Added: Nov 17, 2023
In this podcast episode, the president of the conservative think tank, the Heritage Foundation, discusses the operations and practical utility of think tanks, the state of progressivism in the academic environment, and the importance of intellectual combat.Dr. Roberts emphasizes the mission of the Heritage Foundation, which is focused on revitalizing self-governance in the United States and across the world. The primary goal is to devolve power from Washington back to the states and ultimately back to the people themselves. This mission is grounded in the judeo-christian intellectual tradition and the principle of subsidiarity, which emphasizes the importance of local responsibility and meaning.
He continues by providing a comprehensive description of what a think tank is and its role in shaping public policy. He explains that think tanks conduct research to influence public policy at the local, state, and national levels. He also highlights the growing number of conservative think tanks in the United States, attributing their emergence to the lack of conservative representation in academia, particularly in the social sciences and humanities.
The conversation then delves into the challenges of engaging in intellectual combat, with Dr. Roberts emphasizing the importance of disagreement without being disagreeable. He stresses the need for a vibrant internal process of disagreement within think tanks to refine policy positions and prepare for public scrutiny.
The discussion also touches on the impact of radical leftism on the academic environment, particularly in the suppression of intellectual debate and the prioritization of individual feelings over the pursuit of truth. Dr. Roberts shares personal anecdotes from his time as a history professor, highlighting the reluctance of some academic institutions to engage in balanced and objective assessments of historical figures and events.
Furthermore, the conversation explores the role of universities in challenging students' preconceived notions and fostering critical thinking. Dr. Roberts and Dr. Jordan Peterson discuss the importance of exposing students to conflicting ideas and encouraging them to question their beliefs, even in the face of discomfort.
The podcast episode continues with a discussion on the relationship between faith and intellectual inquiry. Dr. Roberts emphasizes the importance of questioning assumptions and engaging in creative conflict, even for those who hold strong religious beliefs.
The conversation delves into the concept of responsibility and its relationship to meaning. They highlight the idea that responsibility is not just about duty and work, but it is also about finding intrinsic meaning in life. By taking on responsibility at various levels, individuals can experience a sense of dignity and purpose, which sustains them through life's challenges.
The discussion also touches on the limitations of the free market and the necessity of conservative principles to be associated with the long tradition of living in community. Dr. Roberts acknowledges that conservatives need to do a better job of talking about the limitations of the free market and the importance of conservative principles in fostering a sense of community and responsibility.
They also explore the idea that responsibility is a challenge that forces beneficial change. By taking on responsibility, individuals confront themselves with necessity, which leads to personal growth and development. The conversation emphasizes the idea that responsibility is not just about individual success, but it is also about caring for oneself and others in a way that fosters a stronger and more cohesive society.
The podcast highlights the Heritage Foundation's emphasis on voluntary responsibility and the deep sense of meaning that comes with it. Dr. Roberts explains that the organization advocates for an unhyphenated conservatism, which encompasses a range of values, including responsible conduct, trust, and moral systems. He emphasizes the importance of healthy families and moral values in fostering a free market.
One of the key points of discussion is the concept of regulatory capture and the dangers posed by accepting government or corporate funding. Dr. Roberts explains that the Heritage Foundation has avoided becoming an instrument of regulatory capture by primarily relying on small donors and individual supporters. The organization's funding model, which includes a membership model and minimal corporate funding, has allowed it to maintain independence and influence.
Lastly, the conversation also touches on the Heritage Foundation's role in shaping public policy and working with political candidates. Dr. Roberts discusses the organization's project 2025, which focuses on developing policies and personnel for the next conservative administration. He emphasizes the importance of aligning with candidates who are ready to govern aggressively and devolve power back to individual Americans.
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