The Battle over Critical Race Theory

The podcast discusses the controversy surrounding critical race theory. Noam Chomsky argues that critical race theory is a small academic discipline focused on investigating systemic elements of racism in American education, and it only gained attention when right-wing figures like Christopher Rufo used it as a label to refer to everything they oppose. Chomsky criticizes the attempts to ban or restrict the teaching of critical race theory, calling it an invented attack on teaching American history and gender issues. He acknowledges the cancel culture phenomenon but emphasizes that it has also been directed against the left for years. While Chomsky opposes the improper actions of some young people, he also highlights the longstanding cancellation of the left. He emphasizes the need to challenge both sides and their attempts to curtail free speech.