In a conversation with Tyler Cowen, US Senator Ben Sasse delves into a variety of topics, including the transition from adolescence to adulthood, the decline of small towns, and America’s unique age-segregation.
He also shares his experiences driving for Uber, his admiration for Luther, and his dislike for Rousseau.
Driving for Uber
Driving for Uber can provide valuable insights into the lives of everyday people.
It’s an opportunity to engage with a diverse range of individuals and understand their unique experiences and perspectives.
Decline of Small Towns
Small towns across the US, including those in Nebraska, are experiencing a decline.
Despite increased agricultural productivity, these towns are shrinking in population due to technological advancements that have reduced the need for labor.
The Importance of Engaging with Challenging Ideas
Engaging with challenging ideas is essential for intellectual growth.
It encourages critical thinking, fosters empathy, and promotes a deeper understanding of complex issues.
Admiration for Luther
Luther’s teachings, particularly his emphasis on the importance of faith and his critique of institutional corruption, continue to resonate today.
His ideas have had a profound impact on religious thought and have shaped the course of history.
The Importance of Backpacking Across Europe
Backpacking across Europe can be a transformative experience.
It provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in different cultures, broaden one’s perspective, and develop a deeper understanding of the world.
The Transition from Adolescence to Adulthood
The transition from adolescence to adulthood is a critical phase in life.
It’s a period of significant emotional and physical changes, and it’s crucial to guide young people through this phase to ensure they become responsible and independent adults.
Age-Segregation in America
America has a peculiar fondness for age-segregation, particularly in education.
This segregation can limit the perspectives of young people and hinder their ability to interact with and understand different age groups.
I think we have a massive human capital problem in our politics…we don’t have the right kind of people serving right now…there’s not a lot of leadership in our politics. – Senator Ben Sasse
The Role of Sex in Literature
The portrayal of sex in literature can be a contentious issue.
While some argue that it’s an essential aspect of human experience and should be explored in literature, others believe that it’s often gratuitously included and can detract from the narrative.
The Challenges of Writing a Book
Writing a book is a challenging endeavor.
It requires discipline, creativity, and a deep understanding of the subject matter.
Despite these challenges, it can be a rewarding experience that allows one to share their insights and ideas with a wider audience.
Dislike for Rousseau
Rousseau’s ideas, particularly his views on the ‘noble savage’ and the corrupting influence of civilization, are controversial.
While some find value in his critique of society, others argue that his ideas oversimplify complex issues and ignore the benefits of social structures.
The Future of Higher Education
The future of higher education is uncertain.
With the rise of online learning and the increasing cost of traditional education, institutions must adapt to meet the changing needs of students and the demands of the job market.
The Role of Government in Protecting Individual Rights
The government has a crucial role in protecting individual rights.
It must ensure that all citizens are treated equally under the law and that their rights are not infringed upon by others.
I think there’s a fundamental crisis of loneliness in our time that we don’t know how to think about…we can’t make sense of how bad that a Kurtz and how much people are projecting onto politics a hope that we could solve deep crises of the soul and of local community as neighborhoods and mediating institutions are hollowed out. – Senator Ben Sasse
