This week’s Irish Times Inside Politics podcast featured philosopher Susan Neiman, who also spoke at TASC’s recent Annual Lecture. In the hour-long episode, she argued that the Left has taken a wrong turn—and called for a return to core values like justice, solidarity, and universalism.
During her conversation with host Hugh Linehan, Neiman expands on these ideas by discussing her book Left Is Not Woke. She explains how “wokeness” appeals to traditional left-wing instincts but can sometimes distract from deeper political goals. The discussion also explores Germany’s historical relationship with Israel and its relevance to current debates about Gaza.
Neiman’s podcast appearance reflects her recent keynote at the 2025 TASC Annual Lecture, “Beyond the Backlash: Rebuilding Progressive Values and the Left,” held at the Royal Irish Academy on May 27. With over 130 attendees, it was TASC’s largest lecture so far.
Chaired by Eamon Ryan, the event featured Neiman in conversation with journalist Mark Little. Drawing on her experience in the Civil Rights Movement and her philosophical work, Neiman spoke against the far right’s misuse of identity politics. Little added valuable insights on how digital media influences these stories.
Mark Little, Eamon Ryan, and Susan Neiman (left to right) catching up before the event — a panel that complemented each other exceptionally well. (Photo by Cian Redmond)
Together, the podcast and lecture offer a timely and insightful look at how the Left can move forward by reclaiming its foundational values in today’s complex political landscape.
Listen now: Inside Politics – Why ‘left’ and ‘woke’ are not the same thing
Read more about TASC Annual Lecture here
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