#1595 - Ira Glasser
Ira Glasser is a former director of the American Civil Liberties Union and a lifelong defender of every citizen's right to free speech. He is the subject of the 2020 documentary "Mighty Ira", available now on streaming video.
Related Episodes
Categories
Key Takeaways
Social media platforms function both as publishers and utilities.
This dual role complicates the implementation of free speech protections.
The evolution of free speech has historical parallels with the printing press.
Understanding this evolution can inform current debates on digital expression.
The digital landscape has drastically increased audience reach for ordinary individuals.
This democratization of speech contrasts with historical gatekeeping by traditional media.
Regulating speech through government power raises concerns about potential abuses.
Historical examples demonstrate that such regulations often lead to suppression of dissenting voices.
The belief in election fraud reflects deeper societal divisions.
Understanding this belief is crucial for addressing the polarization in politics.
Episode Timestamps
Debating Free Speech in the Era of Social Media
- Social media platforms are grappling with free speech and censorship issues.
- The comparison of social media to traditional publishers raises complex debates.
- Historical context suggests that free expression online is still evolving.
Discussing the Challenges of Free Speech in the Digital Age
- Free speech dynamics have shifted with the rise of social media platforms.
- Corporations possess significant power over public discourse and speech regulation.
- Historical precedents illustrate the complexity of regulating speech without bias.
Exploring Free Speech and Civil Liberties in Modern America
- Many Republicans believe elections are fraudulent, raising concerns about free speech.
- Banning 'ugly speech' could lead to loss of civil liberties.
- Historical examples illustrate the dangers of government controlling speech.
Discussion on Incitement and Free Speech in Politics
- Incitement to violence is a complex legal issue under the First Amendment.
- Trump's rhetoric is scrutinized for its potential to incite violence at the Capitol.
- Historical context shows the dangers of broadening definitions of incitement.
The Importance of Free Speech in Combating Hate Speech
- Free speech is essential for democracy, despite its potential for hate speech.
- Government censorship of speech can lead to dangerous precedents and loss of rights.
- Organizing and voting are effective ways to counteract hate groups without censorship.
Political Polarization and the Dangers of Demonization
- Polarization in politics leads to viewing opponents as enemies and risks democracy.
- The January 6th Capitol attack reflects deep-seated anger and division in America.
- Discussions about Trump's supporters reveal complexities beyond simple labels of bigotry.
How Political Strategies Have Alienated Working-Class Voters
- Democrats have distanced themselves from working-class issues since Bill Clinton's era.
- Social media has intensified political polarization and created echo chambers.
- The importance of addressing economic concerns alongside social justice issues is emphasized.
Exploring Division and Dialogue in Modern Society
- Social media has intensified divisions, leading to ongoing societal struggles.
- The importance of civil discourse and understanding differing viewpoints is emphasized.
- Historical lessons remind us of the dangers of polarization and the need for unity.
Historical Lessons on Freedom and Social Justice
- The rise of authoritarianism in Germany led to significant social changes.
- Civil liberties and free speech are vital for social justice movements.
- Progress towards justice is a long-term commitment requiring generational effort.
People Mentioned
Joe Rogan
Podcast Host
Ira
Guest
James Meredith
Civil Rights Figure
Benjamin Spock
Pediatrician and Author
Trump
Former President
Josea Williams
Civil Rights Advocate
Ira Glasser
Former Executive Director of the ACLU
Ben Stern
Holocaust Survivor, Activist, Holocaust survivor, Advocate for free speech
Stacey Abrams
Political Activist
Kamala Harris
Vice President
Joe Biden
President
Bill Clinton
Former U.S. President
Bernie Sanders
U.S. Senator
Bill Buckley
Political commentator, Public intellectual
Martin Luther King Jr.
Civil Rights Leader
John Lewis
Civil Rights Activist
Places Mentioned
Skokie, Illinois
City known for free speech case.
New York City
City
Notable Quotes
"Facebook Twitter claim platforms like telephone company anybody use conversations."
Discussing the role of social media in public discourse.
"We're right beginning internet speech medium, hard say."
Reflecting on the infancy of internet communication.
"I'm worried ordinary people. I'm worried people like you, people, know, something say, freedom get say closet."
Expressing concern about the suppression of ordinary voices in free speech.
"Suppression never worked."
Commenting on the ineffectiveness of silencing speech.
"First instinct wanted to take club beat head."
Discussing initial reactions to hate speech and extremism.