Frank Furedi

Why are there so many Chinese maths and music prodigies? Because Chinese mothers believe schoolwork and music practice come first, that an A-minus is a bad grade, that sleepovers, TV and computer games should never be allowed and that the only activity their children should be permitted to do are ones in which they can eventually win a medal - and that medal must be gold. These methods certainly seem to get results but do they make for the rounded individuals Western parents are striving to bring up? Isn't it better that our children should be happy rather than burnt-out brain boxes? Who's right and who's wrong? In this debate from June 2011, Amy Chua, author of the best-selling Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother, and Theodore Dalrymple, the writer and psychologist, speak for the motion. Justine Roberts, co-founder of Mumsnet, and Frank Furedi, emeritus professor of sociology at the University of Kent and parenting expert, speak against the motion. The debate was chaired by columnist and broadcaster Jenni RussellSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/intelligencesquared.See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join Joanna Kavenna as she hosts a thought-provoking discussion with Frank Furedi, an expert in risk and sociology, John Vervaeke, a renowned psychology professor, and Isabel Millar, a specialist in philosophy and psychoanalysis. They explore the paradoxes of self-knowledge, debating whether self-reflection is inherently beneficial or potentially harmful. The conversation delves into the impacts of modern individualism, the relationship between language and identity, and the balance of free will in a tech-dominated society, challenging viewers to rethink their understanding of the self.

Frank Furedi, spiked contributor, joins Brendan O'Neill to discuss Hamas's pogrom in Israel, the rise of anti-Semitism in Europe, and the warped concept of decolonization. They also explore the dehumanization of Israel, the connection between the left and Islamist groups, and the current challenges faced by Israel.

Frank Furedi, an Emeritus professor at the University of Kent and director of MCC Brussels, dives deep into the relationship between contemporary culture and historical awareness. He challenges the notion of presentism and critiques how identity politics distort historical narratives. The discussion highlights the dangers of a culture overly focused on safety, examining the decline of educational rigor and practical wisdom. Furedi emphasizes the importance of understanding history for personal identity, warning against the risks of neglecting our past.

Frank Furedi, an insightful author and public intellectual, discusses his latest work, The War Against the Past. He delves into the politicization of identity and the concept of 'decivilization,' challenging long-held societal values. The conversation includes his ideological shift from the far left to conservatism, the nuances of rationality in identity politics, and the radicalization of youth influenced by cultural dynamics. Furedi emphasizes the importance of dialogue and humor as tools for understanding amid today's chaotic societal discourse.

Frank Furedi, a sociologist and author known for his insights on populism and geopolitics, dives into the chaos of global instability. He discusses the unraveling of the US-led world order and critiques the 'Don-roe' doctrine's influence in Latin America. Furedi also highlights the sovereignty issues raised by US interventions, the implications of Iran's protests, and the shifting dynamics in the Middle East. He calls for a return to national interests, arguing that clarity in geopolitical strategy is essential for stability.

Frank Furedi, an expert on sociology and risk, and Ashley Frawley, a scholar focused on health and technology, dive into the EU's faltering Green Deal. They dissect the backlash from farmers and small businesses, revealing that the ambitious climate goals lack practicality for everyday citizens. The discussion also touches on the EU's inconsistent stance on Israel and authoritarian regimes, exposing a hypocrisy in moral posturing. Lastly, they critique NATO's bureaucratic approach to defense, highlighting the urgent need for a serious reassessment of military commitments.

Frank Furedi, an insightful author and cultural critic, returns to discuss his upcoming book, shedding light on the dangerous trend of rewriting history. He delves into the implications of statue-toppling and the 'decolonizing' movement, warning against Year Zero thinking that erases the past. Furedi critiques how young activists both denounce history and seek validation from it, highlighting the pitfalls of presentism. The conversation culminates in the dire consequences of losing touch with historical narratives, warning that such disconnects can undermine identity and cultural heritage.

Prof. Frank Furedi, an academic from MCC Brussels and author, passionately discusses the cultural crusade against history. He argues that society faces a profound crisis of identity when it loses touch with its past. The chat delves into the trends of decolonizing curricula and rewriting historical narratives, raising concerns about present-day values overshadowing historical context. Furedi emphasizes the necessity of diverse media for robust historical discourse and advocates for a brave intellectual approach to navigating current cultural conflicts.

In this engaging discussion, Frank Furedi, an emeritus professor of sociology, delves into the West's declining confidence and the historical roots of the Ukraine conflict. He shares his journey from radical left to classical liberalism and the implications of ideological shifts. The conversation highlights the complex dynamics between the West and Russia, touching on identity politics and moral disarmament. Furedi also emphasizes the importance of geopolitical literacy, the evolving cultural identity in Ukraine amid war, and explores societal changes impacting innovation.