Who's To Blame for the George Floyd Moral Panic?
with John McWhorter
The death of George Floyd and its aftermath changed race politics in America, and not for the good. The choice to pursue a false vision of racial justice rather than addressing the very social problems within black communities has been a mistake of monumental proportions. In this clip from our most recent conversation, John and I discuss what went wrong in America in 2020 and who needs to take responsibility for it.
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As a paid subscriber, I was one of the first to experience this episode in its entirety. And there was something both Professor Loury and Professor McWhorter said - if I remember correctly, I know the sentiment was expressed more than once - that bothered me then. But I didn't have time to comment then, so will avail myself of that opportunity now.
What was said was that nobody "on the left" would accept the conclusion that George Floyd was NOT murdered by Officer Chauvin, and that he and his fellow officers were unjustly convicted. I am firmly on the left, have been my entire adult life (Am the same age as Professor Loury), and I am perfectly willing to accept that finding, assuming it is corroborated by further examination. There is a high probability of that being so. Perhaps the officers could have done things a bit better, that is for professionals to decide. But it wasn't murder. And the maelstrom of destruction that came in its aftermath were shocking and unjustified.
I do regret George Floyd's death. As John Donne wrote, "No man is an island . . . Any man's death diminishes me. because I am involved in mankind." That sentiment is what brought me to my perch on the political spectrum. And it can be a lonely one, it's been stunning to me how many folks calling themselves "left" or "progressive" have lost their minds. I really appreciate Professor Loury's willingness to engage with people from a wide range of political perspectives. I learn a lot, that's why I am here. Thanks, gentlemen.