Thomas Sowell and a Conflict of Visions

Sowell describes the critical differences between interests and visions. Interests, he says, are articulated by people who know what their interests are and what they want to do about them. Visions, however, are the implicit assumptions by which people operate. In politics, visions are either â constrainedâ or â unconstrained.â A closer look at the statements of both McCain and Obama reveals which â visionâ motivates their policy positions, particularly as they pertain to the war, the law, and economics.

[@alphabetaxenonzzzcat]

Anyone else wish they had Thomas Sowell as their high school teacher?

[@lesegomabe2679]

"I think before so many people went to colleges and universities, common sense was probably much more widespread." - 31:18

[@jacobkobe7046]

I'm trying my hardest to teach this to my high school economic students. They were brought up unconstrained.

[@Angrycapitalist]

I recommend starting simply, and with stories. Please do not lose espirit.

[@brooks7845]

If Sowell had been President instead of Obama, America would be much better off.

[@eldermoose7938]

probably not because by Sowell's own definition he is not an intellectual he is merely a person that observes and reports trends. He himself doesn't seem to think it is something he can do.

[@mikemckinnis3877]

@rxp56 I highly doubt that. I would love to get Sowell's opinion on what he thinks of Obama's administration.

[@themonrovian8441]

Americans on the whole were not smart enough to elect him. They prefer demagogues and narcissists. Plus TS is too intelligent to want the job. Unfortunately.

[@fredrostarr6353]

@@mikemckinnis3877 He commented on Obama in another video. He called him unqualified and his advice for him was to resign, in short.

[@harrytd]

Thomas Sowell and Roger Scruton have brought me kicking and screaming over the last couple of years from the left to sanity. And boy, am I glad they did!

[@max-ru6cz]

I am just getting into Scruton. He seems an interesting guy. I wanna read his book Modern Philosophy.

[@briansurfer8625]

Every line that comes out of sowell’s mouth is quotable. Lol

[@josephavant8250]

I could listen to Thomas Sowell all day! - definitely in the top 5 living people I would love to meet and thank for their scholarship

[@ivanboyraz2936]

Dave Thomas - I couldn't agree more!

[@johnheath90266]

joseph avant a

[@Cagmito125sportsbikespares]

and me , my IQ raises by 5 everytime i watch , unfortunately the other i meet and watch on TV knock me back 6 points during the rest of the day .

[@joebuckcoker5367]

me too

[@harrytd]

I agree entirely. Thomas Sowell and Roger Scruton together have changed my life entirely for the better. These two in particular have been seminal influences in my journey from the left to sanity.

[@millamilla10]

THANK YOU to Peter Robinson for these interviews. Such a great interviewer!

[@brianrajala7671]

"Liberals are often wrong, but never in doubt" ... truer words have not been spoken!

[@myra7730]

“My job is not to cut [McCain] any slack. My job is to inform the people who read what I have to say.” Love that.

[@bbbart77]

Hopefully this man will go down in history. I can't believe I have only found out about this man in the last couple of years.

[@williamwebster8367]

Dr. Sowell is good for the Soul.

[@cho943]

William Webster sowelltrained

[@thekam3588]

Brilliant, brilliant man...I'm listening to this in Aug. 2020..I'm gobsmacked!!! Excellent observation that Obama has an elitist attitude that he knows best. Thomas Sowell, thank you ...

[@cinefreak2307]

This was the video that made me a conservative. After I watched this I bought his book. I started to read philosophy very differently after this book. Amazing work!

[@eldermoose7938]

I agree and disagree, I do agree this video basically demolishes the idea of modern "liberals".However and forgive me if i'm assuming; while he proves the merit of conservative and constrained visions there is no political entities in america that follows these ideas. While republicans expose this idea they clearly don't believe in or truly follow it.

[@The_Scouts_Code]

what about cinefreaks original message was pro republican?

[@eldermoose7938]

MyLifeForAuir87 I guess what I was trying to point out, in probably a shitty way, was that Mr Sowell's conservatives don't exist in practice in America.

[@widg3tswidgets416]

@@eldermoose7938 the difference between the right and left: the right has an unconstrained vision in foreign policy, the left is defined by the opposite ideals in foreign policy. Occasionally this swaps.

