Scott Horton - Part Of The Problem

Podcast Summary: "Scott Horton" on Part Of The Problem

Released: August 5, 2025
Host: Dave Smith
Guest: Scott Horton
Network: GaS Digital Network

Introduction

In this compelling episode of Part Of The Problem, host Dave Smith engages in an in-depth conversation with renowned libertarian and non-interventionist commentator Scott Horton. The discussion delves into current foreign policy issues, the evolution of media influence, and the shifting dynamics within the libertarian movement. Throughout the episode, Smith and Horton reflect on past and present events, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities facing advocates of a truly free nation.

Scott Horton's Influence and Contributions

Dave Smith opens by highlighting Scott Horton's pivotal role in shaping the libertarian and non-interventionist discourse. Horton is praised for his extensive work, including his acclaimed books—Enough Already, which critiques the terror wars, and Provoked, analyzing the conflict in Ukraine. Smith emphasizes Horton's comprehensive podcast, which boasts over 6,000 interviews, featuring influential figures like Pat Buchanan and Ron Paul. [00:00]

“Scott has been to our entire libertarian, non-interventionist movement. I don't know where we would be without this guy.” – Dave Smith [00:00]

Horton introduces his latest venture, the Scott Horton Academy of Foreign Policy and Freedom, which offers extensive courses on the Middle East, the new Cold War with Russia, and the history of Christian Zionism, among other topics. [01:55]

“We’re about to publish Creative Chaos Dos, which will be the most important book on the origins of the Syrian Dirty War 15 years ago.” – Scott Horton [106:30]

Shifting Political Landscape and Media Influence

A significant portion of the conversation centers on the burgeoning coalition of non-interventionist right-wing thinkers and their increasing prominence in mainstream media. Smith observes a notable shift where figures like Tucker Carlson, Candace Owens, and others are channeling libertarian anti-war sentiments that resonate widely. This alignment is contrasted with the previous dominance of neoconservative narratives, which often justified military interventions under exaggerated threats. [06:20]

“There's just a really large coalition of non-interventionist right-wing types in the country today. It’s really unlike anything that we’ve ever seen before.” – Dave Smith [06:20]

Horton shares his experience recording a lengthy 10-hour podcast with Lex Friedman, highlighting the depth and breadth of their discussion on foreign policy, which underscores the evolving media landscape where long-form, substantive conversations are gaining traction over traditional, shorter formats. [06:20]

“We did all of 'Enough Already,' essentially, and every tangent in the world.” – Scott Horton [06:58]

Challenges to Traditional Propaganda and Smear Tactics

Smith and Horton critique the traditional methods of character assassination and propaganda that once effectively marginalized dissenting voices. They argue that in the age of social media, these tactics have lost their potency, often backfiring and inadvertently increasing the prominence of their targets. [74:13]

“They went to the well too many times. It’s just too low of a TR at this point. You just kind of can’t pull it and it’s backfiring.” – Scott Horton [82:10]

Horton emphasizes that without the ability to simply smear opponents out of existence, open and honest discourse has become more critical. This shift empowers libertarian voices to engage directly with broader audiences without the fear of being easily dismissed through traditional propaganda means. [72:00]

Current Foreign Policy Debates: Iran and Gaza

The episode delves deep into ongoing foreign policy conflicts, particularly focusing on Iran and the Gaza conflict. Smith criticizes the short-sightedness of policymakers who fail to achieve lasting resolutions, often resulting in cyclical violence and unresolved tensions. Horton underscores the dangers of misinformed policy decisions, drawing parallels to historical misjudgments during the Cold War. [15:39]

“If anybody listened to all 10 hours of this, you probably want to sign up for the Scott Horton Academy. I was able to keep your attention this long then.” – Scott Horton [09:24]

Both hosts express frustration with the persistence of war hawks who have consistently failed to foresee the long-term consequences of military interventions. They advocate for a more informed and cautious approach to foreign policy, emphasizing the importance of understanding complex geopolitical landscapes. [17:40]

The Role of Youth and New Media in Shaping Public Opinion

Smith and Horton discuss the pivotal role of younger generations and new media platforms in reshaping public opinion on war and foreign policy. The rapid dissemination of information through social media has democratized discourse, enabling more voices to be heard and challenging established narratives. This shift is seen as a double-edged sword, enhancing free speech while complicating the control over propaganda. [65:24]

“Life is like skateboarding, man. Generations come real fast, things change real quick.” – Scott Horton [65:41]

Horton reflects on the historical significance of media figures adapting to new platforms, noting how personalities like Tucker Carlson have effectively leveraged these tools to amplify anti-war messages, thereby building a consensus that was previously unattainable. [86:55]

Personal Reflections and Debates

The hosts share personal anecdotes about participating in debates and facing character attacks from opponents. Smith recounts his contentious debate with Alex Berenson, where he endured personal smears and attempts to tarnish his reputation. Both acknowledge the emotional toll of such encounters but remain steadfast in their commitment to honest discourse. [79:04]

“It just was a fun night of watching popcorn for all of my fans. Nothing more than that.” – Dave Smith [83:33]

Horton echoes these sentiments, expressing frustration with the ineffectiveness of smear tactics in the current media environment and highlighting the importance of maintaining integrity and resilience in the face of adversity. [82:38]

Future Prospects and Call to Action

As the episode concludes, Smith and Horton emphasize the importance of continued activism and engagement in shaping foreign policy. They advocate for listeners to contact their representatives, participate in democratic processes, and support movements that align with libertarian and non-interventionist principles. The hosts express optimism about the growing influence of informed, grassroots advocacy in countering established power structures. [104:05]

“This is a revolution. And I don't think it really even hit.” – Scott Horton [57:50]

Horton encourages listeners to explore his resources, including his substack and the Libertarian Institute, to further educate themselves and become active participants in the movement for a free nation. [105:53]

Notable Quotes

Dave Smith [00:00]: “Scott has been to our entire libertarian, non-interventionist movement. I don't know where we would be without this guy.”
Scott Horton [01:55]: “We’re about to publish Creative Chaos Dos, which will be the most important book on the origins of the Syrian Dirty War 15 years ago.”
Dave Smith [06:20]: “There's just a really large coalition of non-interventionist right-wing types in the country today. It’s really unlike anything that we’ve ever seen before.”
Scott Horton [06:58]: “We did all of 'Enough Already,' essentially, and every tangent in the world.”
Scott Horton [82:10]: “They went to the well too many times. It’s just too low of a TR at this point. You just kind of can’t pull it and it’s backfiring.”
Dave Smith [09:24]: “If anybody listened to all 10 hours of this, you probably want to sign up for the Scott Horton Academy. I was able to keep your attention this long then.”
Scott Horton [65:41]: “Life is like skateboarding, man. Generations come real fast, things change real quick.”
Dave Smith [83:33]: “It just was a fun night of watching popcorn for all of my fans. Nothing more than that.”

Conclusion

This episode of Part Of The Problem offers a thorough exploration of the intersection between libertarian ideals, foreign policy, and the transformative impact of new media. Dave Smith and Scott Horton provide a nuanced analysis of contemporary global conflicts, the diminishing effectiveness of traditional propaganda, and the empowering role of grassroots movements. Listeners are encouraged to engage deeply with the topics discussed, utilizing available resources to advocate for a more informed and free society.

For more insights and resources discussed in this episode, visit Scott Horton's Substack and the Libertarian Institute.