Plodcast · Canon Press

The Problem with Edgelords | (Ep. 420)

April 1, 2026·18 min·1 clip

Douglas Wilson shares his son-in-law's insight on why edgelords thrive when the opposition is in power but can't govern when they win.

Douglas Wilson begins the episode by addressing the phenomenon of edgelords on the right, describing them as part of the 'dank right' or 'alternative right' characterized by anger and vitriol. He credits his son-in-law Ben Merkle for the observation that these individuals thrive as outsiders when opposing forces like the Biden administration are in power. Wilson notes that after Donald Trump's 2024 election victory, these edgelords struggle to transition from guerrilla tactics to governance, often pivoting to attack the Trump administration out of habit. He predicts this pattern will continue as Trump solidifies his governance. The episode then shifts to a theological segment, part of an ongoing course in hamartiology, focusing on the Greek word 'miseo' meaning hate. Wilson explains that this study will span two weeks, starting with its appearances in the Gospels. He cites Matthew 5:43-44 where Jesus commands love for enemies, contrasting it with carnal wisdom. Other passages discussed include Luke 6:22 and 27, Matthew 10:22, Mark 13:13, and Matthew 24:9-10, illustrating how hatred is inescapable and often directed at believers. Wilson highlights the binary nature of spiritual allegiance, referencing Matthew 6:24 on serving God or mammon. He also notes virtuous uses of hate in Luke 14:26 and John 12:25, where it signifies prioritizing Christ over worldly attachments. The episode concludes with a book review of 'How the British Invented Communism and Blamed it on the Jews.' Wilson presents the book's argument that British and German espionage during World War I aimed to hobble Tsarist Russia by supporting the Bolsheviks, not out of ideological sympathy but to keep Russia occupied. He clarifies the logical fallacy in blaming Jews for communism, distinguishing between Jewish Bolsheviks and Jews in general. Wilson emphasizes that the book's claims are worth considering due to historical evidence, such as allegations that Trotsky was a British agent.

As heard by us

A blunt theological read on why right-wing outrage keeps drawing a crowd.

Plodcast episode 420 turns to the rise of the 'dank right' or 'alternative right' and asks why that style of politics is drawing so much traffic.

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Want a biblical critique of edgelord politics and outsider rage?

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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