The Problem with Everything: My Journey Through the New Culture Wars

As a self-identified liberal with a “penchant for devil’s advocacy,” essayist Daum (The Unspeakable) explores hypocrisy and lack of nuance from the Left in this edgy polemic. She takes aim at the undeveloped, hamfisted modes of expression on social media; recalls arguing with friends who believe “the world sucks for women”; dismisses the concept of toxic masculinity because some women also engage in toxic behavior; argues that the Title IX regulation meant to protect sexual assault victims on college campuses fails to account sufficiently for false accusations; and recounts becoming fascinated with “free speech” personalities such as Christina Hoff Sommers and Jordan Peterson. She is most nuanced and perceptive when looking at the personal; for example, she draws an astute connection between this growing interest and the end of her marriage, and acknowledges that her opinions are informed by “aging and feeling obsolete.” But the book is largely more cultural in focus. In one characteristic moment, she asks, “Are we only allowed to punch up? And if so, does that mean those of us perceived to be on the highest rungs are left just waving our fists in the air, with nothing to punch? Maybe. But I still feel like punching something a lot of the time.” Fans of Daum’s searching, incisive essays and memoirs will likely be put off; fans of her opinion columns and fellow contrarians may be more receptive. [em](Oct.) [/em]