Was Colonialism All Bad?

🎧 Podcast Episode 161 with Nigel Biggar

Today we delve into a deeply complex and often controversial topic: the moral dimensions of colonialism. Our guest, Nigel Biggar, a retired professor of ethics from the University of Oxford and author of "Colonialism, a Moral Reckoning," brings a nuanced perspective to the conversation, dissecting the motivations behind European expansion and the varied relationships between colonizers and indigenous peoples.

Colonialism is often viewed through a black-and-white lens, but Biggar encourages us to see the shades of gray. He draws a distinction between colonialism and colonization, arguing that the latter involved a range of interactions, from mutually beneficial trade to devastating conflict.

This complexity is exemplified in the legacy of Sir John A. Macdonald, Canada's first prime minister. While Macdonald is often criticized for his policies towards First Nations people, Biggar highlights his efforts to integrate native Canadians into broader society and extend voting rights to them.

The episode also tackles the broader theme of historical responsibility. Nigel Biggar emphasizes the importance of looking at history with humility, acknowledging both the positive and negative actions of our ancestors. By comparing British and Canadian contexts, he sheds light on the tendency to focus solely on the negative aspects of history for political leverage. This one-sided narrative often overlooks the efforts made to rectify past wrongs, such as the abolition of slavery and the relief efforts for distressed First Nations communities.

A particularly contentious topic discussed in the episode is the recent claims about unmarked graves at Kamloops Residential School. Ground-penetrating radar suggested the presence of mass graves, leading to significant public outcry and the destruction of Catholic churches.

However, Biggar questions the lack of concrete evidence supporting these claims and criticizes the role of journalism in propagating potential misinformation. He stresses the importance of a balanced view, acknowledging both the tragic deaths due to disease and poor conditions while challenging the narrative of mass murder without sufficient proof.

Nigel and I also discuss the decline in political accountability and the cultural shift towards evasive communication among leaders. Biggar contrasts past leaders' willingness to face their people with honesty with today's trend of avoiding direct answers. He advocates for a return to integrity and humility in leadership, highlighting rituals like coronations where leaders humble themselves before a higher authority, fostering a sense of accountability.

This conversation is a call for a more thoughtful and nuanced approach to our colonial past. Biggar encourages open and respectful dialogue, recognizing that our heroes are often flawed individuals. He argues that removing statues and erasing historical figures like Sir John A. Macdonald from public memory does a disservice to the complexity of history. Instead, he suggests that these statues should provoke reflection, allowing us to admire the good while lamenting the bad.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the moral questions surrounding colonialism, historical responsibility, and the lessons we can learn from past leaders. Nigel Biggar's insights offer a compelling call for integrity and humility, pushing us towards a more balanced understanding of our colonial past.

Overall, the discussion in this episode of the Bigger Than Me podcast provides a nuanced and balanced view of colonialism, urging listeners to grapple with the complexities of history rather than resorting to simplistic narratives. By examining the motivations behind European expansion, the legacy of figures like Sir John A. Macdonald, and the ongoing struggles faced by First Nations communities, the episode encourages a deeper understanding of the moral dimensions of colonial rule.

So, if you're ready to challenge your perceptions and engage in a thought-provoking conversation, tune in to this episode with Nigel Biggar. It's a journey through the tangled web of historical responsibility, offering insights that are both enlightening and provocative.