Summary – The Reality and Prospects for U.S. Secession, with Ryan McMaken
In this episode, Doug Stuart is joined by author Ryan McMaken to discuss his book Breaking Away: The Case for Secession, Radical Decentralization, and Smaller Politics. After exploring the roots and history of secessionist movements, the conversation moves to a more conceptual discussion where Ryan explains the meaning of decentralization, its associated benefits, and alternatives. Doug then asks Ryan to elaborate on the relationship between localism and federalism and how the tension impacts universal rights.
Acknowledging the recent relevance of secession, Doug and Ryan turn to practical considerations, rounding out the episode with a discussion on nuclear weapons, national debt, and the potential role of blockchain technology.
Ryan McMaken is a senior editor at the Mises Institute and co-hosts the Radio Rothbard podcast. He earned his bachelor’s degree in economics and master’s degree in public policy and international relations from the University of Colorado.
Main Points of Discussion
| 00:00 | Introduction |
| 06:20 | Is secession an American or un-American idea? |
| 08:44 | What does it mean for the world to be “decentralized?” |
| 10:50 | Benefits of decentralization |
| 14:19 | Alternatives to secession |
| 17:09 | Was the original constitution secessionary? |
| 19:05 | Universal rights versus localism |
| 22:13 | Localism versus federalism |
| 22:06 | The case for secession |
| 29:38 | What are the common arguments against secession? |
| 33:06 | Christians for Liberty Network plug |
| 33:35 | Practical considerations: what about the nukes? |
| 39:00 | What happens to the debt? |
| 41:44 | Blockchain technology and it’s impact on geopolitical governance |
