Ben Shapiro, editor of the Daily Wire, recently faced renewed scrutiny over a 2011 social media post calling American activist Rachel Corrie, who was crushed to death by an Israeli bulldozer in Gaza, one of the “Great Idiots of History.” During an interview with Piers Morgan, Shapiro stood by his core argument but acknowledged he might have chosen different language.
The Incident and Shapiro’s Stance:
- In 2011, Shapiro, then a young blogger, criticized Corrie’s actions, claiming she acted as a “useful idiot” for Hamas by entering a restricted area during military operations.
- He reiterated this point on Morgan’s show, emphasizing Corrie’s association with a pro-Palestinian group and her presence in a potential tunnel site.
- While acknowledging the tragedy of her death, Shapiro maintained that her actions were reckless and served the interests of a “nefarious” organization.
Shifting Perspective and Language:
- Though defending his core argument, Shapiro conceded he might have used different phrasing now, reflecting on his personal growth and the sensitivity surrounding the incident.
- Morgan pressed him on the harshness of calling a deceased young woman an “idiot,” particularly given the emotional weight of her death.
Wider Context and Implications:
- This exchange reignites the debate surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the role of foreign activists.
- It also highlights the challenges of navigating sensitive topics online, particularly years later, as perspectives and societal norms evolve.
- The conversation raises questions about accountability for past statements and the balance between free speech and respectful discourse.
Important Note:
This article presents a neutral and objective analysis of the situation, avoiding endorsements or judgments on any individual’s views. It aims to inform readers about the key points of the discussion and its wider context.