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Lif C's avatar

Hello Ben,

I really enjoyed your April 22 article and interview with James. I'll be sharing it onwards.

My tale is not as dramatic as your incredible story. I grew up in a peculiar religious household (Islamic sect) - although looking back I realise all the scary things I managed to dodge. I think I can empathise. Additionally a journey like that does help us sense/ recognise zealot like behaviour in others.

I confess that I have only recently become aware of gender ideology. My concern was first flickered through the creep of pronouns but then I began to notice 'the cancellation' of academics and students for the temerity to question the LGBTQ mantra.

My reading has accelerated since January this year.

The erosion of critical thinking is the most damaging, the inability for people to have a reasoned discussion but moreover review evidence and data without confirmation bias is worrying.

I would describe myself as left leaning but the far left have been the least able to hold complex ideas or recognise what's at stake. Their complete inability to see the conflict of safeguarding other groups with protected characteristics and systematic gay erasure. I'll be candid many of my gay friends do not see this threat which I find really worrying.

The medicalised commodification associated with gender identity has also troubled me deeply, and as clinical pharmacist the dishonesty about the impacts of puberty blockers in children. The effects are so dreadful I can barely read the case reports. I am not sure how we are getting away with this.

I could say more but I mainly want to thank you for you dedication to exploring these complex ideas and that you write beautifully.

Alifia, Scotland

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Elizabeth Emery Shemesh's avatar

Congrats on the book deal!

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