Making Sense with Sam Harris

#301 — The Politics of Unreality: Ukraine and Nuclear Risk

53 snips
Oct 25, 2022
In a captivating discussion, Timothy Snyder, a Yale historian and expert on Ukraine, shares his insights on the ongoing war in Ukraine. He reveals the complexities of Russian propaganda and examines Putin's motives, questioning the role of the US and NATO in the conflict. The conversation delves into nuclear risk and the moral dilemmas of global politics, alongside the historical context that shapes current events. Through his expertise, Snyder uncovers the intricate layers of this geopolitical crisis and its implications.
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ANECDOTE

Meg Smaker's Documentary

  • Sam Harris recounts the story of Meg Smaker's documentary, "Jihad Rehab," initially rejected by film festivals after online backlash.
  • After Harris highlighted this on his podcast, a GoFundMe campaign for the film raised over $600,000, demonstrating the impact of listener support.
ANECDOTE

Kanye West Controversy and Backlash

  • Sam Harris discusses the controversy surrounding Kanye West's antisemitic remarks and the unexpected reactions he received after criticizing West.
  • He highlights the diverse range of negative responses, including accusations of bigotry and whataboutism related to his past criticisms of Islam.
INSIGHT

Ukraine's Agency

  • Timothy Snyder emphasizes that Ukraine's agency in the conflict is often overlooked.
  • He notes that the US initially expected a swift Russian victory, highlighting Ukraine's crucial role in shaping the conflict's trajectory.
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