Dr. Livingstone worries about postmodernism destroying Truth. I worry about about postmodernism destroying history as a way to understand the present.

David says we need universals to resist postmoderns. I say we should fear universals lest the postmoderns inflict us with their 'values'.

In this episode we resolve the debate (sort of). Thanks for watching!

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AI summary:

Navigating Truth and Tradition: A Deep Dive with Dr. David Livingstone on Canadian Political Thought

In this episode, we delve into deep political and philosophical discussions with Dr. David Livingstone, a professor of liberal and political studies at Vancouver Island University. We explore the complex interplay between universal truths and particular historical experiences, focusing on the ideas of Capital T Truth and the practical politics of Canada's founding. Our conversation centers around Dr. Livingstone's chapter on Thomas D'Arcy McGee, one of Canada’s founding figures, and his civic nationalism, as discussed in the book 'Canadian Conservative Political Thought.' Join us for a profound exploration of the roots of Canadian identity, the challenges posed by postmodernism, and the enduring relevance of historical conventions in shaping a nation's values and governance.

00:00 Introduction to the Debate on Truth

00:43 Exploring Universal Values and Relativism

01:18 David Livingston's Perspective on Capital T Truth

02:54 Thomas D'Arcy McGee's Civic Nationalism

07:34 McGee's Views on Canadian Identity and Democracy

10:58 The Tension Between Universal and Particular Truths

15:41 McGee's Thoughts on Aristocracy and Education

20:03 Balancing Liberty and Stability in Canada

23:23 The Role of Philosophy and Education in Nation-Building

26:31 Reconciling Historical Empiricism and Universal Truths

38:29 The Evolution of Vocabularies and Human Nature

39:15 The Importance of Constitutional Order

41:28 The Role of Liberal Studies in Understanding Life's Purpose

42:34 Challenges Facing Liberal Studies Programs

43:21 The Decline of Constitutional Awareness

47:23 The Importance of Historical Context in Law

59:24 The Role of Universities in Shaping Society

01:03:09 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action