Honestly with Bari Weiss

Josh Rogin, a renowned foreign policy columnist for The Washington Post and author of "Chaos Under Heaven," discusses the troubling implications of the Beijing Winter Olympics. He reveals how the Chinese Communist Party uses the Games for propaganda, overshadowing human rights violations against ethnic minorities. Rogin critiques athletes’ silence amidst oppression and highlights the risks they face, including surveillance. The conversation prompts reflection on America’s participation in such a politically charged event and the moral responsibilities athletes hold in the face of tyranny.

Eric Schmidt, the former CEO of Google and tech pioneer, dives deep into the future of artificial intelligence and its profound impact on humanity. He explores the ethical dilemmas we face as AI evolves, weighing its benefits against potential risks. Schmidt discusses the competitive landscape between the U.S. and China, emphasizing the importance of aligning technology with human values. He also touches on the challenges of big tech regulation, free speech, and the societal implications of misinformation, providing a thought-provoking glimpse into our digital future.

Join journalist Matt Taibbi, known for his critical views on American foreign policy, and Bret Stephens, a Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist, as they dive into the complexities of U.S. military intervention and foreign policy. They explore the tension between isolationism and interventionism, dissect lessons from past conflicts, and debate America's role on the global stage amid rising geopolitical tensions. The discussion also highlights Ukrainian perspectives on Russian influence and the broader implications of U.S. interventionism, with thought-provoking insights on moral responsibilities.

David Zweig, a journalist known for his investigative work in outlets like New York Magazine and The Atlantic, dives deep into the complexities surrounding COVID-19 booster shots for children. He challenges the narratives around vaccine mandates, emphasizing the need for evidence-based discussions. Zweig highlights expert concerns about the risks of repeated vaccinations and contrasts U.S. policies with those of other countries. He also addresses the pushback from students and the need for more nuanced health guidance amidst ongoing controversies.

Amy Chua, Yale Law professor and author of the controversial parenting memoir, shares her unfiltered views on the state of higher education and free speech. She discusses her provocative 'tiger parenting' philosophy, including her infamous threats to burn her daughter's stuffed animals for piano practice. Chua reflects on why her students inspire her despite her waning faith in Yale, navigates the fallout from her cultural success theories, and critiques the rise of political tribalism, expressing an unwavering optimism in these challenging times.

In this engaging discussion, Abdullah Antepli, an imam and professor at Duke University, shares his transformative journey from a childhood marked by antisemitism to becoming a leading voice for peace between Muslims and Jews. He highlights the urgent need to address rising antisemitism within Muslim communities, reflecting on personal experiences in Turkey that normalized hate. Antepli emphasizes the importance of open dialogue and education, especially in the wake of recent events, advocating for a united effort to combat hatred and promote understanding.

In this discussion, journalist Alec MacGillis dives into the widening chasm between America's wealthy and working-class amidst the pandemic. He reveals how COVID-19 has accelerated economic disparities, placing a spotlight on those struggling in precarious jobs while the affluent flourish. MacGillis also critiques how convenience from giants like Amazon shapes social dynamics and politics, urging a return to community values. His insights challenge us to reflect on the future of our society and the pressing need for empathy in rebuilding post-pandemic America.

Alec MacGillis, an award-winning journalist from ProPublica, dives deep into the repercussions of pandemic policies on children and urban crime. He reveals how school closures have disproportionately harmed minority and low-income students, exacerbating the socioeconomic divide. MacGillis shares poignant stories, including that of Dominic Villa, a young victim of rising violence. He sheds light on the unsettling rise in crime in cities like Philadelphia and the complex relationship between marginalized communities and law enforcement, emphasizing the urgent need for change.

Dr. Vinay Prasad, an epidemiology expert, joins Dr. Stefan Baral from Johns Hopkins and Dr. Lucy McBride, a D.C. internist, to tackle the chaos surrounding COVID-19 policies. They discuss the disconnect between health guidelines and public experiences, highlighting frustrations over ongoing restrictions, especially for college students. The trio calls for rebuilding trust in health messaging and emphasizes the importance of personalized decision-making, advocating for a balanced approach to risk management and compassion in public health guidelines.

George Bonanno, a clinical psychologist at Columbia University and author of The End of Trauma, offers enlightening insights on human resilience. He debates the rising claims of trauma among younger generations, challenging the contemporary understanding of trauma versus everyday struggles. Through personal stories and research on veterans and survivors, he reveals that resilience is often cultivated through adversity. Bonanno emphasizes the idea that events are only 'potentially traumatic' and that much of our response is within our control.