Freddie Sayers talks to New York Times columnist Ross Douthat about his new book The Decadent Society, the religious aspect of antiracism protests, Obama and Trump, and whether lockdowns are a symptom of — or cure for — the decadent West.

Hold on to your hats, we hit some big topics in this half hour! Hope you enjoy.

Ross Douthat: are the BLM protests a religious movement?

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Freddie Sayers speaks to Matthew Crawford, a motorcycle mechanic turned philosopher with a unique perspective on the current moment. Instead of talking in terms of partisan politics, he talks in terms of lived experience and what a good life feels like.

I’ve been a fan since his first book, and was delighted to have this wide-ranging conversation about risk, autonomy and and the new politics. In such a divided time, his is one of the few voices that could appeal equally to a Californian surfer dude and a midwestern religious conservative. That’s why it’s so important. Have a watch.

Matthew Crawford: the dangers of Safetyism

Host Ayesha Hazarika is joined by Douglas Alexander, chair of Unicef UK and former Labour Party cabinet minister, and Sunder Katwala, Director of British Future think tank, to discuss their under-reported stories of the week.

Douglas discussed the importance of belonging and place, while Sunder asked why so few people are talking about the fate of the British in the EU post-Brexit.

The importance of place

Host Ayesha Hazarika is joined by comedian Matt Forde, and journalist Gavin Haynes, to discuss their under-reported stories of the week.

Matt highlighted the voluntary ban on betting ads during sporting events, while Gavin talked about the ongoing disintegration of UKIP.

The panel also discussed their heroes and villains of the week.

Why is UKIP embracing the YouTube Right?

Subscribe to make sure you don't miss UnHerd's new podcast series featuring columnist Giles Fraser in which he talks to distinguished guests about how their beliefs shape who they are.

The first three episodes are out now. Search for 'UnHerd Confessions' to subscribe.

Ross Douthat: are the BLM protests a religious movement?

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