The Conservative Right’s Growing Turn Toward State Authority Examined
Senior editor Stephanie Slade and commentator Nick Gillespie explore how fusionist ideas are being reshaped as the American right leans toward greater state power.
Stephanie Slade joins Nick Gillespie to discuss the future direction of the American right after the Trump era, focusing on the relevance of fusionism—a philosophy that merges libertarian freedom with conservative moral order, originally articulated by Frank Meyer. The dialogue traces the post-war development of this synthesis, pointing out common ground between libertarian economist Friedrich Hayek and traditionalist thinker Russell Kirk.
Slade also examines the rise of “post-liberal” commentators such as J.D. Vance and Patrick Deneen, who argue for a markedly reduced scope of personal and economic liberty in favor of state control. She warns that many young conservatives are finding authoritarian politics appealing, yet contends that a true revival of civil society can only be achieved through voluntary, non-governmental institutions. The discussion also touches on related thinkers like Brent Bozell Jr. and the role of Judeo-Christian virtue in shaping policy.
Why it matters
Understanding this ideological shift helps explain the right’s policy priorities and its potential impact on civil liberties.
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