Quillette Podcast

Adam Kirsch, a Wall Street Journal editor and author of "On Settler Colonialism," dives into the troubling trends of radicalized academics labeling Western nations, especially Israel, as 'settler colonialist.' He discusses how this ideology shapes perceptions of identity and moral obligations tied to indigenous histories. Kirsch critiques the superficiality of land acknowledgements and explores the complexities of decolonization efforts, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of systemic inequities and the historical context of these narratives.

Nick Osmond-Jones, a former researcher at the Office of the Ombudsperson in British Columbia, discusses his resignation spurred by concerns over censorship and ideological pressures. He highlights the absurdities of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the Canadian public service. The conversation delves into the complexities of workplace sensitivity training, the implications of land acknowledgements, and the emotional burdens of performative allyship, revealing how these factors shape the dynamics of workplace interactions and investigative practices.

Cass Sunstein, a Harvard legal scholar and author, discusses his insights on free speech in universities. He emphasizes the importance of a diverse marketplace of ideas while navigating the complexities of emotional responses to criticisms. Sunstein advocates for a principled approach to speech regulation and suggests that informal dialogue is more effective than punitive measures. He also highlights the tensions between institutional loyalty and open discourse, arguing that confronting challenging discussions is crucial for growth in academic environments.

In this episode, Jack Despain Zhou, an independent writer and law student, dives into the alarming decline of Wikipedia's standards due to biased editorial practices. He discusses how misinformation and narrative manipulation have tainted the platform, particularly in controversial cases. Zhou emphasizes the need for intellectual integrity and the risks of attacking individuals instead of engaging with ideas. His reflections on the evolution of online discourse reveal a journey from idealism to a critical view of today’s digital landscape, urging for open dialogue and diverse perspectives.

Musa al-Gharbi, a scholar and author of "We Have Never Been Woke," dives into the rise of progressive ideological orthodoxy. He critiques wokeness as a tool for elites to flaunt status and cultural capital. Al-Gharbi shares his journey navigating media backlash and the nuances of academic life. He addresses the emotional impact of misrepresentation in public discourse and emphasizes the need for clear communication to foster understanding across political divides. Engaging diverse viewpoints is vital for constructive dialogue in today's polarized climate.

Megan Gafford, an accomplished artist and writer known for her visual essays, dives into the ever-evolving landscape of art. She discusses how society increasingly prioritizes political statements over beauty and craftsmanship. Gafford critiques the shift from traditional aesthetics toward postmodernism, emphasizing the emotional disconnect in contemporary art. She highlights how artists grapple with societal expectations, invoking historical figures like Duchamp while questioning the relevance of beauty in today's politically charged climate.

In a captivating discussion, historian Sean McMeekin from Bard College sheds light on the intricate history of communism, drawing from his book, *To Overthrow the World*. He delves into the surprising connections between Christianity and Marxism, exploring their shared themes of social equality. The conversation critiques the authoritarian tendencies of Marxist vanguards and their parallels to revolutionary leaders like Robespierre. Additionally, McMeekin contrasts the tensions between communism and anarchism during the Russian Revolution, highlighting the violent struggles for power.

Brianna Wu, a Democratic political campaigner dedicated to trans rights, shares insights on finding a balanced approach in activism. She discusses the complexities of identity and the importance of transparency in gender identity data collection. Wu emphasizes the need for nuanced understanding and respect for individual autonomy in medical decisions. The conversation also critiques the extremes within progressive politics, reflecting on recent events like the Israel-Hamas conflict, while promoting empathy and collaboration across divides.

Quillette podcast host Jonathan Kay speaks with author Paul Berman about the lingering influence of ’Black Power’ advocate Stokely Carmichael, who once infamously claimed that ’the only good Zionist is a dead Zionist.’ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging conversation, Gerfried Ambrosch, a Munich-based scholar with a background in punk culture, shares his insights on pro-Israel sentiments within the German Left. He discusses the complex dynamics of antisemitism among Muslim immigrants and the historical guilt that shapes Germany's ideological landscape. Ambrosch reflects on the evolution of leftist views, the radicalization in immigrant communities, and the impact of cancel culture on music scenes. His perspective invites a nuanced understanding of identity, integration, and political shifts in contemporary Germany.