What's Rightfully Ours: What Happens If We Ignore Right-Wing Extremism?

30.1.20
What Happens Next?
What's Rightfully Ours – What Happens If We Ignore Right-Wing Extremism? | 8

Right-wing extremism is on the rise and presents a complex and concerning phenomenon. Terrorism and extremism expert Pete Lentini, an associate professor in Monash University’s Faculty of Arts, talks to host Dr Susan Carland about the state of right-wing extremism in Australia and across the globe.

Pete identifies the fear of a loss of status, cultural heritage and privilege as primary drivers of this type of extremism. These fears manifest as a perceived threat of extinction for the white race and traditional values, fuelling sentiments of resentment and exclusion.

Despite the prevalence and threat posed by right-wing extremism, it’s not always taken as seriously as it should be. There are also unique challenges in countering this form of radicalisation.

Pete points out that certain right-wing radical ideas have seeped into mainstream political discourse, contributing to a shift in the political landscape. This normalisation may further legitimise extremist viewpoints, creating a breeding ground for radicalisation.

So is censorship a solution? Find out what Pete thinks about balancing the need for security with the preservation of democratic values and civil liberties.

A full transcript of this episode is available on Monash Lens.

In this series:

Far Right, All Wrong – Is Right-Wing Extremism on the Rise?  What's Rightfully Ours – What Happens If We Ignore Right-Wing Extremism?  Right Here, Right Now – Can We Disarm Extremism?

Learn more about right-wing extremism:

COVID-19 and violent extremist groups adapt to an evolving crisis Legislation and the Christchurch Call: The problems of policing the internet  Politicians increasingly stoking fears by replaying the immigration card

If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to subscribe, or rate or review “What Happens Next?” to help listeners like yourself discover it.

Subscribe to Monash’s YouTube channel to watch the video version of each full episode.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.