionally, Dr. Nicholson provides insights into Hungary's unique cultural and political landscape, offering a comparative perspective on the Anglosphere and Central Europe. This engaging conversation is an eye-opener on various societal and philosophical questions. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments below! 00:00 Introduction: The Boomer Generation and Cultural Shifts 00:42 The Crisis of Masculinity and Immaturity 01:04 Science and Society: The Role of Scientism 01:47 Interview Introduction: Dr. Calum Nicholson 02:21 The Boomerang: Impact of the Boomer Generation 04:44 Diagnosing Cultural Changes: Symptoms vs. Pathology 08:42 The Influence of Popular Culture: From Comic Books to Presidents 19:09 Generational Differences: Deep Waters vs. Shallow Waters 26:24 Neoliberalism and Its Cultural Impact 38:33 Climate Change and Social Science 45:28 Challenging Social Science Presuppositions 46:41 Science and Society: A Philosophical Inquiry 48:27 The Concept of Climate Change 53:22 The Role of Science in Society 57:34 COVID-19: A Case Study in Science and Policy 01:11:48 The Uncanny Valley of Political Empathy 01:14:39 Understanding Hungary's Unique Perspective 01:20:58 Concluding Thoughts and Future Work

Canada is libertarian on student cell phones in classrooms and statist on school choice (in most provinces). We get a poor return on investment when it comes to education in Canada. Our math and reading scores are several years behind (even before Covid). Students are distracted by over 100 messages on their cellphones each day. And teachers cannot control their own classrooms. We can do better, and Paige MacPherson shows how to do it. AI summary: In this episode of 'Concepts,' host Shawn Whatley discusses the significant impacts of smartphones and digital devices on student performance in schools with Paige MacPherson, the Associate Director of Education Policy at the Fraser Institute. They delve into the evidence showing declines in math and reading scores, changes in classroom environments due to digital distractions, and the need for policies banning smartphones in schools. The conversation also spans broader issues such as education quality, the importance of school choice, and insights into the Conservative movement in Canada. Paige shares her expertise on education policy and provides solutions for improving the quality of public education while stressing the differing educational needs of boys and girls. This compelling discussion is a must-watch for parents, educators, and policymakers aiming to understand and navigate the complexities of modern education. 00:00 The Impact of Smartphones on Classroom Performance 00:57 The Case for a Provincial Ban on Smartphones 01:15 Declining PISA Scores and Educational Outcomes 02:33 Introduction to the Episode and Guest 04:47 Smartphones: Benefits and Drawbacks for Students 07:33 Challenges of Implementing Smartphone Bans 11:12 Parental Perspectives on Smartphone Use 17:52 The Role of Technology in Modern Education 19:48 Conservatism Across Canadian Provinces 24:08 School Choice and Public School System 33:14 Reflecting on French Immersion and School Choices 34:04 The Case for Charter Schools and Specialized Education 35:18 The Myth of Wealthy Families in Independent Schools 36:19 The Tension Between Choice and Quality in Education 39:33 Challenges in Teacher Recruitment and Classroom Discipline 43:10 The Importance of Parental Choice and Accountability 45:37 The Decline of Standardized Testing and Curriculum Quality 52:54 The Need for Content-Rich and Rigorous Education 01:01:18 Addressing the Needs of Boys in the Education System 01:06:19 Concluding Thoughts and Final Remarks

Gen Z sits at the cusp of major change in conservatism. Young people do not feel a warmth and longing for Reagan or Thatcher. Sure, they value freedom, but they also what to know where the guardrails stand. Étienne-Alexandre speaks clearly for a new generation of non-left thinkers. He asks what might be the role of conservatism in the near future. He says we need to look beyond economic issues and start rebuilding culture. Our episode ended a bit abruptly, but we only missed a formal goodbye. Check out É-A's new book: https://amzn.to/46T1Udt AI summary: In this episode of Concepts, host Shawn Whatley sits down with Étienne-Alexandre Beauregard, an author, political staffer, and speech writer, to explore the resurgence of conservatism among Generation Z. Diving into themes from Beauregard's latest book, 'Anti Civilization: Why Our Societies Collapse From Within,' the discussion covers the importance of societal structures, cultural norms, and the quest for meaning in an age of unprecedented freedom. They examine the critical role of order and tradition, the impact of higher education on societal values, and the widening gaps between generations and social classes. Gain insights into why younger generations are gravitating towards conservative ideals and the essential elements needed to foster a cohesive and flourishing society. 00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Social Structures 01:28 Guest Introduction: Étienne-Alexander Beauregard 01:55 The Rise of Gen Z Conservatism 03:27 Discussion on Étienne's Book: Anti Civilization 16:12 Generational and Elite Gaps in Politics 24:11 The Quest for Meaning Among Gen Z 30:53 The Impact of Harm Reduction Policies 32:12 Defund the Police: A Critical Analysis 33:57 The Costs of Deconstruction 34:20 Multiculturalism and Woke Movements 40:03 Common Good Conservatism 48:29 Economics and Cultural Identity 54:05 Future Concerns and Reflections

