JRE #1848 – Francis Foster & Konstantin Kisin

This podcast episode dives deep into conversations surrounding free speech, identity politics, and the complexities of navigating these issues in today’s world. It features Francis Foster and Konstantin Kisin, hosts of the free speech podcast “TRIGGERnometry.” The episode delves into personal experiences, societal anxieties, and cultural observations, highlighting the tension between individual freedoms and the potential for societal divisions.

Key Topics & Summary

Here’s a breakdown of the major topics discussed in the podcast:

1. The Rise of Podcasting in the UK: Foster notes how podcasting exploded in popularity during the COVID pandemic, particularly among comedians who were forced off the live comedy circuit. He argues that the UK, similar to the US, is following a trend in cultural shifts, often with a delay of several years.
   • The podcasting boom was fueled by the limitations of traditional media.
   • The pandemic created a space for alternative forms of entertainment and discussion.
   • The UK, like the US, is experiencing cultural trends, often with a delay.
   • This delay highlights the interconnectedness of global cultural movements.
2. The Power of American Culture and Outrage: Kisin observes the disproportionate outrage surrounding American cultural issues compared to similar issues in other countries. He cites examples like the BLM protests in the UK, where protesters chanted “hands up, don’t shoot” despite the lack of police guns.
   • The influence of American culture is pervasive, affecting global discourse and reactions.
   • The outrage over certain issues, like BLM, often outweighs the response to equally serious situations, like Saudi Arabia’s human rights violations.
   • This imbalance in outrage can lead to a skewed sense of priorities and an inability to address issues with appropriate intensity.
   • Kisin suggests that this phenomenon stems from the “powerful” and “unbalanced” nature of American culture.
3. The Hypocrisy of Outrage and the “Punch Up” Mentality: The discussion delves into the selective nature of outrage, particularly concerning the Catholic Church’s pedophilia scandals and the grooming gangs in the UK. They observe that while Epstein’s crimes generated considerable outrage, the Catholic Church’s systemic abuse often receives less public condemnation.
   • The podcast examines the double standards in public outrage, highlighting hypocrisy and selective attention.
   • They discuss how the “punch up” mentality, where criticizing powerful institutions is seen as acceptable, can silence criticism of less powerful groups, like those involved in the UK grooming gangs.
   • This selective outrage can perpetuate harmful silence and hinder the pursuit of justice.
   • The discussion raises questions about the ethical and societal implications of this phenomenon.
4. The Dangers of Identity Politics and the Bigotry of Low Expectations: Foster, drawing on his experience as a teacher, criticizes the progressive movement’s tendency to lower expectations for certain groups, particularly boys, under the guise of inclusivity. He argues that this approach undermines individual potential and perpetuates harmful stereotypes.
   • The podcast critiques the idea that identity politics fosters equality when it actually can lead to a bigotry of low expectations.
   • Foster argues that focusing on individual merits and judging people based on their character, rather than their identity group, is essential for achieving true equality.
   • He discusses how the “bigotry of low expectations” can hinder individuals from reaching their full potential.
   • The conversation calls for a return to MLK’s vision of judging individuals by the content of their character.
5. The Role of Teachers and the Importance of Discipline: Foster highlights the critical role of teachers in shaping the future generation. He emphasizes the importance of discipline and hard work, arguing that while talent is valuable, it is often outweighed by the dedication to effort.
   • The discussion elevates the importance of teachers in nurturing individual potential and shaping future generations.
   • Foster emphasizes that discipline, perseverance, and hard work are essential for achieving success, even more so than innate talent.
   • He highlights the irony of undervaluing the profession of teaching, which is crucial for shaping society’s future.
   • The conversation underscores the vital role of education in fostering a better future for individuals and society.
6. The Nuances of Joke Writing and the Importance of Authenticity: Foster, discussing his experience teaching comedy, emphasizes the importance of finding humor in one’s own experiences and perspectives. He advocates for original and authentic joke writing, suggesting that relying on pre-existing tropes or trends often leads to stale and uninspired comedy.
