Conversations with Peter Boghossian

Frances Widdowson, a former Mount Royal University professor and activist, recalls her harrowing experience of being attacked by Indigenous protesters during a Spectrum Street Epistemology session at the University of Winnipeg. She discusses the aim of probing beliefs and the violent opposition she faced, including intimidation tactics against her cameraman. Widdowson also explores deeper topics like land ownership claims, institutional complicity, and the implications of narratives on Indigenous healing, while advocating for open inquiry on campuses.

In this engaging conversation, Ridvan Aydemir, known as Apostate Prophet, shares his experiences as an ex-Muslim critiquing Islam. He discusses the serious issues surrounding Islamic teachings, especially regarding Jews, Christians, and violence. Ridvan reveals troubling doctrines on apostasy and homosexuality, arguing that many Muslims are influenced by harsh traditional beliefs. He offers insights into the normalization of crime in parts of Europe and explores solutions, all while defending the necessity of critiquing these ideologies for societal improvement.

Rarely have I met anyone whose beliefs and broad view of the world comport so well with my own. So, it was a genuine pleasure to sit down with Lionel Shriver in person (our last interview was online, and I don't like those nearly as much) and solve some of the world's problems. Watch this episode on YouTube and read the accompanying Substack post. Follow Peter Boghossian

Farzad Mesbahi, a technology commentator and Tesla expert, navigates the future of automation in this enlightening discussion. He dives into how robo-taxis will transform urban design and transport economics, positing that Tesla's advantage in data and manufacturing will disrupt ride-hailing giants like Uber. Farzad also forecasts rapid advancements in robotics for repetitive tasks, raising concerns about mass unemployment and the need for policymakers to adapt. With a focus on energy challenges and societal implications, this conversation offers a hopeful yet cautionary look at tomorrow.

Dr. Péter Krekó is an economist, political scientist, European public intellectual, professor, the executive director of the Budapest-based independent think tank Political Capital, and a fierce critic of Viktor Orbán and his administration. Watch this episode on YouTube and read the accompanying Substack post. Follow Peter Boghossian

In a lively conversation in Central Park, historian Raymond Ibrahim delves into the complexities of Islamic history and its implications for Western society. He critiques the left-right political spectrum and its impact on truth, and discusses the controversial legacy of flags amid current migration issues. Ibrahim warns that Europe serves as a cautionary tale for the U.S., linking social unrest to migration policies. He also argues for the enforcement of assimilation and highlights the challenges of engaging in meaningful debate about uncomfortable historical realities.

In this engaging discussion, Brett Hall, an Australian science educator and advisor to intellectuals like David Deutsch, dives into the contentious role of belief in epistemology. They explore whether belief is necessary for moral foundations, the implications of atheism developing its own dogmas, and if moral facts truly exist. Brett argues people have an inherent need to believe, connecting it to social dynamics. Ultimately, they debate the practicality of 'belief' in understanding knowledge versus truth, challenging conventional thinking in a lively exchange.

In this engaging discussion, Matt Smith, co-author of The Preparation, and Max Smith, a practitioner of its curriculum, share insights on preparing young men for real life beyond college. They emphasize the importance of practical skills, building a personal code of conduct, and developing virtues to combat shame. Max recounts firsthand experiences from EMT training and sailing, highlighting the program's effectiveness. The pair also discuss funding strategies for alternative education and the challenges of pursuing an unconventional path.

Benedict Beckeld, a philosopher and public intellectual renowned for his insights on cultural decline and political philosophy, joins the conversation to dissect Western Europe's challenges. They explore oikophobia and its ties to societal decline, debate the implications of large-scale Muslim immigration, and discuss the potential for extremist speech to justify deportation. Beckeld reflects on the unique fusion of religion and polity within Islam, offering a critical analysis of how Europe's identity may be shifting amid these tensions.

Rod Dreher, a conservative writer known for his thoughts on religion and culture, joins the conversation to dissect whether one can be good without belief in God. They explore the essence of goodness, linking it to compassion and discipline. The discussion delves into the moral fragmentation of modern society and the profound meaning crisis facing youth today. Rod shares his experience with faith and the importance of community, proposing small, virtue-centered groups as a remedy for societal divisions.