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cover of episode An Evening with Deborah Frances-White and David Tennant (Part Two)

An Evening with Deborah Frances-White and David Tennant (Part Two)

2025/6/21
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Intelligence Squared
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The discussion explores how the TV show Modern Family subtly influenced public perception of same-sex relationships, leading to increased acceptance of same-sex marriage. The conversation highlights the gradual shift in societal attitudes through media representation, from overt homophobia to normalization.
  • Modern Family's portrayal of a gay couple adopting a child influenced public opinion on same-sex marriage.
  • The show's normalization of same-sex relationships contributed to a significant increase in acceptance.
  • Media representation plays a crucial role in shaping societal attitudes toward sensitive topics.

Shownotes Transcript

Deborah Frances-White is the writer and comedian best known for hosting The Guilty Feminist podcast. David Tennant is the multi-award-winning actor who has played iconic roles including Doctor Who, Hamlet, Barty Crouch Jr., Rivals’ Lord Tony Baddingham and more.

In April 2025 they came to Intelligence Squared to discuss how we can have better and more open conversations on difficult topics. Drawing from her new book Six Conversations We’re Scared to Have, Deborah shared how she grew up in a cult which shut down any dissenting voices. And she made the case that she sees similar tactics being used today in our rapidly changing digital society. Deborah and David discussed the state of freedom of speech, politics in the arts, and the value of critical thinking.

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