Ep. 1335: Think Paleo
Summary
Brian McClanahan discusses a Chronicles Magazine article by Grove City College student Micaiah Brindle, which argues for a return to "paleoconservatism" as an authentically American alternative to European-derived ideologies. McClanahan critiques the current right's embrace of Lincolnian nationalism and neoconservative foreign policy, advocating instead for federalism, state sovereignty, and traditional American values. He emphasizes that true conservatism should reject centralized power and the managerial state, urging young conservatives to look to Southern and agrarian traditions rather …
Topics discussed
Sponsors and show introduction
Introducing the article 'Paleoconservatism Rising'
Critique of European ideologies and Christian nationalism
Debating George Washington and Lincoln as political guides
The case for federalism and local governance
Why national conversations on every issue are problematic
The enduring influence of neoconservatives in DC
Social media and the decline of conservative gatekeepers
Why young Americans are seeking traditional anchors
Rebutting the claim that paleoconservatives failed
The importance of Southern conservatism and literature
Paleo critiques of leftism and the managerial state
Historical precedents: Buchanan and George Wallace
The threat of Lincolnian nationalism and West Coast Straussians
Defining true conservatism vs. conserving the status quo
Defining the authentically American right-wing tradition
Vindication of paleo views on immigration and trade
Recommended reading and the path forward for the right
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