
Conversations with Peter Boghossian
We stand transparent about our motivations: we are champions of liberal values and Enlightenment Rationalism. Reason & liberty are paramount-whether threatened by tyranny in places like China or elsewhere-because they are essential to human dignity and prosperity. The Enlightenment, with it's emphasis on error-correction, is the philosophical project that has cultivated the wealth & freedom of the modern world. The West has been a custodian of this tradition of criticism, producing societies full rapid, stable, and genuine progress. The clearer people become on this connection, the more they'll recognize that these principles are what enable our civilization to be freer, safer, and more prosperous. This is the set of ideas we are committed to spreading.~ Reid Nicewonder
Latest episodes

May 28, 2025 • 59min
GUARDRAILS for Campus Speech? w/ Dr. Patrick Gray
Dr. Patrick Gray, Dean of the Center for Arts and Letters at UATX, passionately discusses the complexities of free speech on college campuses. He believes that while students should engage with diverse ideas, there must be guardrails to ensure respectful dialogue. Gray critiques the push for unrestricted expression, advocating instead for a civil framework that promotes intellectual growth. The conversation delves into the pitfalls of branding in politics, the importance of inviting diverse speakers, and the need for universities to be mission-driven in fostering meaningful discourse.

May 28, 2025 • 1h 8min
Beyond the Melting Pot: Rethinking Diversity, Tolerance, and Identity w/ Harry Saul Markham
Harry Saul Markham, a Junior Research Fellow at the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy and a UCL graduate, dives into the complex landscape of diversity and social issues. He discusses the challenges of multiculturalism and its impact on societal cohesion, systemic discrimination in elite universities, and the crisis of Western guilt regarding past mistakes. Markham emphasizes the need for open dialogue about immigration and identity, advocating for a balanced approach to inclusivity while preserving democratic values in a polarized Europe.

10 snips
May 28, 2025 • 1h 13min
Is Trump Tearing the U.S. Apart? w/ David Pakman
David Pakman, a US commentator and author, is known for his progressive views and his popular YouTube channel. In this engaging conversation, he discusses the polarized climate of American politics and the declining approval of Trump. He offers insights on anti-Semitism across the political spectrum and its societal roots. Pakman also tackles the implications of a post-truth era, the challenges of national debt amidst the AI revolution, and shares thoughts on investing in Tesla amidst its evolving market.

20 snips
May 20, 2025 • 1h 7min
Is Europe DYING? A Deep Dive into the Continent's Future with Dutch sociologist Dr. Eric Hendriks
In a thought-provoking discussion, Dr. Eric Hendriks, a Dutch sociologist, explores Europe's identity crisis amidst geopolitical tensions. He highlights the importance of military rearmament and the delicate balance of immigration policies that respect humanity while maintaining national integrity. Dr. Hendriks also delves into the ideological clash between the U.S. and China, contrasting their political philosophies and leadership dynamics. Throughout, he advocates for a compassionate understanding of immigration's complexities and the evolution of Western civilization.

12 snips
May 15, 2025 • 26min
Is Political Correctness Hiding Islam's True Face? w/ Raymond Ibrahim
Raymond Ibrahim, a US scholar and author known for his works on Islamic history and Western civilization, discusses the often ignored challenges of Muslim immigration in Europe. He dismantles the myth of peaceful Muslim-Christian relations by tracing historical conflicts and doctrinal divisions. Ibrahim highlights how political correctness stifles honest discourse about these issues. He critically examines Islamic laws affecting non-Muslims and questions the failures of Western leadership in addressing these complex societal changes.

12 snips
May 9, 2025 • 31min
Why Dawkins Is WRONG: The Universe Is NOT Queerer Than We Can Suppose w/ Brett Hall
In this engaging discussion, Australian science educator Brett Hall challenges Richard Dawkins' claim that the universe is queerer than we can suppose. He argues that our understanding of the universe is not limited by evolutionary constraints and emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives in science. The conversation delves into the implications of quantum mechanics and the complexities of human perception. Hall also highlights the progress made in fields like black holes and encourages a more optimistic view of our evolving scientific journey.

9 snips
May 9, 2025 • 1h 12min
Are We Doomed To Repeat History with the Trans Movement? W/ Brett Hall & Mia Hughes
Brett Hall, a speaker on the history of bad ideas, joins Mia Hughes, who focuses on transgender ideology and its effects on children. They tackle the unsettling parallels between historical events like the Salem Witch Trials and today's trans issues. The duo discusses the complexities of gender identity, societal pressures around pronouns, and the concerning normalization of medical interventions for minors. They also highlight the narratives of detransitioners and the importance of open dialogue regarding youth welfare in the trans movement.

May 9, 2025 • 1h 28min
Katharine Birbalsingh & Ian Row DISMANTLE Low Expectations in Education
Katharine Birbalsingh, headmistress of Michaela Community School, and Ian Rowe, founder of Vertex Partnerships Academy, challenge the status quo in education. They advocate for timeless virtues like resilience and wisdom over contemporary narratives of victimhood. The conversation highlights the importance of personal responsibility and civic duty in shaping character. They emphasize creating a culture of courage that empowers students, critiques smartphone policies, and explores the necessity of moral values in education to foster a sense of belonging and ambition.

11 snips
May 5, 2025 • 1h 2min
Can Beauty Be Measured? w/ Robert McKenzie
Robert McKenzie, an expert from the Cayre Art Group focusing on contemporary and post-war art, dives into the fascinating world of art valuation. He argues that art’s worth can be objectively assessed and explores the tensions between originality and influence through Pollock’s work. The conversation highlights the emotional impact of art, reflecting on how personal and societal contexts affect its appreciation. McKenzie also discusses the changing definitions of beauty in the age of postmodernism and the intriguing intersection of AI and creativity.

Apr 29, 2025 • 1h 18min
Why Critical Social Justice Ruins Psychedelic Experiences w/Tom Hatsis
Psychedelic historian Tom Hatsis was an atheist until he tried psychedelics. Then he went from atheist to theist. Psychedelic encounters reshaped his understanding of the divine. In our conversation, Hatsis and I dove into the enigmatic world of psychedelics, exploring their history, safety, and transformative potential. Hatsis, a meticulous researcher, unpacked the distinctions between DMT, Ayahuasca, psilocybin mushrooms, and 5-MeO-DMT, each offering unique pathways to altered states of consciousness. Tom's new book, "Psychedelic Injustice" Watch this episode on YouTube.