On Bombshells podcast, with Fleur Elisabeth and Amy Shepard
Nationalism and the Culture Wars podcast
Deep Dive
Why did Eric Kaufmann establish the Centre for Heterodox Social Science?
Eric Kaufmann established the Centre for Heterodox Social Science to create a space where academics could investigate questions that are often ignored or censored in mainstream academia due to ideological biases. He observed that social sciences are dominated by left-leaning perspectives (75% left, 5-10% right), which stifles conservative viewpoints and limits intellectual freedom. The center aims to explore topics like systemic discrimination, racial and gender disparities, and other 'off-piste' areas that are often avoided in traditional academic settings.
What demographic changes are shaping politics in Western nations according to Eric Kaufmann?
Eric Kaufmann highlights that Western nations are experiencing significant ethnic shifts, with white majorities declining due to immigration and differing birth rates. For example, the U.S. was 85% non-Hispanic white in 1960 but is now around 60%. Similar trends are observed in Canada, Australia, and Europe. By 2050, North America and Australasia are projected to be around 50% white. These changes are causing political polarization, with some viewing diversity as exciting and others as a loss, leading to support for populist right-wing movements.
How does Eric Kaufmann view the impact of multiculturalism on society?
Eric Kaufmann distinguishes between multiculturalism as a celebration of differences and assimilation as emphasizing commonalities. He argues that multiculturalism, as practiced in academia and woke ideology, focuses on highlighting differences, which can lead to societal fragmentation. He believes that too much diversity can reduce trust and hinder economic development. Kaufmann advocates for a balance, suggesting that assimilation over generations can help integrate diverse populations more effectively.
What is Eric Kaufmann's perspective on the role of women in enforcing woke orthodoxy?
Eric Kaufmann suggests that women are more likely to conform to societal norms, including woke orthodoxy, due to a biological and psychological tendency to seek community acceptance. He notes that women are more empathetic, but this empathy is directed by ideological narratives, such as supporting transgender rights or DEI initiatives. Kaufmann argues that this conformity is driven by a fear of social exclusion, which is more pronounced among women than men.
How does Eric Kaufmann explain the political gender gap among young people?
Eric Kaufmann points out that there is a significant political gender gap among young people, with young women being much more left-leaning than young men. For example, in Canada, 50% of males under 25 vote for the right, compared to only 25% of females. He attributes this gap to women's greater tendency to conform to communal norms and elite-driven ideologies, such as DEI and trans-affirming policies. This trend has been widening since the 2010s and is observed across Western nations.
What does Eric Kaufmann say about the impact of immigration on Canadian politics?
Eric Kaufmann notes that Canada has experienced a surge in immigration, leading to significant social and economic challenges, such as rising housing costs and falling GDP per capita. He criticizes the Liberal Party for allowing immigration to get 'completely out of control' and highlights that even the Conservative Party has been reluctant to address the issue due to fears of being labeled as unseemly. Kaufmann predicts that the backlash against high immigration levels will eventually lead to a populist breakthrough in Canadian politics.
How does Eric Kaufmann view the future of conservatism in Britain?
Eric Kaufmann believes that the Conservative Party in Britain is out of alignment with its base, particularly on issues like immigration. He predicts that the rise of Reform UK, a populist right-wing party, could challenge the Conservatives, especially if they fail to address voter concerns. Kaufmann suggests that the Conservative Party needs to embrace a more national populist agenda to regain support, as the current liberal conservative approach is leading to voter disillusionment.
What is Eric Kaufmann's opinion on the role of humor in combating woke ideology?
Eric Kaufmann acknowledges that humor can be a useful tool in mocking woke excesses, but he argues that it is not enough to bring about lasting change. He believes that institutional reforms, such as abolishing DEI departments and promoting free speech, are necessary to counter woke ideology effectively. Kaufmann warns that while humor can help survive the 'nonsense,' it must be accompanied by sustained institutional pressure to create meaningful change.
- Establishment of the Eric Kaufmann Centre for Heterodox Social Science at the University of Buckingham
- Overwhelming left-leaning bias in social sciences (75% left, 5-10% right)
- Need for academic freedom and investigation of alternative explanations for social disparities
Shownotes Transcript