   • The podcast delves into the craft of joke writing, highlighting the importance of originality and authenticity.
   • Foster emphasizes that finding humor in one’s own lived experiences and perspectives is crucial for creating compelling and relatable comedy.
   • He suggests that relying on pre-existing tropes or trends can stifle creativity and lead to uninspired comedy.
   • The discussion underscores the power of self-expression and authenticity in comedy.
7. The Rise of Censorship and Self-Censorship in Comedy: Foster and Kisin discuss how the comedy scene in the UK has become increasingly restrictive, with comedians feeling pressure to conform to certain ideologies and avoid certain topics. They highlight the dangers of self-censorship and the stifling effect it has on creativity.
   • The podcast explores the growing trend of censorship and self-censorship within the UK comedy scene.
   • They discuss how the fear of backlash or being labeled “problematic” can lead comedians to shy away from certain topics or tones.
   • The discussion highlights the detrimental effect of this censorship on creativity and the free flow of ideas.
   • They argue that the pressure to conform stifles the boldness and originality often associated with good comedy.
8. The “Crabs in a Bucket” Mentality and the Limits of Diversity: The conversation explores the competitive nature of the comedy industry, where comedians often view each other as rivals rather than collaborators. They argue that this “crabs in a bucket” mentality hinders collective growth and creativity. Additionally, they critique the notion of diversity quotas, suggesting that true diversity requires a range of perspectives, not just different faces saying the same thing.
   • The podcast highlights the “crabs in a bucket” mentality prevalent in the comedy industry, where success is viewed as a zero-sum game.
   • They argue that this competitive atmosphere stifles collaboration and hinders the collective growth of the industry.
   • The conversation critiques diversity quotas, arguing that true diversity requires a range of perspectives and opinions, not just different demographics echoing the same ideas.
   • They emphasize the importance of fostering a supportive and collaborative environment for comedians to thrive.
9. The “Woke” Movement as a New Religion: Foster and Kisin draw parallels between the current progressive movement and religious dogma, suggesting that it operates with a set of unquestionable beliefs and a tendency to silence dissent. They argue that this approach is ultimately harmful to society and can lead to the suppression of critical thinking.
   • The podcast explores the “woke” movement’s similarities to religious dogma, suggesting that it operates with a set of unquestionable beliefs and a tendency to silence dissent.
   • They argue that this approach is ultimately harmful to society, stifling critical thinking and fostering a culture of conformity.
   • They compare this phenomenon to past societal movements that were restrictive and ultimately harmful.
   • The discussion raises concerns about the implications of this movement for individual freedom and societal progress.
10. The Role of Technology and the Dangers of Authoritarianism: Kisin highlights the role of technology in driving societal change, both positive and negative. He acknowledges that technology can facilitate positive changes, like transgender transitions, but also warns of the dangers of unchecked technological power, particularly in the hands of authoritarian regimes.
    • The podcast examines the complex relationship between technology and societal change, highlighting both opportunities and risks.
    • Kisin acknowledges the potential for technology to empower individuals, but also warns about the dangers of its misuse, especially by authoritarian regimes.
    • He discusses how technological advancements can be used to suppress dissent and control information flow, creating a dangerous environment for individual freedom.
    • The conversation underscores the importance of navigating technological advancements with ethical considerations and safeguarding individual freedoms.
11. The Erosion of Western Values and the Rise of Authoritarianism: Both Foster and Kisin express concern about the erosion of Western values, particularly free speech and individual liberty. They observe a trend towards authoritarianism, both in the UK and globally, and highlight the importance of resisting this trend to protect the core principles of Western civilization.
    • The podcast highlights the concern surrounding the erosion of Western values like free speech and individual liberty.
    • They observe a growing trend towards authoritarianism, both in the UK and globally, and emphasize the importance of resisting this trend.
