The Strange Fate of Jordan Peterson
As the Canadian philosopher gradually emerges from his semi-coma, will society still have use for him?
Jordan Peterson, the best-selling author, University of Toronto professor, popular vlogger, and progenitor of the “Peterson phenomenon,” has been mostly absent from public life for health reasons over the last year. He’s been AWOL at just the time when certain of his insights are most directly applicable to the dizzying events around us.
Press play to hear a narrated version of this story, presented by AudioHopper.
Peterson is the author of the book 12 Rules for Life, which has sold more than three million copies worldwide and whose only drawback may be its title. Generally, self-help books with this sort of title range from dull to unreadable, but Peterson has inspired millions with his plain but eloquent advice, backed by decades of research, on how to live responsibly and with moral courage.
Where’s Peterson when we need him?
A living hell
“Health reasons” doesn’t really come to close to describing the state of affairs. It’s a horror tale.
According to his daughter Mikhaila, Peterson began taking the anti-anxiety drug in the benzodiazepine class a few years ago to counter an autoimmune reaction caused by certain foods. After his wife’s terminal cancer diagnosis in April 2019, his dependence on the drug grew severe. Attempts to treat the problem in North American clinics failed. The quest for expert care to wean Peterson off the drug, treat withdrawal symptoms, and deal with a nasty side effect, akathisia, which can make a person uncontrollably restless, brought Peterson and his daughter to Russia and then Serbia.
It has been a long and, by all accounts, excruciatingly hard journey. Right now, Peterson is reportedly on the mend and has resumed writing every day, although recent vlogs posted on Mikhaila’s YouTube channel, in which he talks at length with his daughter about the past year, relate bouts of depression marking some of the lowest points in Peterson’s life. But he’s not the only one suffering. We could use him around.
An insatiable mind
Peterson stands out for his rare pedagogical talent. Watching Peterson stride back and forth in business-casual attire and speak in front of a class can be a fascinating and, sometimes, humbling experience. Not everyone can get up and talk coherently and engagingly, without notes, for well over an hour to a roomful of attentive minds on Jung or Nietzsche or Dostoyevsky or Kierkegaard or Marxism or postmodernism.
Peterson’s zeal for knowledge and insight is palpable whether he’s talking about the depth of Dostoyevsky’s insight into the human psyche or Nietzsche’s ability to write passages with a concentrated brilliance of thought and expression or Jung’s desire to return the primeval to the world. The most striking insights in Peterson’s lectures come across in a fluid, conversational way.
Besides broad historical, literary, philosophical themes, Peterson speaks about topics at the nexus of sociology, biology, and the clinical psychology in which he is formally trained. At times, when discussing an issue like promiscuity, relationships, or divorce, Peterson’s point may be a fairly obvious one, yet you may find that you haven’t heard it voiced in quite as many words. At other times, Peterson is startlingly profound. His analyses of the nature of social hierarchies and of gender differences, gender relations, and social inequality depart markedly from prevailing clichés.
Among Peterson’s observations are that extensive surveys of multiple countries across many periods of modern history establish that it is neither possible nor desirable to eradicate inequality completely. Those Scandinavian societies that have striven mightily for decades to alter the gender composition of various professions and achieve gender parity haven’t just fallen short of their goals, they’ve ended up with results that confirm what no enlightened person these days will dare to whisper about the innate differences, and differing proclivities, of men and women. You can appreciate gender differences or you can do your damnedest to deny them, and make others deny them, but they’re not going away. Peterson has decided views on this point.
Peterson also argues forcefully that the study of “white privilege” is a bogus excrescence of an arbitrary and logically indefensible postmodernist charade never subject to any form of statistical analysis. At Peterson’s own school, this pseudo-concept grew out of scholarship so awful it tests our credulity. “At the University of Toronto, in the psychology department, the original paper on ‘white privilege’ wouldn’t have received a passing grade for the hypothesis part of an undergraduate honors thesis. Not even close. There’s no methodology at all,” Peterson says.
