"WhatifAlthist" | World History, Philosophy, Culture
Rudyard Lynch
WhatifAltHist is a podcast from Rudyard Lynch that looks to try to find the patterns in history and anthropology so as to predict the future and understand the dynamics that result in civilizations rising and falling. It began as an enormously popular alternate history channel with nearly 600K listeners and more than 100M views on YouTube. Rudyard Lynch also hosts the podcast History 102 with Erik Torenberg, which attempts to solidly explain pivotal historical events in depth in under an hour.Topics covered: World History, Philosophy, Civilization, Culture WhatifAlthist is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: turpentine.co
Episodes
Mentioned books
58 snips
Oct 22, 2025 • 55min
Modernity's Two Mythologies
Explore how history is driven by dreams rather than logic, revealing two competing mythologies that shape modern society. Delve into the idea that radical delusions fueled by wealth and scientific success lead to ideological conflict. Discover how science fiction mirrors our reality and reflects our dystopian present. The discussion critiques socialism’s disconnect from human nature and its failures as a civic religion. Through it all, the importance of older social institutions is emphasized as a counterbalance to technological advancement.
53 snips
Oct 19, 2025 • 55min
The Rise and Fall of California
Explore California's paradox of wealth and cultural collapse. Delve into its geographic allure and the mix of societal influences from tech to agriculture. Learn about the powerful alliance between elites and socialists shaping its institutions. Discover the implications of rapid demographic shifts and the impact on community ties. Understand how Hollywood's myths contribute to an artificial social fabric, all pointing to a cautionary tale about the fragility of civilization and the risks of alienation.
36 snips
Sep 21, 2025 • 57min
why empathy is the meaning of life
Explore the intriguing nature of empathy as a misunderstood but powerful force. Discover how it serves as a strategic weapon, enabling deep understanding of opponents and allies alike. Delve into emotional self-awareness and the interplay between politics and vibes. Historical examples illustrate empathy's role in leadership and resilience, challenging perceptions of masculinity. This discussion reclaims empathy as a vital skill for navigating today's divisive landscape, urging listeners to engage in self-awareness and strength.
57 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 1h 2min
the lonely crowd consooms all
The discussion dives into how nightclub culture reflects societal illness, revealing a trend of pretending to enjoy what we don't. It explores David Riesman's concept of the 'lonely crowd,' emphasizing that modern life promotes conformity over genuine connections. The impact of crowd psychology is dissected, showcasing how it stifles innovation and leadership while fostering a culture of sameness. Ultimately, the conversation questions what it means to find true meaning in a world obsessed with being 'cool.'
40 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 1h 3min
The Story of Black America
Delve into the complex narratives surrounding African Americans and their misrepresentation in modern discourse. Explore the historical evolution of Black America, highlighting societal norms and the impact of a racial caste system. Discover the intertwined cultural fabric of Black and white Southerners, as well as the profound effects of African heritage on identity. Examine contemporary challenges stemming from historical injustices and consider the implications of cultural alliances in shaping the future.
7 snips
Aug 8, 2025 • 42min
India-Pakistan: Asia's WW1?
A recent missile exchange between India and Pakistan raises alarms, echoing the tension of 1914. The discussion dives into how misinformation and media biases shape perceptions of this conflict. Parallels to Orwell's '1984' highlight challenges in accessing truthful narratives. With rising nationalism and demographic dynamics, the speakers warn of potential flashpoints in Eurasia. The urgency to understand the geopolitical landscape and its implications for global stability is emphasized, revealing the dangers of a media blackout on critical events.
48 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 1h 5min
The Rise and Fall of the Bluepill
Explore the historical shift to agnostic liberalism, a belief system that dismisses centuries of human struggle for meaning. Discover the critique of modern masculinity in the 'blue pill era' and the health benefits of cocoa flavanols. Delve into the red pill concept, discussing the choice between harsh realities and comforting illusions, especially for younger generations. Examine the evolution of power structures and the chaotic landscape of contemporary ideologies. Reflect on the pervasive feelings of alienation and societal tensions that challenge traditional perspectives.
24 snips
May 17, 2025 • 53min
Explaining Jewish Civilization
Explore how a small group with a population less than 1% has dramatically shaped world history. Discover the striking achievements of Jewish civilization, from producing a third of Nobel laureates to influencing major world religions. Delve into cultural parallels with groups like the Mormons, and examine the psychological insights of the Ten Commandments amidst ancient challenges. The conversation highlights the evolution of Jewish identity, its resilience through adversity, and the ongoing relevance of these themes in contemporary society.
18 snips
May 13, 2025 • 47min
Explaining Every Jewish Migration | Expulsion
Dive into the rich tapestry of Jewish civilization, tracing its storied migrations from ancient Mesopotamia through turbulent history. Unpack the complexities of modern misinformation and anti-Semitism while understanding the historical context of Jewish struggles. Discover how pivotal events like the Babylonian exile, the Spanish Inquisition, and the role of the Holocaust shaped contemporary dynamics in Palestine. This exploration reveals the paradoxes of a culture deeply intertwined with resilience and transformation.
May 13, 2025 • 1h 1min
Explaining Native Mexican Civilization
Dive into the dramatic rise and fall of the Maya civilization, once thriving in the Yucatan with populations surpassing today’s numbers. Experience a chilling narrative of their apocalyptic collapse, driven by relentless drought and extreme blood sacrifices. Discover how desperate nobles faced brutal conflicts while priests, armed with prophetic calendars, helplessly observed the unraveling of their world. It’s a gripping look at the complexities of societal decline and the haunting lessons of history.
