If you are here and reading this - 10 years after Hitch died - you are my people. Whether we agree on all matters or not (indeed, I hope we do not), you are my people.
It's been 11 years since we lost Christopher Hitchens, and I can't help but think about how much we could use his sharp insights right now. In the midst of all this chaos, his absence feels even more pronounced. Christopher Hitchens, you are truly missed. Cheers.
@@keefriff99 That's like saying he would be a part of the Christian Right wing he was neither, it's nice that you have another Atheist as your avatar though.
@@daysjoursHitchens argument for the Iraq war is the only moral case put forward for that war. To view him and his activism as evil reflects more on your moral code than his
To hear Christopher's voice on this tape, weakened by his deadly cancer, and distanced from the always relaxed, elegant English intonation that we remember with such affection, is at first hard to relate to. But then we can pleasure ourselves again in the breadth and discipline of his knowledge and intellect, as he talks here to Richard Dawkins. It is so good to know that his brain, and his use of it, survived so strongly to the end . . . within just 2 months of this recording, he was dead. To our enormous loss.
What is strange is that, despite his incredible knowledge and intelligence, he ignored the well-known scientifically established fact that smoking massively increases the risk of cancer, and alcohol exacerbates that risk. Together, smoking and alcohol are a huge risk factor. He drank and smoked like a chimney.
@@mklives2 I find it strange that you find that strange. I doubt he ignored it in the sense that he thought the science was bad. Consider all the things people know are bad for them, yet do anyway, even if we leave addiction out of the picture. For that matter, I'm sitting here feeling like I'm writing this out of my own free will, yet I fully understand how unlikely it is that any such thing exists. The brain has a number of bits and bobs that don't necessarily all agree with one another.
@@mklives2 I think that this is a reflection of Hitch's attitude to life in general. He used to say there there are always risks to be assessed, and each of have to make up our own minds about them. He consistently said that drink must be the servant, and not the master - this way your thinking gets freed up, discussion is more lively, and companions are more enjoyable.
@@mklives2 In one of his final interviews he was asked about burning the candle at both ends and the circumstances that resulted. In true Hitchens fashion he answered, "yes, but what a lovely light it gave". He was true to the last.
He did not lose a battle to cancer, he went with the brilliance of his mind fully intact to illuminate that dark and most feared of places we all head to. Thank you for going first, and thank you for showing me how to live, and yes, how to die.
@@BigMeat8008 the proof is already inside you. An innate instinct that tells you creation has to have a creator. An instinct that you fight and drown out with the dribble from so called geniuses like this poor soul who will soon see the seriousness of his grave error. The definition of a f●●l is someone who says there is no God. But to believe in God would mean that hell really exists. That would mean that you're accountable to a Higher Being, A judge. that would mean your life is not yours, that would mean you would have to acknowledge that you're not a good person who practices evil on a daily basis. Something this guy refused to accept. Because men like him don't believe in God because it is unreasonable, he doesn't believe because he just doesn't want to, it's undesirable. Which changes nothing in the end.
@@bobbym6130 2 Corinthians 4 1 And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. The god of this age (Satan) has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.
I'm an uneducated working class bloke who works long hours and my kids are thriving in education. I got interested and started listening to Hitch through my interest in physics. His intellect reaches far and wide which speaks volumes of his ability at being a brilliant communicator. So sad to hear him struggle but his mind remained sharp to the end which provides some comfort.
I am in the same boat. Bravo for your effort to bring a broader perspective to the next generation. Keep growing, who knows what we can accomplish together.
I have an 8th year education by way of ADHD and Chronic depression . I have learned more autodydactically , self taught , than I ever learned in school . I got my GED ( General Ed Diploma , which is practically worthless ) at age 20 . I have begun thinking of inquiring if I could re-enroll at age 53 to my nearest High School . I doubt it but imagine going to high school with what you know now !?!!
@@georgeelmerdenbrough6906 You should. If you feel that's right. Everyone will be so supportive. I'm about to embark in learning again . We are of the same age. Do it.
Exactly the same as you I always had knowledge for the truth and when I hear it I know it. James Baldwin was a great black activist and wrote some amazing books and some amazing debates about slavery and historical issues
@@georgeelmerdenbrough6906 why don’t you go and do what you want to do man I suffer depression and came from emotional and mental abuse and getting out of bed can be hard most days but I love knowledge so go get your dreams
Two of the most brilliant minds ever. To hear Christopher so physically weak is heartbreaking to me. Still, he remained intellectually powerful - which is beyond inspiring.
To endure such a severely crippling condition and still remain as steady and focused as he was.. he's basically Sigismund from 40k minus the religious zealotry lol
Such a brilliant mind he lacked the common sense to realise God is our creator. Such a brilliant mind he reasoned that everything came from nothing & we are a cosmic accident 😂
Dear Prof Dawkins how gracious and respectful you respond and react to Christopher in your interaction; it stands as an example of the kind of compassionte human being you are in your own right. I am humbled to listen to both of you as inspiring teachers and Masters in your fields. You both make this world a better place.
Yes he taught me that religion is poison and by that I mean he taught me that alcohol and drugs are a poison 100 times more deadly than religion and not to spend your life attacking something which is non of your business and to instead look in the mirror and look at your own faults.
@@Oliver9402 I'm sure you wish that somehow Alcohol and Drugs invalidate his arguments however they do not, and cheap name calling of a dead man is beneath you
@I Yam What I Yam! Which bar was it that you went into for this stupid comment? - by which you presumably judge yourself as being far superior. Please explain.
I have a new massively increased respect for Dawkins. Wow, just wow. The level of sensitivity, tact and emotional intelligence to ask the questions that drew out Hitchens wisdom so it could be documented for education is just such an act of kindness.
I can't imagine how hard it must have been to interview Hitchens at this late stage of his cancer. It's very emotional to listen to. Hitchens makes sure early on that both focus on issues, making Dawkins more comfortable. Thank you very much for sharing this with the world, prof. Dawkins.
His mind is just as strong as a young intellect full of curiosity, logic, reason... Etc..... A beautiful and powerful mind z! He seems more gentle and comforting But the body is weak and dreadful. It truly breaks my god dam heart..its s contradictions.....a man who still has a boy's curiosity and still mentally stront willed. If the body was the mind he be with us for another lifetime.
When you love someone, as Dawkins loved Hitchens, it comes naturally, sitting and talking with them, seeing through their caner. You want every last moment with them that you can possibly have. I speak from extremely sad experience in this regard.
Hitch was the watershed moment for me. I remember discovering him, Dawkins et al online in the mid 2000s and going down the new atheism rabbit hole. I never have been happier making any journey since. Hitch was a true one of a kind. That perfect mixture of insanely knowledgeable and well read but with the charm, charisma and sense of humour to make hang on every word. What a huge loss to journalism and debate in these last tumultuous ten years.
@@electrocyde Atheism is not at all comforting, alive OR dead. It simply is the way this Universe IS. But I do not invent child level fantasies just because I don't like it!
@@electrocyde how is atheism comforting while you're alive? It tells you that you're all alone and there isn't a loving god watching over us. And we have only one life that will definitely end and then we will be dead forever with no heaven or afterlife. It says that life isn't fair and there is no salvation. That doesn't comfort me as an atheist. But I'd rather face the truth than try to convince myself that a preacher from the middle east 2000 years ago was executed to save my invisible immortal soul that apparently exists inside me
Thank you Richard. I thought I had consumed every last piece of content in association to Christopher Hitchens, but here, and now, you gift us with this. To the Hitch!
@@TheJudgeandtheJury Good to see you are watching this too! I was in utter joy when I first watched it - this is what prompted my conversation with Riley Morgan of DOUBT SOCIETY. That was a favourite discussion of mine. Cheers!
The most influential human being I've come across in my life. I miss this man more than I miss some of my family members and I am not afraid to say it. I wish we still had him here with us.
Hi everyone. I once in a while sit in my van at Heathrow and listen and listen again to UA-cam clips of this great orator. His final months bring tears to my eyes but I’ve also learnt so much from him. Best wishes to all.
Thank you, from the bottom of my rotten old heart for this beautiful discussion between my two dearest and most beloved mentors. Just to hear Christopher's voice, here, moves me to tears. His humility whle channeling his rarefied intellect is deeply moving. The sensitivity of Professor Dawkins as he converses with his friend is just lovely. Thank you gentlemen, I can honestly tell you that your influences have transformed my life.
@@daysjours Give it time. War, conflict and blood of the dripping sort you ascribe to Christopher, seems to be a defining characteristic of the human experience and our pre-occupation with the ancient stories which continue to bind us. My conclusions from reading Christopher are that he spoke for a peace far more elevated and hopeful for humanity; a future based on common decency, founded in science and governed by evidence. If you can push past your preconceptions and truly listen to what he has to say, I think you might find there is more there. It's always possible, though, that he's just not for you and thats a beautiful thing too. Warm regards.
Incredible. Never condescending, a charming man full of ideas. I think Christopher loved talking to Richard, he's relaxed, confident, gentle, wise, funny, and as always he was still spot on. He enjoys talking about his lifelong work. A distraction from his physical state. Richard doesn't say too much, and I respect him enormously. He lets his friend just talk. It is beautiful to hear. Thank you to Richard. What a beautiful interview. It still astounds me to hear Christopher, and find something new to inject into my sponge brain! Cheers
@@1rdavies I knew of him, had seen a documentary about his mother and partner, whom had a suicide pact. Hitch went into the Italian apartment and saw his mother dead. He reacted by making sense of what happen with his words and philosophy. It was fascinating. I didn't realise he was ill. I admire him. I wish he could have stayed longer..cheers
The enormous contributions these two men have brought to the world will never be forgotten. Thank you Richard and Christopher for awakening so many minds.
Professor Dawkins- Thank you sincerely for sharing this audio interview. Hitch has saved my life in more ways than one. I really needed to hear his voice today, I miss him immensely
Is a warmonger someone who sits on the sidelines and claims to support someone else's war, of which he's not actually involved in Or Someone who starts and engages in wars?
Never heard him towards the end, his voice was almost unrecognisable to me initially. I was immediately won over as a young scamp in my 20’s by him, eloquent and charming, fiercely intelligent, passionate and humane. A good soul who is missed.
Everyone dies, but for almost everyone (99.99% of all humans ever) thats the end. Hitch will be around for generations yet. God certainly isnt great, but Hitch was. Hitch 1 - Gods 0 .
So heartbreaking when he talks about dinner then says he has his through a tube, I've only discovered him recently and what a treasure to have discovered
Ever since I began listening to Christopher Hitchens, sadly, since his passing, I have insatiably thirsted for more. Thank you for sharing this unique treasure.
I rewatch this so much and I will listen to this every year of my life,The amount of knowledge these two have is insane and both are worthy of high praise.
I just came across this video posted by Richard Dawkins. It was difficult seeing Christopher’s frail condition, hearing his weakened voice and knowing he would lose his battle with cancer again. His death is a deep loss for humanity. He opened my eyes to critical thinking, the lies of religion and politics. I find myself rereading his books, articles and watching his UA-cam videos from time to time. My only regret is that I came across his works and discovering him after his death. I think of him as a mentor. Thank-you for posting this, Richard.
What a joy it is to listen to Christopher again, very interesting what ever the subject, a deep understanding of the English language, this is greatness right here. Three cheers to Richard Dawkins, many thanks to you Sir
Christopher Hitchens changed my life. He delivered me . I only wish I had discovered him while he was alive. I have so many things to thank him for. He means so much to me.
A pleasure to have followed Christopher Hitchens for many years. Always great insights, and a wonderful global vision. Sorely missed. It would have been nice to have his insights through the decades following his unfortunate passing.
@@daviddeida in what way was he overrated? And ‘supported Bush’ went as far as calling out a Psychopath in the Middle East, it didn’t go any further than that.
@@markelliottdriver Hardly an original thinker.No foresight in where we find ourselves today.Christianity is the very least of our problems,when uni is promoting critical race theory,men being able to menstruate and identity politics run amok.
@@daviddeida He spoke of religion because that was what was pertinent at the time. He was a clear thinker regarding a range of issues and a great speaker and debater.
@@markelliottdriver Nah,religion was'nt pertinent,it was an easy target ,preaching to the converted,had zero effect in my life or the law.A weak debater to boot.The looney left were on the rise and he ignored it.
This is an incredible treasure. One final conversation with Christopher that we get to witness. And with Professor Dawkins as his interlocutor. I can't believe we can listen to this for free. I haven't finished Hitchens' self-narrated memoir "Hitch-22." I'm saving it for much later, because I don't want to feel the pain of reaching the end of his body of work. Gone too soon.
Fortunately he has a near endless amount of essays and fortunately his speeches and interviews and debates have this strange quality in that they never get boring no matter how many times you listen
@@sendnoodles5437 So true! I can't count the number of nights I've fallen asleep listening to his narration of God is Not Great. His legendary wit and impeccable delivery are like a soothing balm compared to the vitriolic madness of life here in the Bible Belt.
@@BenThere_DoneThat It's ironic since he of all people despised the idolatry treatment, but he's definitely the closest thing I have to an idol - I keep many of his quotes in the forefront of my mind as I wade through the thickets of life, particularly his advice to stand up and confront instances of stupidity and unfairness, and to refuse the offer of refuge in the consensus. I wish he were still around, but in a way it's almost apt that he died so suddenly - it goes to show the randomness and absurdity of life that he often invoked. My parents moved to the Texas from overseas for my father's work - I've visited them a few times...it's an interesting place to holiday... I absolutely couldn't live there though. I consider myself a fairly tolerant and patient person, but the credulity and literal mindedness I've seen on display there pushed me to the limits. The street fireworks are cool though.
@@sendnoodles5437 I know exactly what you mean. "Letters to a young contrarian" is an incredible treatise on how freethinkers should aspire to conduct themselves in the face of all the ignorance and corruption. It renews my resolve every time I revisit it.
@@BenThere_DoneThat Yeah that reminds me I need to revisit that. Over the years I've drawn a few contradictions in his views, especially in relation to free speech and identity politics (to be fair his memoir was subtitled confessions and contradictions) however that doesn't prevent me from appreciating him - it just shows that he was constantly thinking and changing his mind, and that he was human like the rest of us.
What a joy it was to hear Hitch again; saying some things I'd never heard him say. It's so sad to hear how weak his voice was, but his mind was so obviously still there. I don't think he would have wished for anything more- I think, for Hitch, the loss of his mind was a fear far greater than the fear of death. Richard, thank you so much for sharing this- I just happened to sign on to Twitter today- so lucky. I do wish you'd have continued speaking and recording until Hitch was ready to stop. Knowing this could very well be the last chance to hear Hitch string words together on tape, I don't think I would have been able to stop until he made the request. I didn't discover Hitch until just after his death but I am so fortunate that he made so many recordings (nowhere near enough though). I almost teared up a couple of times, but when you said, "Have you had enough?" and he instantly & adamantly proclaimed, "NO! For heavens sake! We haven't started!", that one almost got me. He did truly love a great conversation. It's strange to me how someone I've never met could have such a monumental impact on my life. The world truly did suffer a loss when he died and he will be missed for generations.
