Our lives are shaped by the political systems in which we live. When our country starts to struggle, we need to revisit the ideas that animate the programs and structures around us.

In just under 5 minutes, I explain why we need to focus on political ideas now, and why philosophical conservatism offers a (paradoxically) new and fresh way to think.

If you agree and think that this is a worthy quest, please click like and subscribe. It seems like a small thing, but it makes a huge difference. Reviews, comments, and feedback greatly improve the chance of a podcast's survival, no matter where you find it.

Also, please consider becoming a supporter through my Patreon (coming soon)

Thanks again. I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Shawn

Ginny returns to answer common Canadian myths and misconceptions, as well as offering analysis on the upcoming election.

We start out with four familiar comments or questions:

1. Is the Conservative Party uncaring, especially about people in need?
2. Will Pierre Poilievre end up spending as much as Mark Carney?
3. The CBC is Canadian. Isn't it a trusted source for unbiased information?
4. Carney is really nothing like Justin Trudeau.

Then we get into meatier fare:

1. Biggest missed opportunities in the election?
2. Should we listen to separatist fear mongering?
3. What's required to rebuild Canada-USA relations?
4. If Carney wants to implement Trudeau 2.0, do we have the capacity to even try?

Please like, subscribe, and share a comment -- Thank you!!

Canadian Conservatism, National Identity, & Critique of Post-Colonialism

In this episode, Shawn interviews Professor Jeremy Geddert about George Grant, renowned Canadian philosopher and author of 'Lament for a Nation'. They delve into Grant's critique of the Laurentian elite, his perspectives on Canadian nationalism, conservatism, and his critique of contemporary progressive politics. Geddert examines Grant's views on state and identity, comparing left and right Hegelian philosophies, as well as addressing the evolution of Canadian nationalism and its distinction from American identity. The discussion also touches on historical perspectives and the implications for Canada's future.

Sean Speer, Editor at Large at The Hub, paints a stressful (dire?) picture of what faces the next prime minister. The need to secure a stable economic and security agreement with the United States may, paradoxically, compromise the Prime Minister’s political future. They might not be able to secure an agreement that any Canadians will like.

What will America want in return for an improved trade relationship? Will we have to change policies on supply management, internet regulation, and customs?

We end by discussing the shifting political dynamics among the so-called ‘tech bros' and their alignment with conservative politics, and what that might mean for Canada.

The stakes couldn’t be higher for this election. I hope you enjoy the episode.

Preston Manning knows populism like no one else. He says Western Canada might have the most experience with populist movements and governments worldwide.

United Farmers’ Associations, Social Credit, CCF, and Reform — they all shared a bottom-up, grassroots energy fuelled by frustration over disdain from elites and inattentive government.

Having spent his life giving speeches and talking about Canada, Preston can fire off enough details about Canada to make anyone feel inspired by what we have and humbled we do not know it better.

Preston combines passion and energy while remaining open to divergent ideas. He seems to just keep rolling forward, with alacrity!

Video of the episode is on youtube.com/@ConceptsWithShawnWhatley

Arney Lange has applied his medical and military mind to a structured definition of conservatism that includes 7 different types along two axes. He said there are 3rd and 4th dimensional axes also, but he didn’t want to overwhelm me with details.

He has found a way to package complex ideas in a format that most high-school students could manage. Order through his website or Amazon.

AI summary and chapters:

Dr. Arney Lange, a former medical researcher and current internist in Ottawa, unpacks the complexities of conservatism in Canadian politics. With a background that includes teaching, military service, and authorship of four books on political theory, Dr. Lange explores the different facets of conservatism, ranging from liberation to conservation. He discusses the historical context, the role of private property in environmentalism, and how citizenship responsibilities play into the larger national narrative. Don't miss this deep dive into political thought, enriched by Dr. Lange's unique poetic perspective.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Arney Lange

00:53 Defining Conservatism in Canadian Politics

02:27 The Seven Types of Conservatives

02:52 The Freedom Axis and Its Implications

03:34 The Conservation Axis and Its Types

05:33 Motivations Behind Dr. Lange's Work

14:08 The Ship of State Metaphor

19:30 Democracy and Political Legitimacy

30:32 Influence of American Constitutional Ideas

32:15 Debating John Locke's Philosophy

38:59 Identity Politics and Its Impact

45:55 Environmentalism and Conservatism

52:01 A Patriotic Canadian Poem

56:27 Conclusion and Farewell

Roy has spent decades inside the belly of the Big Blue beast. He knows retail Canadian conservatism as well as anyone. Not only does he attend almost every conservative political conference, event, and lecture (including CPAC in the US), he also has photos of himself standing with more world leaders than most individual world leaders can boast!

