Tavis Smiley Season 7 Episode 389 Benjamin Barber, Reza Aslan

Tavis Smiley is back for its seventh season with another great episode, this time featuring Benjamin Barber and Reza Aslan. Barber is a renowned political theorist, author and cultural critic who has authored several best-selling books, including 'Jihad vs. McWorld.' Aslan, on the other hand, is a religious scholar and writer who has authored several books, including the best-selling 'Zealot: The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth.'

In this episode of Tavis Smiley, the two guests sit down with Smiley for a lively discussion on politics, religion and the intersection of the two. Barber offers his take on the current state of democracy and how it has been impacted by the rise of globalization, while Aslan delves into the topic of religious extremism and what motivates individuals who commit acts of terror in the name of their faith.

Throughout the course of the interview, Barber and Aslan share their insights on a variety of different topics, including the role of technology in modern society, the importance of cultural identity, and the future of the American political system. They also discuss their personal backgrounds and the experiences that have shaped their views on politics and religion.

One of the highlights of the episode is when Barber and Aslan engage in a spirited debate about the nature of democracy and whether it is truly the best form of government. Barber argues that democracy is flawed because it often fails to represent the interests of all citizens, while Aslan contends that democracy is the best system we have because it allows for peaceful transitions of power and ensures that the will of the people is heard.

Another interesting aspect of the episode is when Barber and Aslan discuss the role that religion plays in contemporary politics. Aslan argues that religion has been used as a tool of oppression throughout history, while Barber contends that religion can be a force for good when it is properly understood and practiced.

Overall, this episode of Tavis Smiley is an engaging and thought-provoking conversation between two of the most insightful thinkers of our time. Barber and Aslan are both incredibly articulate and passionate about their respective fields, and their conversation will certainly leave viewers with a lot to think about. Whether you are a student of politics, religion or cultural studies, this episode is a must-watch for anyone who wants to gain a better understanding of the complex forces that drive our world.