This man of men who has so influenced me changing my life and I can't thank him. This saddens me. I admit this moment that my father who comes to mind, can be thanked but hasn't. He will be momentarily. Thank you Christopher Hitchens. Thanks also Dad
C.H. is a supernova of stimulation. I still feel the 0void left by his passing. He arrested me with his Life of Brian debate and I rewatch and repeatedly find gems in all his presentations since. Such a loss. So lucky to have his thoughts enrich my being. Thanks Christopher .... Ray.
You can feel the weakness of his body in his voice. The voice that must had put fear in the heart of priests and imams and religious charlatans. Almost like a flame that is about to go off. Hitchens will always be remembered as the person who brought light in life of so many lost souls , the souls which were under dark , due to religion for so so long. His words kind of broke the spell and awaken so many of us I think. Me personally came to know about him when I was 30 yrs old ( 32 now ). Blindly following religious dogma. His words just freed me. Thank you sir.
@@arar1861 so even the many death penalties imposed by your god of peace? The fact that Allah condones hate and distrust but pretends to be a peaceful god isn't a mistake? Tell us about the various scenarios where your god of peace condones violence and death
Thank you for Sharing this Mr. Dawkins. I have listened and watched nearly everything published on UA-cam about Mr. Hitchens, and read most of his books. This touches me as much as his last public debate, as you can hear how unwell he is. And hear your concern for the well being of a dear friend, whom you know is soon to be no more. This is truly a heartfelt moment between you two. My first encounter with Mr. Hitchens was in 95, at the age of 19, when i relieved my mothers night stand from a book called the "missionary position" - A book she as a book critic, just had finished reading.... Or so i determined, due to it being at the bottom of a pile containing several other books. Never have i been equally disappointed and thrilled by reading a book. Again thank you for sharing this precious and private interview.
Very funny but quite understandable given where you would have been at, at 19 . You were lucky to find him so early in a proper book so you were really enlightened
@@louisewilliams7492 I was lucky never having religious parents in the first place - or at least never force one upon me - Otherwise my mother would probably never have agreed to critique the book. I have never known the fear of religion in life, in that regard i am truly blessed. Pun intended!
A brilliant and scholarly statesman of the highest order. Charisma, charm and oozing with intellect. Deeply missed and appreciated. Such a massive loss of a powerful voice to the world.
Read his work-he covered dozens and dozens of topics over many decades. He wasn’t always 100% correct but nobody is. He backed up his ideas quite throughly and made the smartest person stop and think.
@@FlyingSpaghettiMonster2000 I prefer his wiser brother Peter Hitchens. You know, the one who didn't smoke and drink himself to death early? The one who opposed the disastrous Iraq war.
Breaking my heart to hear his voice. 💔 I often think to myself "what would the Hitch say?" when I see daily doses of the insanity of our societal decay, state of our politics, and the direction of the Overton Window shift. We need the Hitch now, more than ever.
I love that a random acquaintance of Hitchens' got to be immortalized in his last interview because he passed by at the right moment and said 'hello.' It was beautifully polite and brief, and because of it his voice will live as long as one of the greatest orators ever to walk the Earth.
A remarkable orator who's unique perspective and gifted language strikes a passionate and soothing melody to the ear of a musician and peaks the curiosity of the mind and awakens the keenness of ones innate drive to learn and understand. Thank you for recording and posting this gift for all posterity.
That bit at the end, where he gets excited about having dinner with Dawkins and then mentions he doesn't know how it will go for him because he has to use a tube...that's heartbreaking. Wonderful interview, thank you so much for posting it.
Thank you so much for posting this. Christopher was truly unique. A great mind, excellent debater, style, intelligent. I could go on.... superb. He is missed.🥂❤️
This was much harder to listen to than I thought it would be. Hearing his voice like this, not only does it betray his body coming nearer to its final breath, I can hear a certain urgency in his enunciation in his recognition of this reality. He’s more rambling and expeditious in his speech, like he’s clinging on every second and word. RIP Christopher, thanks for expressing so eloquently what I felt so deeply.
His frank , sincere, thoughtful , unbiased , concise, precise interpretations have an eternal beauty .... as we all chase the ultimate beauty that ultimate truth has to be
"Ventriloquize the divine..." What a beautifully wrought phrase. I love Hitchens most of all for his capacity to twist so many wonderful phrases that help people think about things in new ways. Truly, he was on Shakespeare's level. I wish more people could appreciate the depth of his wit and humor. I'm glad for all of you who have worked hard enough to be able to.
@@george5464 well one thing he said was that the SS had belt buckles engraved with “Gott mit uns”….God with us! Hitler believed he was doing God’s work exterminating the Jews, so much for the argument that he was an atheist!
@@george5464 You can follow any gods, but if you're an atheist, you will be persecuted. Therefore, swear your undying loytalty to the Fuhrer, in the name of the almighty Lord.
And I still miss Carl Sagan. It never goes away. People like Hitch and Carl leave a mark in mind that will be with you for life. And I'm grateful for that.
@@99goat99 My, yes, Carl, too. I grew up in the 60s'70s not far from Cornell, where he taught. I remember his books, Cosmos, even his being on Carson. "We are made of star stuff." I frequently think of that line.
@@walkingstick6655I miss him too, even if i never met or spoke to him haha. Atleast we can carry a tiny piece of his spark with us by using and remembering what we learned from him. And we can find solace in the fact that he doesnt have to grieve anymore, that is a tough task you and i will take on. Until we too inevitably pass and are free'd of our grief and sorrow. Good luck in life, i hope you find hapiness and fulfilment
Thank you so much. I discovered both you recently my life. I’ve always felt so alone in my feelings about religion but you both validated them. I didn’t realize he was dead until I couldn’t find recent videos and then realized he had died. So basically I found my hero that was dead and this comforted me greatly. You guys are heroes to so many that you couldn’t possibly realize.
He threw open a door in my mind that I had been hoping for much of my life. It was not until my 50's I really had the opportunity to watch all the debates that led me to others too, not alone after all. I was raised a Catholic. It never fully took. I credit him with asking questions that allowed me to be completely free of its' attempts at intellectual castration. Thank you, Christopher Hitchens!
I missed seeing him at a local bookshop on his last book tour by ten days owing to his illness. I will never forget that I missed a great time. Later, I found myself being treated for cancer at the hospital where he died. One of my joys as a book lover was to read his book on Thomas Jefferson while sitting in the Thomas Jefferson reading room at the Library of Congress.
Like many here, I discovered Christopher Hitchens after his death. Irrespective of one's religious beliefs or politics, one cannot help but admire Christopher's stunning intellect and supremacy in debate. Had he lived, I would have felt compelled to meet him- like no other.
Listening to this interview, knowing how unwell Christopher was at the time, breaks my heart to hear him in the state his disease had effected him...I discovered Christopher Hitchens late in life for the both of us...such a loss, he could have been so clarifying in the times we are in....
How 64 minutes went by just like that. "Now let's have dinner." The whole discussion is so anchored in reality, so refreshing and timeless. Effortlessly touching on religion with a great deal of wisdom. Once again, poetry of reality manifests itself naturally. Dare I say or type, amen to this interview.
Thanks to you two wonderful people I`ve learnt to know too late in life. Richard and Christopher will stand time in any debate about life and peoples behaviour in life. Wisdom like this is scarce, I wish I had the insight like these two outstanding gentlemen.
As a devout Christian, I truly respected the intellect of Christopher Hitchens. I own every published book and writings that I can find. I admired the sheer power of his thinking, his process, and his writing style. His command of language and passion for truth continue to be models for the well-read thinker. The genius of his ability to create historical context better than many so called, ‘great’ thinkers, stands above many. Thank you for making this available.
If you are a devout Christian even after reading everything Hitchens wrote, then you are either very stubborn or didn't understand one word that you read. Otherwise, at the very least, you should stop being "devout".
@@JGM0JGM you can’t tell people what to do yourself m8 acting like you are a king to tell people to stop being religious. My goodness you online atheists that suck up to Dawkins and Hitchens are soo condescending.
Thank you so much for this Professor Dawkins. I discovered Hitchens only recently and now I try to consume as much of his thought and, more importantly, his posture and manners as I can. A fundamental humility towards inquiry and knowledge and a genuine regard for his fellow man is what I take away most from him. Even as I regret not ever being able to hear or see him in person, his “spirit” continues to illuminate and inspire me.
Christopher is still influencing my thoughts and my way of life, a man of great integrity and honesty, he will be forever remembered for his beautiful logic and demonstrate religion as it is.
A million thanks, I never tire of listening to this great thinker and speaker, can be said about them both, Christopher Hitchens, sorely missed, his voice much needed today more than ever.
Thank you. One more video to watch many times. Even sick and about to pass, his beautiful voice not what it once was, he's still the smartest, most erudite human on the planet. If only I had a fraction of his amazing intellect. His last sentence ripped my heart out, about his dinner.
Thank you for posting this gem. We must keep Christopher Hitchens, his writings, his voice and intellect relevant and accessible to the masses - especially those willing to listen to reason and who still believe in science over fantasy.
Love him. What a great mind. I think about this Hitch quote all of the time: “I want to live my life taking the risk - all the time - that I don't know anything like-enough yet, that I haven't understood enough, that I can't know enough, that I'm always hungrily operating on the margins of a potentially great harvest of future knowledge and wisdom...Take the risk of thinking for yourself, much more happiness, truth, beauty, and wisdom will come to you.”
To me this is a historical document of utmost importance, one that I return to when I feel the need to again be inspired and illuminated by these two great men
If you are here and reading this - 10 years after Hitch died - you are my people. Whether we agree on all matters or not (indeed, I hope we do not), you are my people.
poggers one of us
I just discovered this now. Driving tomorrow and will listen in full. Miss him so much. Discovered him a decade ago and he still influences me hugely.
A beautiful sentiment. You seem like a wonderful person to disagree with. 🍻🥂
Cheers
Cheers
It's been 11 years since we lost Christopher Hitchens, and I can't help but think about how much we could use his sharp insights right now. In the midst of all this chaos, his absence feels even more pronounced.
Christopher Hitchens, you are truly missed.
Cheers.
Hitch LIVES!!!!! I just don't want to say where.
I agree
Sharp insight? He would probably be a massive Trump supporter today…I don’t need to hear from him anymore.
RIP FH Astral Realms 💀👻😵💫❤️🔥✊🏽😌🤝😎🤗🤯
@@keefriff99 That's like saying he would be a part of the Christian Right wing he was neither, it's nice that you have another Atheist as your avatar though.
Can't believe I'm listening to new Hitchens stuff in 2022, thanks for this.
Yuuuuge
Makes you wonder if there are other audio clips out there yet to be released.
I feel privileged.
What a gift. Gives me goosebumps.
I'm now listening to audiobooks of his essays borrowed from the public library - outstanding as usual.
It saddens me terribly to hear Christopher's voice in such a weakened state. I'll always remember him as a powerful voice.
maybe weakened in sound/ strength but not in intent . His voice was still so powerful.
@Get Zappéd 1974 I meant that he sounds very much like an ill man.
He used that powerful voice to promote the Iraq war. He was evil. Truly evil.
@@daysjours Please take your insane ravings elsewhere.
@@daysjoursHitchens argument for the Iraq war is the only moral case put forward for that war. To view him and his activism as evil reflects more on your moral code than his
This is a gem I haven't experienced before. I thought I'd heard every word from the great man. What a treat for us all
New videos come out every so often, have you seen his appearance with Gore Vidal that came out in video on UA-cam some months ago?
To hear Christopher's voice on this tape, weakened by his deadly cancer, and distanced from the always relaxed, elegant English intonation that we remember with such affection, is at first hard to relate to. But then we can pleasure ourselves again in the breadth and discipline of his knowledge and intellect, as he talks here to Richard Dawkins. It is so good to know that his brain, and his use of it, survived so strongly to the end . . . within just 2 months of this recording, he was dead. To our enormous loss.
What is strange is that, despite his incredible knowledge and intelligence, he ignored the well-known scientifically established fact that smoking massively increases the risk of cancer, and alcohol exacerbates that risk. Together, smoking and alcohol are a huge risk factor. He drank and smoked like a chimney.
@@mklives2 addiction does not discriminate
@@mklives2 I find it strange that you find that strange. I doubt he ignored it in the sense that he thought the science was bad. Consider all the things people know are bad for them, yet do anyway, even if we leave addiction out of the picture. For that matter, I'm sitting here feeling like I'm writing this out of my own free will, yet I fully understand how unlikely it is that any such thing exists. The brain has a number of bits and bobs that don't necessarily all agree with one another.
@@mklives2 I think that this is a reflection of Hitch's attitude to life in general. He used to say there there are always risks to be assessed, and each of have to make up our own minds about them. He consistently said that drink must be the servant, and not the master - this way your thinking gets freed up, discussion is more lively, and companions are more enjoyable.
@@mklives2 In one of his final interviews he was asked about burning the candle at both ends and the circumstances that resulted. In true Hitchens fashion he answered, "yes, but what a lovely light it gave". He was true to the last.
He did not lose a battle to cancer, he went with the brilliance of his mind fully intact to illuminate that dark and most feared of places we all head to. Thank you for going first, and thank you for showing me how to live, and yes, how to die.
Beautifully said.
Well said and his book Mortality really gets to the heart of it as well, it was hard to read knowing the reason he wrote it and what soon followed 😢
And how to go to hell as well.
@@Jiraiya-di7iwprove it!!!!
@@BigMeat8008 the proof is already inside you. An innate instinct that tells you creation has to have a creator. An instinct that you fight and drown out with the dribble from so called geniuses like this poor soul who will soon see the seriousness of his grave error. The definition of a f●●l is someone who says there is no God.
But to believe in God would mean that hell really exists. That would mean that you're accountable to a Higher Being, A judge. that would mean your life is not yours, that would mean you would have to acknowledge that you're not a good person who practices evil on a daily basis.
Something this guy refused to accept. Because men like him don't believe in God because it is unreasonable, he doesn't believe because he just doesn't want to, it's undesirable. Which changes nothing in the end.
Thank you for this, Professor Dawkins.
Yes thank you Professor ✊🏻
Indeed. Hitchens lives on, and I am grateful Professor for yet another encounter with his provocative thought. Thank you both.
If it wasn't for you i hadn't realized that this is actually the official channel of Richard Dawkins. Even the channel icon is just a generic "R".
The Hitch is a hero to every logical thinker and every skeptic. Miss him so much. Great to be able to hear his voice here now and again.
Now he knows how wrong he was in all his life. So sad
,^^^The peace and love of Jesus^^^
@@okechiobidike7071does he? I don't think he knows anything now, since he's dead.
@@bobbym6130 2 Corinthians 4 1
And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. The god of this age (Satan) has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.
@@chrishantha2001Is God not omnipotent?
I'm an uneducated working class bloke who works long hours and my kids are thriving in education. I got interested and started listening to Hitch through my interest in physics. His intellect reaches far and wide which speaks volumes of his ability at being a brilliant communicator. So sad to hear him struggle but his mind remained sharp to the end which provides some comfort.
I am in the same boat. Bravo for your effort to bring a broader perspective to the next generation. Keep growing, who knows what we can accomplish together.
I have an 8th year education by way of ADHD and Chronic depression . I have learned more autodydactically , self taught , than I ever learned in school . I got my GED ( General Ed Diploma , which is practically worthless ) at age 20 . I have begun thinking of inquiring if I could re-enroll at age 53 to my nearest High School . I doubt it but imagine going to high school with what you know now !?!!
@@georgeelmerdenbrough6906 You should. If you feel that's right. Everyone will be so supportive. I'm about to embark in learning again . We are of the same age. Do it.
Exactly the same as you I always had knowledge for the truth and when I hear it I know it. James Baldwin was a great black activist and wrote some amazing books and some amazing debates about slavery and historical issues
@@georgeelmerdenbrough6906 why don’t you go and do what you want to do man I suffer depression and came from emotional and mental abuse and getting out of bed can be hard most days but I love knowledge so go get your dreams
I started to cry in the first few seconds of hearing his voice, but as I continued, his words went and strengthened me from inside.
Two of the most brilliant minds ever. To hear Christopher so physically weak is heartbreaking to me. Still, he remained intellectually powerful - which is beyond inspiring.
To endure such a severely crippling condition and still remain as steady and focused as he was.. he's basically Sigismund from 40k minus the religious zealotry lol
Such a brilliant mind he lacked the common sense to realise God is our creator. Such a brilliant mind he reasoned that everything came from nothing & we are a cosmic accident 😂
@@Truth2023 Such an ignorant and pointless comment.
@@Truth2023 Yeah, he never managed to overcome that “forming beliefs based on evidence” thing.
Hitchens maybe . Dawkins just sounds smart because he is British.
Dear Prof Dawkins how gracious and respectful you respond and react to Christopher in your interaction; it stands as an example of the kind of compassionte human being you are in your own right. I am humbled to listen to both of you as inspiring teachers and Masters in your fields. You both make this world a better place.
This is kind of heartbreaking listening to my hero losing the battle. I miss him. I miss him dearly.
In all his other interviews, I never saw him give compassion to those who died or were dying.
@@thinker185 Neither he demanded or expected compassion for he was dying.
@@dhadad9885 unlike him, I pray he found some peace after death.
@@thinker185 Well, unfortunately we won’t ever know if your prayers were answered.
@@dhadad9885 That's where faith comes in.
What a guy. Changed so many lives and opened so many eyes.
Yes he taught me that religion is poison and by that I mean he taught me that alcohol and drugs are a poison 100 times more deadly than religion and not to spend your life attacking something which is non of your business and to instead look in the mirror and look at your own faults.
What he taught was religion.
@@Oliver9402You think he didn’t have self reflection? Every critic does to some extent.
@@ZachReifsnider Not by any definition.
@@Oliver9402 I'm sure you wish that somehow Alcohol and Drugs invalidate his arguments however they do not, and cheap name calling of a dead man is beneath you
Seeing this photo made me tear up....
Two of my heroes.
Two pillars of reason and sanity Who both resemble the strife of every one of us eh
A clown and a bully.
@@theohuioiesin6519 Because evolution is no real and paradise in heaven is true ?
@@theohuioiesin6519 Ah, Theo I reckon you are a but hurt theologian? or perhaps a christian apologist?
@@respublikas NO because Theos a bellend xx
This is a gift. Thank you very much for posting this, Professor Dawkins.
@I Yam What I Yam! If you think he’s mildly educated, you show your ignorance and stupidity for posting such a foolish thought.
Hail Sagan 🤣
@I Yam What I Yam! Which bar was it that you went into for this stupid comment? - by which you presumably judge yourself as being far superior. Please explain.
@@Pastafarianism85 Satan, maybe?
@@michaelpatterson5811 Hail Carl Sagan!
This makes me terribly sad. We lost a truly great human.
and me
and me
we still have chomsky
lol he was a war criminal, Trotskyite and pseudo intellectual alcoholic preaching low-brow nihilism to the masses.
@@jamescarr4662 for now at least
There's something oddly poetic about his final interview being conducted by Dawkins.
Randomly selected, don't you mean?
Couldn't agree more. 🇦🇺 😊
As Dawkins will tell you in his books, evolution in not random.
I have a new massively increased respect for Dawkins. Wow, just wow. The level of sensitivity, tact and emotional intelligence to ask the questions that drew out Hitchens wisdom so it could be documented for education is just such an act of kindness.
Find that in North Carolina, usa. Oh, don't worry. You won't. Lol.
I can't imagine how hard it must have been to interview Hitchens at this late stage of his cancer. It's very emotional to listen to.
Hitchens makes sure early on that both focus on issues, making Dawkins more comfortable.
Thank you very much for sharing this with the world, prof. Dawkins.
His mind is just as strong as a young intellect full of curiosity, logic, reason... Etc..... A beautiful and powerful mind z! He seems more gentle and comforting
But the body is weak and dreadful. It truly breaks my god dam heart..its s contradictions.....a man who still has a boy's curiosity and still mentally stront willed. If the body was the mind he be with us for another lifetime.
@@jimmydane34 ❤
When you love someone, as Dawkins loved Hitchens, it comes naturally, sitting and talking with them, seeing through their caner. You want every last moment with them that you can possibly have. I speak from extremely sad experience in this regard.
@@USS-SNAKE-ISLAND I hope you have some measure of comfort in your memories. I am sorry for your loss.❤
@@earthling8585 It's been a long time ago now, but it's an experience that changes you forever. Be well. 🙂
Hitch was the watershed moment for me. I remember discovering him, Dawkins et al online in the mid 2000s and going down the new atheism rabbit hole. I never have been happier making any journey since.
Hitch was a true one of a kind. That perfect mixture of insanely knowledgeable and well read but with the charm, charisma and sense of humour to make hang on every word. What a huge loss to journalism and debate in these last tumultuous ten years.
Hear, hear.
Would have been great to see him Hitchslap Jordan Peterson.
ua-cam.com/video/uSwJuOPG4FI/v-deo.html
@@electrocyde Atheism is not at all comforting, alive OR dead. It simply is the way this Universe IS. But I do not invent child level fantasies just because I don't like it!
@@electrocyde how is atheism comforting while you're alive? It tells you that you're all alone and there isn't a loving god watching over us. And we have only one life that will definitely end and then we will be dead forever with no heaven or afterlife. It says that life isn't fair and there is no salvation. That doesn't comfort me as an atheist. But I'd rather face the truth than try to convince myself that a preacher from the middle east 2000 years ago was executed to save my invisible immortal soul that apparently exists inside me
Thank you Richard. I thought I had consumed every last piece of content in association to Christopher Hitchens, but here, and now, you gift us with this.
To the Hitch!
Hey James. This was recommended to me this morning and now I have to watch all of Hitchens debates again.
@@TheJudgeandtheJury Good to see you are watching this too! I was in utter joy when I first watched it - this is what prompted my conversation with Riley Morgan of DOUBT SOCIETY. That was a favourite discussion of mine.
Cheers!
I'm so glad Richard gave Christopher such a genuine, loving hug at the end of their great time together.
I'm here, having found this in July 2023. Cheers, Christopher, and Richard.
The most influential human being I've come across in my life. I miss this man more than I miss some of my family members and I am not afraid to say it. I wish we still had him here with us.
The impact Hitch made on so many people is evident when so many of us can genuinely miss someone we have never met.
Beautiful words, my Friend. Thanks for sharing. Stay gold.
Hi everyone. I once in a while sit in my van at Heathrow and listen and listen again to UA-cam clips of this great orator. His final months bring tears to my eyes but I’ve also learnt so much from him. Best wishes to all.
@@petelove9731 - Me too! It's good to know plp like you exist. Long live Hitchens ❤
@@bisonkambaine5628 Indeed my friend, take care.
