Quillette Podcast

In this engaging conversation, Ben Mulroney, a veteran entertainment journalist, shares insights from his impressive career spanning nearly two decades on E-Talk. He reflects on how ideological shifts have reshaped the entertainment industry and discusses the challenges of balancing personal identity in a politically charged environment. Mulroney also delves into the evolution of storytelling from television to radio, navigates the complexities of crime and empathy, and emphasizes the importance of transparency in media narratives.

Delve into the origins of literary journalism during Enlightenment London, where class and gender shaped public discourse. Discover the often-overlooked contributions of women journalists in the 18th century and the evolving landscape of academic publishing. Learn about the impact of the Licensing Act on censorship and how it fueled a boom in periodicals. Explore this golden age of printing and draw fascinating parallels between historical publications and today’s digital platforms.

Nafees Alam, an Associate Professor of Social Work at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, dives into the political pressures shaping social work. He emphasizes the need for viewpoint diversity and constructive disagreement in the field. Alam discusses the evolving role of social workers in sports, contrasting them with psychologists and critiquing demographic stereotypes. He also highlights the complexities of child welfare and urges for a more inclusive understanding of ideological perspectives within social work.

Professor Kendall Clements from the University of Auckland discusses the tension between traditional Māori knowledge and scientific principles. He argues that merging the two dilutes both disciplines. The conversation highlights the challenges Māori students face in science education and critiques the perception of science as colonial. Clements delves into mātauranga Māori, exploring its holistic nature that blends empirical and spiritual elements. Understanding these differences is crucial for appreciating Māori culture's unique perspective on knowledge.

In this engaging discussion, Jonathan Spyer, a British Israeli analyst and director of research at the Middle East Forum, delves into Israel's military strategies and the unfolding tensions with Iran. He explains how Israel strategically confronted threats in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. Spyer explores the shift from conventional warfare to asymmetric tactics. The conversation extends to the geopolitical dynamics with the Houthis in Yemen and the implications of military strikes on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, highlighting the complexities of regional security.

Writer Meghan Daum discusses her new essay collection, diving into the pervasive gloom of modern life. She shares personal reflections on aging, cultural relevance, and the bittersweet nostalgia of Generation X. The conversation touches on the challenges of dating after 50, blending humor with deeper insights. Daum also explores the shift in storytelling, highlighting the move from traditional publishing to personal narratives in the digital age. Her journey reveals how both writing and life evolve with time.

Rosie Kay, a British dancer and choreographer and co-founder of Freedom in the Arts, discusses the challenges artists face amid increasing ideological conformity. She highlights the risks associated with expressing honest views on women's rights and the broader societal implications for creative expression. Kay shares her personal journey of resilience against cancellation and the impact of shifting gender ideologies within the dance community. The conversation reveals the urgent need for artistic freedom and the threats posed by self-censorship in today's arts landscape.

Steven Pinker, a Harvard professor and leading voice in cognitive science, dives into the complexities of 'Harvard Derangement Syndrome.' He critiques Trump's aggressive stance on Harvard's so-called 'woke' policies, discussing the balance of free speech and social justice in academia. Pinker examines admissions processes, emphasizing the need for transparency while exploring Harvard's prestige and the impact of federal funding. He highlights the chilling effects on academic discourse and the ongoing struggle for academic freedom amid political influences.

Ellie Avishai, an education expert and founder of the Mill Institute, shares her insights after losing her position at the University of Austin over clashes regarding anti-DEI messaging. She discusses the tensions surrounding free speech at the university, contrasting reactions from various political perspectives. Avishai emphasizes the need for cultivating civil discourse in education, focusing on trust and communication. She also examines the conservative critique of DEI principles and the challenge of fostering inclusive discussions within polarized environments.

In this discussion, engineer Paul Brown shares his insights on the hidden costs of renewable energy and how current policies may lead to unsustainable practices. He highlights the challenges of transitioning to solar energy, detailing required infrastructure and environmental impacts. Brown critiques the inequities in solar subsidies, showing how they disproportionately benefit the wealthy while hurting the less affluent. He also questions the reliance on government support for renewables, arguing for a reevaluation of energy strategies, including nuclear energy.