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They Burned the Sanctuary Down

June 8, 2026June 8, 2026 - by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

The author reflects on the transformation of sports into a political arena, particularly focusing on the Knicks’ return to the NBA Finals after 27 years. He laments the loss of a once neutral space for fans, where politics were set aside, due to deliberate actions by athletes and media to infuse activism into sports culture.

2 - Analysis / Culture / Culture & Institutions / Dead Reckoning / Opinion / Politics / Politics / Voice

What the 250th Looks Like From Here

June 4, 2026June 4, 2026 - by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, cultural discussions on patriotism reveal a divide. While celebrations unfold nationwide, significant critique from mainstream media and cultural elites questions the legitimacy of national pride. This contrasts with data showing that many Americans, particularly in rural areas, maintain their love for country.

2 - Analysis / Dead Reckoning / Opinion / Voice

The Patriotism Standard

May 30, 2026May 30, 2026 - by Michael Phillips - 1 Comment

The New Yorker published an essay questioning patriotism’s cultural status, positing that expressions of national pride have become problematic due to their association with certain demographics. Critics argue this view selectively targets patriotic symbols from some groups while ignoring similar expressions from others, revealing a bias in cultural critique based on class and aesthetics.

Culture / Culture & Institutions / Media / Media & Influence / News & Media / Opinion / Politics / Voice

When Culture Wars Replace Common Sense

February 10, 2026February 10, 2026 - by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

A viral reaction by commentator John Allante McAuley to the Super Bowl halftime show underscores frustrations with cultural disconnection in America. The discourse reflects broader concerns about elite cultural values overshadowing shared norms. Instead of consolidating grievances into extreme narratives, McAuley advocates for thoughtful conversations that engage diverse audiences and address underlying issues like immigration.