Theories of Everything with Curt Jaimungal Steven Pinker on the radical left, Jordan Peterson, Chomsky, and Sam Harris
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Jul 3, 2020 
In this captivating discussion, Steven Pinker, a renowned psychologist and linguist known for his work on language and human nature, joins Peter Glinos, a collaborator in the upcoming documentary Better Left Unsaid. The conversation dives into the complexities of contemporary leftist ideologies, highlighting issues like identity politics and the hostility towards capitalism in academia. They explore the interplay of tribalism and Enlightenment ideals, and challenge traditional views of progress, advocating for a balanced approach that embraces reason and human rights.
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Defining the Left
- The political left is difficult to define rigidly due to its tribal nature and shifting alliances.
- It broadly encompasses those sympathetic to socialism and often aligns with the Democratic Party in American politics.
Critique of the Left
- Pinker criticizes the contemporary left for its focus on identity politics and relativistic epistemology.
- He also points out their hostility towards markets and law enforcement, contradicting historical evidence.
Rise of the Campus Left
- The rise of the campus left and increasing intolerance on campuses are partly due to social and residential segregation.
- Academic hiring practices replicating similar political outlooks also contribute.