Honestly with Bari Weiss

The discussion dives into Joe Biden's troubling debate performance, raising concerns about his cognitive fitness for office. It draws parallels to 1968 when President Lyndon B. Johnson made the hard choice to withdraw from the race amid political turmoil and societal unrest. Key events of Johnson's era, like violent protests and tragic assassinations, spotlight the deep divisions within the Democratic Party. The podcast emphasizes the importance of public perception and the lessons today's leaders can learn from the past.

Alex Thompson, an Axios national political correspondent with extensive experience covering President Biden, delves into the fallout from Biden’s recent debate performance. They discuss the panic within the Democratic Party and the implications of Biden's age and mental fitness. Thompson shares insights on Biden’s determination to stay in the race despite growing doubts, potential replacements if he withdraws, and the changing dynamics among donors and party members. The conversation sheds light on the overall future of the nation in these turbulent political times.

The speaker navigates the controversy of being invited to TED, reflecting on the clash between its stated values and public backlash. They discuss the importance of ideological diversity and personal beliefs amid criticism. With a blend of political confessions, the speaker emphasizes character over immutable traits in social justice dialogues. The episode explores the complexities of courage in contemporary conversations, advocating for open dialogue and understanding the power of words in society. A call for fostering respect and honesty in discourse resonates throughout.

Mary Katharine Ham, a Fox News analyst and co-host of Getting Hammered, joins Ben Smith, co-founder of Semafor and former media columnist for The New York Times. They delve into the recent debate between Biden and Trump, highlighting the panic in the Democratic Party over Biden's performance. The discussion also critiques perceptions of Biden's cognitive abilities compared to Trump, and examines the dynamics of charisma versus demeanor in political debates, unpacking the challenges both parties face leading up to the election.

Ben Kawaller, a reporter known for his investigative work on the Matthew Shepard case, delves into the complexities and misconceptions surrounding this tragic event. He challenges the typical narratives of the murder, revealing the interplay of drug culture and personal struggles faced by the perpetrators. The discussion highlights the societal impact of Matthew's death on LGBTQ+ rights and the media's role in shaping public perception. Kawaller emphasizes the importance of uncovering the full truth to foster deeper understanding and acceptance.

Seth Frantzman, a senior analyst at The Jerusalem Post, and John Spencer, a military expert from West Point, delve into Israel's ongoing conflict with Hamas. They discuss the staggering statistics of hostages and casualties, questioning Israel's war goals and strategies. Frantzman warns of potential disaster if current tactics continue, while Spencer outlines the complexities of urban warfare and the challenges facing the Israeli Defense Forces. Together, they explore the intricate dynamics affecting both U.S.-Israel relations and regional stability in a world increasingly influenced by conflict.

Peter Grinspoon, a physician and cannabis specialist, and Kevin Sabet, a drug policy advisor, engage in a lively debate about the consequences of legalized cannabis. They discuss the significant increase in public support for marijuana, alongside health risks such as heart attacks and psychosis, particularly among young users. The conversation addresses the complexities of commercialization, regulation, and the historical context of cannabis use, raising questions about personal freedom versus public health and the future of cannabis legislation in the U.S.

In this engaging conversation, Steven Pinker, a prominent cognitive psychologist and author, unpacks why even intelligent people can fall for misinformation. He explores the psychology of belief systems, the evolution of human thought, and the impact of conspiracy theories. Pinker discusses the clash between Enlightenment ideals and modern authoritarianism, as well as the dual-edged nature of technology in society. He emphasizes the need for balanced media portrayals and the importance of maintaining a hopeful outlook amidst contemporary challenges.

Sheryl Sandberg, Former COO of Facebook and acclaimed documentary filmmaker, discusses her awakening to the complexities of anti-Semitism and the media's portrayal of recent conflicts. She explores the troubling silence among feminists regarding rising anti-Semitism and the urgent need for education reform. Sandberg also shares insights on the experiences of women in captivity and the moral paradoxes stemming from modern political allegiances. Her conversation reflects on the necessity of empathy and awareness in addressing these pressing social issues.

Ilya Ponomarev, a former member of Russia’s Federal Assembly and current political head of the Freedom of Russia Legion, shares his insights as a dissident advocating for the ousting of Putin by force. He discusses the staggering human cost of the Ukraine conflict and argues that mere financial aid won't suffice. Ponomarev reflects on his journey from Duma member to critic, the moral complexities of resistance, and the challenges facing democracy in Russia today. His call for radical change highlights the urgent need for a new political vision for the nation.