The Daily Stoic

Megha Rajagopalan On Using History to Understand Modern Authoritarianism

Nov 4, 2020
Guest
Megha Rajagopalan
Megha Rajagopalan, a world correspondent for BuzzFeed News with extensive reporting experience in Asia and the Middle East, discusses vital topics like authoritarianism and the Uyghur crisis. She emphasizes how understanding historical context is crucial for grasping today’s geopolitical challenges, particularly involving China. Megha also shares her experiences navigating the complexities of journalism in authoritarian regimes and the ethical dilemmas faced when reporting on human rights issues. Her insights call listeners to recognize their moral responsibility in supporting humanitarian efforts.
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INSIGHT

Stoic Principles and Political Action

  • Stoicism emphasizes our interconnectedness and obligations to others (sympathia and oikeiosis).
  • This motivates Stoics' political engagement and pursuit of the common good.
INSIGHT

WWII and Atrocities

  • The US entry into World War II wasn't solely due to the Holocaust.
  • Samantha Power's "A Problem from Hell" examines responses to historical atrocities.
ANECDOTE

Xinjiang Denial and Historical Parallels

  • Megha Rajagopalan's reporting on Xinjiang is often met with denial.
  • This mirrors historical skepticism towards Cambodian genocide accounts.
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