S15 EP171: Hour 2 - Litmus Tests of Crazy
Summary
Erick Erickson opens with a story about stereotypes before critiquing a Massachusetts bar’s 2026 mask mandate, arguing that such policies signal mental instability rather than reasonable discourse. He proposes using "litmus tests" to identify irrational beliefs, such as justifying violence or opposing basic freedoms. The episode shifts to China, warning that Xi Jinping is a dangerous totalitarian whose economic decline makes him more aggressive toward Taiwan. Erickson urges the US to maintain a strong military posture in Asia and cautions against making a weak deal with China. Finally, he d…
Topics discussed
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Show intro and '4 Things to Know' segment
Anecdote: Subaru stereotype and 'Trans Kids Matter' sticker
Discussion: Moving from stereotypes to 'litmus tests'
News: Backlash against lesbian bar lifting mask mandate
Opinion: Defining sanity via criminal cases and masks
Critique of intersectionality and moral authority
Boston Globe paywall and story performance
Bill Burr interview and justification of violence
HR litmus tests and masked drinking logistics
News: Xi Jinping purges, diesel export ban, AI panic
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Analysis: Trump's limits vs. Xi Jinping's totalitarianism
China's human rights abuses and Cultural Revolution
China's economic decline and military purges
Geopolitics: US strategy to defend Taiwan and allies
Diplomacy: Xi visit, red carpet, and potential deals
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Media: Warner Bros/Paramount and CNN editorial control
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Tech: AI bubble and disruption of online retail
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