RealClearPolitics Podcast The Debate Over Free Speech, Cancel Culture and the First Amendment
21 snips
Sep 15, 2025 Peter Berkowitz, a Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution and author of 'Explaining Israel,' joins the discussion on free speech and cancel culture. They delve into the political fallout from the assassination of Charlie Kirk and the troubling celebration of his death. Berkowitz also addresses the complexities of genocide accusations against Israel, emphasizing the need for balanced discourse. The conversation touches on TikTok's role in shaping public dialogue and the broader implications of social media in today's political landscape.
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Polarization Amplifies Dangerous Speech
- Public outrage and celebratory comments after Charlie Kirk's assassination reveal deep polarization and moral breakdown online.
- Hosts warn leadership must avoid weaponizing investigations while addressing real threats and illegal activity.
Recalling Past Assassination Reactions
- Tom recalled an earlier assassination of Brian Thompson and how shocked people were then, noting recurring celebratory responses online.
- He uses that memory to illustrate how political violence and online rejoicing have become recurring in 2025.
Prioritize Safety When Hiring Public-Facing Roles
- Employers and institutions should evaluate who they place near children, patients, and vulnerable people based on conduct, not just free-speech claims.
- Carl Cannon argues tenure and union protection are not constitutional shields for maintaining unfit employees.
