Honestly with Bari Weiss

Geoffrey Cain, an expert on national security, argues that banning TikTok is crucial to counter authoritarian influence due to its data collection practices. Walter Kirn, a novelist and critic, warns that such a ban threatens user free speech and represents government overreach. They debate the balance between national security and civil liberties, explore the implications of TikTok's foreign ownership, and question whether the fears surrounding the app are genuine or merely a modern moral panic.

The podcast explores the troubling rise of antisemitism at universities, with disturbing incidents showcasing hostility towards Jewish students. It critiques the lack of institutional response to such aggression and highlights the urgency for American Jews to reconnect with their history. Parallels are drawn between biblical narratives and modern challenges, alongside discussions on the psychological motivations behind societal idolatry. The speakers advocate for resilience, meaningful dialogue, and the significance of truth amidst rising intolerance.

Nicole Avant, former U.S. ambassador to the Bahamas and author, delves into the profound impact of her mother’s tragic murder. She shares her unexpected choice to forgive the perpetrator, emphasizing the power of resilience in the face of adversity. Nicole also reflects on her family's struggles and triumphs, linking her father's journey from poverty to personal achievement. The conversation touches on navigating grief, community accountability, and the need for moral responsibility, all while honoring the legacy of loved ones.

Michael Oren, former Israeli ambassador to the U.S. and historian, delves into the recent unprecedented missile attack by Iran on Israel. He discusses the successful interception of the barrage and frames it as a pivotal moment revealing Iran's direct aggression. Oren highlights the complex dynamics between Israel and Iran, including regional responses and the evolving U.S.-Israel relationship. The conversation also touches on national security strategies, challenges of multi-front warfare, and the personal narratives woven into the ongoing conflict.

Uri Berliner, a Senior Business Editor at NPR and award-winning journalist, shares his firsthand account of NPR's transformation. He discusses the shift from an open-minded newsroom to one perceived as biased and activist. Berliner critiques NPR's handling of major stories, including the Trump presidency, the Russia collusion narrative, and the Hunter Biden laptop story. He raises alarm about the implications of ideological bias on public trust, urging for a return to journalistic integrity and a broader perspective in media coverage.

Batya Ungar-Sargon, Newsweek opinion editor and author of 'Second Class', dives into the shifting dynamics of the American working class. She highlights the class divide that transcends traditional political narratives, revealing how disillusionment has led many workers away from the Democratic Party. Through the lens of the 2016 election, she critiques mainstream media’s misunderstanding of working-class sentiments, emphasizing their search for dignity and opportunity. Ungar-Sargon advocates for honest discourse around these vital issues in American society.

Paul Kingsnorth, a writer and former leading environmentalist, shares his transformative journey from radical activism to a simpler, faith-driven lifestyle in rural Ireland. He critiques the modern Green Movement's shift toward commercial interests, emphasizing the spiritual loss embedded in technological progress. Kingsnorth discusses the challenge of navigating contemporary life, advocating for a return to community and nature. He explores the implications of secular ideologies on identity, while seeking hope and meaning in a rapidly changing world.

In this discussion, social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, renowned for his insights on moral psychology, delves into how childhood has been irrevocably altered by smartphones. He highlights a profound shift from adventurous play to digital isolation, linking this transformation to rising anxiety and loneliness among youth. Haidt argues for the necessity of resilience-building through real-world challenges, contrasting modern parenting with the past. He emphasizes the urgent need for parents to implement boundaries and advocate for better regulation of children's online lives to improve their mental health.

In this enlightening discussion, journalist Haviv Rettig Gur, a key voice on Israel and the Middle East, dives into urgent topics such as the existential challenges facing Israelis and Palestinians. He sheds light on the divisions within Muslim societies represented in the ongoing war and critiques the misunderstandings of progressives in the West about the complexities of the region. Gur emphasizes the need for ordinary Americans to recognize that history is still in motion and offers insights into the unique anxieties of Jews in both Israel and the diaspora.

The podcast dives deep into the realities on the ground post-October 7th, revealing unique perspectives from both Palestinians and Israelis. It explores the everyday struggles of Palestinians amidst checkpoints and political tension. Surprising sentiments emerge as many support the events of October 7. The discussion also highlights a newfound unity within Israeli society, including among Arab citizens. With voices like an inspiring Muslim Israeli Arab woman, the show presents a hopeful narrative for coexistence amidst the ongoing conflict.