Including unique insights and experiences, Dr. Eappen is probably the only gay, Conservative, monarchist, first-generation immigrant, endocrinologist in Canada, or perhaps anywhere in the world.

Enjoy

AI summary and chapters:

Exploring Conservatism in Canada with Dr. Roy Eappen In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Roy Eappen, an assistant professor of medicine at McGill University and a long-time conservative activist in Canada. Dr. Eappen discusses the state of conservatism, the importance of constitutional monarchy, and the challenges within the conservative movement. We delve into his work with the organization 'Do No Harm,' which seeks to combat the influence of 'woke' policies in medicine, particularly concerning transgender youth treatments. Additionally, Dr. Eappen shares his views on immigration, the role of religion in public life, and the current political landscape in Canada. Join us for an insightful conversation about maintaining and evolving conservative values in today's world.

00:00 Introduction to Constitutional Monarchies

01:02 Meet Dr. Roy Eappen 01:43 Conservatism in Canadian Politics

02:56 Challenges Within the Conservative Party

04:55 The Role of Ideas in Conservatism

06:11 Support for the Monarchy

07:27 Work with Do No Harm

09:26 Views on Transgender Youth Policies

11:58 Canada's Response to Medical Reviews

18:28 Personal Background and Immigration Story

19:29 Political Figures and Free Trade

23:21 The Liberal Fix: Can It Work?

23:28 Mr. Carney's Influence and Conflicts

24:04 Addressing Average Canadians' Concerns

24:28 Identity Politics and Climate Change

25:28 Skepticism on Climate Spending

27:03 The Role of Religion in Public Life

29:25 Cultural and Civic Identity in Canada

32:05 The Importance of Civics Education

33:04 Conservatism vs. Liberalism

34:05 The Value of Aesthetics and Architecture

37:00 Cancel Culture and Its Impact

37:45 Concluding Thoughts on Canada's Future

I tried my best to disagree with Daniel. Doesn’t Quebec block pipelines to protect its cultural identity? How can Canadians pout about tariffs when we have major intra-provincial trade barriers? Why talk about making it easier to build homes without talking about a construction sector that seems built to protect itself and resist efficiency?

In each case, Daniel corrected misconceptions with evidence. He also offered hope for the future. MEI has launched a Liberty and Leadership program to help train the next generation of government leaders on the fundamentals of classical economics and social policy.

You can watch the episode on YouTube at Concepts with Shawn Whatley

AI summary:

In this episode, Shawn interviews Daniel Dufort, president of the MEI (formerly Montreal Economic Institute), to discuss pressing economic issues. They delve into the impact of tariffs, the inefficiency they create, and why free trade and economic liberalism are crucial for robust economies. Daniel shares insights on the need for removing interprovincial trade barriers, which hinder economic growth in Canada. The conversation also covers the housing crisis, emphasizing the importance of increasing supply to tackle affordability and regulatory hurdles that stifle construction. Additionally, Daniel introduces MEI's Liberty and Leadership program, aimed at fostering classical liberal values among youths aspiring to work in politics. The discussion rounds off with a look at the current state of Canada's healthcare system and the urgent need for reform.

00:00 Introduction to Tariffs

00:36 Guest Introduction: Daniel Dufort

00:59 Discussion on Tariffs and Economic Impact

05:54 Interprovincial Trade and Protectionism

09:58 Public Choice Theory and Rent Seeking

15:58 Housing Market Challenges and Solutions

27:57 Liberty and Leadership Program

34:16 Healthcare System Concerns

38:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts