Free Speech Battles and Triumphs: A Conversation with Nico Perrino from FIRE
Join us as we chat with Nico Perrino, Executive Vice President of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE). We dive into Nico's journey into free speech advocacy, his work at FIRE, and the organization's evolution. Nico shares thought-provoking insights into the importance of free speech on college campuses, the challenges posed by cancel culture, and how FIRE maintains its nonpartisan stance. We also discuss how free speech principles intersect with parenting and the significance of teaching young people to navigate pluralistic societies. Plus, Nico offers an optimistic look at the future, drawing lessons from historical battles for free expression.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Bio
01:23 Nico's Journey into Free Speech Advocacy
02:57 Fire's Mission and Evolution
04:24 The Importance of Free Speech in Democracy
07:35 Challenges and Hypocrisy in Free Speech
17:09 The Role of Universities in Promoting Free Speech
31:43 Ira Glasser's Brooklyn Upbringing
32:45 Helicopter Parenting and Moral Dependency
34:22 Parenting and Free Speech
36:22 Contextual Speech and Social Awareness
38:35 Tribalism in Politics and Society
41:05 Nonpartisan Movements and Political Discourse
46:21 Challenges of Free Speech Advocacy
51:10 Navigating Cancel Culture
54:55 Curiosity and Understanding in Difficult Conversations
59:02 Historical Perspective on Free Expression
01:00:00 Conclusion and Optimism for the Future
