UnHerd with Freddie Sayers

Jonathan Haidt discusses the impact of smartphones and social media on youth mental health, highlighting increased depression rates. He also explores the effects of easily accessible pornography on adolescent sexual development and the negative impact of social media addiction on children's mental health and social skills.

The podcast delves into the influence of 'ratings agencies' on controlling media conversation and ad revenue, with a focus on Global Disinformation Index. It questions the subjectivity and impact of these judgments on media companies, raising concerns about press freedom and democracy in the digital age.

Since October 7th, old divides between Right and Left on support for Israel were predictably resurfaced. Less expected, however, was a new civil war on the online Right. Compact founder and key figure in the so-called ‘New Right’ Sohrab Ahmari joined UnHerd’s Freddie Sayers to discuss it.UnHerd's Freddie Sayers talks to Sohrab Ahmari Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Law Professor Randall Kennedy discusses objections to mandatory DEI statements in academia, advocating for transparency and intellectual diversity. He explores the complexity of DEI, distinguishing between affirmative action and equity goals. Reflecting on racial politics in universities, he addresses the challenges of diversity initiatives and emphasizes the importance of education in America.

Author and historian Michael Taylor discusses the cultural clash between dinosaurs, religion, and science throughout history. Topics include early debates over dinosaur fossils, Archbishop James Usher's dating of the Earth, and the ideological conflict between science and religion in the 19th century.

The podcast delves into the negative impact of therapy culture on young individuals, questioning the effectiveness of therapy for teenagers. It explores the risks of overprescription of medications, challenges of therapeutic parenting, and societal pressures on mental health. The conversation also discusses the implications of therapy on socioeconomic levels and the need for alternative solutions like Zen philosophy or religion.

Exploring the fallout of Harvard firing Martin Kulldorff for supporting the Great Barrington Declaration during COVID-19. Debates on vaccination mandates, natural immunity, and scientific credibility. Challenging lockdown consensus and vaccine distribution strategies. Reflections on stifling dissent in the scientific community.

Rob Henderson discusses the concept of luxury beliefs and their influence on society, particularly among the affluent. The podcast also delves into his personal journey from a difficult childhood to navigating elite spaces and contrasting US and UK college campus politics.

Exploring the potential impact of a third-party candidate in the 2024 election, analyzing Joe Biden's weaknesses as a candidate, delving into Trump's election chances and campaign strategy, discussing the perception of the Democratic Party and Biden's appeal to voters, examining abortion issues and election impact, analyzing the progressive voter segment's influence on election dynamics, and speculating on post-election scenarios.

Exploring why the American Right admires Viktor Orbán's conservative governance style and values. Discussing the fragility of neutral liberal societies, political scandals, and the risks of moralistic government approaches. Delving into the differences between mainstream conservatives and post-liberals, highlighting Hungary's stance on key issues like media control, family values, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Reflecting on an American conservative's unwavering support for Hungary and Viktor Orbán.