UnHerd with Freddie Sayers Thomas Chatterton Williams: The centre cannot hold
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Sep 12, 2025 
Thomas Chatterton Williams, author of 'Summer of Our Discontent', dives into the shifts in American politics following the recent Charlie Kirk incident. He discusses the eerie parallels between now and 2020, examining media narratives and the polarization fueled by racial dynamics and societal tensions. Williams critiques the discontent with centrist politics and warns against the rise of extremist views while analyzing how the pandemic and elite distrust have radicalized opinions. He emphasizes the importance of real-life connections to bridge divides and restore meaningful discourse.
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Ideas Now Have Violent Consequences
- Thomas Chatterton Williams argues ideas now have real-world violent consequences because rhetoric has become extreme and illiberal.
- He warns this creates a scary environment for anyone who debates or thinks in public.
Viral Crime Videos Fuel Polarization
- Williams says viral videos of crime create racialized 'crime porn' that mainstream outlets sometimes avoid amplifying.
- That avoidance then fuels conspiracy fears and deepens polarisation.
Perception Of Crime Outpaces Reality
- Williams observes that social media, especially since Elon Musk bought Twitter, exaggerates perceptions of crime and danger.
- He notes crime statistics often fall while perceived danger rises, enabling heavy-handed responses.