Is there such a thing as having too much empathy? That's a theory gaining the support of some of the world’s richest people following the release of a new book by Gad Saad, a Canadian marketing professor and frequent critic of liberal policies.
Saad is an evolutionary psychologist, professor at the University of Mississippi, host of The Saad Truth podcast, and author of the No. 1 New York Times bestselling book Suicidal Empathy, where he argues that Western societies are embracing forms of empathy and compassion that can ultimately become self-destructive.
We dive into the ideas that have made him both influential and controversial: immigration, gender, identity, culture, free speech, and what he sees as larger changes happening across the West.
Some listeners may strongly agree with Gad. Others may take major issue with his framing, philosophy and conclusions. But these are ideas increasingly shaping conversations—especially on the political right—and we thought it was worth digging into them directly.
Please note: Parts of this discussion include provocative examples and references to sexual violence that some listeners may find difficult.
South Africa