Reviving Virtue: Pragmatism and Perspective in Modern Times

In this episode, I explore the complex relationship between meritocracy, credentialism, and the rise of Trumpism in the United States. Using Alicia Keys' Super Bowl halftime performance and the elites' reaction to it as a starting point, I delve into how the ideals of perfectionism and meritocracy have created a cultural divide that fuels resentment and disillusionment among a large portion of the American population. I examine the historical and philosophical roots of these issues, tracing the origins of the modern meritocratic worldview back to the Protestant Reformation and the rise of capitalism. I discuss how this shift in thinking has led to a society that places immense value on individual achievement and success, often at the expense of acknowledging the role of luck, privilege, and systemic factors. I argue that this meritocratic ethos, combined with the concept of credentialism, has left many Americans feeling left behind and resentful of the elites who seem to benefit from this system. I suggest that this resentment has created a fertile ground for the rise of Trumpism, which offers a voice to those who feel disenfranchised and ignored by the dominant narrative of meritocracy. Throughout the video, I draw on the works of various scholars and thinkers, including Michael Sandel, Max Weber, Jackson Lears, and Wendell Berry, to support my analysis and provide a deeper understanding of the issues at hand. Here is a link to my article on Medium, where I explore these ideas in greater depth.

IN this episode cross posted on Youtube, I share an article I recently published on Medium about the intersection of AI and music. I lay out the philosophical implications of generative AI and the disassembly of music into modular components for capital circulation and its implications on artistic expression and freedom. I argue for the importance of preserving authentic, embodied musical experiences and the role of genuine musical communities in safeguarding the transformative power of music. Drawing on the works of philosophers such as Peter Sloterdijk, Anna Kornbluh, Hartmut Rosa, and others, I explore the concept of primordial resonance and how nurturing contextualized, embodied musical spaces is crucial for maintaining the vital link between our primal musical enchantments and the public sphere. Join me as I delve into why these spaces, where freedom takes root, are essential for reclaiming the intimate, individualized experience of hearing that is so fundamental to our well-being and the future of music in the age of AI. https://trapital.co/2024/03/08/is-generative-music-really-the-next-napster/https://medium.com/@revivingvirtue/the-transparent-artist-music-in-the-age-of-ai-disassembly-8663e5013ecd https://medium.com/@revivingvirtue/ais-lone-banana-problem-art-ontology-and-the-unseen-threat-21f6ea2be377

In this episode of 'Reviving Virtue,' we scrutinize John Dewey's political and social philosophy, specifically focusing on his idea of democracy as a way of life and its profound implications on our societal structures. We examine his unique approach to democracy as an interactional and communicative process, as well as exploring the importance of habit and impulse in democratic engagements. Dewey's critique of American philosophy and his call for its reformation is also covered. Join us as we delve into his ideas on creative actions' potential to initiate societal transformation and how we, as a society, can navigate the crossroads of democracy we currently face. Link to the book with the chapter explored: Reading Dewey: Interpretations for a Postmodern Generation – Chapter 5. “Dewey’s Social and Political Philosophy” by John Stuhr Contact: revivingvirtue@gmail.com

In this episode of Reviving Virtue, host Jeffrey Anthony engages Dr. Molly Farneth in a rigorous dialogue exploring the multifaceted connections between rituals, virtues, and democratic communal life. Dr. Farneth, author of "The Politics of Ritual," elucidates the transformative potential of rituals for shaping social norms, articulating community values, and nurturing democratic citizenship. From the paradigm-shifting case of the Philadelphia 11 to the application of Hegelian social ethics, and even touching upon the cultural phenomenon of Taylor Swift, this conversation provides a nuanced investigation into the capacity of rituals and habits to rejuvenate our democratic ethos. Books Discussed: The Politics of RitualHegel's Social Ethics: Religion, Conflict, and Rituals of ReconciliationTopics Covered: Contact: revivingvirtue@gmail.com Music by Jeffrey Anthony

