British Commentator Douglas Murray Speaks at Yeshiva University

Murray discusses antisemitism, Western values, and the importance of tradition at 'Great Conversations' event.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 3:53pm

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British political commentator Douglas Murray spoke at Yeshiva University's 'Great Conversations' series, where he discussed topics ranging from antisemitism and Western values to the importance of tradition. Murray emphasized the need for the West to remember its roots and values, and challenged students to stay rooted in tradition even as the world rapidly changes.

Why it matters

Murray's visit to Yeshiva University highlights the growing influence of his perspective on issues like antisemitism and the defense of Western civilization. As a prominent conservative voice, his views on these topics carry weight, especially among younger audiences like the Yeshiva University students in attendance.

The details

During the event, Murray and Yeshiva University President Ari Berman discussed a range of topics, including Murray's support for the Jewish community, the blurring of language used against Israel and Jews, and the role of social media in destroying meaningful discourse. Murray also offered an optimistic view on the power of truth to overcome lies over time, and emphasized the importance of leaders and scholars upholding the value of literary tradition.

  • The event took place on February 17, 2026.
  • It was the third installment of Yeshiva University's 'Great Conversations' series.

The players

Douglas Murray

A British political commentator, author, and Yeshiva University President's Professor of Practice who spoke at the event.

Ari Berman

The president of Yeshiva University who interviewed Douglas Murray during the 'Great Conversations' event.

Shaina Trapedo

An assistant professor of English, director of the honors programs, and resident scholar at the Straus Center for Torah and Western Thought who introduced Douglas Murray.

Sarah Schafer

A Yeshiva University student (SCW '28) who said Murray's comments about choosing between the Jewish people and Hamas crystallized the path forward.

Rebecca Rosenberg

A Yeshiva University student (SCW '28) who found it interesting to hear Murray's ideas firsthand.

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What they’re saying

“That moment for me crystallized the path that we should take forward. We should follow Murray's example, being as confident in Jewish values as he is.”

— Sarah Schafer, Yeshiva University student (SCW '28)

“I thought it was really interesting to be able to hear first hand from somebody whose ideas I see a lot online.”

— Rebecca Rosenberg, Yeshiva University student (SCW '28)

What’s next

The Yeshiva University community will likely continue to engage with Douglas Murray's ideas and perspectives, as his visit was part of an ongoing 'Great Conversations' series.

The takeaway

Murray's visit to Yeshiva University underscores the growing influence of his conservative views on issues like antisemitism and the defense of Western civilization, particularly among younger audiences. His emphasis on the importance of tradition and literary education resonated with the students in attendance, who were challenged to stay rooted in their values even as the world rapidly changes.