Reviving Virtue: Ep 11 Benjamin Studebaker -The Chronic Crisis of American Democracy–The Way is Shut

In this episode of Reviving Virtue, we delve into a profound discussion with Benjamin Studebaker, author of 'The Chronic Crisis of American Democracy, the Way Is Shut.' The conversation explores the intricate class schema of workers, professionals, and employers, and the antagonism between these classes. Studebaker introduces the concept of 'rump professionals' and 'fallen professionals,' shedding light on the diminishing value of university degrees and the resulting frustrations. The discussion also highlights the role of resentment in politics, and the impact of voter turnout on the political landscape.

The episode further delves into the complexities of the American economic system and the growing resentment among different classes of society. Studebaker emphasizes the need for local narratives that resonate with people across the country and the challenges of the international tax and trade system. The role of fear in political participation is also discussed, offering insights into the dynamics of contemporary politics. The episode concludes with a thought-provoking question: "What if we're wrong?" offering a sobering reflection on the potential consequences of our current trajectory.

Topics discussed:
1. The state of American democracy
2. The role of local narratives in politics
3. The impact of the international tax and trade system
4. The housing market and its economic implications
5. The role of resentment in politics
6. The diminishing returns of education
7. The concept of 'rump professionals' and 'fallen professionals'
8. The impact of voter turnout and participation on politics
9. The role of fear in political participation
10. The question of being wrong and its implications

Book recommendations:

Further Info:
Music by Jeffrey Anthony

00:00 Pre-episode Teaser
01:43 Introduction
03:57 Discovering Political Passion: An Early Journey into Politics and Theory
09:18 Populism and Economic Context: Understanding the Resentment and Political Shifts
16:21 How Globalization Stymies National Promises: The Inflationary Effect of Disturbing the Order
18:55 The New Reality of Rump and Fallen Professionals: An Analysis of Education's Diminishing Returns
26:22 The Left, the Democratic Party, and the Dynamics of Fear: An Analysis of Political Strategy and Rhetoric
34:22 The Enduring Discontent: Unraveling the American Democratic Malaise
45:20 Bridging the Divide: A Discussion on Voter Rights, Economic Inequalities, and Our Shared Future
49:11 Expanding Concepts of Liberty and Equality: A Proposal for More Inclusive Education
55:25 Misconceptions of Equality: The Illusion of Equity in a Society of Billionaires
01:02:05 Down Payment Assistance: A Band-Aid on a Broken Housing Market
01:03:58 Questioning False Hopes: An Honest Conclusion to a Disquieting Discourse
01:08:32 Re-Engaging Community Voices: Fostering Genuine Change from Ground Level
01:14:11 Outro

[konormccracken]

Great conversation. Ben has a singular, well-articulated perspective on the most pressing of issues - and kudos to the host for encouraging him to pin down some of the headier stuff into laymen's terms. Thanks!

[jascon]

Never heard of either of you guys. Praise the algorithm 😜 This was a great conversation and great topic. Will check out other videos.

[ivanivanovich]

Please have Benjamin Studebaker on the podcast again.

[surfaceenvy]

An immensely clarifying book. Studebaker is one of the most impressive American political thinkers today.