Intelligence Squared Jon Ronson on Conspiracies, Culture Wars and How Things Fell Apart, Part Two
Jun 29, 2024
Jon Ronson, a journalist and filmmaker known for dissecting conspiracies and culture wars, joins Jenny Kleeman, a documentary filmmaker and author of The Price of Life. They discuss the urgent need for empathy in journalism, especially against the backdrop of today's polarized society. Their conversation touches on the consequences of confrontational interviewing styles, the importance of personal narratives in healing divides, and the casual cruelty fostered by social media. The dialogue reveals surprising connections and the challenge of navigating truths in the digital age.
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Ronson's Theroux Rivalry
- Jon Ronson felt negative towards Louis Theroux in the 90s.
- He jokingly compared himself to Theroux when questioned by a British Embassy official.
Approach Interviews with Curiosity
- Avoid judgment and rage when interviewing.
- Focus on curiosity and a desire to learn instead.
Internet's Role in Culture Wars
- Culture wars existed before the internet, starting arguably in the 1920s.
- The internet accelerates culture wars by creating echo chambers and amplifying extreme views.
