American Prestige Bonus - Language, Genocide, and American Power w/ Shadi Hamid
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Sep 7, 2025 Shadi Hamid, a Washington Post columnist and co-host of Wisdom of Crowds, joins the discussion on the evolving language surrounding the Gaza genocide. He shares his initial hesitations about using the term 'genocide' and reflects on its impact on mainstream debates. Shadi also examines the future of the Democratic Party amidst shifting discourses, and how language influences policy within American power structures. Their conversation touches on systemic flaws in foreign policy and the complexities of identity in today's political landscape.
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Truth Over Tactics On Language
- Shadi Hamid stopped avoiding the term "genocide" once he judged it to be factually accurate despite tactical costs.
- He prioritized truthful description over persuading hesitant audiences about Gaza.
Responses From Palestinian-American Friends
- Shadi received angry messages from Palestinian-American friends accusing him of being late to use the G-word.
- He responded that he had been outspoken on Gaza but had only recently adopted the specific term for strategic and factual reasons.
Language Shapes Long-Term Politics
- Shadi argues shifting mainstream discourse (normalizing "genocide") matters even if policy lag remains.
- He sees public opinion change as a prerequisite for long-term party and policy shifts.
