Here's the other half of the Koch-Speer debate. As usual, Sean Speer offers a nuanced response that seeks to learn at least as much as he hopes to inform.

This whole conversation is essential for Canadians right now, conservatives especially. Its outcome determines the entire cant of the Conservative Party of Canada.

Sean laid out his argument here also: Six reasons why a state-imposed conservative culture is a terrible idea.

Book mentioned: What Is Conservatism?: A New Edition of the Classic by 12 Leading Conservatives

Thanks so much for checking this out!

AI summary:

In this episode of Concepts, host Shawn Whatley welcomes back Sean Speer, lecturer at the Munk School of Public Policy and a senior fellow at the Public Policy Forum. They delve into the ongoing debate within Canadian conservatism: Is culture a product of will or inheritance? They explore the implications of this divide, the role of state neutrality, and what it means to be a conservative in Canada today. Drawing on historical context, personal experiences, and current issues, this conversation provides rich insights into the evolving conservative movement. Join them for a stimulating discussion on the nature of culture, politics, and society.

00:00 Introduction: Culture and Will vs. Inheritance

00:45 Meet Sean Speer: A Conservative Thought Leader

01:12 Debate on State Neutrality

03:10 Fusionism and Canadian Conservatism

04:24 Sean Speer's Journey and Reflections

05:26 Historical Context and Modern Conservatism

12:12 Institutional Neutrality: Myth or Reality?

20:37 Personal Reflections on Conservatism

35:12 Exploring Individual and Collective Purpose

36:31 The Role of the State in Society

36:39 Edmund Burke and Constitutionalism

38:40 Institutional Changes and Public Neutrality

42:41 Cultural Inheritance vs. Will

50:29 Historical Perspectives on Market Forces

54:58 The New Right and Intellectual Conservatism

01:01:04 Challenges of Pluralism and Trust in Government

01:09:01 Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook