Adam Szetela

Adam Szetela, a writer and cultural critic known for his book That Book Is Dangerous!, explores the complexities of sensitivity readers in publishing. He argues that their influence may perpetuate a subtle racism by simplifying characters into mere symbols. The discussion highlights how moral panics and social media shape literary standards, impacting free speech and representation. Szetela addresses the tensions between cultural authenticity and the fear of stereotypes, ultimately advocating for more authentic, nuanced storytelling.

Dr. Adam Szetela, who holds a PhD in English from Cornell University, discusses the impacts of wokeism and cancel culture on the publishing industry. He shares insights about censorship in academia, revealing the tensions between creative freedom and social justice. Szetela also critiques the influence of social media on literary perception, along with the pressures that impact both readers and writers. Lastly, he offers advice for aspiring authors on cultivating writing discipline while reflecting on his own ambivalence towards an academic career.