The New Bazaar Attention and the Possibility of Persuasion
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Nov 4, 2025 
Jerusalem Demsas, a journalist and founder/editor of The Argument, dives into the complexities of liberalism and its relevance today. She explores the art of persuasion and its impact on politics, especially around immigration issues. Jerusalem shares her journey of launching her magazine to challenge illiberal trends. The conversation also touches on the risks of short-form video addiction and the need for nuanced interactions in a digital age. She emphasizes how real experiences shape political narratives and urges a balanced approach to engaging diverse opinions.
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Liberalism Balances Freedom And Flourishing
- Liberalism seeks institutions that allow people with deep differences to live together with limited coercion.
- Jerusalem ties freedom to both noncoercion and enabling people to live good lives amid technology and cultural change.
Housing Debate Shows Slow Persuasion
- Jerusalem recalled the YIMBY housing debates where pro-building positions were once heavily attacked online.
- Over years many opponents shifted or rationalized agreement without admitting they changed their minds.
Leaving The Atlantic To Build The Argument
- Jerusalem left the Atlantic to move faster and to stamp her vision on others' work by founding The Argument.
- She likened starting the magazine to parenting: impulsive, rewarding, and full of unforeseen practicalities.