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Thinking Big_ The Frontier Myth and Symbolic Power in American Leadership
Published 1 day, 23 hours ago
Description
Today, we're exploring a captivating concept known as symbolic power, a term coined by sociologist Pierre Bourdieu that helps us understand the subtle yet profound ways leaders shape our perceptions and societal norms. Specifically, we’ll delve into how this plays out in American politics, channeling one of the country’s most iconic narratives—the frontier myth.
So, what exactly is the frontier myth? Essentially, it’s the romanticized view of America as a land brimming with opportunity where the strong individual can rise to greatness. Historian Richard Slotkin describes it perfectly as a tale of self-reliant individuals bravely carving their path to the top in a wide-open land. This myth has been an integral part of the American identity and has fueled political rhetoric for centuries.
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So, what exactly is the frontier myth? Essentially, it’s the romanticized view of America as a land brimming with opportunity where the strong individual can rise to greatness. Historian Richard Slotkin describes it perfectly as a tale of self-reliant individuals bravely carving their path to the top in a wide-open land. This myth has been an integral part of the American identity and has fueled political rhetoric for centuries.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/conspiracy-theories-exploring-the-unseen--5194379/support.