#970 - Bret Weinstein

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Brett Weinstein's Controversy Over Evergreen College's Day of Absence

  • Brett Weinstein discusses the history of the Day of Absence at Evergreen College, originally inspired by a play about racial dynamics.
  • He opposes the reversal of the tradition this year, where white students were asked to stay off campus, highlighting his concerns about racial exclusivity.
  • Weinstein reflects on the backlash he faced for his response letter, which labeled him as a racist despite his anti-racist stance.
• 00:10:45

  The Erosion of Academic Freedom at Evergreen - Insights from Faculty Stakeholders

  • Weinstein observes a divide between internal college discussions and external public perceptions, noting a descent into ideological madness.
  • He emphasizes the unique pedagogical freedom at Evergreen College and expresses concern over potential changes threatening its educational values.
  • Weinstein critiques the administration's handling of the situation, citing a bizarre dynamic during a public address by President George Bridges.
• 00:14:34

  Evergreen College Protests: George's Struggle Against Microaggressions

  • George faces scrutiny from protesters over his hand gestures, perceived as microaggressions.
  • The culture at Evergreen College allows the faculty to govern, but George's policies are met with resistance.
  • George’s attempts to alter unique educational programs are seen as a significant error by the faculty.
• 00:22:19

  Controversial Equity Policies at Evergreen: A Threat to Faculty and Diversity

  • Proposals for hiring requirements to be racially equity-enhancing spark concern among faculty.
  • The strategic equity plan suggests prioritizing race over merit, complicating hiring for specialized roles.
  • The dynamic of allyship and the redefining of equity raises alarms about true intentions and inclusivity.
• 00:28:33

  Evergreen Protests: The College President's Hand Movements Under Fire

  • College president faced backlash from protesters, including people of color, regarding how he should present himself.
  • Protests highlight a divide within the student body, with many students of color feeling disengaged from the actions taken in their name.
  • Discussion on the challenges of addressing mob mentality and bullying tactics used by protesters against those who oppose them.
• 00:36:32

  Hostage-like Situations: College Administration and Police Stand Down

  • Protesters allegedly searched for the college president during protests, with police instructed to remain passive.
  • The president faced extreme pressure from protesters, including being escorted even for private actions, leading to accusations of kidnapping.
  • Critique of the administration's role in allowing a militant ideology to flourish on campus, with a dangerous precedent being set for future protests.
• 00:42:09

  James Damore Questions Racial Dynamics in Academia and Calls Out Campus Racism

  • James Damore criticizes the notion of racial superiority and the dangers of perpetuating a cycle of oppression, emphasizing that it is inherently racist.
  • He highlights the conflict between scientific disciplines and postmodern views that regard scientific methods as oppressive.
  • Damore argues that current campus hostilities hinder critical discussions, particularly around race and inequality, which ultimately disempower marginalized groups.
• 00:54:13

  The Evergreen State College Crisis: Leadership Accountability and Calls for Scientific Integrity

  • Damore advocates for the resignation of the college president, claiming accountability is essential for restoring order after turmoil on campus.
  • He discusses the historical reluctance of academic institutions to engage in serious debate over ideologies, leading to the rise of ideological mobs.
  • The conversation emphasizes the urgency of equipping students with scientific reasoning to understand and address societal issues, rather than succumbing to emotionally charged ideologies.
• 00:56:15

  George Bridges Faces Pressure to Resign Amid Faculty and Community Uproar

  • George Bridges, Evergreen State College's president, is urged to step down for his handling of ongoing controversies.
  • Faculty members express fear and anxiety, feeling misrepresented and under threat due to their association with the administration.
  • Stacey Brown, chief of police, faces intense backlash and personal attacks after being portrayed negatively despite her commitment to community policing.
• 01:07:33

  Humanity's Evolutionary Response to Unity Against Common Threats Highlighted

  • The conversation explores human evolutionary tendencies towards violence and mob behavior when facing perceived threats.
  • Ronald Reagan's notion of unity against a common enemy is invoked, emphasizing potential collaboration on global issues such as climate change.
  • The importance of recognizing shared humanity and combating systemic issues instead of turning against each other is stressed as vital for survival.
• 01:13:47

