SAPIR Conversations Our Political Moment with Bret Stephens and Mijal Bitton
18 snips
Sep 12, 2025 
Bret Stephens, Editor-in-Chief of SAPIR and Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist, and Mijal Bitton, Maimonides Fund scholar, engage in a heartfelt discussion following the tragic murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. They delve into the urgent need for open dialogue within the Jewish community and the dangers posed by increasing political violence. The conversation emphasizes transforming campus discourse to promote diverse viewpoints and the importance of humility and curiosity in understanding opposing perspectives, all while reflecting on communal responsibility and civil engagement.
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Politics As Moral Identity Fuels Violence
- Brett Stephens says political identity has become a moral identity, fueling polarization and violence.
- He links this conflation to a climate where assassination and political violence become more likely.
Sorting And Algorithms Deepen Tribalism
- Brett Stephens argues social and geographic sorting creates ideological tribalization and dehumanization.
- He warns that siloed media algorithms amplify outrage and normalize violence between tribes.
Media Leadership Must Enforce Viewpoint Diversity
- Brett Stephens urges media leaders to enforce viewpoint diversity and moral hygiene within outlets.
- He calls for courageous editorial leadership to publish and humanize differing views to reduce caricature.
