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I'll Burn That Bridge When I Get To It

Toronto Public Library

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What’s at stake when academic freedom is challenged? Academics Norman Finkelstein and Christian Parenti speak with journalist Jeanne McGuire about facing institutional backlash for their personal views and theoretically-based work. Together, they explore what society loses when ideas aren't allowed free reign in debate, research or exploration.

Recording on December 5, 2023 at Toronto Reference Library, this event is part of a new series exploring what’s at stake when intellectual freedom is threatened.

20 Comments

@JKRDH 2 years ago

…”you can’t suppress speech merely because it offends” Absolutely beautiful

@NeoCynic1 2 years ago (edited)

I love Norman. He sports the grin of a heretic who knows he is right while burning in the bonfire of his own making. When you speak truth to power, after much time and effort, it becomes a power unto itself. Scroll to the 25 minute mark as Norman begins to speak. He is the personification of the idea that the truth will always prevail, even after many many decades of demonization, professional ostracism, and the pure hatred some have for the truth.

@Gravity376 2 years ago

Norman is my hero. What a privilege to hear him talk. Thank you.

@tcm8804 2 years ago (edited)

Wonderful! Dr. Finkelstein is a true hero in all he does. His courage, integrity, and commitment to justice are second to none ❤️ And a big thank you to the Toronto Public Library for hosting him!

@AnnieZzi-1 2 years ago

Prof Finkelstein is an honourable humble intellectual and has my utmost respect.

@shawnklimakos 2 years ago

Thanks TPL for letting Norman speak, and not letting fear mongering shut this talk down.

@bronsonmoghaddam9744 2 years ago

Norm's dedication to objective truth is something we should all strive for.

@rmclean3 2 years ago

This is the first lecture I have watched of Professor Finkelstein's that was not about Israel/Palestine, and you really get to see what a great teacher his is. No doubt a very intelligent man all around.

@matthoffman6962 2 years ago

I can’t believe anyone would try to ban this man from talking. I’m very happy that tpl didn’t give into any irrational and unfounded outside pressure.

@monicatlover 2 years ago

Every time I listen to Norm I learn so much

@marjoriesadler5855 2 years ago

Norman Finkelstein as always is directly on point. A real pleasure to listen to him.

@YuyiLeal 2 years ago

Professor Finkelstein!!!!👏👏👏...Thank you so much Toronto Public Library for bringing us this wonderful man! What a great example of an honourable person!❤

@chiakilovemeback46 2 years ago

Norman is my idol, man. I'm still in high school but I want to pursue a career with his influence in social justice and political science; he's so educated, disciplined and he's very passionate about the truth. I'm super psyched that he came to Toronto, too. Hopefully I'll see him next time. I'm so grateful to be part of his audience.

@carltonrandom 2 years ago

"I used to suffer from imposter syndrome.", says the spy.

@fokana1 2 years ago

THANK YOU FOR NOT LETTING ESTABLISHMENT CANCEL HIM!!!

@kenjohnson6326 2 years ago

Very stimulating talks from both speakers. Congratulations to the Toronto Public Library for letting us hear these speakers.

@snjezanacelanovic3821 2 years ago

Thank you prof. Finkelstein for your superior, truthful arguments and for all you do for humanity in general, as for your own people too, now in this terrible times. Your voice against violence is unique, your credibility undestroyable. I see you as the greatest barrier standing against moral distortions and terrible crimes od XXI century. Thank you.