Maiden Mother Matriarch with Louise Perry

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.

Phyllis Chesler, a renowned writer and psychotherapist known for her groundbreaking book 'Women and Madness,' shares her insightful experiences from the feminist movement. She reflects on the struggles and triumphs of second-wave feminism, revealing the stark contrast between past optimism and current challenges. Chesler discusses the impact of trauma on feminist thought, the complexities of female rivalries, and the controversial topics of surrogacy and children's rights. Her critical perspective sheds light on the ever-evolving narrative of women's empowerment.

Explore how the fear of death fuels a desire for children amidst climate change anxiety. Delve into the implications of declining birth rates on political ideologies, revealing contrasting views from secular leftists and conservatives. Uncover the generational conflicts emerging from resource scarcity and the impact of societal challenges, highlighting the conversations that could define our future. Vigilante groups and post-colonial grief add intriguing layers to the discourse on modern motherhood and societal evolution.

Ross Douthat, a columnist for The New York Times and author of 'Believe: Why Everyone Should be Religious,' dives into intriguing topics like near-death experiences and the mystical interpretations that shape personal beliefs. He explores the authenticity of the Turin Shroud and its implications for faith. The conversation also touches on how spirituality intersects with skepticism and the evolving perceptions of religion in modern culture. Douthat's thoughts challenge listeners to consider the deeper meanings behind their beliefs.

In a thought-provoking discussion, the podcast delves into the shifting symbolism of terrorism after 9/11. It examines how nihilistic motivations among terrorists in Europe have evolved. Listeners will discover the significance of cultural references, like the use of Oasis's 'Don’t Look Back in Anger' after the Manchester bombing. The conversation also sheds light on the growing public skepticism towards government narratives surrounding terrorism, highlighting a shift in societal perceptions.

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.

Explore the shifting perspectives on marriage and women's independence as more choose to stay single due to financial freedom. Delve into survey findings that reveal changing dating dynamics. Discuss the declining marriage rates among blue-collar women who seek partners they deem successful. The conversation also highlights the evolving societal expectations around marriage and the importance of self-improvement in building healthy relationships.

Bijan Omrani is a historian and classicist from the University of Exeter, renowned for his book 'God is an Englishman: How Christianity Created England.' He dives into the transformative impact of Christianity on England's identity and culture. Bijan discusses the fascinating transition from paganism to Christianity and how this shaped early Britain. He also explores why Christianity thrived globally, its appeal among diverse communities, and the significant role of English Bible translations in forging a unique national identity.

In this engaging discussion, Rob Henderson, a writer and researcher focused on status and cultural trends, delves into the rising costs of weddings and their link to declining marriage rates. He explores the concept of costly signaling theory, where extravagant weddings symbolize commitment amidst high divorce rates. The conversation also touches on whether hunter-gatherers might be happier than modern Westerners and suggests a surprising practice for Lent: giving up mirrors. Tune in for thought-provoking insights on marriage and societal norms!

Vaishnavi Sundar, a filmmaker and founder of Limesoda Films, discusses her documentary 'Behind The Looking Glass', highlighting the unheard stories of women with trans partners. She addresses the term 'trans widows' and the emotional turbulence they face, including loss and societal pressures. The conversation delves into troubling relationship dynamics influenced by autogynephilia, coercive sexual behaviors, and the adverse effects of pornography. Vaishnavi emphasizes the need for broader societal understanding and support for these women's narratives.