This Worldview Is TOTALLY EVIL…And It’s Now Mainstream
Added: Oct 12, 2024
In this podcast episode, Ben Shapiro delves into a troubling worldview that he argues has become mainstream in the United States and across the West. He asserts that this perspective is not merely misguided but fundamentally evil, with significant implications for politics and the upcoming 2024 elections. Shapiro emphasizes the need for listeners to engage with this topic, particularly as it relates to the political landscape.
The Influence of Ta-Nehisi Coates
Shapiro focuses on Ta-Nehisi Coates, a prominent author and intellectual figure on the left, who has garnered numerous accolades, including a MacArthur Fellowship and a National Book Award. Coates is often celebrated in media circles, but Shapiro contends that his views are emblematic of a broader, dangerous ideology that has infiltrated the Democratic Party and leftist thought in general. He highlights a recent interview where Coates justified the October attacks on Israel, suggesting that if he were a Palestinian, he might have engaged in violence against Israelis. Shapiro argues that this line of reasoning is not only morally indefensible but also indicative of a worldview that legitimizes violence against perceived oppressors.
Misrepresentation of Facts
Shapiro critiques Coates for distorting facts about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, claiming that Coates misrepresents the situation in Gaza and the treatment of Palestinians. He points out that there are hospitals in Gaza and that many Palestinians have received medical treatment in Israel. He argues that Coates's justification of violence stems from a belief that members of victim classes have the right to retaliate against their oppressors, a notion that he finds deeply troubling. He draws parallels between Coates's ideology and historical figures like Jean-Paul Sartre, who suggested that violence could be justified as a means of expiating colonial sins.
The Broader Implications of Coates's Ideology
Shapiro posits that Coates's worldview extends beyond the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and reflects a broader leftist narrative that categorizes individuals into victim and oppressor classes. He argues that this perspective undermines personal agency, suggesting that individuals from victim classes are absolved of responsibility for their actions. This ideology, according to Shapiro, has permeated various aspects of American society, including academia and media, leading to a dangerous normalization of violence as a response to perceived injustices.
The Political Landscape Ahead of 2024
As the 2024 elections approach, Shapiro emphasizes the importance of recognizing and combating this worldview. He notes that the Republican Party must capitalize on the momentum it currently enjoys in swing states, where polling indicates a potential advantage for Republican candidates. He expresses optimism about the prospects for Republican candidates in key states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Arizona, suggesting that the party could regain control of the Senate.
The Role of Kamala Harris and Barack Obama
Shapiro also discusses the challenges facing Kamala Harris's campaign, highlighting her struggle to connect with black male voters. He critiques Barack Obama’s recent efforts to rally support for Harris, arguing that his approach is condescending and fails to address the real concerns of voters. He points out that Obama’s rhetoric often reduces complex issues to simplistic narratives about race and victimhood, which may alienate potential supporters.
The Economic Context
In addition to the ideological battle, Shapiro touches on the economic implications of the current political climate. He argues that the Democratic Party's policies, particularly those proposed by Harris, are likely to lead to economic stagnation. He contrasts this with the potential economic policies of a Trump administration, which he believes would foster a more business-friendly environment. He warns that the current trajectory of spending and taxation under Democratic leadership could have dire consequences for the economy.
The Media's Role in Shaping Narratives
Shapiro criticizes the mainstream media for its complicity in promoting the victim-oppressor narrative, citing instances where outlets like CBS News have instructed journalists to avoid using the term "terrorism" in relation to attacks on Israel. He argues that this reflects a broader trend of media bias that seeks to downplay or justify violence against perceived oppressors, further entrenching the dangerous ideology he critiques.
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