Once again, Canadian university professors show their extremism in response to Charlie Kirk, a mirror of their praise for Oct 7.  Professors shape opinion; they shape culture. Do we want the kind of culture they promote? Turning to his book, Tristin argues that Canada's world-famous policy failures are self-inflicted. He believes we could recover, if we would simply "stop punching ourselves in the n*ts." Links How Canadian universities became cheering sections for political violence. Don't be Canada: How one country did everything wrong all at once. X @TristinHopper   AI Summary:   Join Shawn Whatley and guest Tristin Hopper, author and columnist for the National Post, as they delve into the unsettling rise of political extremism in Canadian universities and the broader socio-political landscape of Canada. This episode explores Hopper's new book, 'Don't Be Canada: How One Country Did Everything Wrong All At Once,' highlighting the country's policy failures, unchecked extremism, and the hopeful path to restoration. Hopper shares insights on Canada's unique challenges, political violence celebrated by academics, and the decline of Canadian society through poorly managed policies. Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation on the current state and future of Canada. 00:00 Introduction: Canadian Universities and Political Violence 01:32 Guest Introduction: Tristan Hopper 03:10 Discussing the Article on Political Violence in Universities 06:02 The Radical Left in Academia 11:16 Self-Censorship Among Conservative Students 15:15 Introducing Tristan's New Book 19:50 Canada's Policy Failures and Unintended Consequences 23:14 Canada's Unique Challenges 23:31 Why These Topics? 24:58 Canada as a Cautionary Tale 26:05 High Trust Society and Complacency 28:42 The Role of Immigration 30:33 The Trudeau Factor 32:49 Crime and the Justice System 38:38 Activist Judges and Legal Reforms 42:57 Conservatism in Canada 47:25 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Josh Lewis is a traditional conservative who has worked in 'government' in America, has served in retail politics, and has interviewed hundreds of leading thinkers in American conservatism. Josh has a unique ability to bridge the gap between politics and life, philosophy and culture. His developed his skill comes from a deep discomfort with what he saw around him in the Republican Party.  If you want to understand conservatism, American politics, the US constitution, and Burkean conservatism, have a listen.  Josh's podcast: Saving Elephants https://www.savingelephantsblog.com/ AI summary:    In this insightful episode, we dive deep into conservatism with special guest Josh Lewis, host of the podcast 'Saving Elephants.' Josh offers his in-depth perspective on the current state of American politics, traditional conservative thought, populism, and the challenges facing the Republican Party. The conversation also explores the economic outlook and moral responsibility of living within our means. Tune in to uncover the nuances between different conservative ideologies and their implications on both policy and practice. 00:00 Introduction to Conservative Thought 01:43 Meet Josh Lewis: Host of Saving Elephants 03:09 The Millennial Conservative Perspective 08:24 Trump and the Evangelical Influence 12:04 The Intellectual Tradition of Conservatism 22:25 Russell Kirk's Legacy and Critique 29:40 Modern Republican Party and Conservatism 35:50 The Struggle Between Power and Principles 36:23 Exploring Leo Strauss and Neoconservatism 36:56 Burke vs. Strauss: Universal Truths and Particularities 45:36 The Role of Elites in Society 52:46 The Constitution: A Conservative Perspective 01:04:30 Economic Concerns and Moral Responsibility 01:09:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

I couldn't stay silent and sane. Once again, the AI summary is scarily accurate, so I will let is stand. Let me know what you think. Shawn AI Summary: Responding to Tragedy: Honouring Charlie Kirk & Challenging Silence In this deeply reflective episode of Concepts, host Shawn Whatley breaks from his usual avoidance of current events to address a tumultuous week marked by significant global incidents and the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Whatley details the week's harrowing events, including drone incursions by Russia, bombings in Yemen, political upheaval in France and Nepal, and a tragic stabbing in North Carolina. Central to the episode is a tribute to Charlie Kirk, highlighting his impact as an evangelical Christian and conservative voice. Whatley shares personal reflections on the courage to speak one's truth in the face of societal pressure and the importance of standing up against ideological bullying. The episode serves as a call to action for listeners to embrace honesty and courage in their daily lives. 00:00 Introduction and Current Events Overview 00:19 The Assassination of Charlie Kirk 02:07 Charlie Kirk's Legacy and Impact 05:47 Personal Reflections and Call to Action 18:31 Conservatism vs. Liberalism 22:23 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

If you find conservatism confusing, you are not alone! Dr. George Nash has spent 50 years explaining all the strands that weave together into the collection of ideas we call conservatism. The AI summary is surprisingly good, so I will simply point out the book links below: The Conservative Intellectual Movement in America since 1945 Russel Kirk's Concise Guide to Conservatism AI Summary: Join us as we delve into the multifaceted world of conservatism with esteemed historian and author Dr. George Nash. Known for his seminal work 'The Conservative Intellectual Movement in America Since 1945,' Dr. Nash discusses the various currents within conservatism, the importance of maintaining a broad sensibility, and the evolution of the movement over decades. From Reagan’s ecumenical leadership to the rise of Neoconservatism, and the challenges posed by modern populism and the internet age, this episode offers a comprehensive overview of conservative thought. Dr. Nash's reflections on persuasion versus division and the future of conservatism in America provide valuable insights for both scholars and enthusiasts. 00:00 Introduction to Conservative Wisdom 01:13 Welcome and Guest Introduction 02:38 The Conservative Intellectual Movement 03:34 Historical Context and Key Figures 10:20 The Rise of Neoconservatism 15:00 The Evolution of Conservative Thought 27:33 The Impact of the Internet and Social Media 30:43 Populism and Modern Conservatism 38:40 Trumpism and the End of Reagan Conservatism 44:42 The Tea Party Movement and Grassroots Rebellion 47:14 The Language of Liberty vs. The Language of War 53:48 Philosophical Underpinnings of Conservatism and Liberalism 01:04:48 The Future of Conservatism in America

How can we live together when we don't t all think alike? Are there nothing but power struggles, or is there a better way? Dr. Yuval Levin explains that we don't need to disagree less; we need to learn to disagree better. Unity does not mean unanimity. We should be hopeful, not simply optimistic. Yuval has spent several decades trying to persuade conservatives to think beyond our favourite topics of limited government, liberty, and patriotism. He argues that we also need healthy institutions. He shares a nuanced view of progress and the need for elites that are worthy of admiration. If you are on the non left, you need to know about Yuval and his writing. Books mentioned: American Covenant A Time to Build The Fractured Republic And the MUST READ: The Great Debate: Edmund Burke, Thomas Paine, and the Birth of Right and Left.   AI Summary   Dr. Yuval Levin, Director of Social, Cultural, and Constitutional Studies at the American Enterprise Institute, shares his insights on the American Constitution and the essence of living together in a free society. Dr. Levin discusses the importance of unity without unanimity, the role of citizens, and the need for gratitude towards institutions. He challenges the conservative movement to consider the value of institutions and structures, and to move beyond reflex assumptions of anti-government sentiment. Join us for a deep dive into American civic virtues, the role of Congress, and how we can foster a deeper affection for our country. Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation! 00:00 Introduction: The Nature of Disagreement 00:42 The Role of Citizenship in American Democracy 01:05 Political Parties and the Need for a Better Future 01:45 Guest Introduction: Dr. Yuval Levin 02:47 The Importance of Institutions and Gratitude 04:21 Starting the Conversation: Optimism vs. Hope 07:37 The Problem of Passivity in Modern Society 10:47 Unity Through Disagreement 19:01 The Balance of Majority Rule and Minority Rights 20:53 Universalism vs. Particularism in American Identity 26:28 Anthropology and Republicanism in American Politics 32:46 The Role of Institutions in Shaping Society 34:10 The Necessity of Virtue in Governance 36:43 Conservatism and the Importance of Institutions 43:28 Balancing Progress and Tradition 50:13 The Role of Congress and Representation 54:28 Patriotism and Civic Affection 01:02:07 The Danger of Ingratitude