    • They argue that protecting these values is crucial for safeguarding Western civilization and its contributions to the world.
    • The discussion emphasizes the responsibility of individuals and institutions to actively defend these values against encroaching authoritarianism.
12. The Dangers of Simple Solutions and the Importance of Nuance: The podcast emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the complexity of societal problems and resisting the temptation to seek simple solutions. They argue that nuanced approaches are necessary to address complex issues, and that simplistic solutions can often be harmful and counterproductive.
    • The podcast emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the complexity of societal problems and resisting the temptation to seek simplistic solutions.
    • They argue that nuanced approaches are necessary to address complex issues, and that simplistic solutions can often be harmful and counterproductive.
    • They caution against the allure of easy answers and the potential for these solutions to exacerbate existing problems.
    • The discussion underscores the importance of critical thinking, open dialogue, and recognizing the complexities of societal issues.
13. The “Mind Virus” of Ideology and the Cancer of Authoritarianism: Kisin uses the metaphor of a “mind virus” or “cancer” to describe the harmful effects of ideology, particularly in the context of authoritarianism. He argues that these ideologies can infect institutions and individuals, corrupting their values and hindering their ability to function effectively.
    • The podcast uses the metaphor of a “mind virus” or “cancer” to describe the harmful effects of ideology in the context of authoritarianism.
    • Kisin argues that ideologies, particularly those associated with authoritarianism, can infect individuals and institutions, corrupting their values and hindering their ability to function effectively.
    • He compares this phenomenon to a cancer that spreads and weakens the body, ultimately leading to dysfunction and decay.
    • The discussion emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and resisting the seductive power of ideologies that promote conformity and stifle dissent.
14. The Power of Truth and the Importance of Open Dialogue: The podcast emphasizes the ultimate power of truth and the importance of open dialogue in resisting the spread of misinformation and harmful ideologies. They argue that fostering a culture of honest debate and critical thinking is essential for countering the forces of censorship and authoritarianism.
    • The podcast emphasizes the ultimate power of truth and the importance of open dialogue in resisting the spread of misinformation and harmful ideologies.
    • They argue that fostering a culture of honest debate and critical thinking is essential for countering the forces of censorship and authoritarianism.
    • They highlight the importance of challenging ideas, even those that are uncomfortable or controversial, to ensure the free flow of information and protect individual freedoms.
    • The discussion underscores the importance of engaging in open and honest dialogue as a vital safeguard against the erosion of truth and the rise of authoritarianism.
15. The Future of the West and the Importance of Individual Freedoms: Foster and Kisin express deep concern about the future of Western civilization, particularly in light of the encroaching authoritarianism and the erosion of core values like free speech. They emphasize the importance of defending these values and actively resisting the forces that threaten them.
    • The podcast expresses deep concern about the future of Western civilization, particularly in light of the encroaching authoritarianism and the erosion of core values like free speech.
    • They emphasize the importance of defending these values and actively resisting the forces that threaten them.
    • They argue that the West’s future depends on a commitment to individual freedoms, open dialogue, and the pursuit of truth.
    • The discussion calls for a renewed dedication to the core principles that have defined Western civilization and its contributions to the world.
16. The Power of Gratitude and the Importance of Community: The podcast highlights the importance of gratitude, both as a personal practice and as a force for positive change in society. They emphasize the interconnectedness of human beings and the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences and fostering a sense of community.
    • The podcast highlights the importance of gratitude, both as a personal practice and as a force for positive change in society.
    • They emphasize the interconnectedness of human beings and the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences and fostering a sense of community.
    • They argue that gratitude can be a powerful antidote to negativity and a catalyst for personal growth and positive change.
    • The discussion underscores the importance of fostering a supportive and collaborative community for individuals to thrive.