[@MikeDindu]

@@eldermoose7938 I would add that while Sowell wouldn't take issue with being called a conservative, he very likely identifies as a libertarian. Maybe a conservative libertarian, I guess. I do like your point that republicans don't practice what they preach. I vote for them, even though I'm not very impressed with them.

[@kimj5037]

So much love for this man! “If you have always believed that everyone should play by the same rules and be judged by the same standards, that would have gotten you labeled a radical 60 years ago, a liberal 30 years ago and a racist today.” - Thomas Sowell.

[@stefanadamcik8221]

Dr. Sowell's stuff is brilliant. I love the videos. Now I just have to stop being so lazy and actually get into his books. First thing to do: throw my TV out the friggin' window.

[@billleach3396]

Thomas Sowell is a brilliant writer. Beside great 'common sense' wisdom, he guides his reader through the data and methods that drive him to his conclusions. If you love to watch and listen to him you will really love reading him!

[@andrewleatham3198]

"I prefer disaster to catastrophe" hahahaha!

[@gordonstewart8897]

Isn't it interesting that those who feel the economy should serve the public interest are the ones least interested in letting the public decide as to what their interests should or shouldn't be.

[@fernipascual]

23:00 I prefer disaster to catastrophe... When asked about why he would vote for McCain vs Obama. Brilliant!

[@MrJstew0903]

Still one of my favorite Thomas Sowell interviews. I've watched it countless times. A big thanks to Peter Robinson for taking the time to give it to us.

[@poom641]

Thomas is so quick. He's just an amazing guy that should be promoted for black history month party so more black youth can benefit from the fact that he's one of the greatest minds of the century

[@jasonbrooks4371]

The more Sowell I read the more I am impressed by his writing. I never imagined I could be riveted reading about economics but he does it for me!

[@nebulous6660]

Sowell gets it. One of the few people who is truly awake.

[@gordonstewart8897]

In my view, the Supreme Court of the United States should always be of a conservative makeup that embraces the constrained vision of society if for no other reason than it provides a limiting principle against those who would attempt to remake our society and nation based upon the unconstrained vision.

[@hiolut]

Man. Not only is Dr. Sowell a true scholar and intellectual powerhouse through and through, Pete Robinson’s a great interviewer. The questions are creative and do a great job of picking Sowell’s brain on so many unique topics and scenarios. I find myself being so satisfied with the questions and answers as the video progresses. Amazing convo.

[@kennethalbert4653]

25:39 " a versatility of convictions" Classic!

[@Queenmaya1]

Wow, right around minute 33, Thomas Sowell **correctly** predicted the Disastrous Iran deal! ... years before it was enacted. His intellect is scary - and Awe inspiring all at once

[@ejtrosclair3085]

My gosh, Mr Sowell is absolutely brilliant!

[@SpartakMs83]

How did I miss this one, really excelent interview.

[@morganclare4704]

FABULOUS guest & great interviewer! cheers

[@kassimees]

good to listen to smart people like Dr. Sowell

[@devingauthier2933]

I just love when he chuckles at silly quotes

[@thebekkfamily7878]

I'm listening to this in 2018. Does TS ever get anything wrong?

[@normanp.chesterton7397]

He did. He got a lot wrong. He gets so many things right, because he got so many things wrong before. He was a total communist in his early years.

[@stephenrose1343]

Thomas Sowell and Stephen Kotkin, are always worth listening to. Both men have great insight into humanity, both are humble and gently humourous. Thank you for bringing them both to a wider audience.

[@Witnessmoo]

This guy is literally an intellectual Titan...

[@jensen5668]

Intellect abilities and sheer demeanor are one thing but the reason why Im truly impressed by this man is how he is able to Embrace his intellect that far outweigh any of those of the elite while simultaneously allowing it to be ruled by sheer humbleness! Its people like you and my own will to be better that have helped me realize the flaws that I have and actually the true dangers and responsibilities of having any intelligence. Thank you Doctor Sowell for reminding me of the importance of always humbling myself especially if I ever get the thought that I know better. through your teachings, hopefully i can leave this earth better than i found it

[@marc-andreperron219]

Prof. Sowell's comments on unconstrained philosophy reminds me of another of his broadcasts on "Intellectuals and Society", where he describes many visions of the "anointed" or "liberal elite" who believe that they have the solution to everything and should dictate to the average person how to live their lives, instead of allowing individual freedom?