I explore the critique John Dewey presents at the end of Chapter 4 of 'Human Nature and Conduct,' specifically targeting Henri Bergson's concept of élan vital. This video delves into Dewey's alternative philosophy based on 'intelligent habit,' offering a nuanced critique of Bergson's transcendental ideas through the pragmatic lens of Deweyan thought. YouTube Channel Music By Jeffrey Anthony Books: Human Nature and ConductCreative EvolutionContact: revivingvirtue@gmail.com

In this episode of Reviving Virtue, I explore the complex interplay between economics, morality, and violence in contemporary American society. Drawing on the philosophies of John Dewey and the hyper-reality of today's multinational firms, I reflect on the moral consequences of their actions and the seeming inevitability of societal anger and violence. Through a blend of personal anecdotes, historical context, and ethical inquiry, the episode invites listeners to consider how we might challenge the status quo, imbue our culture with new vocabulary, and recognize the social construction of economics as a path to a more harmonious future. Topics Discussed: Books Discussed: Human Nature and ConductContact: revivingvirtue@gmail.comJeffrey AnthonyYouTube channel

In Episode 15, Jeffrey delves into the Emersonian theodicy and pragmatism, two philosophical ideas that offer a fresh perspective on individualism, community, and the challenges of modern capitalism. Drawing on the works of Ralph Waldo Emerson and other influential thinkers, the episode explores the nexus between personal virtue and social responsibility, critiquing neoliberal ideologies and Silicon Valley's extractive culture. Through a dialogue on shared values, responsibility, and the pursuit of truth, this episode aims to revive virtues that foster a more compassionate and flourishing society. Topics Covered: Books Discussed: The American Evasion of PhilosophyRegime Change: Toward a Post-Liberal FutureThe Tyranny of Merit: What's Become of the Common GoodFurther Info: Jeffrey AnthonyBookshop page

Join us for an enlightening dialogue with Dr. Mary Carol Combs, a renowned professor from the University of Arizona, as we delve into the contentious issue of bilingual education in Arizona. The conversation navigates through the intricacies of structured English immersion, the critical role of language in economic development, and the paradox of policies advocating for bilingualism while restricting bilingual education. Listen in as we dissect the complexities of language policy, explore language activism, and contemplate the political clarity required by educators. Our discussion also centers around the potential repercussions for 'noisy' activists and the paradoxes in the conservative approach to education policy. Finally, we reflect on linguistic diversity's immense potential in shaping our collective moral understanding and creative capacities. A central theme of our conversation is the influence and relevance of the work of Paulo Freire, the renowned Brazilian educator and philosopher known for his influential work, 'Pedagogy of the Oppressed. Books/Papers mentioned: Pedagogy of the OppressedLanguage Activism and Language PolicyTheatre of the OppressedTopics Discussed Further Info: revivingvirtue@gmail.comJeffrey Anthonyhttps://bookshop.org/shop/RevivingVirtue

In this episode we explore the intersections of philosophy, economics, and societal norms, guided by the insights of philosophers such as Molly Farneth, Hegel, Aristotle, and John Dewey, as well as contemporary thinkers like Benjamin Studebaker. We explore Studebaker's article "The Catholic Profit of Inequality" from Compact Magazine, examining its critique of wealth disparity from the early Christian era to the present day. Through this exploration, we engage with complex ideas about virtue, morality, societal habits, and the potential for reconciliation in our divided society. Links to article and Books: The Catholic Prophet of InequalityHegel’s Social EthicsThe Politics of RitualAristotle: Nicomachean Ethics (Revised)Topics: Further Info: revivingvirtue@gmail.comJeffrey Anthonyhttps://bookshop.org/shop/RevivingVirtue

In this episode, we dive into the role of the Federal Reserve, its dual mandate, and the socioeconomic implications of controlling inflation through employment. We explore the concept of aggregates of aggregates, the artificiality of the 2% inflation rate, and draw upon the perspectives of French philosopher Bruno Latour to shed light on how economic measures are influenced by practices, technologies, and social interactions. Books Discussed: https://bookshop.org/a/94644/9780674948396https://bookshop.org/a/94644/9781250800060Further Info: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-S-86YcDfV94_u2i1qlYbQhttps://twitter.com/Reviving_Virtuehttps://www.patreon.com/RevivingVirtuehttps://bookshop.org/shop/RevivingVirtuerevivingvirtue@gmail.com

In this episode of Reviving Virtue, we delve into a profound discussion with Benjamin Studebaker, author of 'The Chronic Crisis of American Democracy, the Way Is Shut.' The conversation explores the intricate class schema of workers, professionals, and employers, and the antagonism between these classes. Studebaker introduces the concept of 'rump professionals' and 'fallen professionals,' shedding light on the diminishing value of university degrees and the resulting frustrations. The discussion also highlights the role of resentment in politics, and the impact of voter turnout on the political landscape. The episode further delves into the complexities of the American economic system and the growing resentment among different classes of society. Studebaker emphasizes the need for local narratives that resonate with people across the country and the challenges of the international tax and trade system. The role of fear in political participation is also discussed, offering insights into the dynamics of contemporary politics. The episode concludes with a thought-provoking question: "What if we're wrong?" offering a sobering reflection on the potential consequences of our current trajectory. Topics discussed: Book recommendations: https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-031-28210-2https://bookshop.org/a/94644/9780553447453https://bookshop.org/a/94644/9780674979857Further Info: https://twitter.com/Reviving_Virtuehttps://www.patreon.com/RevivingVirtuehttps://bookshop.org/shop/RevivingVirtuerevivingvirtue@gmail.com

In this episode of Reviving Virtue, host Jeffrey Anthony engages in a profound conversation with esteemed musicologist Susan McClary on the intricate relationship between music, culture, and society, including the influence of cultural norms and capitalist structures on tonality. Drawing on his experiences as a music analyst at Pandora Radio, Jeffrey provides a nuanced perspective on the Music Genome Project's role in democratizing music discovery and the potential unforeseen drawbacks. The discourse takes a deeper turn as they address the controversial subject of cultural appropriation in music, with McClary offering keen insights into the ethical implications. They further examine the link between the Enlightenment's rationality and the evolution of musical tonality, underlining the era's significant impact, epitomized by Arcangelo Corelli around 1700. This episode serves as a thought-provoking exploration and reevaluation of music's socio-cultural dimensions, making it an essential listen for those intrigued by the confluence of music, culture, and society. Topics covered in the podcast: Book recommendations based on this episode:Further Info: Twitter: https://twitter.com/Reviving_Virtue Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/RevivingVirtue Bookshop page: https://bookshop.org/shop/RevivingVirtue Contact: revivingvirtue@gmail.com Music by Jeffrey Anthony

In this episode, we delve into a profound discussion with economist Mark Paul about his book, "The Ends of Freedom," and his vision for an Economic Bill of Rights. We explore the concept of an economic bill of rights that has a long history from FDR to MLK the role of government in providing essential services, and the importance of progressive taxation. We also discuss the need for affordable childcare and its impact on women's participation in the labor force. The conversation touches on the historical context of GDP calculation, the importance of including home labor, and the implications of excluding it. We also discuss the cost of higher education and the potential benefits of making it universally accessible. The conversation concludes with a discussion on how to pay for these social programs, the role of broad-based taxation, and the importance of considering future productive capacity rather than focusing solely on the national debt. The Paper Mentioned in the Show - Children as Public Goods by Nancy Folbre, The American Economic Review 1994 - https://www.proquest.com/docview/233027518 Recommended books based on this episode: 1. "The Ends of Freedom" by Mark Paul - https://bookshop.org/a/94644/9780226792965 2. "The Value of Everything" by Mariana Mazzucato - https://bookshop.org/a/94644/9781541758247 3. "The Deficit Myth" by Stephanie Kelton - https://bookshop.org/a/94644/9781541736191 4. "The Case for a Maximum Wage" by Sam Pizzigati - https://bookshop.org/a/94644/9781509524921 Topics discussed: Twitter: https://twitter.com/Reviving_Virtue Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/RevivingVirtue Bookshop page: https://bookshop.org/shop/RevivingVirtue Contact: revivingvirtue@gmail.com Music by Jeffrey Anthony

