The Problem With Power: Thoughts From Maharrey Head #160
Summary
Michael Maharrey argues that both political sides hypocritically support cancel culture only when it targets their opponents, using Ron DeSantis’s ban on a pro-Palestinian student group as a key example. He contends that expanding government power to suppress speech sets dangerous precedents that ultimately threaten individual liberty regardless of who holds office. Citing George Mason and John Dickinson, Maharrey warns that power begets more power and urges listeners to resist any encroachment on constitutional limits to prevent future authoritarianism.
Topics discussed
Episode 160 Introduction: The Problem with Power
Returning from hiatus and supporting the show
Conservatives and the hypocrisy of cancel culture
Ron DeSantis banning pro-Palestinian student groups
The absolute nature of free speech rights
Both sides resist power only when out of control
Power begets power: The danger of expansion
George Mason's warnings on the thirst for power
John Dickinson on incremental government encroachment
Why you cannot trust politicians with more power
The risk of handing power to 'your guy'
Closing remarks and call to support the podcast
Listen ad-free on Castria