Jonathan Turley: Rage and the Republic

Jonathan Turley: Rage and the Republic

Author: Commonwealth Club of California March 19, 2026 Duration: 1:05:00
Jonathan Turley writes, “From redcoats to robots, our challenges have changed. Yet, we have remained. Our greatest danger is not forgetting the history detailed in this book, but forgetting who we were in that history.” On the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, law professor, legal analyst, and bestselling author Jonathan Turley shares his exploration of how the unique origins of American democracy set it apart from other revolutions, whether it can survive and thrive in the 21st century, and how the unfinished story of the revolution will play out in our rapidly changing world. Like many nations, the United States was born from revolution. At the birth of this country, the Founding Fathers faced the quintessential question of self-governance: How do you keep democracy from devolving into anarchy or despotism? As the nation enters a new era marked by artificial intelligence, robotics, and profound economic shifts, Turley says America is again faced with the pressure of radical forces that seek to curtail natural liberties under the guise of popular reform. In this mix, there are many politicians and pundits who are questioning the very principles of American democracy, and some law professors are even calling for scrapping the Constitution. Turley, author of the new book Rage and the Republic: The Unfinished Story of the American Revolution, draws on everything from history to philosophy to the arts to offer a hopeful account of how the lessons of the past can guide us through today’s “crisis of faith” in democracy and see us into the future. Join us in person or online to hear what he has to say. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For nearly a century, the Commonwealth Club of California Podcast has served as a vital platform for civic dialogue, directly from the nation's largest public affairs forum. Each episode captures live, thoughtful conversations with leading voices from across the political spectrum and various fields, all committed to exploring the most pressing issues of our time. As a nonpartisan and nonprofit operation, the Club’s priority is substance over soundbite, fostering a depth of discussion that is increasingly rare. You’ll hear authors, policymakers, scientists, and cultural figures engage in nuanced debates and detailed analyses, reflecting a genuine diversity of perspectives. This isn't just a recording of events; it's an ongoing, accessible chronicle of American and global thought. The audio you find in this podcast feed originates from the longest-running weekly radio broadcast of its kind in the United States, a tradition started in 1924, now shared with a modern audience. Updated frequently throughout the week, the feed ensures you have direct access to a forum where complex ideas about government, society, and current events are given the time and respect they deserve. Tune in for a consistently enlightening experience that challenges assumptions and provides context far beyond the daily headlines.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

Commonwealth Club of California Podcast
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