The spiked podcast

Adam Szetela, author of *That Book is Dangerous!*, dives into the murky waters of modern publishing, where censorship reigns supreme. He reveals the rise of 'sensitivity readers,' individuals who ensure that literature remains politically correct, often leading to bland, predictable storytelling. Adam discusses how controversies in young adult fiction are seeping into adult literature and the chilling effects of cancel culture. He argues that these practices not only enforce rigid identities but also stifle creativity, leaving little hope for systemic change in the industry.

Harry Cole, editor-at-large for The Sun based in Washington DC, delves into pressing UK politics and international relations. He candidly discusses the chilling rise of anti-Semitism following the Manchester synagogue attack and explores the Labour Party's damaging rhetoric against opponents. The conversation shifts to Trump's controversial Gaza peace plan and its implications for international dynamics. Plus, Cole shares U.S. perceptions of Britain, highlighting concerns about free speech and societal tensions.

Flemming Rose, former culture editor at Jyllands-Posten, discusses the controversial 2005 cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad that ignited global unrest. He explores the rationale behind publishing the cartoons, emphasizing the risks of self-censorship. Flemming highlights the escalated international protests and personal threats he faced. He critiques blasphemy laws for fostering violence and argues that true multiculturalism must protect free speech. Ultimately, he advocates for courage in the face of censorship to safeguard open dialogue.

Mark Dolan, a broadcaster and comedian, joins the discussion on sensitive current affairs. He argues against the concept of religious immunity from criticism, particularly in the context of recent legal disparities. The conversation delves into the implications of digital ID and how it may threaten civil liberties. They also touch on media's role in the culture wars, questioning whether late-night shows are fostering partisanship. Dolan critiques political figures like Andy Burnham, emphasizing the need for economic stability during crises.

In this discussion, Andrew Fox, a former British Army officer and co-host of The Brink, critiques Keir Starmer's recent recognition of Palestine. He argues this decision effectively empowers Hamas and does little for ordinary Palestinians. Fox highlights the legal and leadership gaps within the proclaimed Palestinian state and warns of potential diplomatic repercussions for UK-Israel relations. He asserts that Starmer's move prioritizes domestic politics, risking vital intelligence and defense ties with Israel.

Tom Harwood, a political commentator and GB News presenter, dives into the shocking circumstances surrounding the Charlie Kirk killing. He discusses the underlying nihilism within online leftist circles and how campus radicalization fuels political violence. The conversation also touches on Trump’s recent state visit amidst protests and the policy clashes it ignited, alongside the chaos within Your Party and critiques of the controversial ‘one in, one out’ migration scheme. Harwood's insights shed light on current political turbulence in the UK.

Francis Foster, co-host of Trigonometry, and Rakib Ehsan, a Spiked columnist, delve into the unsettling murder of political figure Charlie Kirk and its chilling implications for free speech in America. They discuss the broader societal divide revealed by this tragedy and the pressing need for civil discourse. The conversation also touches on the overlooked assassination of a Ukrainian refugee in North Carolina, highlighting biases in societal empathy. Finally, they critique the Labour Party's superficial leadership while reflecting on Peter Mandelson's controversial but resilient political career.

Kathryn Porter, an energy consultant and founder of Watt-Logic, discusses the pitfalls of Britain's reliance on wind power, arguing it has escalated prices and risks major blackouts. She critiques government policies that ignore the benefits of domestic oil and gas production, while highlighting the bureaucratic challenges facing nuclear energy. Porter advocates for a reevaluation of energy strategies, warning of potential energy crises if infrastructure is neglected and emphasizing the need for immediate change in energy policy.

In this discussion, Connie Shaw from the Free Speech Union shares insights on the chilling arrest of Graham Linehan for his tweets on gender issues, raising alarms about free speech and state interference. The conversation delves into the repercussions of speech policing, highlighting authoritarian tendencies in law enforcement. They also touch on Zach Polanski’s unique background as a hypnotist and the evolving dynamics within the Green Party, as well as the complex and often inauthentic nature of patriotism in British politics.

Gareth Roberts, Tom Slater and Fraser Myers on Reform UK’s deportation plans, how ‘sensible centrists’ lost touch with reality and how Essex Man could save Britain. New episodes every Friday. Take your business to the next level with Shopify. Sign up now and get a £1-per-month trial period: https://shopify.co.uk/spiked Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices