Douglas Murray, a British author and political commentator known for his provocative views, discusses his journey from literature to politics, shaped by his Oxford experiences. He addresses his controversial appearances, particularly on Joe Rogan's podcast, challenging mainstream narratives. With a focus on British culture and the misunderstood label of neoconservatism, Murray delves into the complexities of moral clarity in a relativistic world. He also shares insights from the ongoing conflict in Israel, highlighting the emotional weight of war and its implications for society.
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Scruton's Fair Fight
Douglas Murray recalls Roger Scruton's humorous observation about their shared office at Open Democracy.
Scruton quipped, "You've probably worked out by now, Douglas, that this place consists of about 50,000 leftists versus us. So it's a fair fight."
insights INSIGHT
Defending Britain
Douglas Murray's political views stem from a defense of his love for British culture and history.
He criticizes those who "shit all over" Britain while many around the world strive to live there.
insights INSIGHT
Neoconservatism Explained
Douglas Murray explains his view on neoconservatism, describing it as an intellectual defense of Western values and achievements.
He clarifies that it became a "polluted" term associated with "war hawks."
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In 'Neoconservatism: Why We Need It', Douglas Murray presents a case for the importance of neoconservative ideology. The book explores the principles and applications of neoconservatism, advocating for its role in contemporary political discourse. Murray's work was well-received, with some critics noting its contribution to the global debate on political ideologies.
Bosie
A Biography of Lord Alfred Douglas
Douglas Murray
This biography explores the life of Lord Alfred Douglas, known for his scandalous relationship with Oscar Wilde. It delves into Douglas's personal struggles, his role in Wilde's trials, and his later life, including his conversion to Roman Catholicism and renunciation of homosexuality. The book provides insights into Douglas's character and the societal impacts of his actions.
On Democracies and Death Cults
Douglas Murray
Feast of the Goat
Mario Vargas Llosa
In this captivating UnHerd interview, Freddie Sayers sits down with Douglas Murray to trace his remarkable evolution from a young Oxford scholar immersed in cultural and artistic pursuits to a global neoconservative commentator.
Murray reflects on his early days writing the acclaimed biography Bosie (2000), a deep dive into the life of Lord Alfred Douglas, Oscar Wilde’s lover, and how his focus shifted quickly to fiery political debates on the world stage.
From his 2005 book Neoconservatism: Why We Need It to his later bestsellers like The Strange Death of Europe (2017) and his new book Democracies and Death Cults (2025), Murray has become a polarising voice defending Western values and interventionism, particularly on Israel.
The conversation also dives into Murray’s recent viral appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience, where he sparked controversy by challenging the shapeshifting Right and the unchecked influence of podcasters.
Join Freddie Sayers as he uncovers what drives Douglas Murray, how his past shaped his present, and why he’s demanding more from today’s media giants. Don’t miss this in-depth look at one of the most provocative thinkers of our time.
UnHerd with Freddie Sayers 
