s07e05 | Mythologies of The Current Era, TheDeepEnd #19 with Leslie Elliott
Sep 18, 2024
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Leslie Elliott, a thought leader in historical narrative analysis, delves into the 'load bearing mythologies' of WWII and the Holocaust. She critiques how these narratives influence current societal behaviors and political discourse. The conversation navigates societal taboos and the complexities of identity politics, emphasizing diverse perspectives. They also explore how storytelling shapes our collective memory and personal identities, revealing the intricate relationship between the past and contemporary cultural dynamics.
Foundation myths, particularly surrounding WWII and the Holocaust, negatively influence societal narratives by prioritizing tragedy over positive renewal.
The podcast emphasizes a fracturing of established historical narratives, prompting reevaluations of figures like Churchill and Hitler in contemporary discourse.
Media influence plays a critical role in shaping public perception, particularly during significant events, often leading to the polarization of political identities and narratives.
Deep dives
Foundation Myths and Their Implications
Foundation myths serve to explain a society's origins, values, and what is considered sacred. For modern Westerners, the narrative surrounding World War II acts as such a myth, defining good through the lens of anti-Nazism and framing the Holocaust as a sacred event. However, the podcast discusses the problematic nature of this narrative, asserting that it is rooted in negativity, with ultimate evil represented by Hitler overshadowing any true sense of good. This negative foundation is suggested to poison the societal narrative, as it is based on tragedy and destruction rather than renewal and positive outcomes.
The Shifting Political Landscape
The discussions highlight the emergence of various political narratives that challenge longstanding beliefs, particularly regarding figures like Winston Churchill and Adolf Hitler. Recent conversations in the 'anti-woke' sphere have sparked significant debate about these icons, with some suggesting a reevaluation of their roles in history. The podcast suggests that the established narratives, once viewed as absolute, are now showing signs of fracture due to shifts in public discourse. As these narratives are questioned, it raises concerns about the ramifications of challenging deeply ingrained historical perspectives.
The Role of Media in Political Discourse
Media's influence on political narratives is presented as a crucial factor in shaping public perception and discourse. The podcast examines how media narratives can manipulate public opinion, particularly during significant events like COVID-19 and January 6th. Listeners are prompted to consider the consequences of this manipulation, particularly when individuals are labeled based on their political views. This ongoing discourse exemplifies a larger cultural trend of defining individuals as 'good' or 'evil' based on adherence to specific narratives.
Navigating Social Taboos
Discussing sensitive topics often leads individuals to experience hesitance or defensive reactions, revealing societal taboos around certain narratives. The podcast explores how these taboos can stifle open discourse, particularly regarding controversial historical figures or events associated with significant pain and suffering. Participants reflect on the importance of recognizing these restrictions and the discomfort they create, ultimately advocating for more open discussions despite the inherent risks. The exploration of these boundaries serves as a useful framework for understanding contemporary cultural conversations.
Cultural Identity and Political Polarization
The relationship between cultural identity and political perspectives is examined, particularly how these identities inform people's reactions to narratives. The podcast discusses how individuals often align their beliefs with specific cultural or political frameworks, sometimes leading to tribalism. This polarization can limit the ability to engage in critical discussions about complex issues, such as racism or the dynamics of power. Ultimately, listeners are encouraged to recognize the nuances of cultural identities and the impact they have on both personal beliefs and broader societal debates.
Leslie and I speak about the "load bearing mythologies" of WWII, the Holocaust, and how certain triggers/topics stir woke behavior in anti-woke influencers.