Thank you, from the bottom of my rotten old heart for this beautiful discussion between my two dearest and most beloved mentors. Just to hear Christopher's voice, here, moves me to tears. His humility whle channeling his rarefied intellect is deeply moving. The sensitivity of Professor Dawkins as he converses with his friend is just lovely. Thank you gentlemen, I can honestly tell you that your influences have transformed my life.
Despicable war monger with hands dripping in blood. Pick better heroes.
@@daysjours Give it time. War, conflict and blood of the dripping sort you ascribe to Christopher, seems to be a defining characteristic of the human experience and our pre-occupation with the ancient stories which continue to bind us. My conclusions from reading Christopher are that he spoke for a peace far more elevated and hopeful for humanity; a future based on common decency, founded in science and governed by evidence. If you can push past your preconceptions and truly listen to what he has to say, I think you might find there is more there. It's always possible, though, that he's just not for you and thats a beautiful thing too. Warm regards.
Well said, my sentiment exactly.
Incredible. Never condescending, a charming man full of ideas. I think Christopher loved talking to Richard, he's relaxed, confident, gentle, wise, funny, and as always he was still spot on. He enjoys talking about his lifelong work. A distraction from his physical state. Richard doesn't say too much, and I respect him enormously. He lets his friend just talk. It is beautiful to hear. Thank you to Richard. What a beautiful interview. It still astounds me to hear Christopher, and find something new to inject into my sponge brain! Cheers
I came upon Hitch only a few years before his death. Frightening intellect and a pleasure to listen to & watch is extensive work on UA-cam.
@@1rdavies I knew of him, had seen a documentary about his mother and partner, whom had a suicide pact. Hitch went into the Italian apartment and saw his mother dead. He reacted by making sense of what happen with his words and philosophy. It was fascinating. I didn't realise he was ill. I admire him. I wish he could have stayed longer..cheers
In 2023 this makes a refreshing change to hear an intelligent conversation. All conveyed very sensitively, RIP Christopher.
The enormous contributions these two men have brought to the world will never be forgotten. Thank you Richard and Christopher for awakening so many minds.
Very well said. 👍😊
Awakening so many minds to foolishness. The fool says there is no God. In the end , they will meet him. Its laughable.
@@okechiobidike7071
No.
You are the fool and you are laughable.
Go talk to a snake.
@@okechiobidike7071There's a reason they say the poor and stupid are perfect targets for the church and it seems like you are one of them.
Contribution? Are you kidding. Leading souls away from God? Now he knows the Truth, and that he was wrong, so sad but yet I'm happy he's with Jesus.
Professor Dawkins- Thank you sincerely for sharing this audio interview. Hitch has saved my life in more ways than one. I really needed to hear his voice today, I miss him immensely
He was a warmongering, Trotsky apologist.
@@HoratioKJV "Warmongering" 😂😂😂 I think you're confusing Hitchens with Yahweh.
@@k7450 No, he supported the Iraq war.
@@HoratioKJV so? He didn't arrange the war
Is a warmonger someone who sits on the sidelines and claims to support someone else's war, of which he's not actually involved in
Or
Someone who starts and engages in wars?
2024 here. Christopher is deeply missed and the void has never been filled nor has it ever been more felt in the zeitgeist.
Never heard him towards the end, his voice was almost unrecognisable to me initially. I was immediately won over as a young scamp in my 20’s by him, eloquent and charming, fiercely intelligent, passionate and humane.
A good soul who is missed.
He died but what a life and legacy he left us. Super sharp and true to the end.
Everyone dies, but for almost everyone (99.99% of all humans ever) thats the end. Hitch will be around for generations yet. God certainly isnt great, but Hitch was. Hitch 1 - Gods 0 .
@@jamesmaybrick2001now he is sitting with Jesse 😊
Everyone has already or will eventually.
True to what. A bitter empty atheist is all he was.
@@aidanjoyce3248 something the typical christian would say.
Christopher Hitchins is a force of nature! I thank the universe for giving him to us. His voice is still heard and he is really with us!
So heartbreaking when he talks about dinner then says he has his through a tube, I've only discovered him recently and what a treasure to have discovered
Ever since I began listening to Christopher Hitchens, sadly, since his passing, I have insatiably thirsted for more. Thank you for sharing this unique treasure.
Books/Audiobooks of published essays available from public library.
My wife battled cancer for 10 years.
Seeing this breaks my heart.
I rewatch this so much and I will listen to this every year of my life,The amount of knowledge these two have is insane and both are worthy of high praise.
I just came across this video posted by Richard Dawkins. It was difficult seeing Christopher’s frail condition, hearing his weakened voice and knowing he would lose his battle with cancer again. His death is a deep loss for humanity. He opened my eyes to critical thinking, the lies of religion and politics. I find myself rereading his books, articles and watching his UA-cam videos from time to time. My only regret is that I came across his works and discovering him after his death. I think of him as a mentor. Thank-you for posting this, Richard.
I wish I had the chance to tell him he was a god amongst men :)
@@andrewz4105 Somehow I think such a comment would go unrewarded.
@@andrewz4105 he wouldve destroyed you if youd make that statement 😂
The picture is very haunting, I just wish they had gone on longer than an hour
@Rob Lewis to be honest, this was a few months before he died so I very much doubt he had the energy or the desire to go on for longer than an hour
What a joy it is to listen to Christopher again, very interesting what ever the subject, a deep understanding of the English language, this is greatness right here.
Three cheers to Richard Dawkins, many thanks to you Sir
Thanks prof Dawkins . For resurrecting such a rare gem .
Hitch will always be alive to me.
Thanks for this. I've devoured everything Hitch ever wrote or had recorded. Did not expect to ever again hear something new.
Snap! This is the great side of the internet. It’s like discovering an old text or something.
We need such intellect now more than ever. Love is a strong word, but my I do love these two. What amazing minds. Truly miss Hitchens
Christopher Hitchens changed my life. He delivered me . I only wish I had discovered him while he was alive. I have so many things to thank him for. He means so much to me.
Ditto
Well said.
?
I feel the same way!
In which way did he change your life?
A pleasure to have followed Christopher Hitchens for many years. Always great insights, and a wonderful global vision. Sorely missed. It would have been nice to have his insights through the decades following his unfortunate passing.
Christopher Hitchens deserves further recognition, a brilliant mind
Vastly overrated .Glad he supported Bush though.
@@daviddeida in what way was he overrated? And ‘supported Bush’ went as far as calling out a Psychopath in the Middle East, it didn’t go any further than that.
@@markelliottdriver Hardly an original thinker.No foresight in where we find ourselves today.Christianity is the very least of our problems,when uni is promoting critical race theory,men being able to menstruate and identity politics run amok.
@@daviddeida He spoke of religion because that was what was pertinent at the time. He was a clear thinker regarding a range of issues and a great speaker and debater.
@@markelliottdriver Nah,religion was'nt pertinent,it was an easy target ,preaching to the converted,had zero effect in my life or the law.A weak debater to boot.The looney left were on the rise and he ignored it.
This is an incredible treasure. One final conversation with Christopher that we get to witness.
And with Professor Dawkins as his interlocutor. I can't believe we can listen to this for free.
I haven't finished Hitchens' self-narrated memoir "Hitch-22." I'm saving it for much later, because I don't want to feel the pain of reaching the end of his body of work.
Gone too soon.
Fortunately he has a near endless amount of essays and fortunately his speeches and interviews and debates have this strange quality in that they never get boring no matter how many times you listen
@@sendnoodles5437 So true! I can't count the number of nights I've fallen asleep listening to his narration of God is Not Great. His legendary wit and impeccable delivery are like a soothing balm compared to the vitriolic madness of life here in the Bible Belt.
