In this discussion, Eric Kaufmann, a Politics Professor at the University of Buckingham, dives into the crisis of liberalism and its drift from classical principles. He addresses the rise of identitarianism and the need for a non-zero-sum approach to interethnic relations. The conversation also explores asymmetrical multiculturalism, examining how majority and minority identities are treated in society. Kaufmann further touches on the pressing issue of the global fertility decline and its implications for future demographics.
The podcast explores the rise of identitarian ideology and its complex relationship with classical liberalism, emphasizing the need for historical context.
The discussion highlights the dangers of cancel culture, where accusations of racism suppress dissenting opinions and threaten intellectual diversity.
Demographic shifts within Western populations are examined, raising concerns about cultural identity, social cohesion, and the political implications of increasing diversity.
Deep dives
The Emergence of Identitarian Ideology
The podcast discusses the rise of identitarian ideology, exploring how it shapes contemporary political discourse. The conversation emphasizes the historical roots of this movement, linking it to both humanitarianism and left-wing thought, which prioritize emotional sensitivities and protectiveness over marginalized groups. The authors highlight a divergence of opinions regarding whether this ideology is a departure from classical liberalism or an extension of it, suggesting that this philosophical debate is crucial to understanding current societal dynamics. The assertion is made that without a historical context, these new ideologies may misrepresent the liberal tradition they claim to emerge from.
Dynamics of Cancel Culture
The discussion delves into the phenomenon of cancel culture, illustrating how accusations of racism can lead to unwarranted repercussions against individuals, particularly those presenting dissenting views. Early instances of cancel culture are examined, with notable examples such as the treatment of Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan and sociologist James Coleman, who faced backlash for their findings and stances on social issues. The speakers argue that the lack of clear boundaries around accusations of racism has led to a troubling environment where speech is policed and intellectual divergence is suppressed. Ultimately, this aspect of culture is viewed as a manifestation of the broader political correctness that has permeated many institutions.
Identity and Political Correctness
A salient point in the dialogue is the distinction between radical expressions of identity politics and more moderate interpretations of anti-racism that focus on equitable treatment without imposing ideological conformity. The speakers emphasize the need to reclaim the term 'anti-racism' from the radical left while retaining its core values against racial discrimination, arguing that abandoning the term would undermine legitimate efforts to combat racism. They stress the importance of maintaining the distinction between legitimate critiques of systemic issues and the social silencing generated by radical ideologies. The conversation also reflects on the historical context of speech-related taboos, discussing their implications for public discourse in the contemporary landscape.
The Role of Demography and Cultural Shifts
The conversation transitions into a discussion on demography, examining trends such as the increasing diversity within Western populations that raises questions about cultural identity and national continuity. The participants explore demographic implications, suggesting that growing religious and ethnically distinct groups might lead to significant shifts in societal structures and power dynamics in the coming decades. They articulate concerns about social cohesion as traditional ethnic majorities may feel threatened by rapid changes in population demographics. Additionally, they posit the potential for political backlash against these demographic shifts, advocating for a measured approach to immigration that respects cultural integration while recognizing existing societal frameworks.
Navigating Rights and Institutional Power
The dialogue culminates in a consideration of how rights and institutional powers should be balanced to protect individual freedoms while addressing broader ideological shifts. The speakers argue for political neutrality in educational institutions, asserting that state and public bodies should maintain separation from enforcing any particular ideological perspective. They advocate for reforms within institutions that promote individual liberties while holding these entities accountable to ensure their operational integrity. Ultimately, the idea of aiming for neutrality in institutional practices is portrayed as fundamental to preserving a liberal society that values free speech and diverse viewpoints.
Yascha Mounk and Eric Kaufmann also discuss "asymmetrical multiculturalism" and the global fertility crisis.
Eric Kaufmann is a professor of Politics at the University of Buckingham, where he directs the Centre for Heterodox Social Science. Kaufmann is the author of The Third Awokening (entitled Taboo in the UK), Whiteshift: Populism, Immigration and the Future of White Majorities, and Shall the Religious Inherit the Earth?
In this week’s conversation, Yascha Mounk and Eric Kaufmann discuss why much of mainstream liberalism has become unmoored from its classical principles; how we can push back against identitarianism and move towards a non-zero-sum framework for interethnic relations; and whether (and how) humanity might reverse the global decline in fertility.