Another of Peterson’s feats is to have turned some people against the self-righteousness of Greta Thunberg, the Swedish child activist who has spearheaded a global movement around climate change and led rallies that have convulsed cities. One particularly interesting video contrasts Thunberg’s hiss of “How dare you!” at adults who would stand in the way of her movement and her agenda with Peterson’s calm and lucid analysis of just how complex climate change is and why Thunberg is wrong to suggest that rich countries could act responsibly and solve the problem but are simply refusing to do the right thing. What’s the solution—switch to wind and solar power?
“Good luck with that. Try it and see what happens. We can’t store the power,” Peterson says. “Germany tried it. They produce more carbon dioxide than they did when they started, because they had to turn on their coal-fired plants again. That wasn’t a very good plan. But we don’t want nuclear.” It’s a vexed issue, and complex subjects take years to study and analyze properly. There are reasons why children are told not to speak boldly and rudely to adults.
Obviously, Peterson’s views aren’t bound to make him popular with all students in this age of safe spaces and the shouting down of speakers with incorrect views. But when watching his videos, one senses that his eloquence and the wealth of data he deploys command the respect of many in his audience even if they don’t like what they’re hearing. Peterson vocally objects to the left-wing and postmodernist tyranny in academia, and says he considers the gravest threat to free speech today to come from the radical left. This isn’t surprising given the origins of the Peterson phenomenon.
Saying the unsayable
Peterson’s phenomenal output follows on the heels of a controversy that still earns him the enmity of many enlightened people in Canada and beyond. In 2016, Peterson spoke out against Bill C-16, then before the Canadian parliament, which stood to add transgendered people to a list of those enjoying full legal protections against any form of discrimination, including—in Peterson’s analysis—the “discrimination” of failing to address the transgendered by neologisms, i.e. zim, zhe, zhey. Voluntary use of a given word is one thing, even if the word in question is a concoction of radical left-wing ideologues, but it was clear to Peterson that if nondiscrimination means fostering an atmosphere where people address transsexuals only as the latter feel comfortable being addressed, then the proposed legislation would compel speech by dictating what terms people can use.
As Peterson told the Toronto Sun in 2016, “These laws are the first laws that I’ve seen that require people under the threat of legal punishment to employ certain words, to speak a certain way, instead of merely limiting what they’re allowed to say.” The furor has been running high for years now, but Peterson has never backed down. Under intense fire from the woke p.c. crowd for his alleged bigotry and stubbornness, he has argued cogently that what the ideologues propose to do is without precedent in the history of English common law.
In 2018, Peterson expounded further on the personal philosophy underpinning his opposition to Bill C-16, telling the U.K. interview program London Real, “You have a sacred responsibility in relation to what you say. … I do believe that you bring the world into being through communicative speech. That’s the fundamental Judeo-Christian doctrine, and I think it’s true. And I think that the world you bring into being through truth is a good world. So, if you want to mess around with your words, then basically what you’re agreeing is to bring a substandard reality into existence.”
Given the attitudes expressed here, it’s little wonder that Peterson has turned into such a staunch and vocal enemy of a postmodernist academic culture that denies gender differences and enforces groupthink through grotesque neologisms that weaponize English for ideological ends.
Who’s enlightened?
Clearly, Peterson is a problem for the left. The prevailing assumption is that people with conservative views must simply be uninformed, stupid, or both. To be educated is to be a progressive. If you dare let slip an incorrect thought, shame on you. Get your head out of the ground, try to become enlightened, quit parroting what your ignorant parents told you, stop being a Neanderthal if that’s remotely within your power.
It’s an attitude we hear today in the maunderings of liberals like Robert Reich, who has divided the polity of this country into progressives, who often meet people not like themselves, and regressives (yes, his own word—a nice synonym for “deplorables”) who lack the tolerance that comes from working and living with those of different backgrounds and are bent on keeping their guns, denying climate change, opposing the expansion of the safety net, and so on. Liberals, who react violently to slurs against other demographics, use terms like “Gun nut,” “redneck,” and “townie” to describe them. In contrast, liberals are enlightened, forward-looking, and engaged in a battle against irrational prejudice.
