All Segments
Dan Rather Interview with Mark Suster | Upfront Summit 2018
25 segments available
Mark Suster sits down with Dan Rather to discuss his outlook for our country one year into the Trump presidency. The interview was conducted around the thesis of Dan’s newest book, “What Unites Us,” which is a must read.
Segments Timeline
A Tribute to Dan Rather
Mark Suster opens the interview by paying homage to Dan Rather, highlighting his extensive career as a journalist and his significant contributions to civil rights and major historical events. Suster emphasizes Rather's role as a voice of rational thought for millions, setting the stage for a deep discussion on the current state of journalism and democracy.
"my hero is on the stage right now did anyone grow up with Dan Rather I know he needs no introduction but for 44 years he was a news journalist at CBS he was the voice of my childhood and before my chi..."
The Legacy of Dan Rather
Mark Suster introduces Dan Rather, reflecting on his impactful career as a journalist. Rather's role in pivotal moments of American history, including civil rights and the Vietnam War, is highlighted, showcasing his influence on generations and his current voice of rational thought on social media.
"my hero is on the stage right now did anyone grow up with Dan Rather I know he needs no introduction but for 44 years he was a news journalist at CBS he was the voice of my childhood and before my chi..."
Crisis in Free Press
Dan Rather discusses the alarming state of the free press in America, describing it as a crisis greater than any he has witnessed in his lifetime. He compares the current hostility towards the press under President Trump to past administrations, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of the current attacks on journalistic credibility and the implications for democracy.
"thank you thank you very much thank you thank you very much Marcus pleasure to be here so I want to start with one thing which is and I don't do plugs I get books from everybody but I recently read th..."
Crisis in Free Press
Dan Rather discusses the current state of the free press in America, describing it as a crisis greater than any he has witnessed in his lifetime. He compares the hostility towards the press from past presidents, particularly Nixon, to the unprecedented attacks from the current administration, emphasizing the dangers of undermining public trust in journalism.
"thank you thank you very much thank you thank you very much Marcus pleasure to be here so I want to start with one thing which is and I don't do plugs I get books from everybody but I recently read th..."
The Dangers of Autocracy
Rather warns about the dangers of autocratic leadership, drawing parallels between current political trends and historical examples of nationalism leading to tyranny. He stresses the importance of recognizing the erosion of democratic institutions and the need for vigilance in protecting the values that unite Americans.
"think in to the country we have had presidents before in fact it's a rare president who at one time or another hasn't felt some hostility toward the press previously for example in the administration ..."
The Threat of Autocracy
Rather warns about the signs of autocracy in the current political climate, drawing parallels to historical examples. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the erosion of democratic values and the dangers of extreme nationalism, urging listeners to understand the implications of a divided society.
"think in to the country we have had presidents before in fact it's a rare president who at one time or another hasn't felt some hostility toward the press previously for example in the administration ..."
The Importance of Humility in Patriotism
In this segment, Rather articulates the concept of true patriotism, which includes humility and a commitment to continuous improvement. He argues against the notion of tribalism and division, advocating for a united approach to American values that transcend political affiliations.
"the mark of an autocratic regime and an autocratic leader and we know from history what the dangers are when you have autocracy in the top level of power autocracy frequently leads to number one confu..."
The Importance of Unity
In this segment, Rather stresses the need for unity in America, countering the narrative of division. He discusses the fundamental values that unite Americans and the importance of humility in patriotism, advocating for a collective effort to uphold democratic ideals amidst rising tribalism.
"the mark of an autocratic regime and an autocratic leader and we know from history what the dangers are when you have autocracy in the top level of power autocracy frequently leads to number one confu..."
Recognizing Common Values
Rather reflects on the shared values that can unite Americans, emphasizing the rule of law and the right to vote. He argues against the notion that division is inevitable, asserting that a commitment to fundamental American principles can foster unity and progress.
"water it's a little bit of change the media a little bit of install people into senior positions in the counterintelligence and intelligence State it's a little bit of undermine the course and then in..."
Recognizing Common Ground
Rather emphasizes the need for Americans to recognize shared values and work towards unity rather than division. He discusses the importance of civic education and the role of individuals in fostering a sense of community and understanding across different backgrounds.
"water it's a little bit of change the media a little bit of install people into senior positions in the counterintelligence and intelligence State it's a little bit of undermine the course and then in..."
The Role of Immigration in American Identity
Mark Suster and Dan Rather delve into the topic of immigration, reflecting on America's history as a nation of immigrants. Rather critiques the current political climate's reactionary stance on immigration and calls for a return to the foundational values that celebrate diversity and inclusion.
"outline it's one of the reasons I wanted to do the book I'm not here today to sell a copy of the book but believe so strongly that overwhelming laney the majority of people in this country or United a..."
The Role of Education in Unity
Mark Suster and Dan Rather discuss the potential for education to promote unity. Rather shares his vision for creating a curriculum based on the values outlined in his book, aiming to inspire young people to work towards a healthier and more just society.
