DAVID MURROW: Why Men Hate Going To Church The Aaron Renn Show podcast

53:29

Why did religion become obsolete? Dr. Christian Smith, a renowned sociologist from the University of Notre Dame and author of the new book Why Religion Went Obsolete, joins us to explore the cultural shifts that have led to the decline of traditional religion in America since the 1990s. From the impact of neoliberal capitalism and postmodernism to the rise of the internet and changing family structures, Dr. Smith unpacks the complex forces reshaping faith. We also discuss the rise of alternative spiritualities, the role of Christian nationalism, and what this all means for society’s future. Don’t miss this deep dive into the sociology of religion and its place in modern America! CHAPTERS: (00:00 - Introduction) (00:28 - What Does "Obsolete" Mean for Religion?) (04:40 - What Happened in 1991?) (08:28 - Cultural Fragmentation and the Digital Revolution) (11:20 - How Neoliberal Capitalism Undermined Faith) (13:08 - The Impact of Postmodernism) (15:27 - September 11 and Religious Scandals) (18:54 - Changing Family Structures and Religion) (20:33 - Has Postmodernism Faded?) (23:37 - Explaining the Decline: Causal Mechanisms) (27:30 - Religion’s Self-Inflicted Wounds) (29:48 - What Can Religious Communities Do?) (31:41 - The Rise of Traditionalist Micro-Movements) (34:15 - Has the Rise of the “Nones” Plateaued?) (39:22 - Obsolescence and the Future of Religion) (46:22 - Societal Impacts of Religious Decline) (52:52 - Closing Thoughts and Book Recommendation) Buy Why Religion Went Obsolete: The Demise of Traditional Faith in America - https://www.amazon.com/Why-Religion-Went-Obsolete-Traditional-ebook/dp/B0DXSZZYPF/?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=theurban-20 Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.aaronrenn.com/…

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Why Industrial Policy Matters | Ian Fletcher 55:55

11 днів тому55:55

55:55

A fascinating discussion with Ian Fletcher, co-author of the comprehensive new book Industrial Policy for the United States (Cambridge University Press). In this episode, Ian unpacks the critical role of industrial policy in shaping America’s economic future, challenging the myths of free trade, and exploring how the U.S. can protect and grow its advantageous industries. From historical successes like the Morrill Act to modern challenges like China’s rise and the overvalued dollar, this conversation covers the past, present, and future of U.S. industrial strategy. Chapters: (00:00 Introduction) (01:17 Regarding Free Trade) (02:43 What is Industrial Policy?) (04:07 National Security and Deindustrialization Risks) (07:49 The Role of Government in Innovation) (09:37 Defining Advantageous Industries) (12:29 Tariffs and Strategic Industries) (13:55 U.S. Industrial Policy Through History) (18:26 Government’s Role in Aviation and Tech) (23:31 Industrial Policy Failures: Synthetic Fuels & Solyndra) (29:48 Case Study: China’s Industrial Policy Success) (38:21 Case Study: The UK’s Industrial Policy Failure) (43:13 What Should the U.S. Do Today?) (49:27 Evaluating Trump’s Tariff Policies) (53:36 Key Takeaways from the Book) (54:28 Ian’s Advice: Trust Economic History, Not Theory) Buy Industrial Policy for the United States: https://www.amazon.com/Industrial-Policy-United-States-Competition/dp/1009243071/?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=theurban-20 Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.aaronrenn.com/…

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Why America Can't Build Anymore | Philip Howard 38:03

18 днів тому38:03

38:03

Join Aaron Renn as he sits down with Philip Howard, founder of Common Good, to discuss the crippling bureaucratic red tape stifling America’s ability to build and innovate. In this eye-opening episode, Howard delves into his Manhattan Institute paper, Escape from Quicksand: A New Framework for Modernizing America , revealing how a compliance-driven system has paralyzed infrastructure projects—like the $42.5 billion broadband initiative with zero results after four years. From the New Deal’s rapid achievements to today’s endless legal labyrinths, Howard proposes a bold solution: a framework rooted in human responsibility and accountability to restore America’s can-do spirit. Tune in to learn why we’re stuck, how we got here, and what it’ll take to break free. CHAPTERS (00:00 - Introduction) (01:00 - The Problem: America’s Bureaucratic Quicksand) (04:13 - New Deal vs. Today: A Stark Contrast) (09:13 - Extortion by Law: How the System Enables Delays) (15:27 - Solutions: Rebuilding a Framework for Action) (23:02 - Political Challenges: Why Reform is Tough) (29:01 - The Role of the Judiciary in Blocking Progress) (37:43 - Conclusion: A Call to Replace the System) Escape from Quicksand A New Framework for Modernizing America - https://manhattan.institute/article/escape-from-quicksand-a-new-framework-for-modernizing-america Common Good - https://www.commongood.org/ Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.aaronrenn.com/…

