Why Postmodernism and Woke Culture Are Killing Civilization (The Saad Truth with Dr. Saad_788)

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Jan 22, 2025

In a thought-provoking discussion, Gad Saad, an evolutionary behavioral scientist and author, tackles the impact of postmodernism and woke culture on society. He elucidates how harmful ideologies act as 'idea pathogens' that can distort rational thought. Reflecting on his childhood experiences with anti-Semitism, Saad connects identity issues to contemporary cultural debates. He critiques ideological rigidity in research, explores the tensions within feminism, and emphasizes the need for empathy in addressing societal fragmentation.

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ANECDOTE

Childhood Antisemitism

At six years old, Gad Saad heard people chanting "Death to Jews" in Lebanon.
This was his first clear memory of experiencing antisemitism.

INSIGHT

Parasitic Ideas

Saad uses a "parasitic mind" framework, comparing harmful ideas to neuroparasites.
These "idea pathogens" infect minds and alter behavior like brainworms.

ANECDOTE

Feminist Awakening

Israeli feminists had a "rude awakening" after October 7.
They sided with Hamas rapists over Israeli rape victims, prioritizing Palestinian identity over womanhood.

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The Origins of Totalitarianism

Hannah Arendt

In this seminal work, Hannah Arendt explores the historical and philosophical roots of totalitarianism. The book is structured into three essays: 'Antisemitism', 'Imperialism', and 'Totalitarianism'. Arendt examines the rise of anti-Semitism in 19th-century Europe, the role of European colonial imperialism, and the emergence of totalitarian movements in Nazi Germany and Stalinist Russia. She argues that totalitarianism is a novel form of government that differs from other forms of political oppression by its use of terror to subjugate mass populations and its aim for global domination. The book also delves into the mechanics of totalitarian movements, including the transformation of classes into masses, the role of propaganda, and the use of terror to maintain control[2][4][5].

The selfish gene

Lalla Ward Richard Dawkins

Richard Dawkins

In 'The Selfish Gene', Richard Dawkins presents a gene-centred view of evolution, arguing that genes are the primary units of selection and that they behave selfishly to ensure their own replication. The book explains concepts such as kin selection, inclusive fitness, and the evolutionarily stable strategy, highlighting how these mechanisms can lead to altruistic behaviors in organisms. Dawkins emphasizes that the 'selfishness' of genes is a metaphorical concept, describing their evolutionary consequences rather than any intentional behavior. The book has been influential in shaping modern evolutionary thought and remains relevant today[1][3][5].

The interpretation of cultures

Clifford Geertz

This book, published in 1973, is a collection of essays by Clifford Geertz that transformed the field of anthropology. Geertz argues for an interpretive approach to understanding culture, emphasizing the importance of 'thick description' – a method that involves deeply detailed descriptions of cultural activities in their context. The book challenges the traditional view of culture as a set of behaviors or practices and instead posits it as a web of symbols and meanings interpreted differently within each cultural context. It has been highly influential not only in anthropology but also in sociology, cultural studies, and literary theory.

Gender Trouble

Feminism and the Subversion of Identity

Judith Butler

In 'Gender Trouble,' Judith Butler challenges traditional notions of gender and sex, arguing that gender is not an innate or natural aspect of human identity but rather a social construct that is performed and reinforced through societal norms and behaviors. Butler distinguishes between sex, which refers to biological traits, and gender, which is a constructed category. She introduces the concept of 'performativity,' suggesting that gender is created through repeated actions and performances. The book critiques the binary gender system and explores how non-normative sexual practices and identities can subvert and challenge traditional gender categories. Butler's work has been influential in feminist theory, queer theory, and LGBTQ activism, and continues to be a foundational text in gender studies.

The Parasitic Mind

How Infectious Ideas Are Killing Common Sense

\"Gad Saad\"

In 'The Parasitic Mind,' Dr. Gad Saad exposes the harmful effects of 'idea pathogens'—irrational and logically flawed ideas that are spreading through universities and enforced by the tyranny of political correctness. These ideas, Saad argues, are endangering fundamental freedoms such as freedom of thought and speech. The book is a call to action, encouraging readers to use critical thinking and courage to defend reason and intellectual freedom. Saad discusses various topics including university 'safe spaces,' gender ideology, postmodernism, and the decline of intellectual diversity in academia, all while advocating for the importance of questioning and challenging prevailing dogma[1][3][4].

Sociobiology

The New Synthesis

Edward O. Wilson

In 'Sociobiology: The New Synthesis,' Edward O. Wilson defines sociobiology as the systematic study of the biological basis of all social behavior. The book explores how social behaviors in animals, including altruism, cooperation, and aggression, are shaped by natural selection and genetic factors. Wilson extends this analysis to humans in the final chapter, sparking significant controversy and debate about the role of biology in human social behavior. The book is a landmark in the field of evolutionary biology and has had a profound impact on the nature versus nurture debate and the development of evolutionary psychology[1][4][5].

Who Stole Feminism?

Christina Hoff Sommers

Christina Hoff Sommers' "Who Stole Feminism?" is a critical examination of contemporary feminism, arguing that the movement has strayed from its original goals of equality and individual rights. Sommers critiques what she sees as the excesses of radical feminism, particularly its focus on gender differences and victimhood. She challenges the claims of widespread sexism and discrimination, advocating for a more moderate and inclusive approach to feminism. The book sparked significant debate and controversy, with Sommers' arguments praised by some and criticized by others. Her work remains a significant contribution to the ongoing discussion about the direction and goals of feminism. Sommers' book continues to be relevant in discussions about gender equality and the complexities of the feminist movement.