Douglas Murray, an associate editor at The Spectator and a noted political author, joins independent journalist Josh Szeps for a deep dive into the war in Gaza. They discuss shifting public opinions and the potential expansion of the conflict, including fears surrounding Hezbollah and Iran. The conversation touches on the complexities of war reporting, moral dilemmas in the Israel-Hamas conflict, and rising right-wing sentiments in Europe. Their insights shed light on the intricate dynamics of international politics and the urgent need for clarity in understanding modern warfare.
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insights INSIGHT
Settlements and Sympathy
Settlements are not the main issue driving the conflict, as Hamas acts independently of their existence.
International sympathy for Israel is short-lived, revealing a deeper bias.
insights INSIGHT
Obsession and Prejudice
Global obsession with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict overshadows other pressing issues.
This obsession allows some to attack Jews and the West under the guise of caring.
insights INSIGHT
Diaspora and Israeli Policy
The Israel-Palestine conflict has global implications, especially for the Jewish diaspora.
Israeli policy can fuel anti-Semitism, so even those without direct involvement are affected.
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In this book, Douglas Murray investigates the dangers of 'woke' culture and the rise of identity politics. He examines the most controversial issues of the current era, including sexuality, gender, technology, and race, and critiques the Marxist foundations of modern social justice movements. Murray argues that modern attitudes towards these issues have been distorted by a sense of victimhood and the negative impact of political correctness. The book is divided into sections dealing with different forms of identity politics and includes interludes on the impact of technology and the need to relearn the ability to forgive in an increasingly online culture. Murray's work has received both praise and criticism, with some reviewers appreciating his bravery and others criticizing his approach as provocative and divisive.
The War on the West
Douglas Murray
The strange death of Europe
Douglas Murray
In 'The Strange Death of Europe,' Douglas Murray argues that European civilization is under threat due to two primary factors: the mass migration of new peoples into Europe and the continent's low birth rates, combined with a loss of faith in its beliefs, traditions, and legitimacy. Murray contends that Europe's exhaustion from its historical burdens, its post-Christian and post-modern identity crisis, and its inability to defend its values are leading to a cultural and demographic transformation that may result in the end of Europe as it has historically existed. The book is characterized by its polarizing reception, with some praising its insightful reporting and others criticizing its perceived xenophobic and paranoid tone[1][3][5].
Sam Harris and Josh Szeps (episode co-host) speak with Douglas Murray about the ongoing war in Gaza. They discuss public opinion about the war, the prospect of a widening conflict with Hezbollah and Iran, whether the Iron Dome was a mistake, the sentiments of Israeli Arabs, the global problem of Islamism, the risk of a resurgent right-wing in Europe, the crisis at the southern border in the US, and other topics.
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Learning how to train your mind is the single greatest investment you can make in life. That’s why Sam Harris created the Waking Up app. From rational mindfulness practice to lessons on some of life’s most important topics, join Sam as he demystifies the practice of meditation and explores the theory behind it.
Making Sense with Sam Harris 
