S2E8 | Simon Mordant ‘Why liberalism is essential to the arts’

Liberalism in Question | CIS

#Society #Robert Forsyth | Centre for Independent Studies

51:57

On the Season 2 debut of Lost Cultures: Living Legacies , we travel to Bermuda, an Atlantic island whose history spans centuries and continents. Once uninhabited, Bermuda became a vital stop in transatlantic trade, a maritime stronghold, and a cultural crossroads shaped by African, European, Caribbean, and Native American influences. Guests Dr. Kristy Warren and Dr. Edward Harris trace its transformation from an uninhabited island to a strategic outpost shaped by shipwrecks, colonization, the transatlantic slave trade, and the rise and fall of empires. Plus, former Director of Tourism Gary Phillips shares the story of the Gombey tradition, a vibrant performance art rooted in resistance, migration, and cultural fusion. Together, they reveal how Bermuda’s layered past continues to shape its people, culture, and identity today. You can also find us online at ⁠travelandleisure.com/lostcultures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

3 years ago 31:00

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Rob and Simon discuss how important liberalism is as philosophy of freedom and equality, despite concerns it is not applied uniformly across the board. Simon is particularly concerned about what he sees as a widening divide between haves and have-nots. Although there are limits to liberalism, larger government is not the solution. Business leaders and the community need to have a stronger voice in terms of some of the policy settings that are required to create a better society. Long-term strategic vision is essential. Good policy leads to great outcomes. CIS promotes free choice and individual liberty and the open exchange of ideas. CIS encourages debate among leading academics, politicians, media and the public. Follow CIS on our Socials Twitter - https://twitter.com/CISOZ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/CentreIndependentStudies/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-centre-for-independent-studies/ 📖 Read more from CIS here: https://www.cis.org.au/ 💬 Join in the conversation in the comments.

68 episodes

S2E8 | Simon Mordant ‘Why liberalism is essential to the arts’

Liberalism in Question | CIS

published 3 years ago

MP3•Episode home

68 episodes

#Society #Robert Forsyth | Centre for Independent Studies

All episodes

Liberalism in Question | CIS

1
The science of learning will set students free | Glenn Fahey 50:04

3 days ago50:04

50:04

Watch now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRlHwPrD850 Robert Forsyth interviews Glenn Fahey, director of the education program at the Centre for Independent Studies (CIS), who explores why a classical liberal think tank is deeply engaged in education policy. Fahey argues that education is the great enabler of freedom—central to the classical liberal vision of a society where individuals can shape their own lives. He explains that without access to high-quality education, people are denied the knowledge and skills necessary to participate in the economy, civic life, and democratic decision-making. Glenn Fahey also discusses the science of learning and how society is slowly getting back to evidence-based education approaches. Subscribe to all our shows: Liberalism in Question features thought-provoking interviews with world experts in politics and culture from a Classical Liberal perspective. Subscribe here: https://liberalisminquestion.podbean.com/ The CIS Research Collection delivers our research papers in an audio format so that you can listen to them on the go. Subscribe here: https://cisresearch.podbean.com/ What You Need to Know About delivers concise insights from CIS experts, breaking down complex topics like policy, economics, and societal challenges. Subscribe here: https://whatyouneedtoknowabout.podbean.com/ CIS Events Experience: From the studios of CIS our events team brings you engaging discussions from our live events, featuring lectures, panel discussions, and conversations with leading experts: https://cisevents.podbean.com/…

Liberalism in Question | CIS

1
In Defence of Jordan Peterson | Rohan McHugh 30:16

11 days ago30:16

30:16

Watch here: https://youtu.be/o6TVilPFQxo Robert Forsyth speaks with Rohan McHugh, who contends that the liberal tradition’s “contest of ideas” — though vital for intellectual refinement — does not conflict with the enduring boundaries that have sustained Western civilization for millennia. These boundaries have been upheld by long-standing institutions and validated by their outcomes. While the classical liberal model deserves affirmation, McHugh argues it should be recognized as incomplete, especially when treated as a rigid framework that excludes metaphysical foundations. As American founding father John Adams famously stated, “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.” 🔹 Become a member: https://www.cis.org.au/membership-2-step-1/ 🔹 Make a donation: https://www.cis.org.au/support/donate/today/ 🔹 Learn more: https://www.cis.org.au/ Subscribe to all our shows: Liberalism in Question features thought-provoking interviews with world experts in politics and culture from a Classical Liberal perspective. Subscribe here: https://liberalisminquestion.podbean.com/ The CIS Research Collection delivers our research papers in an audio format so that you can listen to them on the go. Subscribe here: https://cisresearch.podbean.com/ What You Need to Know About delivers concise insights from CIS experts, breaking down complex topics like policy, economics, and societal challenges. Subscribe here: https://whatyouneedtoknowabout.podbean.com/ CIS Events Experience: From the studios of CIS our events team brings you engaging discussions from our live events, featuring lectures, panel discussions, and conversations with leading experts: https://cisevents.podbean.com/…

