Actor Chris Hemsworth discusses wearing a prosthetic nose in a film. Topics include karmic retribution for Trump, a Muslim exotic dancer named Lulu, the state of the alt-right, and why Islam needs a Pope. The host also addresses bigotry and crackpots on the right.
Critique of Chris Hemsworth's prosthetic nose in Mad Max movie.
Reflection on the moral implications of charges against Donald Trump.
Criticism of partisan prioritization over national welfare in American politics.
Observation on the rise and fall of the alt-right movement.
Deep dives
Discussion on the movie Furioso and Critique of Chris Hemsworth's Prosthetic Nose
The podcast delves into the host's experience watching the movie Furioso with his daughter and provides a review of the film. While enjoying the movie for the most part, the host critiques the choice of Chris Hemsworth and his prosthetic nose in the movie, suggesting that it was distracting and could have been replaced with scars to fit the movie's context better.
Analysis of Donald Trump's Guilt on Various Charges
The episode explores the host's perspective on Donald Trump's guilt on multiple charges, including false business records and affairs. The host acknowledges Trump's guilt based on factual evidence but questions whether these actions constitute legal felonies. The discussion touches on the complexities of the legal case and highlights the moral hazards and implications of the charges against Trump.
Critique of Political Partisanship and Lack of Strong Leadership in America
In this segment, the podcast reflects on the collective action problem in American politics and the absence of strong institutional and leadership integrity. The host criticizes both Republican and Democratic parties for prioritizing partisan interests over the broader national welfare. The discussion highlights a lack of moral and civilizational confidence in political discourse and emphasizes the need for leaders committed to the greater good of the country.
The Rise and Decline of the Alt-Right Movement
The episode also touches on the rise and decline of the alt-right movement. It discusses the origins and characteristics of the alt-right, focusing on its nationalist, anti-Semitic, and racist ideologies. The host reflects on the fading influence of the alt-right due to factors like social media regulations, internal conflicts, and shifting interests of key figures like Richard Spencer and Milo Yiannopoulos. The comparison with the concept of an 'alt-left' is examined, highlighting the alt-right's transition from a provocative movement to a marginalized entity.
The Evolving Landscape of Right-Wing Movements
New movements and institutions have allowed for a more sophisticated and serious expression of alt-right ideas without explicitly identifying as such. The shift towards post-liberal ideologies and the need to construct an alternative right that rejects traditional conservative norms have reshaped the discourse within right-wing circles.
Challenges in Policing Extremism Across Political Spectrum
Conservative and progressive institutions face different challenges in handling extremism within their ranks. While conservative organizations have struggled with accommodating anti-Semitic sentiments and extremist views to maintain a broad appeal, left-leaning institutions have faced criticism for being more tolerant of questionable ideologies and figures, leading to a need for greater accountability and internal policing.
Success and Expansion Impacting Conservative Movements
The growth and scale of conservative movements, influenced by mainstream successes and the decline of external pressure, have led to changes in how these movements manage and police undesirable elements. The shift towards accommodating certain extremist views and the lack of gatekeeping mechanisms may pose significant challenges to the integrity and ideological coherence of the conservative movement.
On this week’s Ruminant, Jonah drinks coffee and remembers things. Topics include his thoughts on the newest installment of the Mad Max franchise, Donald Trump’s karmic retribution, and a Muslim exotic dancer named Lulu. He also touches on the state (or lack thereof) of the alt-right, and responds to the critiques of Wednesday’s G-File.