Jordan Peterson’s experience turns such notions on their head in the most vivid manner imaginable. Just watch a video or two in which this erudite, thoughtful, supremely articulate man, who calmly states his case against compelled speech with nuanced arguments alluding to history and philosophy and law, walks into a university building and meets with a student protest. Angry kids mob the halls, beat drums, blare horns, and scream things like “Transphobic piece of shit!” It seems unlikely that the protestors have a more nuanced view of the complex historical and cultural issues involved in the controversy. They’re like ignorant villagers calling for tarring and feathering of the learned man.
Of course, people of all political persuasions can and do act like boors. But there’s a special irony when those who purport to carry enlightened attitudes, and to be doing battle with irrational prejudice, display the basest and most savage kind of obscurantism and obstructionism in an effort to prevent a learned, cultured, thoughtful, and sensitive man from stating his point of view.
Above partisanship
Peterson has certainly earned more than his share of opprobrium from the left, both in the form of physical protests when he has tried to speak, and nasty articles dismissing him as, among other things, “a right-wing professor,” “an old-fashioned conservative,” and (in one particularly vicious ad hominem screed) “a conservative in denial.” But is he a conservative?
Peterson denies that he’s a political conservative and says that he would oppose right-wing domination of academia, if such a thing should ever come to pass, just as readily as he now opposes leftist-postmodernist tyranny on college campuses. But there can be no doubt that his historical insight, and his restless desire to examine issues in all their complexity, to tease out their philosophical, ethical, and moral nuances, have gotten in the way of some of the more extreme policies and proposals of radical leftists, and they’ve long given up caring about such distinctions.
At the start of this article, I lamented that Peterson is out of service at precisely the time when certain of his insights most apply. I was thinking, in particular, of Peterson’s discussion of the lengths to which conservatives and liberals will respectively go when it comes to distancing themselves from irresponsible people whom they don’t want to claim their public image.
Peterson’s insights are of interest for everyone who’s grown tired of a political culture where two sides scream at each other and rarely productively engage with ideas. Peterson defines thinking as a process that involves being scrupulously fair to the other side. The thinker states the viewpoint or perspective that is antithetical to his or her own views as eloquently and powerfully as possible, and then constructs a response. Instead of attacking a “straw man” version of the opposing argument, the thinker critiques the “iron man” version, as Peterson puts it.
That’s what great minds have historically done. It’s no accident, Peterson says in one of his lectures, that the smartest and most admirable characters in some of Dostoyevsky’s novels are those whose viewpoint the author opposes. This is intelligence at work, and it’s sadly absent all too often on both the right and the left. Lashing out at “fake news” that displeases you is no more intelligent that trying to justify looting and rioting on the grounds that they strike at the heart of whiteness.
It will undeniably be a great thing for those concerned about left-wing tyranny in academia, and the need for students to have greater exposure to non-leftist concepts and ideas, when Jordan Peterson is over his recent problems and speaking and vlogging widely again. He’s of great use to us. It’s not that Peterson is a conservative, it’s just that thoughtful and balanced policy proposals line up suspiciously well with conservative ones. That’s my enlightened opinion, of course, and you’re free to disagree with me. For now.
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He’ll have as much use as he did before; being the scowling face of aggrieved white
men who long for Facism.
1) The Italian Facist Newspaper was named Hierarchy.
2) From ‘Making America Great Again,’ to rebuilding the Roman Empire, Facists need a mythological past to justify their political aggression in the present.
3) Lobsters do not even have brains, they have an agglomeration of nerve endings called ganglia. There can be no serious claim made about how serotonin levels justify natural hierarchies in advanced primates like human beings.
4) Despises the equality of outcome but is supportive of ‘enforced monogamy.’
