Episodes
The Lost Cause Lie: Ann Bausum
We discuss the foundational lies of the Lost Cause, the organic nature of more recent lies, and the constant vigilance necessary to defend democracy.
Democracy Without Politicians: Hélène Landemore
We discuss the concept of deliberative representative democracy by ordinary citizens, which means representing and being represented in turn.
Educating for Democracy: James Traub
We discuss the role of schools to form effective citizens in our democracy. It’s necessary to prioritize the teaching of our history and our government.
The Library Changemaker: Amanda Jones
We discuss the dangers of book bans and censorship, the power of civic action on the local level, and the intersection of libraries and human rights.
Equal Freedom: Alex Zakaras
We discuss the promise of radical liberalism to deliver equal freedom for all.
Deliberating for Democracy: James Fishkin
We discuss deliberative polling as a way to assess the will of the people and then to make it consequential. This is what democracy is all about.
Classrooms of Democracy: Elaine Weiss
We discuss the history of citizenship schools, their profound importance in the Civil Rights Movement, and the critical lessons they offer for our present moment with Elaine Weiss.
Marxism for Americans: Andrew Hartman
We discuss the influence of Karl Marx in American politics and the continued relevance of Marxism today.
Everybody Benefits from Public Schools: Jennifer Berkshire & Jack Schneider
We discuss the power and the promise of public schools, the universal rejection of book bans by parents across the country, and an inclusive vision for democracy.
Power Sharing Liberalism: Danielle Allen
Danielle Allen is the author of Justice By Means of Democracy. She is also the James Bryant Conant University Professor at Harvard University and Director of the Allen Lab for Democracy Renovation at Harvard Kennedy School's Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation. We discuss power sharing liberalism as a new paradigm in the practice of democracy.