Making Sense with Sam Harris

#336 — The Roots of Identity Politics

83 snips
Sep 27, 2023
Yascha Mounk, a writer and academic specializing in populism and liberal democracy, joins to explore the intricate landscape of identity politics. They tackle Mounk's idea of 'identity synthesis' and its implications on social cohesion. Conversations dive into the influence of postmodernism, the challenges of racial segregation in education, and the complexities of intersectionality. Mounk also critiques the shifting ideals in academia and the repercussions of cancel culture, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue in today's polarized climate.
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ANECDOTE

Shifting Academic Landscape

  • Sam Harris recalls a time when Western Civ courses were standard.
  • He later witnessed a shift in academic thought, marked by a bizarre lecture by Jacques Derrida.
ANECDOTE

Identity Politics in Academia and Online

  • Mounk noticed a shift towards identity-focused perspectives in academia and online.
  • He saw how postmodern ideas were popularized and spread through platforms like EverydayFeminism.com.
INSIGHT

Foucault's Influence

  • Foucault's skepticism of grand narratives and universal truths influenced the identity synthesis.
  • His concept of power as inherent in discourse also played a key role.
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