Liberalism in Question | CIS

1
Liberalism in the Shadows: The Intellectual Dark Web and the Struggle for Free Thought | Jamie Q. Roberts 35:26

25 days ago35:26

35:26

Watch here: https://youtu.be/9kHg5sDRbHE In this episode, we delve into the controversial world of the Intellectual Dark Web (IDW) with guest Jamie Q. Roberts, a political theorist and commentator on digital discourse and dissent. We unpack the origins of the IDW, a loose network of academics, commentators, and public intellectuals who challenge mainstream narratives on culture, politics, and identity. Roberts explores how the IDW gained traction online, its appeal to audiences disillusioned with traditional institutions, and the tensions it reveals within liberal democratic societies. From free speech debates to culture wars, Joe Rogan to Sam Harris, we examine the influence and contradictions of this online movement—and what its rise tells us about the state of public intellectual life in the digital age. Roberts’ book: https://www.amazon.com.au/Intellectual-Dark-Web-History-Possible-ebook/dp/B0DYNPVKGJ 👉 Help promote sound economics: 🔹 Become a member: https://www.cis.org.au/membership-2-step-1/ 🔹 Make a donation: https://www.cis.org.au/support/donate/today/ 🔹 Learn more: https://www.cis.org.au/ Subscribe to all our shows: Liberalism in Question features thought-provoking interviews with world experts in politics and culture from a Classical Liberal perspective. Subscribe here: https://liberalisminquestion.podbean.com/ The CIS Research Collection delivers our research papers in an audio format so that you can listen to them on the go. Subscribe here: https://cisresearch.podbean.com/ What You Need to Know About delivers concise insights from CIS experts, breaking down complex topics like policy, economics, and societal challenges. Subscribe here: https://whatyouneedtoknowabout.podbean.com/ CIS Events Experience: From the studios of CIS our events team brings you engaging discussions from our live events, featuring lectures, panel discussions, and conversations with leading experts: https://cisevents.podbean.com/…

Liberalism in Question | CIS

1
Faith and Freedom: Evangelical Christianity in Liberal Australia | Stuart Piggin 33:24

6 weeks ago33:24

33:24

Watch here: https://youtu.be/m1-tzuQjbFc In this episode, we explore the history of evangelical Christianity in Australia with guest Stuart Piggin, a leading historian and author on the subject. Drawing on his extensive research, Piggin unpacks the complex relationship between evangelicalism and liberalism throughout Australian history. We examine how evangelical movements have shaped, and been shaped by, Australia's evolving political, social, and cultural landscapes—particularly the liberal values of individual freedom, moral reform, and civic responsibility. 🔹 Become a member: https://www.cis.org.au/membership-2-step-1/ 🔹 Make a donation: https://www.cis.org.au/support/donate/today/ 🔹 Learn more: https://www.cis.org.au/ Subscribe to all our shows: Liberalism in Question features thought-provoking interviews with world experts in politics and culture from a Classical Liberal perspective. Subscribe here: https://liberalisminquestion.podbean.com/ The CIS Research Collection delivers our research papers in an audio format so that you can listen to them on the go. Subscribe here: https://cisresearch.podbean.com/ What You Need to Know About delivers concise insights from CIS experts, breaking down complex topics like policy, economics, and societal challenges. Subscribe here: https://whatyouneedtoknowabout.podbean.com/ CIS Events Experience: From the studios of CIS our events team brings you engaging discussions from our live events, featuring lectures, panel discussions, and conversations with leading experts: https://cisevents.podbean.com/ All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies…

