Quillette Narrated

How Margaret Mead’s romanticised account of Samoan life became the founding myth of cultural determinism—and why it endures despite having been thoroughly debunked.

Before Han Solo and Indiana Jones, there was another Harrison Ford, a star of silent cinema.

The article "Who Got the Camera?" by Dilan Esper recalls Los Angeles policing debates in the 1980s-90s: high crime (gangs, drugs, homelessness) versus claims of LAPD brutality under Chief Daryl Gates, who treated policing like war and used extreme tactics. It details the 1991 Rodney King incident: King, a felon intoxicated during a high-speed chase (up to 117 mph), was beaten by four LAPD officers with batons and a taser. Neighbor George Holliday's camcorder video—showing prolonged punishment, not defense—shifted public opinion. Tough-on-crime supporters rejected brutality; Gates was ousted, riots followed a state acquittal, and two officers got federal prison time. Author argues cameras (now ubiquitous, including bodycams) aid good cops by showcasing professionalism but expose bad ones, ending the "code of silence." Parallels to 2026: Trump's second-term ICE raids use masked agents in cities, arresting citizens/residents, beating immigrants, blocking filming, roughing protesters, and shooting two civilians dead in Minneapolis streets within weeks. Right-wing defenses (victim disobedience, threats) echo 1991 but fail against video evidence, evoking natural revulsion like family separations did in 2020. Polls confirm backlash: Trump's immigration approval fell from +9 (Aug 2025) to -20 (Jan 20, Rasmussen); YouGov shows more support than opposition for abolishing ICE; over 1/3 of Trump voters back deportation goals but not methods (Politico). Public wants secure borders without cruelty; midterms loom as reminder.

The podcast dives into the controversy surrounding John Lennon’s omitted song, 'Woman Is the Nigger of the World,' from a new box set. Discussing Lennon's provocative reputation, fans' reactions reveal a divide over censorship. The origins of the song aim to protest women's subjugation, yet its commercial failure sparks critical debate. The conversation includes modern sensibilities around reclaiming slurs and the risks of sanitizing history, linking to a wider trend in cultural censorship. Ultimately, the importance of preserving challenging art to provoke dialogue is championed.

Discover the captivating beauty of Tasmania, a land marked by lush landscapes and rich biodiversity. The contrast between Tasmania's hospitable charm and its violent colonial history is explored, painting a vibrant picture of both nature and human impact. Vivid encounters with adorable wildlife like wombats and quolls showcase the island's unique character. The discussion also touches on historical accounts of early settlers and the intricacies of local culture, making Tasmania a remarkable blend of wildness softened by stunning natural beauty.

The podcast dives into Napoleon Chagnon's groundbreaking work with the Yanomamo, revealing how violence impacts reproductive success in tribal societies. It explores Chagnon's early life and unorthodox path to anthropology, marked by rigorous fieldwork and data collection. The discussion highlights the intense backlash he faced from academics and the politicization of his findings. Personal attacks and media controversies around his research illustrate the clashes between science and advocacy. The episode reflects on Chagnon's complex legacy within the anthropological community.

Zohran Mamdani aims to reshape NYC governance towards collectivism, but the city faces a unique challenge with a system that often blocks progress. Discussions reveal how property could be treated as a shared asset and highlight the complexities of centralized planning. Case studies illustrate the struggles of rent regulations and local opposition to homeless shelters. The podcast explores the implications of community vetoes on infrastructure and development, calling for streamlined approvals to overcome bureaucratic hurdles.

Explore the journey from radical activism to disillusionment with Connor Barnes. He shares insights on the toxic norms within radical communities and critiques the evolution of radical ideology. Barnes uncovers how victimhood and perpetual suspicion create a cycle of anger and moral policing. He emphasizes the need to abandon dogma and embrace uncertainty, urging a return to compassionate engagement for social betterment. Discover the complexities of radical beliefs and the path toward constructive dialogue.

Mishima’s reputation has grown in the new century and today there is more serious interest in his work than ever before.

Alan Davison, a scholar and contributor to Quillette, dives into the implications of the Bondi Beach terrorist attack on Australia's multicultural landscape. He highlights the increasing visibility of Islamic antisemitism and critiques the reluctance to confront ideological motivations behind such violence. Davison emphasizes the need for honest discussions about conflicting worldviews, urging the identification of specific drivers of antisemitism while protecting moderate voices in the Muslim community. Ultimately, he calls for a reevaluation of Australia’s approach to multiculturalism.