Toby Daniel Moorsom Young, born on October 17, 1963, in Buckinghamshire, England, is a prominent British social commentator and journalist. He is known for being the founder and director of the Free Speech Union and an associate editor of The Spectator. Young is also the Editor-in-Chief of Daily Sceptic, a platform he founded to provide alternative perspectives on current issues.
Young's journey in the world of journalism and social commentary was not an easy one. Growing up, he was not popular and struggled academically as a student. Despite this, he managed to graduate from the prestigious University of Oxford, where he received an acceptance letter by mistake. However, the university honored it out of moral obligation, setting Young on a path towards his future career.
Young's first foray into the world of journalism was working for The Times for six months. He later co-founded the London magazine Modern Review, which unfortunately dissolved. Undeterred, Young continued to pursue his passion for writing and went on to work for publications such as Vanity Fair, the Daily Mail, and The Spectator.
Throughout his career, Young has been embroiled in several controversies. In 2015, he sparked outrage for promoting "progressive eugenics," a viewpoint that many found to be controversial and offensive. He has also faced criticism for his involvement in promoting misinformation about the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as facing backlash for comments deemed misogynistic and homophobic.
Despite these controversies, Young has also achieved significant success in his career. He is the author of the popular memoir How To Lose Friends & Alienate People, which delves into his personal experiences and struggles in the industry. He has also served as a judge on the popular television show Top Chef, showcasing his expertise and influence in the world of media and entertainment.
Young comes from a family with a strong background in the arts and academia. His mother, Sasha, was a BBC Radio producer, artist, and writer, while his father, Michael Young, was a renowned sociologist and later became Lord Young of Dartington. Young himself is married to a woman named Caroline Bondy, and they have four children together.
In addition to his human family, Young also has a furry friend in his life. He owns a Cavapoochon named Mali, adding a touch of joy and companionship to his busy professional life.
Over the years, Toby Young has made a significant impact on the field of journalism and social commentary. Despite facing controversies and setbacks, he has continued to push boundaries and challenge conventional norms. His work with the Free Speech Union and Daily Sceptic showcases his commitment to promoting diverse viewpoints and encouraging open dialogue.
As a prominent figure in the media industry, Young's influence extends far beyond the written page. His experiences and insights have inspired many aspiring journalists and commentators to pursue their passions fearlessly and authentically. Whether through his writings, public appearances, or social media presence, Young continues to make his mark on the world of journalism and beyond.