Person
Every book Kemi Badenoch recommended on podcasts
Kemi Badenoch's podcast appearances, notably on Honestly with Bari Weiss, showcase her as a politically engaged figure whose worldview has been shaped by foundational texts in economics, sociology, and political philosophy. Throughout her discussion, Badenoch reflects on the books that structured her ideological development and her transition into conservatism. Among the central texts she highlights is Thomas Sowell's 'Basic Economics', which she credits as the single biggest influence on her political awakening. She also touches upon Friedrich Hayek's classic 'The Road to Serfdom', acknowledging it as a challenging yet formative read during her intellectual journey. Expanding on the economic and institutional factors that govern societies, Badenoch references Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson's 'Why Nations Fail'. In addition to economics, she engages with human psychology and political theory by discussing Jonathan Haidt's 'The Righteous Mind', noting its brilliance in explaining moral foundations. Finally, when prompted by host Bari Weiss, she agrees on the profound influence of Roger Scruton's 'How to Be a Conservative'. Together, these recommendations outline an intellectual trajectory rooted in classical liberalism, free-market economics, and traditional conservative philosophy.
Books recommended by Kemi Badenoch
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Basic economics
Basic Economics by Thomas Sowell is a widely read introduction to economic principles designed for general audiences without the burden of dense mathematical equations or graphs.
Discussed“Um but the biggest biggest uh influence was Thomas Sowell and Basic Economics. And that was a very very random uh choice.”
Where to get it
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How to be a conservative
Discussed“What about Roger Scruton? Uh yes yes, um How to Be a Conservative. That also had”
Where to get it
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The Righteous Mind
The Righteous Mind by Jonathan Haidt is a psychology and sociology book that examines the intuitive foundations of morality and why good people are divided by politics and religion.
Discussed“uh and um Jonathan Haidt's The Righteous Mind, I think is an amazing I do, too.”
Where to get it
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The Road to Serfdom
The Road to Serfdom by Friedrich August Hayek is a foundational libertarian and economic text that warns against the dangers of totalitarianism and the inevitable descent of central planning into government control.
Discussed“So, Hayek's The Road to Serfdom, which was I can't I think I just it was a recommendation. I thought it was quite hard work.”
Where to get it
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Why Nations Fail
Why Nations Fail by Daron Acemoglu and James A.
Discussed“Um I might be misremembering now. It's all it's all 20 years ago. But there was that book, and then later on, books like Why Nations Fail”
Where to get it
Appearances
| Episode | Podcast | Date | Books |
|---|---|---|---|
| Is Kemi Badenoch the Next Margaret Thatcher? | Honestly with Bari Weiss | 2024-12-12 | 5 |