Zombies Need Air Conditioning, Too | Interview: Thomas Chatterton Williams
Summary
Jonah Goldberg interviews Thomas Chatterton Williams in Paris about cultural differences regarding air conditioning and the rise of France’s far-right. They discuss the tension between France’s multi-ethnic global image and its nationalist politics, noting that social friction stems more from Islam than race. The conversation also covers the J.R. Day scandal at Cambridge, highlighting institutional failures and the policing of speech in elite circles.
Topics discussed
Introduction and European vs American views on heat
Cultural differences on air conditioning and discomfort
Race relations and the French national team
The rise of the far-right and Marine Le Pen
Islamophobia and radicalization in France
Assimilation, social circles, and interracial marriage
Accent hierarchies and language politics
The 'Woke' debate and moral panics
The R. Day scandal and academic integrity
Carrie Green and double standards in academia
Truth-telling and political credibility
Christopher Nolan's Odyssey and historical accuracy
Nolan's filmmaking style and Tenet
Zombie novels and apocalyptic fiction
American figures beloved in France
Climate change adaptation and final thoughts
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