Uncommon Knowledge “The Treason Of The Intellectuals,” With Niall Ferguson | Uncommon Knowledge | Peter Robinson | Hoover Institution
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Jan 23, 2024 
Niall Ferguson discusses the politicization of American universities and the rise of 'woke' progressives. He highlights the dominance of cancel culture and anti-Semitism in academia, as well as the emergence of identity politics. The historical context of anti-Zionism and the merging of political Islam with the woke movement is also explored. The podcast delves into Harvard's free speech controversy and the proposal for a new university in Austin.
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First Encounter with Cancel Culture
- Niall Ferguson and Ayaan Hirsi Ali first encountered cancel culture roughly ten years ago when Brandeis University rescinded Ali's commencement address invitation.
- This incident sparked Ferguson's concern about a growing illiberal trend in American universities.
October 7th Revelation
- The Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, exposed a new anti-Semitism within the woke left.
- Over 30 Harvard student groups condoned Hamas's actions, shocking many, especially American Jews.
Nazi Party Membership
- Educational attainment was a predictor of Nazi Party membership in Germany between the wars.
- This surprising fact highlights the susceptibility of educated individuals to extremist ideologies.