In this episode, host Corey Nathan talks with renowned journalist, scholar, and public intellectual E.J. Dionne Jr. E.J. is a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, a syndicated columnist for The Washington Post, a professor at Georgetown University, and a prolific author. Together, they discuss democracy, faith, political polarization, and the enduring need for real argument and hope in public life.
What We Discuss:
How E.J.’s upbringing shaped his approach to political debate and dialogue.
Why engaging seriously with opposing ideas is crucial to democracy.
The difference between optimism and hope — and why hope is essential.
How faith and civil society contribute to repairing societal divisions.
Episode Highlights:
[00:03:00] E.J. shares how his father encouraged open political debate.
[00:06:00] Reflections on DEI, the “woke” debates, and critiques of excesses.
[00:10:00] The Trump administration’s unintended role in uniting pro-democracy groups.
[00:15:00] Anger and economic grievances in Fall River, Massachusetts.
[00:24:00] Why hope, not just optimism, is vital for public life.
[00:36:00] E.J.’s personal faith journey and the importance of humble belief.
[00:48:00] Reflections on Pope Francis’ legacy and the Catholic Church.
[01:05:00] What worries E.J. about democracy today — and what gives him hope.
Featured Quotes: "In real argument, you enter imaginatively into the ideas your opponent holds." — E.J. Dionne "Hope is the virtue on which faith and love depend." — E.J. Dionne "You can really disagree with people you love, and you can love people you disagree with." — E.J. Dionne "We find sanctity even in mundane conversations." — Corey Nathan
Resources Mentioned:
📘 Souled Out: Reclaiming Faith and Politics after the Religious Right - Princeton University Press
📰 E.J. Dionne's column at The Washington Post – www.washingtonpost.com/people/ej-dionne-jr
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