Quillette Podcast
Quillette
The Quillette Podcast is a platform for rigorous, academic discussions rooted in common sense and free inquiry. Non-dogmatic and grounded in liberal values, the podcast serves as a beacon for thoughtful conversation on science, politics, philosophy, and culture. Quillette prides itself on intellectual honesty, avoiding ideological extremism in favor of evidence-based reasoning and progress. Hosted by leading voices in academia and journalism, past guests include evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins, social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, and journalist Douglas Murray, among others. Expect candid conversations that promote common sense and challenge anti-science and conspiratorial narratives from both the far left and right.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 22, 2025 • 16min
A Jewish Girl in Revolutionary Iran
Managing Editor Iona Italia talks to Roya Hakakian about her extraordinary memoir, Journey from the Land of No: A Girlhood Caught in Revolutionary Iran. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Aug 16, 2025 • 43min
What Does It Take to Develop a ‘Scrabble-Shaped Brain’?
John Chew, a Toronto-based mathematician, linguist, and Scrabble tournament organizer, dives into the intriguing world of ultra-elite Scrabble. He discusses the unique culture of the game and the significance of attire in tournaments. Chew highlights the strategic nuances of tile values and the emotional rollercoaster players experience during competitions. The podcast also touches on the diverse backgrounds of players and how Scrabble serves as a reflection of societal themes, making it not just a game, but a fascinating study of language and community.
Aug 8, 2025 • 16min
Parsi: A Fiercely Contested Identity
Nev March, a celebrated novelist and historian from the Parsi community, engages listeners with captivating insights about the Parsi identity and its historical complexities. He explores landmark court cases that reshaped both the Indian legal landscape and the Parsi community's identity. March also highlights the cultural contributions of Parsi women and the challenges they face today. With discussions on race, religion, and belonging, he reveals how the Parsi legacy has significantly influenced Indian culture while navigating the pressures of modernity.
Jul 31, 2025 • 37min
How LGB Became Estranged from T
Adam Zivo, a Canadian gay activist-turned-journalist, discusses the rift between LGB and T within the LGBTQ movement. He shares how the focus has shifted post-gay marriage, leaving many gay activists feeling sidelined. Zivo critiques the glamorization of historical figures from the Stonewall riots, emphasizing the need for accurate narratives. He navigates the tensions within LGBTQ activism, particularly the clash between diverse strategies and ideologies, while examining the evolution of trans identity amid societal pressures.
Jul 25, 2025 • 16min
War and the End of Empire
Phil Craig, a seasoned historian and filmmaker, discusses his book '1945: A Reckoning,' which delves into pivotal moments of World War II. He highlights the emotional connections of key figures like Sopas Chandra Bose and Angela Noblet, revealing how their personal experiences shaped larger historical events. The complexities of Indian independence and the contrasting strategies of its leaders are examined, offering insights into their legacies. Craig also addresses the challenges of truth in historical narratives, showcasing how dramatization can skew our understanding.
Jul 17, 2025 • 37min
When Entertainment Reporting Gets Political
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.
5 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 17min
The First Journalists
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.
12 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 31min
Social Work Without Stereotypes
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.
Jun 27, 2025 • 17min
Science vs Māori Knowledge
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.
12 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 37min
The Wars Before the War
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.
