This interview features Ayaan Hirsi Ali, the Somali-born Dutch-American writer, activist, and former Dutch MP, renowned for her advocacy for Muslim women’s rights and her critique of Islam. Ayaan, a prominent New Atheist figure, converted to Christianity in 2023, citing the Judeo-Christian tradition as a guiding solution to contemporary societal challenges. She is married to historian Niall Ferguson.
The Fragility of Western Civilization
Ayaan Hirsi Ali reflects on the ongoing culture war in the West. On one side are leftist ideologies, and on the other, conservatives defending traditional values. This battle is not merely political, but one for the very soul of Western civilization. Ayaan stresses that principles like individual autonomy, freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the pursuit of one’s purpose are central to society. These values are foundational to laws and constitutions across the West and are worth defending.
Ayaan, who grew up in a tribal society, sees the shift Western civilization made by moving beyond bloodlines and kinship toward a nation-state. This shift created institutions that allow people to thrive together. However, many who benefit from this civilization take it for granted and assume its strength is self-sustaining. This complacency is a mistake.
The Enemy Within
The greatest threat to Western civilization, according to Ayaan, comes from within. There is a collective amnesia about the roots and values that shaped society, and a resurgence of dangerous ideas like romanticizing primitivism and identity politics. These ideologies, gaining traction especially in educational institutions, undermine the society’s foundations and provide an opening for external adversaries to exploit.
Ayaan is particularly concerned about the erosion of critical thinking in the education system. Universities used to teach students how to challenge ideas, but today many focus on indoctrination. This leaves young minds vulnerable to harmful ideologies that go unchallenged due to the lack of reasoned debate.
Ayaan also warns against “wokeism,” which, while often presented as virtuous, pushes agendas that could dismantle the very society that allows such freedoms. To counter this, she believes we must reclaim the principles of critical thinking and engage in open dialogue to protect our foundational values.
Hope for the Future
In her personal journey, Ayaan has found a sense of purpose in reconnecting with the Judeo-Christian tradition, which she believes offers a foundation for addressing modern challenges. While secularization has left a void often filled by harmful ideologies, Ayaan argues that Enlightenment values didn’t emerge in isolation. They are rooted in centuries of religious and philosophical thought, particularly from Judeo-Christian traditions. Reconnecting with these roots does not negate reason or science; it reinforces the concepts of individual rights, justice, and morality.
Despite the challenges, Ayaan remains optimistic. Immigrant communities, particularly those who have experienced the hardships of oppressive regimes, recognize the value of the freedoms offered in the West. A growing awareness of the dangers posed by divisive ideologies is fostering a collective awakening, leading to a renewed commitment to the principles that have made Western civilization prosperous and free.
At this critical juncture, Ayaan calls for unwavering commitment to defending Western values. It demands courage, a revival of critical thinking, and a reaffirmation of our cultural heritage to safeguard the freedoms and opportunities that define our civilization.
Alexandra Tompson
Editor | Lawyer (Admitted in New York; England & Wales)
