On today’s show: Sam hosts Michael Sandel (@JusticeHarvard), Professor of Political Philosophy at Harvard University, to discuss his new book The Tyranny of Merit: What’s Become of the Common Good?, on the shortcomings of the “meritocratic” system and what we can do to fix it. The myth of the American meritocracy has long been used to justify a set of policies that are antithetical to social mobility. Sandel traces the history of this ideology, shows why it’s a lie, and most radically, interrogates why, even if the meritocracy were real, it would not produce a truly democratic society.

McConnell celebrates passing stimulus: “help is on the way.”

On the fun half: Pelosi says she wishes $600 direct payments were bigger but they’re still significant. Walking out of conference, Pelosi does not answer question about taking up Mnuchin bill. Biden Surgeon General nominee tempers expectations for vaccination timeline: “We want to be realistic.” Lou Dobbs apologizes for defaming Smartmatic voting machines, runs news package exculpating Smartmatic (lawsuit pending). Talking about 1776 commission, Charlie Kirk says we should focus on good American history, not the bad stuff. Asked about Trump’s meeting with Powell and Michael Flynn, Congressman John Curtis (UT-03) says they’re just conversations, not revolutions. Plus, your calls and IMs!

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