The Minefield

The policy of negative gearing — which gives the owners of investment properties an unlimited ability to deduct losses from their overall taxable income — has come to symbolise the disparity between the different ways Australians see home ownership: for some, it is a means of wealth creation; for others, it represents the ever-receding promise of shelter, stability, security.It is unsurprising, then, that the policy would evoke such strong feelings whenever it re-enters public debate.Will changes to negative gearing solve Australia’s housing affordability crisis? No. But inquiring into why it elicits such powerful emotions can help us think more clearly about the moral dimensions of our relationship to housing and home ownership.

In this engaging discussion, Simon Tedeschi, an acclaimed concert pianist and award-winning writer, delves into the haunting war poetry of Wilfred Owen. The conversation reveals how Owen’s works like 'Strange Meeting' starkly contrast glorified war narratives, urging profound reflection on sacrifice and loss. Tedeschi highlights the emotional power of poetry in connecting with our shared humanity amidst chaos. The episode culminates in a heartfelt performance, emphasizing art's critical role in understanding and healing in today's turbulent world.

With the US presidential election on the horizon, to say nothing of a number of Australian elections, our airwaves, news sites and social media feeds are filled with political rhetoric.Many of us have come to accept political rhetoric — with its obfuscations, generalisations, exaggerations and outright evasions — as the price of doing business with democratic politics.Is there a meaningful difference anymore between political rhetoric and propaganda? What disciplines and constraints must political rhetoric adopt in order to keep itself free of the propagandistic temptation?

In a thought-provoking conversation, Loira Frascioli, an Associate Professor of political philosophy at the University of Sydney, discusses the potential dangers of Australia's proposed cap on international students. She argues that this policy could harm the quality of education and research, emphasizing universities' reliance on international student fees. Frascioli highlights the broader implications for Australia's economy and societal attitudes towards higher education, advocating for a balanced approach that values international students as integral contributors rather than mere commodities.

Stan Grant, a prominent journalist and author known for his insights into Australian culture and politics, joins Waleed Aly and Scott Stephens for a thought-provoking conversation. They delve into the complexities of social cohesion in Australia, contrasting it with global unrest. The discussion covers the importance of genuine relationships and stable housing in fostering community trust. They also tackle the moral implications of economic inequality and highlight the need for restored human connections in an increasingly divided society.

Explore the complex concept of freedom in American politics, especially at the recent Democratic National Convention. Delve into the tension between personal rights and societal safety, contrasting American and Australian views. Discover how social cooperation can shape true freedom and examine the dual nature of freedoms like gun ownership. Unravel the paradoxes of freedom's history, stressing the balance between individual autonomy and collective responsibility, and find insights in fairy tales, linking labor and self-awareness to genuine freedom.

In this engaging discussion, Coleman Hughes, a thought leader on race and moral philosophy, dives into the nuances of colorblindness and its role in fostering justice. He argues for the merits of seeing individuals beyond racial labels, contrasting this with contemporary anti-racism movements. The conversation also critiques Australia’s recent referendum on Indigenous rights, highlighting the need for authentic dialogue in addressing historical injustices. Hughes emphasizes the importance of open discussions about race for a healthier democratic society.

Dive into the groundbreaking world of a beloved sitcom that redefined comedy! Explore the hilariously selfish dynamics between its four central characters and their satirical take on societal norms. Discover how one character's complexity challenged beauty standards and became a feminist icon. Unpack the absurdity of morality as the characters navigate contemporary interactions, ghosting, and existential struggles. Join the discussion on Jewish comedy's cyclic behavior and the relatable depiction of flaws, all wrapped in humor!

Humour can often be a response to the sense of being ill-at-home in society — perhaps even ill-at-home in the world. But whether it takes the form of fatalism or self-deprecation, all such forms of ironic self-distancing have a sting in the tail.

Shaun Micallef, an award-winning Australian comedian and author, discusses the whimsical world of silliness in comedy. He highlights how exaggerated expressions and absurdity can foster connections between performers and audiences. The conversation dives into the significance of playfulness in social interactions and adulthood, revealing its potential to challenge societal norms. Through examples from popular culture and reflections on humor, Micallef illustrates how embracing silliness allows for a shared joy that can deepen interpersonal relationships.