  The Perils of Trump's Climate Denial: Concerns from Coal Miners

  • Discussion of Trump's climate change policies and the appointment of dangerous advisors.
  • Coal miners express disillusionment with the return to coal policies amidst climate change skepticism.
  • Acknowledgment of the urgent need for action on sustainability and waste management.
• 01:56:12

  Revolutionary Change Without Revolution: Navigating Systemic Barriers

  • The complexities of reforming a system entrenched in cronyism and special interests.
  • Collaborative efforts of experts seeking to identify technological solutions that replace harmful practices.
  • Concerns about emergent structures that resist change and the implications for political candidates like Bernie Sanders.
• 01:13:47

  Nuclear Waste and Its Risks: Insights from the Shadows of Fukushima and Chernobyl

  • The dangers of nuclear power exemplified by historical accidents like Fukushima and Chernobyl.
  • Discussion on the implications of nuclear waste management and the failure to address its long-term risks.
  • Advocates for urgent investment in alternative energy solutions like fusion power to mitigate climate change and manage waste.
• 01:56:12

  Understanding Evil through Evolution: Lessons from Hitler and Human Behavior

  • Analyzes Adolf Hitler's actions through the lens of evolutionary biology, revealing a rational yet monstrous strategy.
  • Explores the concept of the naturalistic fallacy, indicating that not all evolutionary truths equate to moral acceptability.
  • Encourages open intellectual discourse on taboo subjects to better understand human behavior and prevent atrocities.
• 01:36:02

  Brett Weinstein's Struggle at Evergreen State University Amidst Student Protests

  • Brett Weinstein discusses his engagement with students on evolutionary theory despite intense campus unrest.
  • He includes a growing number of students in his program, meeting outdoors due to safety concerns on campus.
  • Weinstein reflects on the difficulties of returning to his position amidst potential safety threats and ideological conflicts.
• 01:45:41

  Confrontation at Evergreen: The Fallout from Brett Weinstein's Media Engagement

  • Weinstein recounts the critical response to his appearance on Fox News and accusations from fellow faculty members.
  • A faculty letter acknowledges responsibility for the actions of students and demands changes reflecting their protests.
  • Discussions reveal a growing ideological division within the faculty about addressing student protests and accusations of racism.
• 01:09:32

  Bret Weinstein Faces Backlash at Evergreen State University for Speaking Out Against Racism

  • Bret Weinstein is accused of endangering faculty and students by disseminating misinformation about campus events.
  • Disciplinary investigations are being pursued against Weinstein based on claims of inciting white supremacist backlash.
  • The campus environment is described as threatening, with recent threats reported against individuals.
• 01:20:54

  Accusations of Racism and the Controversial Culture at Evergreen State University

  • A faculty member publicly accuses Weinstein of being part of a racist backlash against equity proposals.
  • Weinstein argues that there is no proper venue for him to defend himself against these accusations.
  • The discussion reflects a broader concern about a 'cult-like' atmosphere among faculty regarding issues of race and institutional accountability.
• 01:13:47

  Accusations of Racism: A Fight for Equality with Faculty Members at College

  • Discussion of racism accusations stemming from a media professor's documentary program.
  • A student's request for emails raises concerns about defending against unfounded accusations.
  • The college's administration remains silent on the issue, leading to a perception of bias and inequity.
• 01:56:12

  The Insidious Effect of Postmodern Ideologies on College Students and Faculty

  • Debate on the dangers of postmodern disciplines shaping student beliefs without logic.
  • Concerns raised about professors instilling radical ideas leading to a breakdown in civil rights principles.
  • Hope expressed for forming coalitions among diverse groups united against these preposterous ideologies.
• 01:13:47

  Brett Weinstein's Fight Against University Policies: A Call for Alternative Education

  • Brett Weinstein discusses challenges with university policies and diversity training.
  • Critiques the effectiveness and logic of compulsory anti-racist seminars.
  • Explores the potential of launching new media educational platforms outside traditional college structures.
• 01:56:12

  Navigating Controversy: Brett Weinstein's Vision for a New Educational Approach

  • Weinstein reflects on the growing tensions and slander faced within academic environments.
  • Highlights the possible transition away from traditional universities in favor of independent education.
  • Mentions support from others in the academic community for innovative educational initiatives outside the mainstream system.