Liberalism in Question | CIS

1
The Economic Philosophy of Liberalism | Eamonn Butler 31:07

9 weeks ago31:07

31:07

In this episode of Liberalism in Question, we’re joined by Eamonn Butler, Director of the Adam Smith Institute, to discuss the economic philosophy of liberalism. From Adam Smith’s "invisible hand" to modern free-market principles, we explore how liberal economic thought has shaped prosperity, innovation, and policy. How do Smith’s ideas on free markets, competition, and limited government remain relevant today? What lessons can we learn from classical liberal thinkers to tackle contemporary economic challenges? Join us for a fascinating conversation on the foundations of economic liberalism and its ongoing impact. 👉 Help promote sound economics: 🔹 Become a member: https://www.cis.org.au/membership-2-step-1/ 🔹 Make a donation: https://www.cis.org.au/support/donate/today/ 🔹 Learn more: https://www.cis.org.au/ 👉 FURTHER READING: Super for Housing: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/super-for-housing/ NZ’s housing policy success and implications for Australia: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/less-crowded-houses-the-success-of-nzs-housing-policy-reforms-and-implications-for-australia/ How government obscures its spending: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/gorillas-in-the-mist-how-government-obscures-its-spending/ Government spending and inflation: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/government-spending-and-inflation/ The Truth About The Tax Burden: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/the-truth-about-the-tax-burden/ 👉 CREDITS 🔹 Hosted by Robert Forsyth 🔹 Guest Eamonn Butler 🔹 Produced by Randall Evans 🔹 Music Licence Code: 4IBEVSEILUCGIHLX 🔹 All thanks to the Centre for Independent Studies. Subscribe to all our shows: What You Need to Know About delivers concise insights from CIS experts, breaking down complex topics like policy, economics, and societal challenges. Subscribe here: https://whatyouneedtoknowabout.podbean.com/ The CIS Research Collection delivers our research papers in an audio format so you can listen to them on the go. Subscribe here: https://cisresearch.podbean.com/ Liberalism in Question features thought-provoking interviews with world experts in politics and culture from a Classical Liberal perspective. Subscribe here: https://liberalisminquestion.podbean.com/ CIS Events Experience: From the studios of CIS our events team brings you engaging discussions from our live events, featuring lectures, panel discussions, and conversations with leading experts: https://cisevents.podbean.com/ All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies…

Liberalism in Question | CIS

1
Trump’s Tariffs Hurt Consumers | Johan Norberg 36:08

10 weeks ago36:08

36:08

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/K_OzhR8wSX0 Author and historian of ideas Johan Norberg dives into Donald Trump's tariffs, the ongoing challenges to liberty, and the future of free market capitalism. From protectionism and populism to innovation and global trade, Norberg brings clarity, context, and compelling arguments about where we're headed—and why defending economic freedom matters more than ever. 👉 Support Free Markets! 🔹 Become a member: https://www.cis.org.au/membership-2-step-1/ 🔹 Make a donation: https://www.cis.org.au/support/donate/today/ 🔹 Make a donation: Learn more: https://www.cis.org.au/ 👉 FURTHER READING: The only thing America liberated itself from was prosperity: https://www.cis.org.au/commentary/opinion/the-only-thing-america-liberated-itself-from-was-prosperity/ How government obscures its spending: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/gorillas-in-the-mist-how-government-obscures-its-spending/ Less Crowded Houses. NZ’s housing policy success and implications for Australia: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/less-crowded-houses-the-success-of-nzs-housing-policy-reforms-and-implications-for-australia/ Land Use Restrictions and the Australian Housing Policy Debate: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/land-use-restrictions-and-the-australian-housing-policy-debate/ Housing Affordability and Supply Restrictions: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/housing-affordability-and-supply-restrictions/ Housing is becoming a pipe dream for young Australians: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/housing-is-becoming-a-pipe-dream-for-young-australians/ 👉 CREDITS 🔹 Hosted by Robert Forsyth 🔹 Special Guest Johan Norberg 🔹 Produced by Randall Evans 🔹 Music Licence Code: 6ZARZGZWZOTBB12H 🔹 All thanks to the Centre for Independent Studies.…

