Podcast Episodes

Ben Woodfinden - What Is Canadian Conservatism?

Episode 307

In this episode, Alex speaks with political theorist Ben Woodfinden about the meaning and complexity of Canadian conservatism. Drawing on his essay “A Tory Impulse and Anti-Laurentian Ideas Drive Can…

Published on 2 months, 1 week ago

Jacob Levy - Is Liberalism Neutral?

Episode 306

In this conversation from 2023, Alex speaks with Professor Jacob Levy about the concept of neutrality within the history of liberalism and how many historical thinkers have approached the subject wit…

Published on 2 months, 2 weeks ago

Bill Wirtz - Why Do Governments Hate Fun?

Episode 305

Episode Summary:

Matt Bufton is joined by Bill Wirtz of the Consumer Choice Centre to explore why governments often crack down on fun—from drinking and smoking to gambling and vaping. They dive into …

Published on 2 months, 3 weeks ago

Marc-William Palen - Were There Left-Wing Visions of Free Trade?

Episode 304

In this conversation from 2024, Alex speaks with Marc-William Palen about the evolution of left-wing visions of free trade from the mid-19th century through the Cold War, highlighting key movements a…

Published on 2 months, 4 weeks ago

Russ Roberts - What’s Wrong With Education?

Episode 303

In this conversation from 2022, Alex speaks with Russ Roberts about the nature of education and how we should rethink it in today's world. This is a special episode being released in conjunction with…

Published on 3 months ago

David Friedman - What Is Anarcho-Capitalism?

Episode 302

In this episode from 2023, Alex speaks with David Friedman about defenses, definitions and critiques of Anarcho-Capitalism in David's work and in others'. 

Episode Notes:

- Summary of David's book "T…

Published on 3 months, 1 week ago

Mike Munger - Can Classical Liberalism Be Saved?

Episode 301

In this conversation from 2023, Alex speaks with Mike Munger about the state of classical liberalism in an era in which conservatism seems intent on wielding the tools of central planning and the lef…

Published on 3 months, 2 weeks ago

James Tooley and Robyn Mulcahy - Why Do Families Choose Private Education?

Episode 300

In a special episode of the Curious Task, Matt sits down with James Tooley and Robyn Mulcahy at Blueberry Creek Forest School and Nature Centre to discuss the benefits of private education, outdoor e…

Published on 3 months, 3 weeks ago

Alan Elrod - How Should Liberals Think About Children?

Episode 299

Janet speaks with Alan Elrod to explore how classical liberalism understands the role of children in a free society. They discuss the liberal view of children as future autonomous individuals, the re…

Published on 4 months ago

Chris Freiman — Is it Okay to Ignore Politics?

Episode 298

In this conversation from 2020, Alex Aragona speaks with Christopher Freiman as he explores why you might be happier, and ultimately contribute more to society, if you choose to ignore politics.

Refe…

Published on 4 months, 1 week ago