Things That Go Boom MAGA, Mahmoud Khalil, and the War for Free Speech on Campus
Mar 31, 2025
In this engaging discussion featuring Chris Mathias, author of "To Catch A Fascist," the conversation dives into the complexities of free speech on campus through the lens of Mahmoud Khalil's activism at Columbia. They explore the legacy of Charlottesville and the rise of far-right extremism, shedding light on how digital media shapes current ideologies. The podcast also critiques the government's use of immigration law to silence dissenting voices and examines the implications for academic freedom and Palestinian advocacy amidst a charged political climate.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Howley's Grandfather and the FBI
- Joseph Howley's grandfather's FBI file reveals investigation for communist ties based on visits to a leftist bookstore.
- This investigation caused significant distress and disruption to his life, highlighting the impact of McCarthyism.
Modern McCarthyism
- The current political climate mirrors McCarthyism, with individuals targeted for their beliefs and activism.
- Mahmoud Khalil's case exemplifies this, raising concerns about due process and free speech.
Charlottesville and the Far Right
- The 2017 Charlottesville incident, where a car plowed into counter-protesters, marked a turning point in Chris Mathias's career.
- He shifted his focus to covering the far right and extremism.