Ep 361: The Three Languages of Politics, with Arnold Kling

Summary – The Three Languages of Politics, with Arnold Kling

Arnold Kling, author of The Three Languages of Politics, joins us to discuss the complexities of political discourse and the tribalism that often underpins our beliefs and interactions. Throughout the episode, Klings dissects the challenges of communicating within the political sphere and the underlying motivations that drive these discussions.

Kling introduces a three-axes model of politics, shedding light on the beliefs and motivations behind the “oppressor-oppressed,” “barbarism-civilization,” and “coercion-liberty” axes. The conversation extends into the influence of education and the widening gap between different groups, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The episode explores the intricacies of using language and persuasion in political discourse, delving into the impact of motivated reasoning and the difficulty of applying the scientific method to political discussions. The hosts and guest also explore the evolving landscape of public discourse, where issues related to oppression and social justice activism take center stage.

The complex nature of political discourse is a challenge to fostering genuine understanding and communication. With an emphasis on nuanced thinking and a keen recognition of the multi-faceted nature of political perspectives, this episode promises to be an engaging exploration into the heart of political discourse.

Additional Resources

• Download The Three Languages of Politics Here: https://www.libertarianism.org/books/three-languages-politics
• http://arnoldkling.com
• https://arnoldkling.substack.com/
• Martin Guri: Revolt of the Public
• Rauch: Constitution of Knowledge
• Jeffrey Friedman: libertarian who is constantly questioning libertarianism