Freedom is a Burden | Bernard-Henri Lévy on what Ails The West, and the Courage We Need To Save Liberty
Jun 5, 2024
auto_awesome
French philosopher Bernard-Henri Lévy discusses Israel's isolation post-Hamas attack, the lack of global support, and the romanticization of Hamas by Western campuses. He explores the impact of historical slogans on conflicts, the decline of liberal democracy, and missed opportunities for alliances in the global arena.
Global support for Israel after attacks shifted to betrayal, questioning its fate in solitude.
Bernard Henri Lévy emphasizes Israel's enduring core values amidst unfair treatment and calls for historical reflection.
Deep dives
The World's Reaction to Israel's Situation
The world's response to Israel's struggles with Hamas has shifted from initial solidarity to a sense of betrayal. Despite Israel's fight against terrorism, few countries back its efforts at the UN, undermining its ability to bring hostages home. This lack of support, including recognitions of a made-up Palestinian state, leaves Israelis feeling isolated and questions if this solitude is its inevitable fate.
Bernard Henri Lévy's Reflections on Israel's Solitude
Bernard Henri Lévy, a prominent figure, reflects on Israel's challenges post-October 7th attacks in his book 'The Solitude of Israel'. He highlights the world's unfair treatment of Israel, emphasizing its enduring core values amidst criticism. Lévy's call to view Israel's plight through a historical and ideological lens aims to prompt discussions on democracy, freedom, and the Jewish narrative.
Impact of October 7th on Perceptions
The October 7th attacks reshaped perceptions, revealing Israel's vulnerability and garnering mixed reactions globally. The invasion by Hamas underscored Israel's fragile position, leading to reevaluation of alliances, including America's support. The event highlighted global biases against Israel, prompting a reassessment of international dynamics and Israel's standing in the world.
Alliances for Israel's Future
Hamas' attack on Israel and the ensuing global reactions demonstrate the need for alliances to combat isolation. Israel's solidarity with Ukraine reveals shared values and mutual respect in facing common threats. Connecting with suffering nations and minorities globally presents a path to counter anti-Israel sentiments and foster hope for a more unified stance against tyranny and injustice.
Bernard Henri Levy, or BHL, is a French philosopher, journalist, filmmaker, and public intellectual. He’s a leading member of the Nouveaux Philosophes movement, but not up in an ivory tower, traveling to warzones to bear witness and write history. His latest book, Solitude of Israel, is set for release in English later this year, reflecting on thoughts that have troubled him since October 7.
When Hamas shocked the world with the October 7 Massacre, Israel felt embraced as never before. World leaders flew in to bear witness and express solidarity. Parliament buildings lit up in the colors of the Israeli flag. Israelis thought - that’s it, this time the world gets it and will back us as we fight for humanity against Hamas, as we fight to bring the hostages home. That optimism has given way to a sense of betrayal. The knowledge that the world wants to end this war with Hamas on its feet - and undermining Israel’s leverage to get the hostages back. SOLITUDE is Israel’s condition, but must it be its fate?
Stay up to date at: X: https://twitter.com/stateofapod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stateofapod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/state-of-a-nation
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode