Steven Pinker’s recent podcast appearance on Aporia, a platform linked to race science advocates, has sparked a firestorm of criticism. Critics argue that Pinker is legitimizing extremist views by association. This controversial move highlights ongoing debates about academic responsibility and the normalization of discredited racial theories. The situation draws specific attention to Pinker’s views on topics like family breakdown. Patrik Hermansson of Hope Not Hate noted this lends legitimacy to the publication. His appearance on Aporia, owned by the human Diversity Foundation, founded by a self-described eugenicist, puts a spotlight on the human biodiversity movement, which is a rebranding of scientific racism. News Directory 3 delivers comprehensive coverage, and if this story has piqued your interest, what will he say next…
Steven Pinker Criticized for Podcast Appearance on Aporia Magazine
Updated June 07, 2025
Harvard psychologist Steven Pinker is facing backlash for appearing on the podcast of Aporia, a publication whose owners have been accused of promoting race science. The appearance has reignited debate about Pinker’s association with figures who advocate for “human biodiversity,” a concept some academics consider a rebranding of scientific racism.
Patrik Hermansson, a researcher with Hope Not Hate, said Pinker’s decision lends legitimacy to Aporia, a far-right platform, potentially attracting new followers and normalizing dangerous ideas. the controversy highlights the ongoing efforts to rehabilitate discredited theories of racial hierarchy, particularly within some circles in Silicon Valley and right-wing media.
During the hour-long podcast, Pinker discussed topics ranging from economic progress to artificial intelligence with host Noah carl. Notably, Pinker voiced agreement with claims made by Charles Murray, author of “The Bell Curve,” regarding family breakdown in some communities. Murray is a controversial figure in the human biodiversity movement.
When Carl cited “evidence collected by sociologists like Charles Murray suggesting that part of the family breakdown in some communities in America seems to be attributable to the state taking over the conventional function of the father”, Pinker responded: “I think that is a problem.” He added: “It is indeed a huge class-differentiated phenomenon, as Murray and others write it out.”
Aporia’s connections to far-right extremism have been previously reported. The publication is owned by the Human Diversity Foundation, founded by Emil Kirkegaard, a self-described eugenicist. noah Carl, the podcast host, was dismissed from a Cambridge fellowship in 2019 due to his collaboration with far-right figures. Aporia has also featured guests known for white nationalist views.
Pinker, known for his work on cognitive abilities and the decline of violence, has faced similar criticism in the past for his association with figures like Steve Sailer. His appearance on Aporia has further fueled the debate about the role of mainstream academics in legitimizing controversial ideas related to human biodiversity and race science.
Hermannson, the Hope Not Hate researcher, said: “considering the coverage Aporia has received and its long list of racist contributors, it’s hard for Pinker to argue he engaged with it unknowingly.”
What’s next
The controversy surrounding Pinker’s appearance is highly likely to continue,prompting further discussion about academic responsibility and the potential impact of platforming controversial viewpoints. Expect continued scrutiny of Aporia and its connections to race science advocates.