Liberalism in Question | CIS

1
The History of Liberalism (Part 2) | Simon Heffer 40:04

11 weeks ago40:04

40:04

Watch here: https://youtu.be/0jUZKIoyDPY In this episode of Liberalism in Question, Rob sits down with historian and journalist Simon Heffer to explore the rich and complex history of liberalism. From the intellectual breakthroughs of the Scottish Enlightenment to the enduring influence of Adam Smith, we trace the evolution of liberal thought and its impact on modern society. How did thinkers like David Hume, Adam Smith, and John Stuart Mill shape the principles of individual liberty, free markets, and limited government? What challenges has liberalism faced over the centuries, and how has it adapted? Join us for a deep dive into the historical roots of classical liberalism. 👉 Help Australia remember its history: 🔹 Become a member: https://www.cis.org.au/membership-2-step-1/ 🔹 Make a donation: https://www.cis.org.au/support/donate/today/ 🔹 Make a donation: Learn more: https://www.cis.org.au/ 👉 FURTHER READING: Fractured Loyalties. Australian citizenship and the crisis of civic virtue: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/fractured-loyalties-australian-citizenship-and-the-crisis-of-civic-virtue/ Interest, Usury and the Common Good: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/interest-usury-and-the-common-good/ The Argument For Debate: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/fortifying-a-healthy-democracy-why-young-australians-must-learn-the-art-of-debate/ The Future of Australian Multiculturalism: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/the-future-of-australian-multiculturalism/ 👉 CREDITS 🔹 Hosted by Robert Forsyth 🔹 Guest Simon Heffer 🔹 Produced by Randall Evans 🔹 Music Licence Code: 4IBEVSEILUCGIHLX 🔹 All thanks to the Centre for Independent Studies. Subscribe to all our shows: What You Need to Know About delivers concise insights from CIS experts, breaking down complex topics like policy, economics, and societal challenges. Subscribe here: https://whatyouneedtoknowabout.podbean.com/ The CIS Research Collection delivers our research papers in an audio format so you can listen to them on the go. Subscribe here: https://cisresearch.podbean.com/ Liberalism in Question features thought-provoking interviews with world experts in politics and culture from a Classical Liberal perspective. Subscribe here: https://liberalisminquestion.podbean.com/ CIS Events Experience: From the studios of CIS our events team brings you engaging discussions from our live events, featuring lectures, panel discussions, and conversations with leading experts: https://cisevents.podbean.com/ All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies…

Liberalism in Question | CIS

1
The History of Liberalism (Part 1) | Simon Heffer 36:27

13 weeks ago36:27

36:27

Watch here: https://youtu.be/TgeMnPeo-Tc In this episode of Liberalism in Question, Rob sits down with historian and journalist Simon Heffer to explore the rich and complex history of liberalism. From the intellectual breakthroughs of the Scottish Enlightenment to the enduring influence of Adam Smith, we trace the evolution of liberal thought and its impact on modern society. How did thinkers like David Hume, Adam Smith, and John Stuart Mill shape the principles of individual liberty, free markets, and limited government? What challenges has liberalism faced over the centuries, and how has it adapted? Join us for a deep dive into the historical roots of classical liberalism. 👉 Help Australia remember its history: 🔹 Become a member: https://www.cis.org.au/membership-2-step-1/ 🔹 Make a donation: https://www.cis.org.au/support/donate/today/ 🔹 Make a donation: Learn more: https://www.cis.org.au/ 👉 FURTHER READING: Fractured Loyalties. Australian citizenship and the crisis of civic virtue: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/fractured-loyalties-australian-citizenship-and-the-crisis-of-civic-virtue/ Interest, Usury and the Common Good: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/interest-usury-and-the-common-good/ The Argument For Debate: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/fortifying-a-healthy-democracy-why-young-australians-must-learn-the-art-of-debate/ The Future of Australian Multiculturalism: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/the-future-of-australian-multiculturalism/ 👉 CREDITS 🔹 Hosted by Robert Forsyth 🔹 Guest Simon Heffer 🔹 Produced by Randall Evans 🔹 Music Licence Code: 4IBEVSEILUCGIHLX 🔹 All thanks to the Centre for Independent Studies. Subscribe to all our shows: What You Need to Know About delivers concise insights from CIS experts, breaking down complex topics like policy, economics, and societal challenges. Subscribe here: https://whatyouneedtoknowabout.podbean.com/ The CIS Research Collection delivers our research papers in an audio format so you can listen to them on the go. Subscribe here: https://cisresearch.podbean.com/ Liberalism in Question features thought-provoking interviews with world experts in politics and culture from a Classical Liberal perspective. Subscribe here: https://liberalisminquestion.podbean.com/ CIS Events Experience: From the studios of CIS our events team brings you engaging discussions from our live events, featuring lectures, panel discussions, and conversations with leading experts: https://cisevents.podbean.com/ All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies…

Liberalism in Question | CIS

1
Liberalism and Education | Andrew Norton 26:29

15 weeks ago26:29

26:29

Watch here: https://youtu.be/2kHEZVcYaQA In this episode of Liberalism in Question, we welcome Andrew Norton, who has worked in higher education policy since 1997. We talk about the cycles of liberalism and also tackle a crucial debate: Are universities champions of liberal ideals, or have they become anti-liberal institutions? #LiberalismInQuestion #AndrewNorton #HigherEducation #UniversityDebate #Liberalism #AcademicFreedom #HigherEdPolicy #FreeSpeech #EducationMatters #UniversitiesAndLiberalism #IntellectualFreedom #CampusPolitics #LiberalIdeals #AntiLiberalism #AcademicDiscourse #EducationReform #PoliticalIdeologies #ThoughtLeadership #PublicPolicy #UniversityCulture #IdeologicalDiversity #HigherEdTrends #CriticalThinking #DebateAndDiscourse #LearningAndLiberty All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies…

