In this conversation, Ralph Schoellhammer and Konstantin Kisin explore the intricate relationship between humour, governance, and freedom. They discuss how a government’s attitude towards mockery and humour can reflect its effectiveness, the impact of #technology on #freespeech , and the decline of trust in institutions post-COVID. The dialogue also delves into historical narratives, the complexities of the #Israel–#Palestine conflict, and the rise of reactionary politics, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of power dynamics and the dangers of rewriting history.
Takeaways:
– Governments that embrace humour may govern more effectively.
– The trend towards less freedom is concerning.
– Technology has transformed how we perceive free speech.
– Trust in individuals is often greater than trust in government.
– Life’s unfairness is an inevitable reality.
– Historical context is crucial for understanding current conflicts.
– COVID has significantly shifted public trust in government.
– Mortality influences our relationship with authority.
– The past must be acknowledged but not allowed to hinder progress.
– Both political extremes are increasingly dismissive of truth.
Washington or Beijing and Moscow? In a bipolar world, this is the only choice Europe faces