John Biewen: Author, Journalist, and Documentarian
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Journalist and documentarian John Biewen explores the origins and impact of racism. He argues that racism was constructed as a lie to justify exploitation and oppression, rather than being a natural result of encountering people who are different. Biewen highlights the irony that all humans descended from Africans and that Africa is a diverse continent, making it artificial to categorize all Africans as inferior.
Biewen discusses the invention of race by slave traders, emphasizing that it was created to serve economic interests and maintain power imbalances. He challenges the common understanding of racism by shedding light on its historical origins. The conversation then shifts to the controversy surrounding critical race theory (CRT), with Biewen explaining that the panic and fear about teaching CRT in schools is a reaction to the growing awareness of racism's deep-rooted history.
Biewen believes that understanding the economic and power-driven origins of racism can foster a broader understanding of its impact and the need for systemic change. He acknowledges that deeply committed racists may not change their minds, but emphasizes the importance of educating and engaging with well-meaning individuals, including white people, to recognize the need for change.
Biewen also discusses the current state of democracy and expresses concern about efforts to manipulate election outcomes and suppress certain groups' voting rights. He hopes that the Democratic Party will pass legislation to protect democracy and acknowledges the need for support across party lines.
In terms of being a good journalist, Biewen emphasizes curiosity, passion, storytelling, thorough research, and challenging one's own assumptions. He criticizes the "both-sides" approach in journalism, particularly when it comes to issues that threaten democracy.
Biewen also discusses his approach to editing interviews and his preferred methods of recording interviews. He encourages podcasters to consider the Audio-Technica Pro Thirty-Seven microphone as an affordable and suitable option.
Overall, Biewen emphasizes the need for systemic change, the importance of educating and engaging with well-meaning individuals, and the power of storytelling in addressing racism and the threats to democracy.
Journalist and documentarian John Biewen explores the origins and impact of racism. He argues that r