Liberalism in Question | CIS

1
Trump, TikTok, and the new face of global power | Senator James Paterson & Emilie Dye 30:29

17 weeks ago30:29

30:29

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/z8KS8QucurA Emilie Dye sits down with Senator James Paterson, Shadow Minister for Home Affairs and Cybersecurity, to discuss the challenges facing democracies in an increasingly digital world. Should the government attempt to regulate against misinformation? Is TikTok spying on us for China? What about manipulating our election? Is Australia on track to become a vasal state to China? Can we really trust the United States, particularly under a Trump administration? The conversation explores concerns about foreign interference in elections, the influence of social media platforms like TikTok, and how authoritarian regimes may leverage technology to shape public opinion. Senator Paterson highlights why Taiwan’s future is critical to Australia’s security, the importance of transparency in combating misinformation, and the role of international partnerships in maintaining a free and open society. This episode of Liberalism in Question unpacks the issues shaping Australia’s democratic resilience and global stability. #LiberalismInQuestion #Democracy #Cybersecurity #JamesPaterson #Australia #TikTok #ForeignInterference #Taiwan #GlobalPolitics All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies…

Liberalism in Question | CIS

1
Navigating the Ethics of Colonial History | Nigel Biggar 30:29

17 weeks ago30:29

30:29

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/V1g0cQQFSOc This philosophical exploration delves into the ethical complexities of warfare, euthanasia, and colonialism. It examines the morality of self-defense, the right to end one's life, and the lasting impacts of colonial dominance. The analysis encourages reflection on the balance between justice, autonomy, and power, urging viewers to consider the deeper moral implications of conflict, control, and the value of human life. Nigel Biggar is Regius Professor Emeritus of Moral Theology at the University of Oxford and author of In Defence of War (Oxford University Press, 2013) and Colonialism: A Moral Reckoning (William Collins, 2023, 2024). Read Nigel Biggar's paper here: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/all-things-considered-making-moral-sense-of-the-wars-in-ukraine-and-gaza/ All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies…

Liberalism in Question | CIS

1
The Sexual Revolution & the Role of Families| Mary Eberstadt 26:50

18 weeks ago26:50

26:50

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/T6Ga9mjdFhs All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies In this compelling interview, Robert Forsyth engages in a deep conversation with Mary Eberstadt, acclaimed author and social commentator, on the profound effects of the sexual revolution and the critical importance of families in sustaining a healthy liberal democracy. Together, they explore how the cultural shifts of the 20th century have transformed societal norms, personal identity, and the political landscape, while discussing why the family remains a cornerstone of freedom and civic life. What impact has the sexual revolution had on modern society? How do strong family structures contribute to the success of democratic systems? Robert and Mary unpack these questions, offering thought-provoking insights on the intersections of culture, politics, and the future of Western civilization. #sexualrevolution #christianity #liberalism #family…

Liberalism in Question | CIS

1
The Tension Between Freedom, Liberty, and Responsibility | David Kinley 31:51

29 weeks ago31:51

31:51

In this episode of Liberalism in Question, David Kinley, Chair of Human Rights Law at the University of Sydney, joins us to explore the relationship between freedom, liberty, and responsibility. As the author of The Liberty Paradox, David delves into the distinctions between these core concepts of liberalism and the responsibilities that come with exercising freedom. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on how liberalism can navigate these tensions in today's world. Watch here: https://youtu.be/0FS0cL7nqUk All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies #Liberalism #HumanRights #DavidKinley #FreedomVsLiberty #Responsibility #Philosophy #PoliticalTheory #TheLibertyParadox #LiberalismInQuestion #Liberty #Freedom #Ethics #CivilRights #LawAndSociety…

Liberalism in Question | CIS

1
Power of Individualism | Ron Manners 28:43

31 weeks ago28:43

28:43

In this episode of Liberalism in Question, we are joined by Australian businessman, entrepreneur, and free-market advocate Ron Manners. As the founder of the Mannkal Economic Education Foundation and a vocal proponent of individual liberty, Manners shares his perspective on the evolution of classical liberalism, the role of free markets in society, and the current challenges facing economic freedom globally. Tune in as we explore the intersection of personal responsibility, limited government, and the path forward for liberal values in a rapidly changing world. Watch here: https://youtu.be/EVmqHRwsooY All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies #auspol #libertarian #mining…

Liberalism in Question | CIS

1
North Korea: The Origins of Its Unique Family Dictatorship | Nicholas Eberstadt 33:30

35 weeks ago33:30