UnHerd with Freddie Sayers

Lawrence Krauss: The new war on science

Jul 29, 2025
Freddie Sayers chats with Lawrence Krauss, a world-renowned physicist and author known for his work in cosmology and string theory. They dive into how cultural conflicts are undermining scientific integrity, particularly through woke ideologies and DEI policies in academia. Krauss discusses high-profile cases of antisemitism in universities and concerns about the backlash from conservatives against scientific institutions. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need for open discourse and the implications of escalating ideological battles on the future of science.
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INSIGHT

Ongoing War on Science

  • The war on science is an ongoing culture war attacking free speech and open inquiry in academic institutions.
  • Ideology is threatening scientific integrity and progress by censoring debate and imposing dogma.
INSIGHT

Quota Hiring Undermines Meritocracy

  • Canadian universities enforce quota hiring policies excluding white and Asian males to meet diversity targets.
  • This undermines meritocracy and hurts both institutions and those hired under such policies.
INSIGHT

DEI Ideology Over Science

  • DEI bureaucracies require researchers to promote ideological goals rather than focus on science.
  • This shifts academic hiring to favor ideology over merit, endangering the purpose of academia.
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