Quillette Podcast
Quillette
The Quillette Podcast is a platform for rigorous, academic discussions rooted in common sense and free inquiry. Non-dogmatic and grounded in liberal values, the podcast serves as a beacon for thoughtful conversation on science, politics, philosophy, and culture. Quillette prides itself on intellectual honesty, avoiding ideological extremism in favor of evidence-based reasoning and progress. Hosted by leading voices in academia and journalism, past guests include evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins, social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, and journalist Douglas Murray, among others. Expect candid conversations that promote common sense and challenge anti-science and conspiratorial narratives from both the far left and right.
Episodes
Mentioned books
7 snips
Feb 8, 2025 • 41min
The Canadian Episode: Trump’s Tariffs and Trudeau’s Travails
Jen Gerson, editor of The Line and a sharp commentator on Canadian politics, dives into the complex effects of Trump’s tariffs on Canada. She discusses the intricate dynamics between the U.S. and Canada, focusing on the emotional turmoil tariffs cause among Canadians. Gerson explores the urgent need for Canada to adapt its strategy amidst potential shifts in U.S. leadership. The conversation also critiques Canada's low NATO spending and the implications for defense and entitlement programs, painting a vivid picture of the current political landscape.
7 snips
Feb 1, 2025 • 16min
‘The Politics of the Academy Have Been Defeated’
William Deresiewicz, a Yale English professor turned author, discusses the growing disconnect between academia and the real world. He shares insights on how political ideologies in academic institutions are shifting post-2024 election, particularly as voters in traditional liberal cities seek moderate alternatives. Deresiewicz highlights the cultural versus economic concerns influencing electoral choices and addresses the misunderstandings surrounding Latino perspectives in elite circles, revealing crucial dynamics shaping public sentiment.
Jan 18, 2025 • 18min
'The Power of Nuclear'
Marco Visscher, a Dutch writer and environmental journalist, advocates for nuclear power as a solution to climate change. He discusses the shifting views on nuclear energy's importance, particularly in Africa. Visscher shares his personal journey from skepticism to seeing nuclear as a reliable energy source. He debunks safety myths, revealing nuclear energy has a lower death rate than fossil fuels and challenges public perceptions of nuclear disasters. The conversation also dives into the controversial Linear No Threshold theory regarding radiation safety.
Jan 11, 2025 • 18min
The Tragedy of California’s Wildfires
Quillette podcast host Jonathan Kay speaks with University of Southern California scholar William Deverell about the enormous fires that have destroyed large swathes of the Los Angeles area. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jan 11, 2025 • 45min
Reading and Writing Science
Iona Italia talks to eminent evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins about science, literature, and genetics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7 snips
Dec 24, 2024 • 18min
Did Oliver Cromwell Really Kill Christmas?
David Crowther, creator of the History of England podcast, digs into the Puritan disdain for Christmas celebrations and Oliver Cromwell's role in that narrative. He discusses how Christmas transformed into a grand festival in England, highlighting unique cultural practices. The conversation also touches on the blend of pagan traditions and societal norms, regional English dishes, and the misconstrued images of Roundheads and Cavaliers during the Civil War. Crowther's insights reveal the complexities of leadership and cultural shifts in historical contexts.
Dec 20, 2024 • 18min
'A Theory of Everyone'
Iona Italia hosts Michael Muthukrishna, a cultural evolutionary theorist and author, who delves into dual inheritance theory—how our behaviors are shaped by both genetics and culture. He discusses the crucial role of energy availability in driving human innovation and its historical ties to societal transformation. Muthukrishna highlights the impact of cultural isolation on advancement and contrasts future scenarios shaped by resource scarcity versus those driven by innovation and equitable distribution.
Dec 13, 2024 • 20min
In Defence of Julia the Elder
Joan Smith, an English journalist and author with a keen focus on ancient Roman history, dives deep into the lives of women from Rome’s Julio-Claudian dynasty. She addresses the enduring propaganda against figures like Julia, challenging the misogynistic narratives that have distorted their legacies. Smith draws compelling parallels between ancient stories and contemporary gender issues, revealing how women's roles were shaped by political ambition and societal control. Her insights invite listeners to rethink history’s treatment of women.
Dec 6, 2024 • 19min
'Interintellect and the Modern-Day Salon'
Anna Gat, founder of Interintellect and host of The Hope Axis, shares insights on fostering intellectual discussions in modern society. She discusses her journey overcoming personal challenges and the emotional impact of familial upheaval. Gat also delves into the political landscape in Hungary, shedding light on the authoritarian shift under the Orbán regime and its effects on civic liberties. Additionally, she reflects on her creative evolution from poetry to technology, illustrating the connections between art and advancements in AI.
Nov 30, 2024 • 17min
Lessons from a Teachers-College Battle Over Free Speech and ‘Decolonization’
In a gripping discussion, the host delves into a controversy at the University of Western Ontario, where a student advocating for free speech faced backlash over her views on Indigenous reconciliation. The unfolding saga reveals deep tensions between academic freedom and the desire for institutional accountability. A tribunal ultimately vindicated the student, shedding light on procedural missteps and highlighting the importance of protecting diverse perspectives in academia.
