This was a great opportunity. Thanks, Jonathan and the good folks of KPCL!

But it was also a daunting challenge.

I wrote the book for a crossover audience — academics as well as the serious general reader.

The book emphasizes the practical value of imaginative discourse. I wanted to walk the talk. So I had the text edited by two editors to make it accessible — and put in pictures to make it inviting!

Even so, the ideas and their interconnections are complex.

Could I present the key propositions in a 40-minute talk that the audience would find interesting and comprehensible — without compromising the substance?

AI — including Google’s much-praised NotebookLM — failed me.

Here’s what I came up with. Curious what you think.

Then I listened to KH’s “concession speech” from yesterday. Yes the declaration of a peaceful transfer of power was commendable — and the dig (without naming names) at DJT’s awfulness in 2020 well deserved.

Perhaps the self-congratulatory tone (“we ran a great campaign”) was also necessary if a bit absurd given the money spent and the outcome.

But what about the constant refrain of “fight” — about 16 times I think — with no mention of the need to “listen to,” “understand” or even “persuade” the other side.

I was at a dinner party a couple of months ago to celebrate the book of a liberal icon. I asked “you make a eloquent case that will strengthen the resolve of your followers. But what about those who are not predisposed to your views?” No real response was forthcoming.

Some, perhaps many, of Trump supporters are awful people. But I daresay not all are racists, fascists, or misogynists. People who pollsters describe as “shy” Trump voters, may also be “reluctant” Trump voters.