5) Clean your room before you complain about the world. But Jordan Peterson’s room is littered with benzo’s and ketamine he continued to take while on a meat only diet. It’s extremely irresponsible, not to say hypocritical. The man wants to feel like some sort of suffering saint.
6) He has ZERO understanding of postmodernism. ‘Post-modern neo- marxists’ is an oxymoron. Post modernists are at odds with Marxists, which is a material philosophy.
He’s a charlatan. A complete fraud, a puffed-up professor with an axe to grind, and a careless scholar.
From one that no one has ever heard.
His participation in the Žižek debate is all you need to view to be aware of his vast intellectual shortcomings. The guy has no idea what he is talking about. High charisma and low intellect.
Peterson did badly in the Zizek debate, not least because the crafty pessimist stole his whole schtick from under his nose! Happiness? Nah, you need meaning in your life…..Good grief Jordan, how could let him take that one from you! Marxist? Who, me? “I just say that to provoke, I admit it”. Who are these postmodern neo-marxists? YOU’RE LOOKING RIGHT AT ONE!. He is crafty, old Zizek.
Yes, Peterson has intellectual shortcomings if you are looking at his comprehension of the ins and outs of leftist thought, but why should he dedicate his life to the failed project? His insights are many but unfashionable; but he’s a unique and individual thinker, sometimes seemingly crude, sometimes prone to anger. He is more of an “integral” thinker than his leftist counterparts and I think that is so urgently required, if only he could integrate the postmodern instead of rejecting it completely……
JBP has helped more minds than you could ever count .Zizek was incoherent high as a kite.
I don’t ascribe to everything JBP says some the religious stuff is a bit iffy
viewed through the lense of my antitheistic cognitive bias. But I really like his sincerity and humanity. I’m nearly eighty now born under bombs
Get well soon ‘Sunshine’ (My Dad called me that) the world really needs men like you
Beautifully written. Your generation will be missed. There is a lot of life and wisdom for all of us to learn from in your short comment.
A little suggestion for many out there… who were/are famous, great achievemens, philosophers, attended Harvard, yale or any other secular schools..
Living in a very secular society. They can achieve the knowledge, earthy Wisdom reconized by the world… but the only thing they get is big heads and very thin SOULS. God is our Creator go back to HIM.
Like wise. This is all anyone should or needs to know about you.
Do you support his mysogenism and hate for women that dont submise to men? Your e-generation will not be missed.
I guess I do… I guess (even though I’m a woman) after seeing his talk, reading his books, watching every YouTube video and listening to him on podcasts I guess I do support his sexim… its wierd though, I feel like what he says isn’t sexist ever.
that isn’t an even remotely apt characterization of his attitude towards women. you are spiteful and to be frank, a complete mess in dire need of the kind of help psychologists like jbp are uniquely qualified to offer.
wow… your a special kind of cancer on the human race..
Why should I try to counter attack such a vile statement. Are you a new Bolshevik by any chance?
Typical Millennial attitude. So dismissive and assumption of anything not confirming to your agenda. Good luck with the future – you’re going to need lots of it.
Your an idiot !
What the bloody hell are you going on about. He did not hate women.
mysogenism, really?
Natural selection slowly but surely removes individuals with negative attitudes like you.
This is the problem, hateful comments like this. There is no proof of Jordan ever hurting a women, but because you disagree with him, it gives you permission to lie and treat him horribly. You should he ashamed, you can’t make a constructive comment so you just call him names. Professors at liberal collages do the same, you ideals don’t match mine so your evil. This is why our country is divided, people like you.
You’ve obviously never listened to Dr. Peterson. You’ve only read the slanted headlines of partisan internet bloggers. I know this because they are the only ones who have said such a thing. Step out of your echo chamber for a minute…
You obviously have not listened to or understood jbp’s views on gender if you think him misogynistic or hating women, on the contrary, he is very much supporting and defining the invaluable and essential evolving roles of women past and present. Explore his actual ideas, which are based in science and data, before forming an opinion that is obviously based on hearsay and biased interjection.
