Sowell describes the critical differences between interests and visions. Interests, he says, are articulated by people who know what their interests are and what they want to do about them. Visions, however, are the implicit assumptions by which people operate. In politics, visions are either “constrained” or “unconstrained.” A closer look at the statements of both McCain and Obama reveals which “vision” motivates their policy positions, particularly as they pertain to the war, the law, and economics. (37:38) Video transcript

Recorded on Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Cast

Thomas Sowell

Thomas Sowell

Related

Podcasts

Amidst “A World Of Generational Change”: 9/11’s Lessons And Legacy

The 9/11 attacks on the US were 25 years ago this week and, while there hasn’t been a second such shock, questions remain as to the Free World’s preparedness, whether a divided America can rediscover unity, and the strength of international alliances. Phillip Zelikow, the Hoover Institution’s Botha-Chan senior fellow and executive director of the 9/11 Commission, discusses lessons learned from the attack.

September 11, 2026 • 0 Min Listen

Articles

9/11 Did Not Doom The American Empire

I predicted its decline 25 years ago. Today, the U.S. has serious problems, but our rivals have even bigger ones.

September 10, 2026

Videos

George W. Bush And Condoleezza Rice Discuss 9/11 At Anniversary Event

Hoover Institution Director and former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice joins former President George W. Bush to discuss 9/11 ahead of the 25th anniversary of the tragic terror attacks.

September 9, 2026