17. The “Western Privilege” and the Need for Perspective: The podcast explores the concept of “Western privilege” and the need for individuals to develop a broader global perspective. They argue that often, people in the West take for granted basic amenities and freedoms that are not readily available in other parts of the world. This lack of perspective can lead to a distorted view of the world and an inability to empathize with those facing hardship.
    • The podcast explores the concept of “Western privilege” and the need for individuals to develop a broader global perspective.
    • They argue that often, people in the West take for granted basic amenities and freedoms that are not readily available in other parts of the world.
    • This lack of perspective can lead to a distorted view of the world and an inability to empathize with those facing hardship.
    • The discussion encourages individuals to cultivate a broader global understanding and recognize the challenges faced by those outside of the Western world.
18. The Dangers of “Nice” and the Importance of Courage: The podcast criticizes the idea of “nice” as a means of silencing dissent and promoting conformity. They argue that true kindness requires courage and the willingness to challenge harmful ideologies, even when it is uncomfortable or socially unacceptable.
    • The podcast critiques the idea of “nice” as a means of silencing dissent and promoting conformity.
    • They argue that true kindness requires courage and the willingness to challenge harmful ideologies, even when it is uncomfortable or socially unacceptable.
    • They highlight the dangers of using “kindness” as a tool for manipulation and control, ultimately hindering progress and perpetuating harmful beliefs.
    • The discussion emphasizes the importance of courage in challenging the status quo and defending what is right, even when it is unpopular.
19. The “Third Rail” Topic of Transgender Issues: Foster and Kisin discuss the highly sensitive and controversial topic of transgender issues. They acknowledge the real experiences of those struggling with gender dysphoria but also express concern about the movement’s tendency to deny basic biological realities and potentially harm children.
    • The podcast tackles the highly sensitive and controversial topic of transgender issues.
    • They acknowledge the real experiences of those struggling with gender dysphoria but also express concern about the movement’s tendency to deny basic biological realities.
    • They raise questions about the potential harm to children who are encouraged to make life-altering decisions before fully understanding the consequences.
    • The discussion highlights the complexities of this issue and the need for careful consideration of both individual rights and societal implications.
20. The Ukrainian War and its Connections to Western Divisions: The discussion connects the ongoing war in Ukraine to the divisions within Western societies. They argue that these divisions, fueled by ideology and a focus on internal conflicts, have made the West vulnerable to external threats. They express concern that these divisions could undermine Western power and influence on the world stage.
    • The podcast connects the ongoing war in Ukraine to the divisions within Western societies.
    • They argue that these divisions, fueled by ideology and a focus on internal conflicts, have made the West vulnerable to external threats.
    • They express concern that these divisions could undermine Western power and influence on the world stage.
    • The discussion emphasizes the importance of unity and a shared understanding of core values to address global challenges effectively.
21. The Power of Capitalism and the Potential for a Shift: Foster and Kisin express optimism that the forces of capitalism might ultimately challenge the current ideological trends. They suggest that corporations, driven by profitability, may eventually recognize the harm caused by these trends and adjust their approaches to prioritize individual freedom and open dialogue.
    • The podcast expresses optimism that the forces of capitalism might ultimately challenge the current ideological trends.
    • They suggest that corporations, driven by profitability, may eventually recognize the harm caused by these trends and adjust their approaches to prioritize individual freedom and open dialogue.
    • They believe that the pursuit of profit might ultimately lead to a reevaluation of these ideologies and a shift towards more open and inclusive practices.
    • The discussion highlights the potential for economic forces to influence societal change and promote a more balanced and inclusive approach.
22. The Rise of AI and its Potential Impact on Society: The podcast explores the potential impact of artificial intelligence on society, raising questions about its implications for human evolution, potential for conflict, and the need for responsible development. They discuss the importance of navigating this technological revolution with ethical considerations and a focus on human well-being.
    • The podcast explores the potential impact of artificial intelligence on society, raising questions about its implications for human evolution, potential for conflict, and the need for responsible development.
    • They discuss the importance of navigating this technological revolution with ethical considerations and a focus on human well-being.
