TED: The revolutionary power of diverse thought | elif Shafak

The speaker discusses synesthesia, the ability to taste words, and how emotions influence politics. They explore global perspectives on feminism, the rise of demagogues, and the loss of diversity. The talk concludes with reflections on identity, storytelling, and the concept of 'Storyland' as a metaphor for freedom.

What is synesthesia, as described by the speaker?

• A condition where people can read minds

• A condition where people can taste words

• A condition where people can see the future

• A condition where senses overlap, like hearing colors

How does the speaker describe the taste of the word 'motherland'?

• Sweet and sour

• Spicy and hot

• Bitter and salty

• Sweet with a sharp tang

Why does the speaker believe emotions are important in political discourse?

• Because they are easy to measure

• Because they are often ignored

• Because they are irrelevant

• Because they are the same everywhere

What does the speaker suggest about the concept of 'solid' and 'liquid' countries?

• The distinction is an illusion

• Liquid countries are always unstable

• Solid countries are always stable

• Solid countries need no activism

According to the speaker, what is a common trait of demagogues?

• They embrace diversity

• They dislike plurality

• They promote peace

• They encourage education

What does the speaker identify as a major loss in society?

• Loss of wealth

• Loss of tradition

• Loss of diversity

• Loss of technology

What does the speaker mean by 'liquid times'?

• Times of stability

• Times of change and uncertainty

• Times of economic growth

• Times of peace

What does the speaker suggest about the role of women in times of societal regression?

• Women have less to lose

• Women have more to lose

• Women are unaffected

• Women benefit the most

What does the speaker propose as a solution to tribalism?

• Embracing singular identities

• Rejecting diversity

• Appreciating cosmopolitanism

• Focusing on economic growth

What is the significance of 'Storyland' according to the speaker?

• It is a land of political stability

• It is a place of economic prosperity

• It symbolizes freedom and storytelling

• It represents a physical homeland