Madison's Notes

By: The James Madison Program
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  • Summary

  • The official podcast of Princeton University’s James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions.
    Copyright 2020 All rights reserved.
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Political Science Politics & Government Social Sciences World
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Episodes
  • S4E26 The Anxious Generation: A Conversation with Jonathan Haidt

    S4E26 The Anxious Generation: A Conversation with Jonathan Haidt
    Feb 19 2025
    In this episode of Madison's Notes, Jonathan Haidt, renowned social psychologist and author, dives deep into the impact of digital saturation on today's youth, drawing insights from his latest book, The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness (Allen Lane, 2024). The discussion explores how growing up immersed in social media, video games, and smart technology is reshaping young people’s sense of self and influencing their political engagement. Haidt explains how the constant connectivity may be contributing to an increase in anxiety and how it’s altering their approach to both personal identity and societal participation. Haidt also addresses the potential for a "generational war," where differences between older and younger generations are often framed as inherent character flaws. He emphasizes the importance of understanding that many of Gen Z’s choices have been shaped by forces beyond their control, rather than pointing to a moral failing. This leads into a comparison with the themes explored in The Coddling of the American Mind, particularly the societal impact of overprotection and the lack of resilience-building among youth. The conversation then moves into practical territory, with Haidt discussing the importance of activating the brain’s inhibition system to help young people develop resilience and the ability to handle stress, conflict, and complex decision-making. He suggests that cultivating the inhibition system through thoughtful practices is key in fostering more resilient and independent young adults. Finally, Haidt examines the role of tech giants like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg in shaping the digital landscape and their growing political influence. He discusses the challenges of addressing the negative impacts of social media, pondering whether government intervention will result in meaningful change or if the influence of tech leaders will prevent any real reform. This episode provides a compelling exploration of how technology, societal norms, and political dynamics intersect to shape the lives of younger generations and offers valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for both youth and society at large. Madison’s Notes is the podcast of Princeton University’s James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions. Contributions to and/or sponsorship of any speaker does not constitute departmental or institutional endorsement of the specific program, speakers or views presented.
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    55 mins
  • S4E25 Mountain Memories: A Conversation with Henry Louis Gates Jr. and Robert P. George

    S4E25 Mountain Memories: A Conversation with Henry Louis Gates Jr. and Robert P. George
    Feb 12 2025
    In this episode, Henry Louis Gates and Robert P. George share a powerful conversation about their unlikely beginnings in West Virginia. Recorded in December 2024, they reflect on their childhoods, the challenges they faced, and the experiences that shaped their paths to becoming the influential figures they are today. Their discussion offers a unique perspective on overcoming adversity, the power of place, and the importance of intellectual curiosity. Tune in for an inspiring and personal dialogue that highlights how humble beginnings can lead to extraordinary futures. Madison’s Notes is the podcast of Princeton University’s James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions. Contributions to and/or sponsorship of any speaker does not constitute departmental or institutional endorsement of the specific program, speakers or views presented.
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    1 hr and 29 mins
  • S4E24 We Are Free to Change the World: A Conversation on Hannah Arendt with Lyndsay Stonebridge

    S4E24 We Are Free to Change the World: A Conversation on Hannah Arendt with Lyndsay Stonebridge
    Feb 5 2025
    In this episode of Madison’s Notes, we sit down with Lindsay Stonebridge, author of We Are Free to Change the World: Hannah Arendt’s Lessons in Love and Disobedience (Hogarth, 2024) to explore the enduring relevance of Hannah Arendt’s thought. Stonebridge dives into Arendt’s remarkable ability to teach students how to think, not just what to think, and reflects on Arendt’s own intellectual journey—a mind in constant dialogue with itself. We discuss how Arendt’s conception of thinking serves as a powerful resistance to totalitarian ideologies, emphasizing the importance of critical engagement with the world. Stonebridge also unpacks Arendt’s belief in the necessity of natality—the idea that cultures open to new beginnings and the emergence of free individuals are essential for societal evolution. Central to Arendt’s vision of political community are the concepts of promises and forgiveness, which Stonebridge argues are not mere sentimental ideals but profound, deeply rooted principles with origins in Christian thought. Together, we examine how these ideas form the basis of a political community grounded in plurality, offering a timely framework for understanding freedom, responsibility, and the possibility of change in our world today. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that bridges philosophy, history, and the urgent questions of our time. Madison’s Notes is the podcast of Princeton University’s James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions. Contributions to and/or sponsorship of any speaker does not constitute departmental or institutional endorsement of the specific program, speakers or views presented.
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    46 mins

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