Added: Dec 1, 2023
In this podcast episode, Carl Benjamin discusses his views on morality, ideology, and the impact of immigration on the UK. He begins by expressing his belief that morality is sentimental and based on how we feel about what has happened, rather than being a rational calculus based on logical principles. He argues that morality is located in the connection between two people and is a sentimental bond, rather than an abstract concept. He also criticizes the shallow and disconnected nature of modern discourse, which he believes is overly rational and lacks depth.Benjamin then delves into his political views, identifying himself as a traditionalist rather than a conservative. He expresses his skepticism towards ideologies, particularly libertarianism, and argues that ideologies can give people a false sense of moral superiority. He believes that morality is not just in the intent, but also in the actions and consequences that individuals bring about.
The conversation then shifts to the role of religion in society. Benjamin discusses the decline of religious belief in the UK and its potential impact on morality and societal values. He acknowledges the positive influence of Christianity on Western societies and expresses sympathy towards Christians, while also criticizing the persecution of Christians in the UK.
The discussion then turns to the impact of immigration on the UK, particularly in the southwest where Benjamin resides. He describes the strain that immigration has placed on the country's infrastructure, healthcare system, and social fabric. He highlights the overcrowding, strain on public services, and the decline of town centers due to immigration. He also describes how the influx of people from different cultures, languages, and religions has led to a sense of alienation and disconnection among the native population. Benjamin expresses concern about the lack of integration and the impact of mass immigration on the cultural and social fabric of the UK.
He also discusses the historical context of immigration in the UK, highlighting the relatively recent influx of immigrants in the 20th century. He emphasizes the lack of preparation and understanding of the cultural and societal implications of mass immigration, particularly in a country with a long history and ancient traditions.
The conversation then shifts to Benjamin's critique of liberalism and its failure to understand tribalism. He argues that liberalism promotes the idea of a universal human with individual rights, but fails to recognize the diversity of cultures, languages, and beliefs that exist in the world. He points out that the imposition of liberal values on non-Western societies, such as in Iraq and Afghanistan, has led to conflicts and instability, as these societies do not share the same cultural and political traditions as the Western world.
He also shares his journey of transitioning from being a liberal to questioning the principles of liberalism. He discusses how the concept of individualism is a form of tribalism in itself, and that people are inherently tribal in their beliefs and values. He criticizes the arrogance of liberalism in assuming that everyone should adopt Western values and ideologies, without understanding the cultural and historical context of different societies.
The conversation touches on the challenges of navigating platforms like YouTube, where Benjamin's channel was demonetized due to a controversial joke about a politician. He expresses his frustration with the platform's censorship and bias, and discusses his decision to prioritize other platforms, such as Rumble, for sharing his content.
Benjamin explains that YouTube's editorial policies have implications for legal liability, and he suggests that legal action could prompt YouTube to reconsider its guidelines. He also emphasizes the need for individuals to be cautious about the content they upload to the platform, as YouTube's policies can have significant consequences.
The conversation then shifts to the concept of tradition, with Benjamin expressing his views as a traditionalist. He explains that tradition is not an ideology, but rather a result of the actions of many people over time. He emphasizes the organic and evolving nature of traditions, using the example of the coronation ceremony in Britain to illustrate how traditions can vary across different cultures. Benjamin also discusses the importance of humility and the need to recognize the interconnectedness of individuals within a society.
The discussion then turns to the topic of personal beliefs and the process of changing one's views. Benjamin shares his own experience of transitioning from a more liberal perspective to a more open-minded approach. He describes the process as a gradual shift in his thinking, influenced by a desire to be more humble and to focus on the immediate personal level. He also reflects on the impact of ideology and the need to separate core moral sentiments from the influence of ideological frameworks.
The conversation takes a more serious turn as the hosts and Benjamin delve into the issue of assisted death, particularly in the context of the Canadian healthcare system. Benjamin expresses his concerns about the potential dangers of allowing assisted death, especially for individuals who may be young and mentally ill. He highlights the ethical and moral implications of such practices, emphasizing the impact on individuals and their relationships with others. The discussion also touches on the cultural and societal messaging surrounding assisted death, and the need for a more wholesome and positive cultural influence.
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