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Political Philosophy Podcast

THE ETHICS OF ASYLUM with Rebecca Buxton

Mar 22, 2025
Rebecca Buxton, a Lecturer in social and political philosophy at the University of Bristol, dives deep into the ethics of asylum and refugee policies in the UK. She critiques the disconnection between political philosophy and public sentiment, highlighting the dignity of refugees. The conversation also tackles the pervasive misinformation in politics and its impact on public perception. Buxton questions the expectation of gratitude from asylum seekers and addresses the challenges LGBTQ refugees face, advocating for a more compassionate and nuanced view of immigration.
01:05:01

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The need for ethical dialogue in immigration discussions is emphasized, as it contrasts sharply with punitive policies targeting undocumented immigrants.
  • The asylum adjudication process often prioritizes rigorous questioning over humane treatment, undermining the dignity of individuals seeking protection.

Deep dives

Concerns Over Democratic Resilience

There is a growing concern about the vulnerability of liberal democratic institutions in developed countries, particularly in the context of recent trends in American politics. The speaker highlights the precarious state of democracy, suggesting that countries like the UK could be gradually drifting towards a similar fate if not addressed. With political disillusionment on the rise, the possibility of facing uninspiring leadership options contrasts starkly with the real threat posed by more radical ideologies. The urgency to recognize and prepare for such scenarios is emphasized, particularly as existing xenophobic sentiments continue to damage social cohesion.

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