The DSR Network Who Really Needs the First Amendment Anyway?
Sep 19, 2025
Rosa Brooks, a law professor and former Pentagon official, joins David Rothkopf to dissect the alarming state of free speech in America. They discuss the implications of Jimmy Kimmel's cancellation over controversial jokes and how government actions are redefining First Amendment rights. The conversation delves into the dangerous intersection of media, political pressure, and cultural canceling, as well as the authoritarian risks posed by platform data and surveillance. Tune in for a provocative exploration of these pressing constitutional issues.
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Violence Used To Justify Broader Censorship
- Rosa Brooks warns political violence instantly becomes a pretext to suppress speech and punish opponents.
- She says critics will redefine ordinary criticism as incitement to justify censorship and firings.
Immediate Horror And Political Anticipation
- Rosa Brooks recounts her reaction when she first saw news of Charlie Kirk's shooting and how she feared the aftermath.
- She describes an immediate horror both at the killing and at how it would be used politically.
Cancel Culture Eroded Norms Across The Spectrum
- Rosa Brooks acknowledges the progressive 'cancel culture' helped erode norms protecting speech.
- She warns using past abuses to justify newer, larger-scale repression is dangerous and hypocritical.