
#1783 - Ben Burgis
Ben Burgis is a columnist for Jacobin Magazine, an adjunct philosophy professor at Morehouse College, and the host of the podcast and YouTube show “Give Them An Argument.” He's the author of several books including “Christopher Hitchens: What He Got Right, How He Went Wrong, and Why He Still Matters” and “Canceling Comedians While the World Burns: A Critique of the Contemporary Left.”
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Key Takeaways
Outrage culture drives media ratings and shapes public narratives.
This highlights the role of media in influencing societal issues and perceptions.
Economic inequality is a pressing issue tied to the perception of public services.
Understanding the connection between wages and social services is crucial for addressing inequality.
Public services are crucial and deserve better funding and respect.
Highlighting the value of essential services can shift public perception.
Bureaucracy often leads to distrust in government effectiveness.
Understanding this can help in reforming how services are delivered.
Wealth control influences societal norms and opportunities for the affluent.
This highlights the impact of wealth on power dynamics and societal structure.
Episode Timestamps
Discussion on Media, Socialism, and Economic Inequality
- The conversation examines the impact of media on public perception and outrage.
- Socialism is discussed through the lens of public services and economic inequality.
- The disparity in compensation between teachers and public service workers is highlighted.
Discussion on Bureaucracy and Public Services in America
- The importance of public services like fire departments is emphasized.
- Concerns about government inefficiency and trust in managing public funds arise.
- The idea of public banking through post offices is suggested as a solution.
Critique of Wealth Disparity and Social Inequality in America
- Wealth concentration leads to social control and disparity in opportunities.
- Polarization in politics exacerbates systemic issues and hinders productive dialogue.
- Historical injustices continue to affect impoverished communities and contribute to crime.
Exploring Perspectives on Community and Morality
- The importance of discussing differing perspectives within communities is emphasized.
- Engaging with diverse viewpoints can lead to understanding and personal growth.
- Critique of religious teachings regarding sexuality raises questions about traditional beliefs.
Exploring Religion's Role in Moral Behavior and Society
- The discussion emphasizes the positive aspects of religious traditions in moral scaffolding.
- Respect for religious individuals is highlighted despite personal atheism of the speaker.
- The need for political discussions to resonate with ordinary people's concerns is stressed.
Political Insights and Economic Commentary on Recent Elections
- A podcast guest provided accurate predictions about mail-in voting trends.
- Discussion emphasized the importance of understanding economic disparities in politics.
- Humorous anecdotes illustrated the absurdities of wealth and success in society.
Wealth Disparity and Influence of Trillionaires on Politics
- Trillionaires exist but are often hidden from public view and influence politics.
- Wealth gaps are widening, impacting democracy and political influence.
- Social media platforms amplify extreme political views and silence dissent.
Debate on Censorship and Free Speech in Modern Society
- Discussion centers on the consequences of de-platforming public figures like Milo Yiannopoulos.
- Concerns raised about the impact of corporate censorship on free speech.
- The importance of open debates and critical thinking in education is emphasized.
Importance of Open Discourse and Challenges of Censorship
- The significance of historical debates in shaping today's discourse is emphasized.
- Censorship and filtering of ideas can hinder societal progress and understanding.
- Current cultural and political climates affect the ability to discuss controversial topics.
Social Media's Influence on Political Discourse and Unity
- Social media platforms have significant influence over political opinions and elections.
- The concept of unity in political alternatives is being suppressed by these platforms.
- Discourse is essential for understanding diverse perspectives and fostering unity.
Media Influence on Political Outrage and Public Perception
- Media companies profit from continuous outrage cycles that distract the public.
- Politicians often say what they believe people want to hear for votes.
- Cultural discussions overshadow critical issues like healthcare and foreign policy.
Debate on Transgender Athletes in Women's Sports
- Discussion centers around fairness in competition between biological males and females.
- Exploration of the implications of trans women competing in women's sports.
