Defending Ideas is a weekly podcast produced by Sutherland Institute. On this show we are committed to renewing the principles of common sense conservatism, equipping listeners to become more effective champions of sound principle and good policy.
Utah voters support the success sequence
New survey data shows that a majority of likely voters in Utah support the concepts of the success sequence and approve of teaching them in schools. So, when critics still push back against the sequence – education, work, and marriage before kids – as one of the best frameworks for avoiding poverty and living a successful and happy life, what's the best response?
How family policy debates sometimes ignore the family itself
Debates about family policy often focus on an array of programs or interventions like licensed child care, pre-K, or the K-12 education system. But all too often, the family itself as an optimal environment for the healthy development of young children – and a fundamental institution of civil society – gets left out of the discussion.
Agency over equity: Ian Rowe on a better vision for upward mobility
Many public policy debates in recent years have focused on the concept of equity, and what impact race and ethnicity have on opportunity for the next generation. This week's podcast guest believes we need to replace equity with agency, as a more compelling – and more effective – vision to help young people of all races lead successful and fulfilling lives.
Antisemitism in America: Rabbi Chaim Zippel on the aftermath of the Hamas attack in Israel
Rabbi Chaim Zippel was in Israel with his wife and infant son on the day of the Hamas terrorist attack. He recounts his experience.
Should government promote marriage?
Marriage is often viewed as a personal matter that isn't usually included in public policy discussions. But a growing body of evidence shows that strong families, anchored by healthy marriages, are among the biggest drivers of upward mobility and long-term success for the next generation.
Why America needs a new welfare reform movement
A coalition of state-level policy think tanks called the Alliance for Opportunity is working to bring 1 million Americans out of poverty in ten years.
Supreme Court 2024: How to better understand – and defend – the court’s constitutional role
Between now and June 2024, the court will review various cases touching on free speech, separation of powers, property rights, and more that could be added throughout the term.
Defending Enterprise with Beth Akers: How to approach 2024 campaign rhetoric on the economy
Beth joins Nic Dunn to provide listeners with a guide to what candidates for office in 2024 might say about the economy – and how voters can stay focused on policy proposals that support and defend our free enterprise system.
The death of discourse? TV news veteran Glen Mills reflects on the press and public debate
Is there a link between diminishing trust in the press and the dying art of public discourse? On this week's episode, 20-year TV news veteran Glen Mills joins Nic Dunn for a status check on the health of public debate, and the state of one of the most important and impactful institutions of civil society: the news media.
The missing constitutional questions in Utah’s Amendment D debate
What’s the proper role of citizen ballot initiatives compared to laws passed by the state Legislature as different methods to create public policy?
A special look at the new film “Free Exercise: America’s Story of Religious Liberty”
The freedom to live your faith is a bedrock American principle. But has the right of religious freedom always enjoyed the level of protection that it does today?
Rep. John Curtis on why modern politics needs a reset: town halls, Reagan, climate and more
If you're frustrated with national politics, is a "reset" the answer?