@@BenThere_DoneThat It's ironic since he of all people despised the idolatry treatment, but he's definitely the closest thing I have to an idol - I keep many of his quotes in the forefront of my mind as I wade through the thickets of life, particularly his advice to stand up and confront instances of stupidity and unfairness, and to refuse the offer of refuge in the consensus. I wish he were still around, but in a way it's almost apt that he died so suddenly - it goes to show the randomness and absurdity of life that he often invoked. My parents moved to the Texas from overseas for my father's work - I've visited them a few times...it's an interesting place to holiday... I absolutely couldn't live there though. I consider myself a fairly tolerant and patient person, but the credulity and literal mindedness I've seen on display there pushed me to the limits. The street fireworks are cool though.
@@sendnoodles5437 I know exactly what you mean. "Letters to a young contrarian" is an incredible treatise on how freethinkers should aspire to conduct themselves in the face of all the ignorance and corruption. It renews my resolve every time I revisit it.
@@BenThere_DoneThat Yeah that reminds me I need to revisit that. Over the years I've drawn a few contradictions in his views, especially in relation to free speech and identity politics (to be fair his memoir was subtitled confessions and contradictions) however that doesn't prevent me from appreciating him - it just shows that he was constantly thinking and changing his mind, and that he was human like the rest of us.
What a joy it was to hear Hitch again; saying some things I'd never heard him say. It's so sad to hear how weak his voice was, but his mind was so obviously still there. I don't think he would have wished for anything more- I think, for Hitch, the loss of his mind was a fear far greater than the fear of death.
Richard, thank you so much for sharing this- I just happened to sign on to Twitter today- so lucky. I do wish you'd have continued speaking and recording until Hitch was ready to stop. Knowing this could very well be the last chance to hear Hitch string words together on tape, I don't think I would have been able to stop until he made the request.
I didn't discover Hitch until just after his death but I am so fortunate that he made so many recordings (nowhere near enough though).
I almost teared up a couple of times, but when you said, "Have you had enough?" and he instantly & adamantly proclaimed, "NO! For heavens sake! We haven't started!", that one almost got me. He did truly love a great conversation.
It's strange to me how someone I've never met could have such a monumental impact on my life. The world truly did suffer a loss when he died and he will be missed for generations.
This man of men who has so influenced me changing my life and I can't thank him. This saddens me.
I admit this moment that my father who comes to mind, can be thanked but hasn't. He will be momentarily.
Thank you Christopher Hitchens.
Thanks also Dad
C.H. is a supernova of stimulation. I still feel the 0void left by his passing. He arrested me with his Life of Brian debate and I rewatch and repeatedly find gems in all his presentations since. Such a loss. So lucky to have his thoughts enrich my being. Thanks Christopher .... Ray.
Thank you😢😭. Hitchens, Sagan and Dawkins are my Heroes.
I don't think any of them would wish to be hailed as heroes - and that's another reason why they're probably the best heroes a person could have :)
You can feel the weakness of his body in his voice. The voice that must had put fear in the heart of priests and imams and religious charlatans.
Almost like a flame that is about to go off.
Hitchens will always be remembered as the person who brought light in life of so many lost souls , the souls which were under dark , due to religion for so so long. His words kind of broke the spell and awaken so many of us I think.
Me personally came to know about him when I was 30 yrs old ( 32 now ). Blindly following religious dogma. His words just freed me.
Thank you sir.
Fear? That's funny. Non denies the Quran, but only a fool. Book of Allah is superior, without any single mistake.
At 30 you are fortunate
At 50 not so much
@@arar1861 so even the many death penalties imposed by your god of peace?
The fact that Allah condones hate and distrust but pretends to be a peaceful god isn't a mistake?
Tell us about the various scenarios where your god of peace condones violence and death
@@arar1861 hush, islamist theocrat
And now he stands before the creator speechless...
Thank you for Sharing this Mr. Dawkins.
I have listened and watched nearly everything published on UA-cam about Mr. Hitchens, and read most of his books. This touches me as much as his last public debate, as you can hear how unwell he is. And hear your concern for the well being of a dear friend, whom you know is soon to be no more.
This is truly a heartfelt moment between you two.
My first encounter with Mr. Hitchens was in 95, at the age of 19, when i relieved my mothers night stand from a book called the "missionary position" - A book she as a book critic, just had finished reading.... Or so i determined, due to it being at the bottom of a pile containing several other books.
Never have i been equally disappointed and thrilled by reading a book.
Again thank you for sharing this precious and private interview.
Very funny but quite understandable given where you would have been at, at 19 . You were lucky to find him so early in a proper book so you were really enlightened
@@louisewilliams7492 I was lucky never having religious parents in the first place - or at least never force one upon me -
Otherwise my mother would probably never have agreed to critique the book.
I have never known the fear of religion in life, in that regard i am truly blessed.
Pun intended!
A brilliant and scholarly statesman of the highest order. Charisma, charm and oozing with intellect.
Deeply missed and appreciated. Such a massive loss of a powerful voice to the world.
Thanks for giving us the opportunity to hear this great man sharing his last thoughts and feelings with us.
I didn't even start paying attention to Hitch until after he passed. I still miss him like crazy. Thanks for this Professor Dawkins.
What do you miss about the warmongering, Trotsky apologist?
@@HoratioKJV who do you admire?
Read his work-he covered dozens and dozens of topics over many decades. He wasn’t always 100% correct but nobody is. He backed up his ideas quite throughly and made the smartest person stop and think.
@@HoratioKJV Envious much? You can only wish to comprehend a fraction of knowledge which Hitchens possessed.
@@FlyingSpaghettiMonster2000 I prefer his wiser brother Peter Hitchens. You know, the one who didn't smoke and drink himself to death early? The one who opposed the disastrous Iraq war.
Just discovered this interview. A meeting of great minds.
Christopher left us too early.
That is not lost that comes at last.
Breaking my heart to hear his voice. 💔 I often think to myself "what would the Hitch say?" when I see daily doses of the insanity of our societal decay, state of our politics, and the direction of the Overton Window shift. We need the Hitch now, more than ever.
I love that a random acquaintance of Hitchens' got to be immortalized in his last interview because he passed by at the right moment and said 'hello.' It was beautifully polite and brief, and because of it his voice will live as long as one of the greatest orators ever to walk the Earth.
What I give to hear what Hitch had to say in 2023
A remarkable orator who's unique perspective and gifted language strikes a passionate and soothing melody to the ear of a musician and peaks the curiosity of the mind and awakens the keenness of ones innate drive to learn and understand. Thank you for recording and posting this gift for all posterity.
We've never needed Hitch more than we need him now. So wish he was still with us.
hitch marked the end of an era
I know he would be annihilating Putin apologists on TV left right n center thats for sure :)
Someone to tell you a man cannot have periods,the left are insane with identity politics and pose more threat than any religion.
@@John.AR.Activism Among others. I expect he'd be lampooning the anti-CRT crusaders at full throttle, as well.
We are descending into a new dark age
That bit at the end, where he gets excited about having dinner with Dawkins and then mentions he doesn't know how it will go for him because he has to use a tube...that's heartbreaking. Wonderful interview, thank you so much for posting it.
What a pair of legends.
I love them both - RIP Hitch.
Phil.
Thank you so much for posting this. Christopher was truly unique. A great mind, excellent debater, style, intelligent. I could go on.... superb. He is missed.🥂❤️
This was much harder to listen to than I thought it would be. Hearing his voice like this, not only does it betray his body coming nearer to its final breath, I can hear a certain urgency in his enunciation in his recognition of this reality. He’s more rambling and expeditious in his speech, like he’s clinging on every second and word.
