Ep 81 - Pinker’s Pernicious Politeness (Pt 2)

Polite Conversations

Linguist, noted ‘Pinkerologist’ and friend of the show Dr. Caitlin Green (@Caitlinmoriah) joins me to analyze and discuss the Extremely Rational thoughts of one Steven Pinker. In pt 2 we discuss Pinker’s constant downplaying of r*pe statistics and the inadequate, cherry-picked sources he uses to support his flawed arguments. —— If you have experienced sexual assault or violence here are some helpful resources: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safe-campuses-bc/what-is-consent https://www.brown.edu/campus-life/health/services/promotion/sexual-health-sex-101-sexual-assault-dating-violence-learn-more-alcohol-other-drugs-learn-more Brown University: Yes, it is possible to establish consent if you and/or your partner(s) have been drinking or using other drugs. Consent cannot be obtained through the use of coercion or force or by taking advantage of the incapacitation of another individual. If anyone is incapacitated for any reason, they cannot give consent. If someone has been using alcohol or other drugs and you are thinking about having any kind of sexual interaction with them, it is your responsibility to check in, ask, and make sure they consent to what is going on. Being intoxicated yourself does not absolve you of the responsibility of obtaining consent. If you are unsure whether you can establish consent, don’t have sex. https://endingviolencecanada.org/sexual-assault-centres-crisis-lines-and-support-services/ https://www.wannatalkaboutit.com/ca/sexual-violence/ https://www.rainn.org/international-sexual-assault-resources —— Links: Great thread by Kate Manne which came up in the episode https://x.com/kate_manne/status/1149902823200632833?s=61&t=w7q_ejvwZ_gCFj9WV50Lqw Detailed thread on Pinker’s discussion on R*pe in Better Angels of our Nature https://x.com/magi_jay/status/972958282125062144?s=61&t=w7q_ejvwZ_gCFj9WV50Lqw! If you enjoy the show pls consider supporting via patreon.com/nicemangos