Ideological odd couple Drs. Cornel West and Robert George reflect on their shared humanity

Progressive socialist Dr. Cornel West and conservative Christian thinker Dr. Robert George, the “ideological odd couple,” discuss how their disagreements over policy — and their ability to talk about them openly and respectfully — have led to an enduring friendship.

Their conversation with Margaret Hoover was originally broadcast on Firing Line in February 2020 and is now available as a podcast in honor of the conversations that happen at the Thanksgiving dinner table.

“When you love somebody, you love their qualities,” West says. “The things you have in common that don’t always fall into politics.”

One area where George says West has “unsettled” him is “on issues of race.” Before engaging with West, George said he believed society would “be better if we just were colorblind completely in all of our dealings.” West helped him to realize that “the facts of history” can require a different approach.

They agree it has become harder to speak freely on college campuses and share a commitment to free speech. “You cannot be a truth-seeker if you're in groupthink,” George says.

“Socratic energy is very important,” West says. “No matter what the context is, you have to have an acknowledgment that not only you could be wrong but you can learn something from someone who you have deep disagreements with.”

Support for “Firing Line for Margaret Hoover” is provided by Stephens Inc., Robert Granieri, Charles R. Schwab, The Fairweather Foundation, Asness Family Foundation, Pfizer Inc., The Rosalind P. Walter Foundation, and Damon Button.