[@yuothineyesasian]

Marc-Andre Perron "A Conflict of Visions" is Sowells magnum opus. It gives clarity to all of his other work.

[@mok7044]

YouthInEyesAsian he knew Obama well & what would happen if he became POTUS. He right no.

[@bceaser1]

yup....sounds like your thinking about Mr. Bernie Sanders....I know I was....

[@nebulous6660]

That’s why the global warming debate is so important. The Dems want free license to control everyone’s lives in the name of saving the planet but at the cost of people’s freedom.

[@altongrimes]

So refreshing to hear him speak

[@tommythompsonsurfer]

GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!! WHAT A FINE ALL AMERICAN PATRIOT THOMAS SOWELL!!!! THANK YOU, PATRIOT!!!!!

[@sykoticmusic7317]

It takes a solid mind to keep up with my 'uncle tom'! Great interview Peter! 👍

[@bdbs5618]

Who could be so pretentious enough to think they not only know what humanity needs and wants but also that they have the whole solution? People who think and act in these ways only ever bring damage and destruction. All we can do is be a little bit better off than we were in the past.

[@renee-mariekrugkrug3989]

Example how far we have gone...The Supreme Court can decide if a person is born or not.

[@danielpye7738]

Sowell predicted it all didn’t he? This interview is absolute political gold and his subsequent interviews since are just as remarkable with his predictions coming to pass. Is the US now at a point of no return?

[@KillianDefaoite]

Just finished this book a few minutes ago. This is an absolute must read.

[@shitboxoffroad]

great discussion

[@connorism69]

Agreed. Peter is a fantastic interviewer, and always manages to keep up with the exceptional guests he has. He always remains impartial, even when they disagree with him (e.g., see his interview with Christopher Hitchens).

[@wesharris2559]

Damn wish I had an opportunity to take a class from him!

[@ahighhorseman]

Sowell's framework of conflicting visions has great explanatory power. So much that it seems to have entirely captured his mind.

[@TheSymphonyOfScience]

So smart and humble. Even if i don't agree with everything, its very interesting to listen to him

[@peterbellini6102]

I'm sure he would've been an excellent advisor to ALL of the elected Presidents.

[@dr1742]

I never even knew that everything Dr. Thomas Sowell said back then would unfold so correctly that he could have been called a prophet. We see that every point he mentioned is literally everything we are seeing now and in a mere 13 years from this talk. This makes me wonder how much more he has said will be revealed.... and whether or not this country will be permanently damaged, or even survive.

[@comesahorseman]

Sowell was, and remains, a remarkable prophet.

[@friendlyone2706]

...nonsense became an important part of our educational institutions.

[@Plathismo]

Brilliant, depressing, prophetic.

[@1989TS..]

I love the internet. Something like this just want to be possible 50 years ago. This was made in 08.

[@michaelpryor2981]

I HATE LISTENING TO TOM!!! HE MAKES ME REALIZE HE HAS MORE SMARTS IN HIS LITTLE FINGER THEN ALL OF US PUT TOGETHER.....

[@JimtheDMD]

Understand Conflict of Visions and you can much better how the world really is.

[@brianl1813]

Listening to this man in 2022 is amazing. I love watching Mr Sowell old videos. He pretty much lays out our future. I wish kids would read his books instead of the garbage they're taught today, we might have a chance then. Nailed the Clinton's in one sentence. And he couldn't have been more right on Obama outside of Iran's Nukes, that just took a couple of extra years.

[@QFGEE]

27:47 Best quote

[@raulsoot]

Oh yes!

[@paganlife1373]

Wish I was on the intelligence or intellectual level of Mr. Sowell.understand. he can explain things so even I can und.

[@wadayaduin5517]

I was never in love with McCain, but now I regret not voting for him. Maybe with a different VP.

[@bunkerbill]

Choosing Palin was absolutely devastating.

[@JimtheDMD]

Correction: Understand Conflict of Visions and you can much better understand how the world really is..

[@renee-mariekrugkrug3989]

A Conflict of Visions still pertinent. ..reading it now.

[@renee-mariekrugkrug3989]

Thanks...