- Consideration of societal perspectives on gender identity and sports regulations.
Debate on Youth Autonomy and Medical Choices
- Discussion on medical autonomy for youth regarding body modifications like tattoos.
- Emphasis on the importance of compassionate dialogue about complex human issues.
- Critique of political discourse that disregards nuanced views on sensitive topics.
Discussion on Antifa, Fascism, and Political Violence in America
- Antifa is criticized for using street tactics reminiscent of fascist movements.
- The discussion explores the definition and implications of fascism in modern America.
- Concerns are raised about misinformation and the role of vigilante justice.
Exploring the Complexities of Journalism and Activism
- Discussion on the Proud Boys organization and its FBI ties as a key point.
- Debate on the ethics of physically attacking journalists and activists.
- Insight into how perspectives on journalism can create divisive ideologies.
The Impact of Social Media on Human Interaction and Communication
- Social media promotes toxic communication, hindering genuine human interactions.
- Misinterpretations on platforms often lead to public shaming and backlash.
- The addictive nature of social media amplifies polarization and disconnection.
Analyzing Political Allegiances Post-2016 Election
- Discussion explores perceptions of Trump voters and their motivations.
- Comedians serve as a lens to view societal issues and political discourse.
- Critique of symbolic actions versus substantial change in activism.
Comedy and Politics: Navigating Sensitivity and Influence
- Comedians hold limited political power despite influencing public thought.
- Dave Chappelle's special prompts debate on comedy's role in societal issues.
- Cultural moralism can distort perceptions of comedians and their intentions.
Critique of Political Activism at a Leftist Convention
- Discussion highlights the absurdities of political correctness at conventions.
- Focus on the disconnect between activists and general public perceptions.
- Criticism of overly moralistic attitudes among leftist activists.
Discussion on Socialism, U.S. Foreign Policy, and Modern Sensitivities
- The podcast explores the challenges of modern socialism in addressing social issues.
- Participants critique U.S. foreign policy and its implications for global relations.
- The conversation highlights the balance between progressive ideals and practical accommodations.
People Mentioned
Joe Rogan
Media Personality, Podcast Host
Unnamed Guest
Commentator
Unnamed Speaker
Podcaster
Jeff Bezos
CEO of Amazon, Space Entrepreneur, Founder of Amazon, Businessman
Ben Shapiro
Political Commentator
Jordan Peterson
Psychologist, Author, Speaker
Kyle Kalinsky
Political Commentator
Milo Yiannopoulos
Political commentator, Public figure
Bill Maher
Comedian, Political commentator
William F. Buckley
Conservative commentator, author
Gore Vidal
Writer, public intellectual
Rachel Maddow
Television host, political commentator
Anthony Fauci
Immunologist, public health official
Dave Chappelle
Writer, Comedian
Elon Musk
Entrepreneur, Technologist
Blair White
Transgender activist and media personality
Bernie Sanders
Politician
Gavin McGinnis
Founder of Proud Boys
Julian Assange
Journalist, Activist
Wendell Potter
Former health insurance executive, Health care advocate
Speaker not identified
Ben Burgis
Podcast Host, Author
Places Mentioned
Uganda
Country
Congo
Country
Portland
City
Books Mentioned
Canceling Comedians World Burns
Adolph Reed
So You've Been Publicly Shamed
Jon Ronson
Cult Smart
Freddie de Boer
Notable Quotes
"Outrage sells. Unfortunately, that's the world of modern mainstream news."
Discussion on media's profit motive and sensationalism.
"Imagine money get fire put out. Like, think that. Like, house burns down, call fire department."
Explaining the concept of socialism through public services.
"I mean, get...it like would think social services, services community would gladly pay taxes."
Discussing the value of social services and public funding.
"Well, know, like if, example, know, you, like public post office, right?"
Introducing the concept of postal banking as a public service.
"He's literally trying to fuck space."
Discussing Jeff Bezos' approach to space exploration.