https://youtu.be/6oWje2ub-28?si=a2xaYpIsSfOl0Faj

In today’s world, it feels like we’ve lost something important—the ability to think critically and challenge the status quo. As I sat down with my guest, we explored a profound question: Why have we stopped questioning? 🤔

I’ve always found myself somewhere in the middle of the political spectrum. Raised with conservative values, I’ve drifted towards a more moderate stance as I’ve grown older. However, standing in the middle often leaves people like me without a clear home. Too conservative for the left, not conservative enough for the right—both sides seem to reject anything that doesn’t fit their predefined molds. But why? And more importantly, why does it seem that questioning anything leads to public vilification? 😟

A Silent Majority

The truth is, most people, whether they lean left or right, are more moderate than the loud, polarized voices you see online or in the media. People like us, those who live in the middle, seem to be the quiet majority. Yet, in this noisy age, it’s the vocal minorities—the far-right and the far-left—that dominate the narrative. These groups have the microphone 🎤, controlling what we hear and shaping public opinion through fear and intimidation.

For instance, we discussed how individuals like myself have faced public attacks, being labeled as things we’re not simply for advocating reasonable positions. The names I’ve been called for advocating for open schools—racist, white supremacist, alt-right—could make anyone question whether speaking out is worth the trouble. Imagine being called a Christian nationalist when you’re a Jewish atheist! The irony would be funny if it weren’t so harmful. 😓

The Fear of Speaking Out

So, why don’t more people speak out? Because they see the consequences. They see moderates in their own communities ostracized, losing their place in polite society simply because they dared to ask a question or express doubt. The fear of losing one’s social standing, friendships, or even career opportunities silences most people. Why take that risk when you can quietly agree or disagree from the safety of your own home?

But here’s the kicker: if we don’t speak out, we risk losing the very freedoms that make questioning possible. Free speech, rational debate, and respectful discourse are being eroded because the loud extremes on both sides won’t let us have them. We need to reclaim the conversation before it’s too late. 💬