New Discourses is a podcast about free speech and removing guilt from that free speech. It challenges the movement called "Critical Social Justice." This is the notion that social justice is actually unjust in its oppressiveness. The podcast describes itself as a place for "political homelessness." In other words, it's a place welcoming everyone, no matter their background. There is no favoritism or political alienation here. Instead, it's a safe space where open dialogue isn't only possible, it's encouraged. It's a forum for direct, unreserved conversations away from the culture war.
One of the topics frequented on the show is fighting wokeness. There's also an emphasis on social-emotional learning (SEL). Other episodes mention satire in the digital age or how social justice silences. The host, James Lindsay, discusses many of the topics through the lens of Marxism. In fact, Lindsay has written several books on the subject. Among his titles as an author, Lindsay is also a mathematician and a conspiracy theorist. He critiques culture both on the podcast and in his New Discourses blog.
New Discourses recognizes that in the age of the internet, there are often restrictions around speech. People might feel unable to share their opinions for fear of judgment from others. This podcast hopes to provide a platform where people never feel that way. It endeavors to inspire honest conversations. Sometimes these will be "new" conversations. That is, the dialogue surrounding events currently happening in the world. Other times, it will encourage analysis of topics and themes from history.
Regardless, New Discourses is all about removing labeling. For example, a conservative person doesn't have to hold only conservative beliefs. A progressive person might say something that isn't strictly "progressive." In doing so, it hopes to eradicate the breakdown of discourse.
This podcast presents theories and ideas that challenge the norm. New Discourses wants to showcase what its title says. When listening, audiences should prepare to have their most ingrained thoughts challenged. For this reason, it's best to be open to accepting new ideas, hearing different opinions, and taking a learning approach.
Episodes