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Why Christians Must Rediscover Civics | Elizabeth Landis 33:27

5 weeks тому33:27

33:27

Join host Aaron Renn as he sits down with Elizabeth Landis, author of The Forgotten Realm: Civics for American Christians, to explore why Christians need to engage more deeply in the civil realm. From local government to federalism, Elizabeth shares her journey from a concerned citizen to a passionate advocate for civic involvement, offering practical insights and biblical wisdom for Christians navigating governance. Discover how to move beyond voting, build relationships across political divides, and become a winsome force for change in your community. Get your copy of The Forgotten Realm via the link below. (00:00 - Introduction: Welcome to the Podcast) (01:03 - Why Civics is the "Forgotten Realm" for Christians) (02:37 - What Sparked Elizabeth’s Civic Awakening) (06:38 - A Primer on American Government: From Local to Federal) (09:15 - Uncovering Federalism and Election Systems) (12:38 - Engaging with Local Government in Moscow, Idaho) (17:07 - Building Unexpected Friendships Across Ideologies) (19:17 - Opportunities for Christians in Civic Roles) (24:21 - The Call for Christians to Care About Governance) (29:02 - Christian Diplomacy: A Winsome Approach to Civics) (33:06 - Conclusion: Key Takeaways and Book Info) Buy The Forgotten Realm: Civics for American Christians - https://www.amazon.com/Forgotten-Realm-Civics-American-Christians/dp/1963505085/?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=theurban-20 Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.aaronrenn.com/…

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How Nietzsche Shaped American Thought | Sheluyang Peng 31:55

6 weeks тому31:55

31:55

This fascinating conversation with writer Sheluyang Peng explores the profound influence of Friedrich Nietzsche on American thought. From Emerson’s impact on him to the way his philosophy found similarities with American pragmatism to his role in shaping modern political and cultural landscapes, this episode uncovers Nietzsche’s surprising connections to American philosophy, theology, and even infamous historical events like the Leopold and Loeb case. Yang shares insights into how Nietzsche’s ideas resonate with both the left and the right, and why his philosophy remains relevant today. (00:00 - Introduction) (01:03 - Why Yang Got Interested in Nietzsche: A Preacher’s Kid Perspective) (03:30 - Nietzsche’s American Connection: Ralph Waldo Emerson’s Influence) (05:12 - American vs. European Views of Nietzsche) (06:53 - Nietzsche’s Role in American Pragmatism) (08:02 - H.L. Mencken and Popularizing Nietzsche in America) (10:33 - Nietzsche and the Leopold and Loeb Murder Case) (13:47 - Nietzsche’s Surprising Influence on Christian Thinkers) (18:58 - Nietzsche in Modern American Politics) (20:56 - Bronze Age Pervert and Right-Wing Nietzscheanism) (25:27 - Nietzsche and René Girard’s Mimetic Theory) (28:56 - Is Nietzsche Whatever You Want Him to Be?) (30:14 - The Future of Nietzschean Thought in America) (31:27 - Closing Remarks and Where to Read More) SHELUYANG PENG LINKS: 🌐 American Affairs Journal: Nietzsche's Eternal Return in America - https://americanaffairsjournal.org/2024/11/nietzsches-eternal-return-in-america/ 🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/WithinGoodNEvil MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Leopold and Loeb Murder Case: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leopold_and_Loeb…

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Why America Needs Moderate Republicans Again | Geoffrey Kabaservice 1:06:01

