E101: Can Classical Liberalism Survive Wokeness? with Tim Urban

In this episode of Moment of Zen, Erik Torenberg sits down with Tim Urban, writer of the popular blog Wait But Why, and author of the 2023 book What’s Our Problem? where he offers a framework for thinking about our chaotic political landscape.

Tim unpacks the clash between freedom and equality in modern society. He explores how social justice movements and political extremes threaten open dialogue. Urban argues for a return to classical liberal values, challenging listeners to consider: Are we fostering true diversity of thought, or silencing dissent in the name of progress?

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RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

🎙️ This Won't Last - Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics.

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765665937

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(01:04) Tim Urban Describes the Genesis of his Book

(02:11) Why Does Tim Believe Classical Liberalism is the "Least Bad" System?

(06:56) The Existential Threat of Today's Technology

(07:36) The Anomalous Nature of Our Era

(11:44) "What's Our Problem?": A Self-Help Book for Societies

(14:15) Trump's "Full-Fledged Demagogue" Presidency

(21:22) Summary of the Right & Left's Illiberal Actions

(24:13) Mistake Theory vs. Conflict Theory

(29:23) Sponsors: Givewell | Dealcraft

(37:49) The Debate on Gender Disparities in Tech

(41:04) The Size and Power of the Social Justice Fundamentalist Movement

(44:20) Sponsor: Squad

(45:34) The Tyranny of the 3%

(46:55) Two Constitutions: Individual Rights vs. Group Rights

(52:34) Unsolved Questions for Tim Urban

(56:17) Wrap