[@Deestroyer82]

This is a good one.

[@sean8553]

24:38 Some things NEVER change!

[@petermaquine8173]

The philosopher King (Peter Robinson's slip of the tongue). Karl Popper opposes Plato to Socrates, not Aristotle. A humble pay back for all your work, thank you.

[@Alena-sk6py]

A good indication of what we have accomplished and what we are yet to accomplish.

[@Paul-A01]

I think Sowell falls apart when he praises McCain's foreign policy. Increased spending is just the progressive line of "we need to spend more on x program to get the desired result". Our adventures in the middle east have been motivated by an unconstrained vision that we can reshape an entire region of the earth in our image. That we can take people with a culture so different from ours and fashion for them a liberal democracy.

[@todayabsolutely4306]

I like this guy,

[@renee-mariekrugkrug3989]

Will buy this book for good review...Prof. Barbara Lacy was my history Prof ...thanksgiving

[@raymondeaton5692]

WISDOM.

[@jvt_redbaronspeaks4831]

Robert Kennedy was quoting George Bernard shaw.

[@The_Scouts_Code]

@23:00 lol "decline".

[@fernipascual]

23:20 he wants to spread Joe the plumber's wealth around, not his.

[@Gibraltariano]

Excellent. Is there an autobiography or authorised biography available? Is there a link t the study referred to at around 24:00 comparing liberal and conservative philanthropy?

[@santana3212]

"A personal odyssey" is a book written by Sowell that chronicles his life story. Although he denies it being an autobiography.

[@renee-mariekrugkrug3989]

Important reference book...I find it required reading to understand how we got to this point of no return!?

[@gorflunk]

15:39 Excellent discussion on what is essentially the left's pie in the sky rhetoric.

[@huckfinn301]

He truly is the best of us.

[@Theyungcity23]

6:00 Thomas Jefferson, the original Thanos

[@puneetkarnawat3737]

Lol

[@renee-mariekrugkrug3989]

Disaster or catastrophe...tough choice...uumm

[@OddmundKalland]

4:32 Interesting tragic figure - did anybody got the name?

[@christobel4021]

Oh, absolutely

[@lylenagy5776]

Sowell could do standup.

[@Mudbug2000]

Now I understand why I voted for McCain because I sure don’t like him. “Lesser of two evils”??

[@jeronimotamayolopera4834]

The unconstrained and constrained visions of reality are present in all of us to different degrees and in different forms, and dismissing one or the other may constrain our capacity to create different realities for humanity: The unconstrained vision of reality can be very helpful as a moral boost. Although it has been very dangerous, especially during the 20th century in all the heavily centralized states like Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union, its presence in us is essential to reveal and accept the fact that change is inevitable. I think we are indeed headed towards more decentralized economies, but there are many ways to get there.

[@kennethalbert4653]

32:50 quote then, Wow! Prophetic response @ 33:15 ish

[@The_Scouts_Code]

Thorstein Veblen ????

[@MrVirender28]

all day

[@kepstein8888]

Everyone claims to support the "constrained" vision when their opponents are in power.

[@themonrovian8441]

kepstein8888 No, not really. Collectivists openly profess their belief in the infinite perfectibility of man. It’s a noble vision and one I would love to support. But evidence dictates otherwise. It might be true in the very long term if we could genetically engineer people. But would they even be people at that point or an engineered product? The road to hell is paved with good intentions. I sympathize with leftists but I can’t be one of them.

[@fernipascual]

27:00 even FDR pulled back on some things... This is a man who's accomplished nothing other than advancing his career through rhetoric...

[@renee-mariekrugkrug3989]

Note treatment on the liberal mindset on Families...

[@PhilipShawn]

That's expediency

[@dumwyteguy]

The world does not deserve Dr. Sowell

[@chefntoast]

Well in France

[@thearchive8687]

Audio is out of sync.

[@PhilipShawn]

"Politics". Or . " Law" ?

[@Fwobbed]

Well Trump made it in afterall so the idea of a backlash certainly happened!

[@DaboooogA]

32:08 - so if Sowell stuck to economics, we would never have heard of him too?

[@blackphillip564]

The Chomsky of the Right?!?

[@justinjozokos1699]

Dr. Thomas Sowell... Not exactly a lightweight