The Contrarian with David Bernstein Podcast By David Bernstein cover art

The Contrarian with David Bernstein

The Contrarian with David Bernstein

By: David Bernstein
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Welcome to "The Contrarian." This podcast is all about diving into the world of liberal values, radical ideologies and engaging in truly open conversations. We will take a close look at what in god’s name is going on in American and Western universities and what, if anything, we can do about it.2024 - JILV Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Powerful Insights on Right-wing Politics and Antisemitism w/ Dr Christopher Schorr
    Jun 20 2025
    Dr Christopher Schorr, Director of Higher Education at the America First Policy Institute discusses the intersection of antisemitism and woke ideology, the role of higher education in addressing these issues, and the complexities of Christian nationalism in American politics. The conversation highlights the need for a unified front against antisemitism and the implications of free speech on campus. Dr Schorr shares insights from his academic journey and the mission of the America First Policy Institute, emphasizing the importance of American values in combating ideological extremism. He discusses the intersection of free speech, equal protection, and civil rights within the context of higher education and K-12 schooling, exploring the implications of recent political changes, the role of viewpoint diversity in universities, and the challenges posed by divisive concepts in education. The discussion also touches on the influence of education schools on K-12 curricula and the political consequences of blue state policies. Throughout, emphasizing the importance of fostering an environment that encourages debate and critical thinking. Dr. Christopher Schorr is Director of the Higher Education Reform Initiative at the America First Policy Institute (AFPI), where he leads research and policy efforts focused on eliminating divisive DEI and gender theory practices, promoting academic freedom, combating antisemitism, and reforming student loans and accreditation. A Marine Corps veteran of the Iraq War, Dr. Schorr previously served as a research analyst for the Defense Health Board, a federal advisory committee to the Department of Defense. He is coauthor of the Amazon best seller Black Eye for America: How Critical Race Theory is Burning Down the House. He holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in American Government from Georgetown University and a B.A. in Political Science from the University of California, San Diego.
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    57 mins
  • Did Ed Schools turn Teachers into Political Activists? w/ Prof Lyell Asher - S2 Ep 4
    May 30 2025
    Professor Lyell Asher joins the podcast to explore the evolution of education schools and their far-reaching impact on both higher education and the K–12 system. He traces the origins of ed schools in the early 20th century, the ideological shifts of the 1960s, and how these changes contributed to a growing disconnect between educational institutions and mainstream societal values. Professor Asher examines the influence of education schools on college administration and student life—particularly the role of dormitories in shaping student ideology. He also addresses critical challenges in higher education, including grade inflation, administrative leadership gaps, and the politicization of academic standards. The conversation highlights potential solutions, such as creating civic education centers and prioritizing foundational skills like reading. Asher also reflects on the role of government in education and emphasizes the essential part parents must play in shaping educational content. About the Guest Dr Lyell Asher is a professor of English at Lewis & Clark College, where he has taught since 1994. He holds a PhD and MA from the University of Virginia and a BA from Vanderbilt University, specializing in Renaissance English literature and Shakespeare. His essays and opinion pieces have appeared in Publication of the Modern Language Association (PMLA), The Yale Journal of Criticism, The Wall Street Journal, The American Scholar, Quillette, and The Chronicle of Higher Education, among others. He has also been a guest on podcasts such as The American Party and NPR’s Watching America. 🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more insightful discussions! Follow David: X: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1 Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9 Listen to the podcast on: Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8 Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03 YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3 Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072 We would love to hear from you - podcast@navivalues.org
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    55 mins
  • Christianity & Liberalism : A Broken Bargain?
    May 16 2025
    Jonathan Rauch, a senior fellow at Brookings and author of 'Cross-Purposes: Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy.' discusses the intricate relationship between Christianity and liberal democracy, exploring how both have influenced each other over time. Rauch argues that Christianity has strayed from its foundational role in supporting democratic values. The conversation delves into the concepts of thin and thick Christianity, the impact of identity politics, and the current state of illiberalism in society. Ultimately, they reflect on the future of Christianity and its potential to adapt and thrive in a changing cultural landscape. Guest Bio Jonathan Rauch is an American author, journalist, and activist. He is a senior fellow in governance studies at the Brookings Institution and is the author of eight books and many articles on public policy, culture, and government He is a contributing editor of The Atlantic. His most recent book is Cross Purposes -Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy.
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    45 mins
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