ABOUT THIS EPISODE
What would a world look like where there is space for mistakes and repair? In this episode of The Movement We Need Podcast, I explore how internalized authority shows up as self-judgment, moral purity tests, and punitive group dynamics. Together, we will consider the ancient patterns of warfare and patriarchy to modern politics, then weigh up alternatives rooted in restorative justice, constructive critique, and solidarity.
It might be worth grabbing a notebook or even bringing this episode to your groups. Specifically, I discuss:
> traditional roles of the king or strongman: judge, conqueror, defender, censor, master of servants, and orderer of the universe.
> how comparison, grading, and social media performance can intensify shame and insecurity, especially for young people.
> how the judge turns practical questions about harm and care into tests of moral purity.
> solidarity-based safety, nonviolent communication, and clear, behavior-based feedback as alternatives to shame and threats.
📚 Truth or Dare: Encounters with Power, Authority, and Mystery
