Independent Journalist Warns of "Anti-Civilization Element" in Anti-Israel Protests

Independent journalist Michael Shellenberger has raised concerns about the presence of an "anti-civilization element" within the recent wave of anti-Israel protests, emphasizing that universities must reaffirm their commitment to ideological neutrality and free speech.

Michael Shellenberger, an independent journalist and outspoken critic of societal decline, has voiced alarm over the emergence of an "anti-civilization element" within the anti-Israel protests that have swept across the United States in recent weeks. At the Dissident Dialogues festival in New York City, he delivered a speech highlighting the fundamental pillars of civilization and the threats they face from extremist ideologies.

According to Shellenberger, the essence of civilization lies in "law and order, meritocracy, and cheap energy." He further elaborated that a liberal democratic civilization requires unwavering adherence to free speech, fair elections, free enterprise, and equal justice under the law. However, he expressed concern that these pillars are under assault from individuals who subscribe to a secular religion that vilifies humanity as a scourge on Earth and espouses oppressive attitudes toward the weak and the natural world.

Shellenberger acknowledged the genuine distress among college students over the conflict in Gaza but condemned the violent and destructive behavior witnessed at various protests across the country. He pointed out that these students, often from privileged backgrounds, were engaging in actions that inadvertently undermined the very foundations of their own privilege, particularly the campuses they attended and the rule of law.

Shellenberger emphasized the importance of free speech but drew the line at actions that incite violence or interfere with the peaceful movement of others. He stressed that universities must reassess their stance and reaffirm their commitment to ideological and political neutrality. He condemned the taking of sides in ongoing conflicts, which he believed was detrimental to the free exchange of ideas and the pursuit of knowledge.

Shellenberger lamented the erosion of values within universities, which he deemed essential for the preservation of a civilized society. He urged university leaders to prioritize free speech and prohibit illegal camping, which only exacerbated the homelessness crisis the nation already faced.

He called for a collective effort to uphold institutions with dignity and respect, recognizing that the disregard for higher education institutions contributed to a society less willing to support or fund them. He concluded by emphasizing the need to instill a sense of reverence for civilization and its institutions, both within academia and beyond.