Immerse yourself in a profound exploration of reason and tradition in the 8th episode of Reviving Virtue, where we have the privilege of hosting Dr. Jeffery Nicholas, a renowned philosophy professor from Providence College and the insightful author of 'Reason, Tradition, and the Good: MacIntyre's Tradition-Constituted Reason and Frankfurt School Critical Theory'. Dr. Nicholas brings a wealth of understanding as we delve into the world of substantive reason, a form of reason brimming with content, standards, and ideas about what's good, guiding us to contemplate our societal goals and aspirations. We juxtapose our established Enlightenment-based understanding of knowledge with the epistemologies of indigenous cultures such as the Lakota people, bringing forth the richness of their worldviews. The episode culminates in an engaging discussion on the transformative potential of education, and how it can foster understanding, critique, and catalyze change within our traditions. Join us in this episode as we seek to articulate new moral narratives that can reshape our time. Topics: Book recommendations: Book recommendations: Reason, Tradition, and the Good: MacIntyre's Tradition-Constituted Reason and Frankfurt School Critical TheoryLove and Politics: Persistent Human Desires as a Foundation for LiberationDependent Rational AnimalsBeast and ManDetails: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-S-86YcDfV94_u2i1qlYbQhttps://twitter.com/Reviving_Virtuehttps://www.patreon.com/RevivingVirtuerevivingvirtue@gmail.comhttps://open.spotify.com/album/1Q9wJCeuUa3wrHrKKtsTFW?si=NeyPJ-dzRBeWfHhYDPgvvw

In episode seven of Reviving Virtue, we analyze a chapter called “The Place of Reason in The Moral Life; Moral Knowledge” by John Dewey from his book Ethics, with a special focus on Immanuel Kant's philosophy as a counterpoint to Dewey's views. We delve into the philosophical underpinnings of morality, using a painter and her canvas as a vivid metaphor to articulate intuitionalism and Dewey's perspective on morality. Our discussion uncovers the criticisms of Kantian ethics and utilitarianism, and the shortcomings of strict moral systems such as intuitionalism and casuistry. We then present virtues as a dynamic, creative alternative for moral decision-making. The episode culminates in a compelling examination of the American healthcare system, drawing parallels with the contrasting ideologies of American individualism and European collective responsibility. It advocates for a more compassionate, equitable healthcare model that values collective wellbeing, effectively linking these philosophical debates to a vital, real-world issue. Topics Discussed: Book Recommendations: Book Recommendations: EthicsGroundwork of the Metaphysic of MoralsThe Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religionhttps://twitter.com/Reviving_Virtuehttps://www.patreon.com/RevivingVirtuerevivingvirtue@gmail.comhttps://open.spotify.com/album/1Q9wJCeuUa3wrHrKKtsTFW?si=NeyPJ-dzRBeWfHhYDPgvvw

