Scott Alexander argues that ancient Rome's welfare system was similar to modern progressive policies in causes and outcomes, despite different philosophical justifications. Longer summary

Scott Alexander responds to a critique of his Anti-Reactionary FAQ, specifically addressing the claim that ancient Rome's welfare system was fundamentally different from modern progressive welfare policies. He argues that while the philosophical justifications differed, the underlying causes and outcomes were similar. Scott proposes that urbanization and economic growth lead to social changes, which then produce progressive values, rather than progressive values causing social change. He uses examples of obesity, divorce rates, and welfare systems to illustrate how social and economic conditions drive policy changes, not ideology. Scott concludes that ancient Rome can be considered an early progressive society due to its similar policies and outcomes, despite different philosophical justifications. Shorter summary