    • They express concerns about the potential misuse of AI for destructive purposes, particularly in the context of warfare and societal control.
    • The discussion underscores the need for careful planning and ethical guidelines to ensure that AI development benefits humanity rather than harming it.
23. The Role of Combat Sports and the Risks of CTE: The podcast delves into the world of combat sports, acknowledging the excitement and thrill they offer but also highlighting the very real risks of CTE, a degenerative brain disease associated with repeated head trauma. They discuss the ethical and societal implications of these sports and the need for greater awareness of their potential long-term consequences.
    • The podcast delves into the world of combat sports, acknowledging the excitement and thrill they offer but also highlighting the very real risks of CTE.
    • They discuss the ethical and societal implications of these sports and the need for greater awareness of their potential long-term consequences.
    • They raise questions about the balance between personal freedom and the responsibility of athletes to understand and mitigate the risks associated with these sports.
    • The discussion encourages open dialogue and critical examination of the long-term health implications of contact sports.
24. The Power of Connection and the Human Need for Belonging: The podcast concludes with reflections on the human need for connection and belonging. They highlight the importance of genuine human connection in mitigating the effects of isolation, anxiety, and mental health challenges.
    • The podcast concludes with reflections on the human need for connection and belonging.
    • They highlight the importance of genuine human connection in mitigating the effects of isolation, anxiety, and mental health challenges.
    • They suggest that fostering a sense of community and genuine human interaction is essential for individual well-being and societal harmony.
    • The discussion underscores the importance of prioritizing human connection and building supportive communities to navigate the complexities of modern life.
25. The Importance of Questioning the Status Quo and Embracing Uncertainty: The podcast concludes with a call to action for listeners to embrace critical thinking, question the status quo, and resist the pressure to conform to prevailing ideologies. They argue that challenging conventional wisdom and embracing uncertainty are essential for personal growth, societal progress, and the preservation of individual freedoms.
    • The podcast concludes with a call to action for listeners to embrace critical thinking, question the status quo, and resist the pressure to conform to prevailing ideologies.
    • They argue that challenging conventional wisdom and embracing uncertainty are essential for personal growth, societal progress, and the preservation of individual freedoms.
    • They encourage listeners to engage in open dialogue, seek out diverse perspectives, and resist the temptation to accept simplistic solutions.
    • The discussion underscores the importance of active participation in shaping a more just and equitable society.

Memorable Quotes

• “It’s tremendously important to pick hold on. It’s like, oh, when microphone’s not on. See, this is another way — This is why I didn’t see you talking initially, man. Yeah. This is how I’m getting fucking silenced. It’s the goddamn government.” – Foster jokes about being silenced by the government, highlighting the growing concern surrounding censorship.
• “The worst thing about this progressive movement is a bigotry of low expectations. And saying to people, you know what, you need our help or you’re not gonna be as good at us. as us. And to me, that’s disgusting because you’re dooming people to not have the life that they could have if you have high expectations for them.” – Foster criticizes the progressive movement’s tendency to lower expectations for certain groups, arguing that it hinders individual potential.
• “If you were not prepared to talk about a subject, honestly, then you were never gonna find a solution to that subject. That was the problem. No problem.” – Foster highlights the importance of open and honest dialogue in finding solutions to complex problems, urging people to confront uncomfortable topics.
• “The only way this fails is if you and I fall out. If you and I can’t resolve our differences, this is gonna fail.” – Kisin emphasizes the importance of collaboration and unity in achieving success, particularly in the context of creating a successful podcast.
• “This is the one thing that have you ever read the gulag archipelago by Solzhenitshow, haven’t? It’s the story of the gulag. It’s a gigantic book. Whether that’s at your own level as an individual at the level of society in the long run, truth always wins. we all know what the truth is.” – Kisin asserts the ultimate power of truth in overcoming societal challenges, drawing on historical examples of the fight against authoritarianism.