Holly Lawford-Smith

Philosopher Holly Lawford-Smith discusses the exploitation of women in pornography and the complexities surrounding the industry. They explore societal scripts, gender roles in heterosexual and homosexual porn, and the impact on individuals and society. They also discuss the importance of rethinking pleasure and equality in relationships, including examining the dynamics between men and women in heterosexual encounters and the different preferences among gay men.

Political philosopher and professor, Holly Lawford-Smith, discusses gender-critical feminism, the controversy surrounding the term 'TERF', and the debate on innate vs socialized differences between men and women. The podcast also explores the challenges of differing opinions, power dynamics, trans activism, and assumptions about male and female sexuality.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Holly Lawford-Smith, a philosopher and author from the University of Melbourne, explores her book 'Feminism Beyond Left and Right.' She challenges the traditional left-right divide in feminism, advocating for a broader understanding of women's rights. Key topics include the complexities of feminism's legacy, the tensions surrounding gender identity, and the impact of political tribalism. Lawford-Smith also delves into the role of religion in feminist discourse, particularly within Mormonism, pushing for inclusivity and nuanced conversations.

Delving into controversies surrounding pornography and free speech, the podcast explores a thought experiment involving an academic in adult videos. It discusses personal freedom, professional reputation, and the impact of sexual taboos, emphasizing the complexities of defending the right to pornography.

Holly Lawford-Smith is a Political Philosophy Professor at the University of Melbourne and author of 'Feminism Beyond Left and Right', while Bryan Caplan is an Economics Professor at George Mason University and writer of 'Don't Be a Feminist'. In a lively debate, they tackle whether we should encourage our daughters to embrace feminism. They explore varying definitions of feminism, the complexities of gender equality vs. liberation, and how these frameworks shape youth perspectives on societal narratives surrounding women's experiences.