Progressivism Misunderstood

Jonah Goldberg's episode of *The Remnant* explores the ideological underpinnings of progressivism, challenging its self-image as a morally progressive force while tracing its roots to European intellectual traditions, particularly German pragmatism and eugenics. Drawing on Clarence Thomas's recent speech at the University of Texas, Goldberg argues that progressivism, as a philosophy, is fundamentally at odds with the principles of the Declaration of Independence—especially the idea of natural rights and limited government. He critiques the left's romanticization of theft and radicalism, exemplified by figures like Hassan Piker and a New Yorker writer who defends stealing from Whole Foods, calling it intellectual vandalism. Goldberg also defends the strategic use of blockades in the Iran conflict, warns against court-packing as a political tactic, and reflects on the hypocrisy of progressive claims to moral superiority. He concludes with a call to action for listeners to support *The Dispatch* through subscriptions, emphasizing the need for sustainable funding to maintain high-quality journalism in an evolving political landscape.