In this episode, Armen Shirvanian engages with Professor Robert Talisse, author of Civic Solitude: Why Democracy Needs Distance. They explore the importance of reflective thinking in democracy, the role of passion in political discourse, and the dangers of social media in shaping political communication.

Talisse emphasizes the need for civic solitude to foster better democratic engagement and the importance of maintaining healthy political relationships across divides. The conversation highlights the challenges of conformity within political coalitions and the necessity of long-term thinking for future generations.

Professor Robert B. Talisse is W. Alton Professor of Philosophy and Professor of Political Science at Vanderbilt University. He specializes in contemporary political philosophy, with particular interest in democratic theory and political epistemology. In addition, he pursues topics in pragmatism, analytic philosophy, argumentation theory, and ancient philosophy.

Takeaways:

• Civic solitude is essential for democracy.
• Reflective thinking enhances our understanding of political issues.
• Passion in political discourse is important but must be balanced with civility.
• Social media often promotes anti-democratic communication styles.
• Political coalitions can become homogeneous and intolerant of dissent.
• Democracy requires both active participation and reflective solitude.
• Cognitive fitness is developed through engagement with differing viewpoints.
• Long-term thinking is crucial for the sustainability of democratic ideals.
• We need to forge new conceptual tools for understanding contemporary issues.
• Healthy political relationships across divides are vital for democracy.