Can We Save Liberalism? Helen Pluckrose on the Fight for Reason

Awake at the Wheel | Ep 87

In this conversation, Helen Pluckrose discusses her journey as a liberal humanist, her involvement in the Grievance Studies Affair, and the implications of social justice movements. She reflects on the evolution of liberalism, the challenges posed by critical social justice theories, and the backlash against her work. Pluckrose shares her personal experiences with public scrutiny and character assassination, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and understanding in a polarized political climate. In this conversation, Helen Pluckrose discusses the challenges posed by authoritarianism and cancel culture, particularly in the context of critical social justice movements. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining principles against censorship and the need for organizations to navigate these ideologies effectively. Pluckrose also addresses the debate surrounding indigenous knowledge in psychology, advocating for evidence-based practices while respecting cultural perspectives. She provides strategies for individuals to challenge woke ideologies in their workplaces and encourages a respectful approach to differing beliefs. Ultimately, she highlights the importance of solidarity and the potential for change within organizations.

Read Cynical Theories: https://a.co/d/3lVtizL
Read Social (in)justice: https://a.co/d/0hhniQ3
Read The Counterweight Handbook: https://a.co/d/1SbWsu8

Takeaways
-Helen Pluckrose is a liberal humanist focused on individual liberty.
-The definition of liberalism has shifted significantly over time.
-Critical social justice movements have both positive and negative aspects.
-The Grievance Studies Affair aimed to expose flaws in academic publishing.
-Public backlash can have severe personal consequences for individuals.
-Support from close friends is crucial during public scrutiny.
-It's important to recognize when arguments are not made in good faith.
-Maintaining a strong sense of self is vital in the face of criticism.
-Engaging in dialogue across divides is essential for understanding.
-Pluckrose is currently writing on Substack about anti-woke backlash. Counter authoritarianism that punishes and cancels individuals.
-Prioritize humanitarian fields in addressing critical social justice issues.
-Decolonizing knowledge must respect evidence-based practices.
-Scientific approaches are universally applicable, regardless of identity.
-Being a polite nuisance can effectively challenge workplace ideologies.
-Avoid engaging in the critical social justice economy of arguments.
-There are always options to push back against toxic environments.
-Do not contribute to preference falsification in organizations.
-Strength lies in numbers; find like-minded individuals.
-Respectful disagreement can lead to constructive dialogue.

Sound Bites
"I think we've become increasingly illiberal."
"We need words for that."
"The shift towards the critical social justice movement..."
"This was making some strides."
"I think we did make some headway there."
"Don't let other people's projections define you."
"I'm mostly now writing on Substack."
"This is the good thing about the scientific approach."
"Make a nuisance of yourself in a ver

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