In the sixth installment of our John Dewey Series, we delve into the final chapter of "The Public and Its Problems," titled 'The Problem of Method.' This episode explores the reconciliation of atomistic individualism with shared moral narratives, a key aspect of our quest for the good life. We scrutinize the challenges posed by Enlightenment thinking and its influence on our perception of society and the individual. The importance of face-to-face interactions in community building is discussed, exemplified by a case against drive-throughs to underscore the value of fostering direct dialogue. Further, we navigate the revitalization of local communal life, drawing insights from Dewey and Rorty, with a particular emphasis on the call for empathetic dialogue. As we conclude this episode, we reflect on our journey through Dewey's work, expressing hope for a society that is not only alive and flexible but also stable, responsive, and enriching. Topics: Book Recommendations: "How Private Equity Is Swallowing Up Health Care—And What to Do About It"Contingency, Irony, and SolidaritySources of the Self: The Making of the Modern Identity The Public and its Problemshttps://twitter.com/Reviving_Virtuehttps://www.patreon.com/RevivingVirtuehttps://revivingvirtue.substack.com/revivingvirtue@gmail.comhttps://open.spotify.com/album/1Q9wJCeuUa3wrHrKKtsTFW?si=NeyPJ-dzRBeWfHhYDPgvvw

In this fifth installment of our John Dewey Series, we delve into Chapter 5 of "The Public and Its Problems," titled "Search for the Great Community," exploring its implications for contemporary society. We draw metaphorical parallels between jazz improvisation and societal discourse, underscoring the importance of open communication, especially in the face of the polarizing phenomenon of cancel culture. Through a discussion on intellectual freedom, we elucidate the crucial roles of open-mindedness, courage, prudence, justice, and compassion in fostering harmonious societal ensembles. The episode underlines Dewey's emphasis on the power of art and literature in the presentation and dissemination of ideas, enabling rigorous exploration and inquiry to resonate with the masses. We highlight the transformative potential of art and literature in shaping democracy, underscoring their capacity to enhance our understanding of ourselves, others, and the world we share. We conclude the episode by acknowledging the intricate interplay between art, literature, and democracy. This amalgam of philosophical introspection and contemporary discourse analysis offers valuable insights for navigating our increasingly complex social landscapes. Topics Covered: Recommended Books: The Book: The Public and its Problems Twitter: https://twitter.com/Reviving_Virtue Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/RevivingVirtue Substack: https://revivingvirtue.substack.com/ Contact: revivingvirtue@gmail.com Music by Jeffrey Anthony: https://open.spotify.com/album/1Q9wJCeuUa3wrHrKKtsTFW?si=NeyPJ-dzRBeWfHhYDPgvvw

In this fourth installment of our exploration of John Dewey's seminal work, "The Public and Its Problems," we continue to unravel Chapter 4, "Eclipse of the Public." This episode scrutinizes the evolution and implications of democratic mechanisms like the Electoral College, its relevance, and the dilemmas it poses in today's democratic ethos. We embark on a journey to discover virtues pertinent to our contemporary society, balancing the importance of unity with the dangers of uniformity, particularly in the context of social media. Dewey's century-old insights on political disillusionment provide a lens to view modern phenomena such as global trade and immigration, dispelling the myth of the zero-sum game. We propose empathy, collaboration, and open-mindedness as foundational virtues for inclusive and productive immigration discourse. The transformation of 'liberalism' from a beacon of progress to a shield for vested interests is another key theme, and we draw lessons for the age of artificial intelligence and other disruptive technologies. Finally, Dewey's ideas on communication and resilience help us envision the future of our shared communities. This episode is a compelling blend of philosophical insight and current affairs analysis, offering practical wisdom for navigating our complex social and political landscapes. Some Topics Discussed: - John Dewey - Pragmatism -Hartmut Rosa - Social Acceleration Theory - Giovanni Peri - Evolution of Electoral College - Virtues in Modern Society - Social Media's Impact on Unity and Uniformity - Dewey's Insights on Political Disillusionment - Global Trade and Immigration - Myth of the Zero-Sum Game - Role of Empathy, Collaboration, and Open-Mindedness in Immigration Discussions - Transformation of 'Liberalism' - Age of Artificial Intelligence - Communication and Resilience in Communities - Creation of a Deweyan Public "The Effect of Immigration on Productivity: Evidence from U.S. States" by Giovanni Peri https://ideas.repec.org/a/tpr/restat/v94y2012i1p348-358.html The Book: The Public and its Problems Twitter: https://twitter.com/Reviving_Virtue Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/RevivingVirtue Substack: https://revivingvirtue.substack.com/ Contact: revivingvirtue@gmail.com Music by Jeffrey Anthony: https://open.spotify.com/album/1Q9wJCeuUa3wrHrKKtsTFW?si=NeyPJ-dzRBeWfHhYDPgvvw