"outline it's one of the reasons I wanted to do the book I'm not here today to sell a copy of the book but believe so strongly that overwhelming laney the majority of people in this country or United a..."
Immigration and American Identity
Rather addresses the current state of immigration policy in America, noting the shift in the Republican Party towards nativism. He highlights the historical importance of immigration to American identity and the need for reform that recognizes the contributions of immigrants to society.
"if you prefer now this is fundamentally under merica and we need to recognize it it's not a matter of being Republican or Democrat or conservative or reactionary or progressive I mean I say of myself ..."
Empowering the Next Generation
Rather discusses his vision for empowering young people through education and civic engagement. He shares anecdotes about teachers inspired to create curricula based on the values outlined in his book, emphasizing the importance of teaching civics to foster informed and active citizens.
"if you prefer now this is fundamentally under merica and we need to recognize it it's not a matter of being Republican or Democrat or conservative or reactionary or progressive I mean I say of myself ..."
The Challenge of Division
In this segment, Rather addresses the challenges posed by societal division and the need for collective action to overcome it. He stresses that while policy disagreements are natural, there are fundamental American values that should unite all citizens.
"courage one of the things we talked about is you feel this great obligation having traveled the country and loving the country and having these ideals that you've seen defended time and again to reach..."
Voting Rights and Accessibility
In this segment, Rather discusses the challenges faced by working-class individuals in exercising their right to vote. He emphasizes the importance of ensuring that all Americans have access to the polls and reflects on the historical struggles for voting rights.
"help make it a reality courage one of the things we talked about is you feel this great obligation having traveled the country and loving the country and having these ideals that you've seen defended ..."
The Right to Vote: A Fundamental Value
Rather highlights the importance of voting rights as a cornerstone of democracy. He discusses historical struggles for voting rights and the contemporary challenges faced by marginalized groups, advocating for policies that ensure equitable access to the polls.
"tech oriented person in particular but there's got to be a way and I'll come for with you that you know I want to I'm going to do something big and I want to do something makes a difference I don't kn..."
The Dangers of Media Bubbles
Rather expresses concern about the media bubbles that prevent understanding and empathy among Americans. He shares personal reflections on how literature has helped him connect with diverse experiences, stressing the need for greater awareness of different perspectives.
"tech oriented person in particular but there's got to be a way and I'll come for with you that you know I want to I'm going to do something big and I want to do something makes a difference I don't kn..."
The Fairness Doctrine and Media Control
Dan Rather explains the significance of the Fairness Doctrine and its impact on media diversity. He discusses the concentration of media ownership and the challenges it poses to delivering unbiased news, urging for a more responsible consumption of information in the digital age.
"about the shameful periods where we've limited immigration to negative economic consequences and you talked about the leadership of some in the Republican Party Ronald Reagan who granted amnesty Georg..."
Media Bubbles and Empathy
Rather expresses concern about the media bubbles that prevent understanding and empathy among different groups. He emphasizes the need for individuals to step outside their comfort zones to connect with diverse perspectives and foster unity.
"town reached out and said we need to reach out to Latinos we understand what the demographic is like where do you where are we out today on immigration well we're out on immigration is that and I'm th..."
Inclusion vs. Tolerance
Rather highlights the difference between tolerance and inclusion, using historical examples to illustrate the importance of diverse perspectives. He argues that true inclusion enriches society and emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding across different backgrounds.
"freedom and democracy you were in the South in the civil rights era you went to voting places where african-americans who were legal citizens were disenfranchised and turned away you created some visi..."
The Role of Inclusion in Justice
In this segment, Rather discusses the significance of inclusion in the justice system, referencing Ruth Bader Ginsburg's impact on the Supreme Court. He argues that diverse perspectives lead to more equitable outcomes and highlights the difference between tolerance and true inclusion.
"society based on the principles of freedom and democracy you were in the South in the civil rights era you went to voting places where african-americans who were legal citizens were disenfranchised an..."
The Future of News and Democracy
Rather reflects on the evolution of news media and the implications of corporate control over information. He discusses the challenges of maintaining a free press in the digital age and the responsibility of consumers to seek out diverse viewpoints.
"Latinos being one saying you have to make but you have to reduce the number of Latinos who can get to the polls because if we in this innocence of Republicans don't do that we're gonna lose elections ..."
The Future of American Democracy
In the concluding segment, Rather reflects on the current state of American democracy and the importance of fostering unity. He expresses hope for the future, emphasizing the need for collective action to uphold democratic values and combat division.
"Latinos being one saying you have to make but you have to reduce the number of Latinos who can get to the polls because if we in this innocence of Republicans don't do that we're gonna lose elections ..."
Final Thoughts on Unity and Action
In the concluding segment, Rather shares his vision for a united America, urging individuals to take action in promoting shared values and understanding. He emphasizes the importance of empathy and connection in overcoming societal challenges, leaving the audience with a call to engage in meaningful dialogue.
"effectively spew out propaganda and one of the ways it seems that was undermined I read it in your book I don't know the history was striking down the Fairness Doctrine in the Reagan administration th..."