6 weeks тому1:06:01

1:06:01

Join Aaron Renn as he sits down with Geoffrey Kabaservice, Vice President of Political Studies at the Niskanen Center and author of Rule and Ruin: The Downfall of Moderation and the Destruction of the Republican Party, From Eisenhower to the Tea Party. In this compelling episode, they dive into the decline of moderate Republicanism, tracing the transformation of the GOP from the era of Dwight Eisenhower to the rise of Ronald Reagan, the Tea Party, and beyond. Why did moderate Republicans fade from prominence? What role did populism play in reshaping the party? And is there a future for pragmatic, effective governance in today’s polarized America? This conversation explores the historical shifts, key figures, and structural challenges facing the Republican Party, offering insights for anyone interested in American political history. GEOFFREY KABASERVICE LINKS: 📖 Rule and Ruin: The Downfall of Moderation and the Destruction of the Republican Party, From Eisenhower to the Tea Party - https://www.amazon.com/Rule-Ruin-Moderation-Destruction-Development-ebook/dp/B005UFCPHG/?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=theurban-20 📖 The Guardians: Kingman Brewster, His Circle, and the Rise of the Liberal Establishment - https://www.amazon.com/Guardians-Kingman-Brewster-Liberal-Establishment-ebook/dp/B00LRXCF66/?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=theurban-20 🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/ruleandruin CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN: 🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn 🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/…

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How Sports Betting Apps Hook You and Destroy Lives | Saagar Enjeti 39:08

8 weeks тому39:08

39:08

In this eye-opening episode, Aaron Renn sits down with Saagar Enjeti, co-host of Breaking Points and The Realignment, to dive deep into the explosive rise of sports betting in America. Following the 2018 Supreme Court decision that opened the floodgates, sports gambling has become a predatory industry, hooking millions with sophisticated algorithms, addictive apps, and aggressive marketing. Saagar breaks down the public policy failures, the devastating impact on problem gamblers, and the complicity of sports leagues and states in this growing crisis. From skyrocketing bankruptcies to increased domestic violence, the societal costs are staggering. Tune in to learn why Saagar calls for banning online gambling and how we can fight back against this dystopian trend. CONNECT & FOLLOW SAAGAR ENJETI: 🌐 Breaking Points with Krystal and Saagar: https://www.youtube.com/c/breakingpoints 🌐 The Realignment Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3O3P7AsOC17INXR5L2APHQ 🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/esaagar Subscribe to Aaron Renn's newsletter: https://www.aaronrenn.com/…

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VP Mike Pence on Faith, Marriage, and Life in the Public Square 29:46

9 weeks тому29:46

29:46

Join me for this exclusive conversation with former Vice President Mike Pence, as we dive deep into faith, marriage, and navigating life in the public square. In this heartfelt episode, Pence shares his journey to Christianity, the secrets behind his 40-year marriage to Karen Pence, and the truth about the controversial "Mike Pence Rule." He also offers inspiring advice for those hesitant to enter public life, emphasizing how character and faith can thrive in today’s challenging political landscape. Don’t miss this powerful discussion filled with wisdom and encouragement. Mike Pence's Books: 📖 So Help Me God - https://www.amazon.com/So-Help-God-Mike-Pence-ebook/dp/B0B6GK9LPG/?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=theurban-20 📖 Go Home for Dinner: Advice on How Faith Makes a Family and Family Makes a Life - https://www.amazon.com/Go-Home-Dinner-Advice-Family/dp/1982190361/?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=theurban-20 Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.aaronrenn.com/…

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What Killed America’s Can-Do Culture? | Tanner Greer 1:18:24

9 weeks тому1:18:24

1:18:24

Why can't America build like it used to? What happened to our mojo? In this eye-opening episode, special guest Tanner Greer dives deep into the cultural and institutional decline that’s left America struggling to get things done. From building the Empire State Building in a year to endless delays today, we explore what’s gone wrong—comparing the decisive Spanish Flu response of 1918 to the chaos of COVID-19—and uncover solutions from high-agency groups like the U.S. Marine Corps, LDS Church, and Silicon Valley. If you’re curious about why our institutions feel broken and how we can rebuild a culture that gets results, this episode is a must-listen! Tanner Greer: "On Cultures That Build": https://scholars-stage.org/on-cultures-that-build/ Tanner Greer: "A School of Strength and Character": https://www.palladiummag.com/2023/03/30/a-school-of-strength-and-character/ Inc. Magazine: "Corps Values": https://www.inc.com/magazine/19980401/906.html Tanner Greer's Homepage: https://scholars-stage.org/ Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.aaronrenn.com/…

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Faith, Politics and Southern Baptists | William Wolfe 37:04