In this episode, we delve into the intricate balance between individual freedom and collective virtues, channeling the wisdom of John Dewey and his philosophies. Through the orchestral metaphor, we unveil the subtleties of this relationship, presenting society as a "symphony" and individuals as "musicians." We discuss Dewey's perspective on the pivotal role of the "conductor" (government) in guiding these diverse performances, not to limit personal virtuosity, but to facilitate its integration into a harmonious collective narrative. Drawing from Dewey's work, we delve into the significance of virtues, moral narratives, and shared values. We discuss how individual skill and commitment to the community contribute to the overall wellness of society, touching upon Dewey's emphasis on the interaction of personal growth and societal health. Lastly, we grapple with Dewey's concept of the "Great Society," contemplating the ramifications of technology and mechanization on our interconnected world. Engaging with his critiques, we explore how we can preserve a sense of belonging and shared purpose amid rapid societal transformation, and how we can utilize technology not as a tool for mere efficiency but as a means to foster deeper connections and nurture our shared humanity. Some Topics Discussed: John DeweyPragmatismCharles TaylorIndividual FreedomCollective VirtuesMoral NarrativesShared Values (corporate social responsibility)Great SocietyImpact of Technology on SocietyShared HumanityFurther Info: The Public and its Problemshttps://twitter.com/Reviving_Virtuehttps://www.patreon.com/RevivingVirtuerevivingvirtue@gmail.comhttps://open.spotify.com/album/1Q9wJCeuUa3wrHrKKtsTFW?si=NeyPJ-dzRBeWfHhYDPgvvwhttps://revivingvirtue.substack.com/Book Recommendations based on the themes in this episode:

Welcome to Reviving Virtue, a podcast where we confront the urgent challenges of today's world by exploring the crucial role of creating a coherent moral narrative for our time. I'm your host, Jeffrey Anthony, on a quest to address liberalism's quandary and pave the way towards a more unified society. Join me on this journey as we delve into ethics, philosophy, and community-building, seeking to foster a common understanding that promotes human flourishing and harmony. In the second episode of our 6-part series journeying through John Dewey's "The Public and Its Problems," we delve deeper into Chapter 2, "Discovery of the State." We examine Dewey's critical perspective on the relationship between the public, the state, and the government, challenging traditional notions of minimum wage and the controversial role of the private sector. We discuss the rise of neoliberalism and emphasize the need for creativity and intentionality from our public and government, drawing from Dewey's argument for the necessity of public regulation. As we navigate through Dewey's philosophies, we caution against conceptualizing the state and government as separate entities, reinforcing his emphasis on viewing society as a complex network of associations rather than a homogeneous entity. Our discussion illuminates the implications of Dewey's perspective in our current political and social climate, specifically regarding the rise of social media and its impact on political divisions. Tune in to engage with Dewey's critical insights and their modern-day relevance. Some Topics Discussed: John Dewey Pragmatism Employ America Charles Taylor Buffered Self Porous self Classic Learning Test Separation of Church and State The Jazz Form AABA Form The Book: The Public and its Problems Twitter: https://twitter.com/Reviving_Virtue Contact: revivingvirtue@gmail.com Music by Jeffrey Anthony: https://open.spotify.com/album/1Q9wJCeuUa3wrHrKKtsTFW?si=NeyPJ-dzRBeWfHhYDPgvvw Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/RevivingVirtue Substack: https://revivingvirtue.substack.com/