The Glenn Show

Join John McWhorter, a Columbia University linguist and insightful commentator, as he navigates weighty topics like the recent shooting at Brown University and the Hanukkah massacre in Australia. He explores the complexities of anti-Zionism and its possible links to America's racial narratives. The duo also reflects on how global conflicts, particularly the Israel-Palestine issue, draw public interest differently, and they touch upon Trump's incendiary comments regarding violent incidents. Lastly, John shares his reluctance to pen a memoir, diving into the burden of audience expectations.

A chilling conversation unfolds around recent shootings at Brown University and Bondi Beach. The hosts delve into the complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict, exploring whether antisemitism is primarily about race. There's a poignant discussion about the tragic losses of Rob Reiner and Michele Singer. The health of Trump ignites speculation, while one host shares intriguing insights on why he refrains from writing a memoir. Engaging subscriber Q&A brings an interactive twist to the dialogue.

Mark Sussman, an editor and regular contributor, teams up with Nikita Petrov, a creative director with a knack for insightful questions, to explore the impactful ideas of Thomas Schelling. They examine Schelling’s contributions to nuclear deterrence, battlefield credibility, and how his theories apply to modern conflicts like Ukraine and Gaza. The discussion delves into the dynamics of populist movements, U.S. national security strategy, and the quirks of symbolic signaling in war. Their analysis offers a fascinating lens on both history and today’s geopolitical landscape.

In a captivating discussion, the impact of Tom Schelling's work on battlefield strategy and the nuclear weapons taboo takes center stage. The guests explore the fascinating link between Schelling's theories and real-world conflicts like those in Ukraine and Gaza. A surprising look at how Schelling influenced the making of Dr. Strangelove reveals unexpected connections to doomsday machines. As they speculate on his thoughts about artificial intelligence, the team dives into strategies for self-discipline, showcasing practical commitment devices and everyday choices that shape our behavior.

Robert Patton-Spruill joins Glenn Loury for a deep dive into Larry Summers's controversial exit from Harvard and his ban from the American Economics Association. They explore the nuances of public disgrace, with Glenn reflecting on his own fall from grace and the implications of guilt and remorse. They tackle complex themes like self-regard, distinguishing it from self-respect, and discuss the impact of narratives in shaping personal truth. Emphasizing the importance of family and recovery, this conversation invites listeners to reconsider their perceptions of scandal and redemption.

Discontent in Nigeria takes center stage as a Nigerian development economist shares insights on the country's challenges. The discussion also dives into Trump's aggressive stance on Venezuela, coupled with various political dynamics. Bernie Sanders calls for regulation of AI, sparking debate about balancing innovation with ethical considerations. The show wraps up with reflections on public disgrace, citing the ramifications faced by Larry Summers after his controversial associations. It’s a whirlwind of current events and thought-provoking opinions!

Paul Starr, a sociologist and Pulitzer Prize-winning author, dives into his book, American Contradiction. He explores the ongoing tension between liberation movements and institutional resistance, considering the black freedom struggle as a catalyst for change. Starr critiques political responses to social issues, including Trump's immigration policies as acts of revenge. Media fragmentation and its impact on public discourse are also discussed. He emphasizes the need for democratic resilience and learning from history, advocating for renewal in liberal democracy.

John McWhorter, a distinguished linguist and cultural commentator, delves into the coarsening of public discourse. He highlights how social media has shifted the Overton window, allowing more offensive rhetoric into mainstream conversations. McWhorter and Glenn discuss the implications of figures like Trump and Nick Fuentes on civility, arguing for engagement over censorship. They explore societal grievances fueling extremist views, urban crime perceptions, and the normalization of vulgarity in politics, emphasizing a need for substantive responses to incivility.

Howard Husock, a Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and author of "The Projects: A New History of Public Housing," examines the failures of American public housing. He discusses how public housing erased community ties and harmed urban Black neighborhoods. Husock challenges the necessity of slum clearance and critiques political proposals like rent freezes. He advocates for time limits on subsidies to foster mobility, while exploring innovative solutions like the Rental Assistance Demonstration to renovate aging housing.

In a lively discussion, topics include New York City's incoming Mayor Zohran Mamdani and his bold policy proposals. The conversation dives into the implications of Nick Fuentes's provocative rhetoric and its impact on marginalized communities. They further explore the unsettling legacy of Jeffrey Epstein and how technology, particularly AI, is shaping modern conversations. Additionally, the concept of Black Patriotism is examined, prompting reflection on identity and belonging in today’s political landscape.