David Brooks on What Happened to American Conservatism
Summary
In this episode, Scott Galloway revisits a May 2025 conversation with David Brooks to explore the state of American conservatism amidst the midterms. Brooks distinguishes between traditional conservative values and the current reactionary politics, arguing that the right has conflated masculinity with cruelty. The discussion also covers the crisis of male purpose, the need for moral formation in society, and the progressive failure to address working-class resentment through economic and cultural inclusion.
Topics discussed
Episode intro: Revisiting the 2025 conversation on conservatism
Defining Hamiltonianism: Limited but energetic government
Brooks' early career and the Dartmouth Review rebellion
The shift from values to dominance and rage on the right
Trump's impact on patriotism, Christianity, and national honor
Progressive mistakes: Identity politics and elite institutions
Media bias and the educational class divide
The 'rejection academy' and the narrowing of meritocracy
Breaking the higher education caste system and redefining ability
DEI on campus and the case for mandatory national service
Finding purpose in your 20s and the loss of student vitality
The spiritual and relational crisis of modern America
Investing in left-behind places and community rebuilding
The decline of moral formation in schools and institutions
The university's lost mission: From activism to civic character
The crisis of masculinity and the need for vigorous virtues
Advice for new dads: Emotional openness and vulnerability
Choosing a partner: Admiration over passion
Lightning round: Books, purpose, and core missions
Outro and sponsor reads
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