Christopher J. Scalia Discusses Conservative Literature on AEI's 'Political Economy' Podcast

Christopher J. Scalia, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) and author, recently featured in a conversation on Jim Pethokoukis's "Political Economy" podcast. Scalia announced the episode on July 17, 2025, via a post on social media, inviting his audience to listen to the discussion. The conversation is expected to center on themes from Scalia's recent work, "13 Novels Conservatives Will Love (but Probably Haven't Read)."

The podcast episode, titled "Christopher Scalia: Literary Fiction for the Conservative Mind," explores the unique role of novels in shaping conservative values, fostering empathy, and delving into complex ideas. This aligns with Scalia's broader efforts to connect literary analysis with contemporary conservative thought, offering a fresh perspective on how fiction can inform political and social understanding.

Both Scalia and Pethokoukis are distinguished figures at the American Enterprise Institute, a prominent conservative think tank based in Washington, D.C. Jim Pethokoukis, a senior fellow and the DeWitt Wallace Chair at AEI, hosts the "Political Economy" podcast, which is recognized for its in-depth interviews with economists, business leaders, and academics on pressing issues.

This collaboration highlights AEI's commitment to fostering intellectual discourse across diverse fields, including culture and literature, from a conservative viewpoint. Such discussions are crucial for engaging a wider audience beyond traditional policy debates, thereby enriching the public's understanding of conservative principles through the lens of literary works. Scalia's tweet, stating, > "And while I have you, here’s my conversation with @JimPethokoukis," encourages direct engagement with the content. The episode is available on major podcast platforms, providing valuable insights into the intersection of literature and conservative ideology.