National identity

Jordan Harbinger has covered aspects related to national identity in several discussions on his podcast, "The Jordan Harbinger Show." Here are a few key insights:

1. America's Self-Identity Crisis: General Michael Hayden, a former CIA and NSA director, expressed concerns about the United States experiencing a self-identity crisis. He pointed out that core beliefs like democracy, alliances, free trade, and immigration, which have long underpinned national identity, are now being debated. This confusion within the most powerful nation on Earth destabilizes not just the country, but also makes the rest of the world nervous 1.

2. Identity and Beliefs: Jordan Harbinger discussed with philosopher Julia Galef how identity gets wrapped up in personal beliefs. This phenomenon makes it difficult for people to change their views since attacking a belief feels like a personal attack. This is particularly evident in politics and religion, where people's self-identities are deeply intertwined with their belief systems 2.

3. Authoritarianism and Global Threats: In an episode with historian Timothy Snyder, Harbinger explored how national identity can be manipulated by authoritarian regimes. Such regimes often frame global conspiracies to erode the notion of a shared national identity and turn citizens against each other. This weakening of internal cohesion is a tactical move to maintain power and control 3.

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     1

     America's Self-Identity Crisis

     01:01:28
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     2

     Identity and Beliefs

     00:54:08
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     3

     Authoritarianism and Global Threats

     00:44:18

These discussions highlight how national identity can be both a unifying foundation and a point of contention, influenced by internal beliefs and external threats.