RIP Christopher, thanks for expressing so eloquently what I felt so deeply.
His frank , sincere, thoughtful , unbiased , concise, precise interpretations have an eternal beauty .... as we all chase the ultimate beauty that ultimate truth has to be
"Ventriloquize the divine..." What a beautifully wrought phrase. I love Hitchens most of all for his capacity to twist so many wonderful phrases that help people think about things in new ways. Truly, he was on Shakespeare's level. I wish more people could appreciate the depth of his wit and humor. I'm glad for all of you who have worked hard enough to be able to.
I too am impressed when arrogance diminishes others!!!
This is one of the best interviews I've ever heard with Christopher Hitchens. I wish he were with us today
Thanks from Scotland just started listening to him
In debates
What a wonderful bag of knowledge and compassion for the human race
What a brilliant conversation. Neither is trying to one up over the other one. Absolute respect for one another. It's what is missing from the world x
I didn’t know that about the SS either. Fascinating. Hitch continues to educate even from beyond the grave. A brilliant man.
What does he say about them?
@@george5464 well one thing he said was that the SS had belt buckles engraved with “Gott mit uns”….God with us! Hitler believed he was doing God’s work exterminating the Jews, so much for the argument that he was an atheist!
@@george5464 You can follow any gods, but if you're an atheist, you will be persecuted. Therefore, swear your undying loytalty to the Fuhrer, in the name of the almighty Lord.
That it has been almost 10.5 years since he passed away... How time flies. Sad thing we lost such a great mind.
My heart skipped a beat when I saw this. I never knew this was recorded! Thank you so much for uploading it. :)
Years have passed. I still miss Christopher Hitchens.
And I still miss Carl Sagan. It never goes away. People like Hitch and Carl leave a mark in mind that will be with you for life. And I'm grateful for that.
@@99goat99 My, yes, Carl, too.
I grew up in the 60s'70s not far from Cornell, where he taught. I remember his books, Cosmos, even his being on Carson. "We are made of star stuff." I frequently think of that line.
@@walkingstick6655I miss him too, even if i never met or spoke to him haha. Atleast we can carry a tiny piece of his spark with us by using and remembering what we learned from him. And we can find solace in the fact that he doesnt have to grieve anymore, that is a tough task you and i will take on. Until we too inevitably pass and are free'd of our grief and sorrow.
Good luck in life, i hope you find hapiness and fulfilment
Thank you so much. I discovered both you recently my life. I’ve always felt so alone in my feelings about religion but you both validated them. I didn’t realize he was dead until I couldn’t find recent videos and then realized he had died. So basically I found my hero that was dead and this comforted me greatly. You guys are heroes to so many that you couldn’t possibly realize.
He threw open a door in my mind that I had been hoping for much of my life. It was not until my 50's I really had the opportunity to watch all the debates that led me to others too, not alone after all. I was raised a Catholic. It never fully took. I credit him with asking questions that allowed me to be completely free of its' attempts at intellectual castration. Thank you, Christopher Hitchens!
What a lovely exchange between 2 friends. So missed.
I miss this awesome man so bloody much and especially when right now he is needed the most 😢😢 this interview is just amazing imho xxx
I missed seeing him at a local bookshop on his last book tour by ten days owing to his illness. I will never forget that I missed a great time. Later, I found myself being treated for cancer at the hospital where he died. One of my joys as a book lover was to read his book on Thomas Jefferson while sitting in the Thomas Jefferson reading room at the Library of Congress.
I hope you are well now. 👍😊
Hope you are well now.
Such a huge loss. Always love listening to him. Thank you Professor Dawkins
Like many here, I discovered Christopher Hitchens after his death. Irrespective of one's religious beliefs or politics, one cannot help but admire Christopher's stunning intellect and supremacy in debate. Had he lived, I would have felt compelled to meet him- like no other.
I too would have made it my life's mission to meet him if I had discovered him while he was alive.
Sounds like worship
@@JamesW225 there's plenty of that in the comments!
Miss this man more than I can put into words
Thank you for sharing this, Professor Dawkins.
This is a gift to us all, like his death was a great loss to all of us.
Listening to this interview, knowing how unwell Christopher was at the time, breaks my heart to hear him in the state his disease had effected him...I discovered Christopher Hitchens late in life for the both of us...such a loss, he could have been so clarifying in the times we are in....
Thank you so much for this, it's wonderful to hear Christopher again.
I listen to Hitch over and over again and it never gets old! Thank you for this Prof. Dawkins🙏🏽
How 64 minutes went by just like that. "Now let's have dinner." The whole discussion is so anchored in reality, so refreshing and timeless. Effortlessly touching on religion with a great deal of wisdom. Once again, poetry of reality manifests itself naturally. Dare I say or type, amen to this interview.
The caring nature and voice of Richard Dawkins in this clip is quite heart-warming.
A beautiful, timeless interview. Thank you.
Thanks to you two wonderful people I`ve learnt to know too late in life. Richard and Christopher will stand time in any debate about life and peoples behaviour in life. Wisdom like this is scarce, I wish I had the insight like these two outstanding gentlemen.
As a devout Christian, I truly respected the intellect of Christopher Hitchens. I own every published book and writings that I can find. I admired the sheer power of his thinking, his process, and his writing style. His command of language and passion for truth continue to be models for the well-read thinker. The genius of his ability to create historical context better than many so called, ‘great’ thinkers, stands above many. Thank you for making this available.
If you are a devout Christian even after reading everything Hitchens wrote, then you are either very stubborn or didn't understand one word that you read. Otherwise, at the very least, you should stop being "devout".
@@JGM0JGM who are you to tell them to stop claiming their devotion
@@808Castro That isn't quite what I said. And who are you to tell what I can do or not?
@@JGM0JGM answer the question lad
@@JGM0JGM you can’t tell people what to do yourself m8 acting like you are a king to tell people to stop being religious. My goodness you online atheists that suck up to Dawkins and Hitchens are soo condescending.
Heartbreaking at the end when Hitch says '"I'm not sure how I am going to have dinner...I'll have to have a tube." in such a matter of fact way
Thank you so much for this Professor Dawkins. I discovered Hitchens only recently and now I try to consume as much of his thought and, more importantly, his posture and manners as I can. A fundamental humility towards inquiry and knowledge and a genuine regard for his fellow man is what I take away most from him. Even as I regret not ever being able to hear or see him in person, his “spirit” continues to illuminate and inspire me.
Christopher is still influencing my thoughts and my way of life, a man of great integrity and honesty, he will be forever remembered for his beautiful logic and demonstrate religion as it is.
A million thanks, I never tire of listening to this great thinker and speaker, can be said about them both, Christopher Hitchens, sorely missed, his voice much needed today more than ever.
Thank you. One more video to watch many times. Even sick and about to pass, his beautiful voice not what it once was, he's still the smartest, most erudite human on the planet. If only I had a fraction of his amazing intellect. His last sentence ripped my heart out, about his dinner.
Thank you for posting this gem. We must keep Christopher Hitchens, his writings, his voice and intellect relevant and accessible to the masses - especially those willing to listen to reason and who still believe in science over fantasy.
Love him. What a great mind. I think about this Hitch quote all of the time:
“I want to live my life taking the risk - all the time - that I don't know anything like-enough yet, that I haven't understood enough, that I can't know enough, that I'm always hungrily operating on the margins of a potentially great harvest of future knowledge and wisdom...Take the risk of thinking for yourself, much more happiness, truth, beauty, and wisdom will come to you.”
Eternal gratitude for posting this. It breaks my heart to hear him sound so fragile, but I'm just so happy to be hearing something new.
To me this is a historical document of utmost importance, one that I return to when I feel the need to again be inspired and illuminated by these two great men