The non-left in Canada includes an interesting and often overlooked group. They promote a mix of exercise, martial arts, masculinity, self defence, freedom, self sufficiency, honour, Christianity, and more. This group baffles academics and exasperates leftists. Both left and right seeks to dismiss and minimize their impact. But they represent a large (and growing) demographic with a loose collection of ideas that cannot be ignored. Nico Lagan offers a case in point. He is a popular and successful influencer on social media. He introduces himself as a conservative and a Christian. Behind the muscles and tattoos, you find an extremely active mind that refuses to suffer fools. He disciplines himself and expects the same of his politicians. Here are links for topics we mention: Political Orphans podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-political-orphans/id1792078161 Political Orphans YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJYLqRpfVUypqX6XiP76t0g  Exercise as a promising agent against cancer, 2023 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10648074/ The reproducibility crisis in the age of digital medicine (Nature, 2019) https://www.nature.com/articles/s41746-019-0079-z Thanks for checking it out! AI Summary: In this episode of the Concepts podcast, the host sits down with Nico Lagan, the host of the Political Orphans podcast. Nico shares his perspectives on the current political landscape, feeling disconnected from mainstream parties, and his personal journey that led him to become a political commentator. They delve into a wide range of topics including masculinity, the role of exercise, faith, and the challenges of modern politics. Nico also discusses the importance of speaking the truth, leading by example, and his motivations deeply rooted in his role as a father and follower of Jesus Christ. This conversation explores the need for authenticity, courage, and critical thinking in today's society. 00:00 Introduction: Political Orphans 00:27 Judgment and Stereotypes 01:22 Introducing Nico Lagan 02:19 Political Commentary and Audience Engagement 04:09 Challenges in Canadian Politics 06:22 Conservative Party Critique 12:40 Public Service and Political Detachment 13:42 Personal Struggles and Political Views 17:54 Media Influence and Political Adaptation 22:46 Authenticity and Public Perception 30:37 Faith and Truth in Politics 34:40 Defending Cultural and Religious Identity 36:57 The Role of Masculinity in Society 37:23 Personal Journey and Overcoming Adversity 38:31 The Importance of Male Role Models 47:10 Physical Fitness and Masculinity 54:19 Mind-Body Connection and Holistic Health 01:04:04 Political Reflections and Future Aspirations 01:06:41 Community Involvement and Local Leadership 01:07:50 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Andy captures the heart of conservatism unlike anything I've found elsewhere. He has lived it. He embodies it. And he welcomes others to enjoy it. Andy Crooks spelled out what's at stake for Canada, and he explained what we must do to save it. Stark, fun, inspirational, and tragic. I can't think of a better embodiment of the heart an soul of conservatism. You cannot seriously listen to Andy and walk away unchanged. AI summary: In this episode, Andy Crooks, a lawyer, author, and right-wing community organizer, shares his perspectives on conservative values, the importance of moral courage, and the threat of totalitarianism posed by modern technology. Reflecting on his experiences and deep-rooted beliefs, Andy discusses the cultural distinctiveness of Alberta, the concept of creative cleaning in capitalism, and the importance of standing up against societal lies. Tune in to explore how we can nurture future conservative leaders and maintain hope amidst growing challenges. 00:00 Introduction and Opening Thoughts 00:52 The Canadian Winter and Its Influence 01:41 A Darker Age: Technology and Totalitarianism 02:30 Introducing Andy Crooks 03:33 Andy Crooks' Background and Values 05:27 Community Involvement and Activism 12:49 Political Journey and Achievements 16:27 The Importance of Freedom and Responsibility 19:30 Creating an Atmosphere of Liberty 28:34 Conservatism and Capitalism 40:57 Historical Patterns of Totalitarianism 41:43 Moral Values vs. Economic Focus 42:09 Creative Cleaning and Political Challenges 42:33 Urban-Rural Divide in Politics 45:41 Canadian Governance and National Unity 49:57 The Canadian Winter Analogy 54:33 The Beaver as a National Symbol 58:10 Western Canadian Culture and Identity 01:02:51 Concerns for Canada's Future