10 weeks тому37:04

37:04

Join Aaron as he sits down with William Wolfe, Executive Director of the Center for Baptist Leadership (CBL), to discuss the future of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), the fight against liberal drift in the church, and the intersection of faith and politics. From grassroots reform to meeting President Trump in the Oval Office, William shares CBL’s mission to revitalize Baptist identity and equip a new generation of leaders. 🌐 Center for Baptist Leadership: https://centerforbaptistleadership.org/ 🌐 Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.aaronrenn.com/…

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Jewish in America | Josh Hammer 58:17

12 weeks тому58:17

58:17

In this episode of Aaron Renn's series on religious minorities in America, he speaks with Josh Hammer, senior editor-at-large at Newsweek Magazine and author of the book Israel and Civilization . Josh shares his personal journey from an assimilated Jewish upbringing to becoming fully observant, discusses the challenges of practicing Judaism in modern America, and offers insights on Jewish-Christian relations, contemporary anti-Semitism, and Israel's role in American foreign policy. Note: My audio level was poorly adjusted in this recording. GUEST LINKS: 🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/josh_hammer 📖 Buy Israel and Civilization : https://www.amazon.com/dp/1635769736/?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=theurban-20 🌐 The Josh Hammer Show: https://www.newsweek.com/podcasts/the-josh-hammer-show CONNECT & FOLLOW: 🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn 🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/…

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Muslim in America | Haroon Moghul 47:26

13 weeks тому47:26

47:26

In this first episode in a new series exploring the religious minority experience in America, I sit down with author, educator, and entrepreneur Haroon Mogul to discuss his experiences as a Muslim in the United States. Born to Pakistani immigrant parents in Connecticut and raised in New England, Haroon offers unique insights into navigating dual identities, building community across ethnic lines, and finding his place in a country where Muslims remain a small but diverse minority. From childhood memories of Christmas trees to raising his own children in Cincinnati, Haroon's story illuminates the challenges and opportunities of maintaining faith in a society that isn't built around you. Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction to the series 2:17 - Meeting Haroon Mogul 3:33 - Growing up Muslim in New England 7:56 - Navigating dual identities 13:15 - Diversity of American Muslims 20:45 - Ethnic diversity in American mosques 27:23 - Moving from NYC to the Midwest 28:23 - Facing opposition to mosque construction 33:33 - American law and Muslim practices 40:58 - Living in a "neutral world" as a religious minority 47:13 - Conclusion Haroon Mogul was named as one of the 50 most influential Muslims in the Americas by EqualityX in 2023 and 2024. 🌐 Haroon Moghul's Substack: https://sundayschooled.substack.com/ 🌐 Subscribe to my newsletter for in-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/…

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The Managerial Revolution in American Churches | Christopher Schlect 37:07

13 weeks тому37:07

37:07

Join host Aaron as he interviews Christopher Schlect, Senior Fellow of History and Director of the Classical and Christian Studies Program at New St. Andrews College. They discuss Schlect's fascinating doctoral dissertation "Onward Christian Administrators," which explores how business management practices transformed American Protestant churches in the early 20th century. Discover how this administrative revolution influenced church architecture, theological controversies, and even women's ordination in unexpected ways. Read "Onward Christian Administrators" - https://rex.libraries.wsu.edu/esploro/outputs/doctoral/Onward-Christian-Administrators/99900581729701842 Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.aaronrenn.com/…

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Work Is the Meaning of Life | David Bahnsen 40:05

15 weeks тому40:05

40:05

In this thought-provoking conversation, wealth manager and author David Bahnsen challenges conventional wisdom about work, retirement, and purpose. Managing $7.1 billion in assets hasn't stopped Bahnsen from questioning our culture's assumptions about work as something to escape from. His book "Full-Time: Work in the Meaning of Life" presents a radical rethinking of vocation as central to human flourishing. Bahnsen argues that our focus on consumption over production and our eagerness to retire represent fundamental misunderstandings of what gives life meaning. Whether you're planning for retirement, questioning your work-life balance, or searching for greater purpose, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on finding fulfillment through productive contribution. Buy Bahnsen's book Full-Time: Work and the Meaning of Life - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CCMMFGJY/?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=theurban-20 Subscribe to my newsletter - https://www.aaronrenn.com/…

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New York: America's First Post-Secular City | Tony Carnes 1:09:46

16 weeks тому1:09:46