That’s beyond false. He says the best thing his wife does is challenge him to be his best self.
What does “dont submise to men “ mean oh great learned one
Can you ever differentiate between facts and YOUR unsupported opinion?
Yes.
If everyone who disagrees with your political views is automatically a misogynist, then call me a misogynist.
And yet … we’ve never met and you know nothing about me.
So, who here is the bigot?
Perhaps reading would be a positive enterprise for you. Follow it up with unadulterated thought. Employ the courage to bust out of conformity while you are at it. Your shallow pamphlets can always be utilized for kindling.
Sorry my comments were meant for Cameo. The individual that showed disdain for spelling bees.
Excellent and enjoyable writing.
I join others in wishing Mr Petersen a full recovery from his trials fighting his awful dependency. The great man has given so much of himself already, and as much as I enjoy his work and thoughts on all things, I think he deserves quality time now to focus on his wife and family.
Sending all well wishes!! Can’t imagine the suffering, from all the current events. I think you’re awesome and hope you recover soon. Sending light and love to you all! Chin up, I have faith in you.
It IS great writing. I have never even heard of Peterson before I read this article, but I found him very interesting in all likelihood because of the language used by this article’s author.
I agree. I don’t believe Peterson defended Christianity during his discussion with Ben Shapiro. Peterson claimed that he did not understand the term “ only through me can you enter the Kingdom of Heaven”. That statement is at the heart of Christianity. Peterson canes in and sought to appease Shapiro.
I think this article is very thought provoking. I don’t agree with everything stated, but will fight to the death for your right to say it.
. I don’t believe Peterson defended Christianity during his discussion with Ben Shapiro. Peterson claimed that he did not understand the term “ only through me can you enter the Kingdom of Heaven”. That statement is at the heart of Christianity. Peterson caved in and sought to appease Shapiro.
Today’s left wing ideology is tomorrow’s neonazism.
Their arrogance doesn’t allow the rights of the defence and the principle audi alteram partem, as the Nazi did.
They are unable to self criticise, which should self evidence they could be wrong, but no.
Jordan Peterson was a punch in their faces when a scholarship stand against their sense of purity.
Jorden makes.sense. But god don’t ever right a book that was painful to get through!
The author’s point of timeliness is well made by some of the ugly comments from self loathing, mediocre minions programmed to recite group thinking. Thank you to fellow commentators truly familiar with Professor Jordan Peterson expressing admiration for his honest convictions and appreciation of his sincere and helpful encouragements to others (“make your bed” personal responsibly, to be better today than we were yesterday, resist comparing yourself to others, don’t lie, etc.). This article was spot on because we need Peterson’s healthy dialogue now more than ever to combat manufactured lies, violence and destruction, and radical hatred exhibited by so many people living amongst us. Dr. Peterson is a gem and will long be remembered by those who choose to value such things as truth, kindness, courage, integrity, and fortitude.
If that was the case Im sure nobody would know of him.but it isn’t the case and he is a legend with a legacy that you could only wish to have.
I like Spiderman.
Racism in Canada is hidden but in many ways it is more deadly than racism in certain parts of the US. Thanks Mr Peterson for giving people like me just a glimpse.
Hahaha no racism here. Could use a little more prejudice actually. Hidden means none or notbworth bringing up
Thanks for writing a real article about Jordan Peterson that’s not click bait. Having read several articles about him recently I’ve only confirmed that most people that have written about him have never read more than a sentence of his writings or listened to a minute of his videos.
Well done and right on the money!
Sorry to have to bring this up; but, as it turns out, Jordan Peterson was ” High as a Kite.” Benzodiazepines are serious drugs. Valium, Klonopin, Xanax are powerful and sincerely get one high. If you have to be put in a medically induced coma to get though withdrawals, you were taking serious amounts — far more than what was prescribed by a physician. He was getting loaded.
I Hope JBP be well soon and can visit us in São Paulo , Brasil . 🍀🤘⚡️
I Read the Two bolos and I Like it a lot . Thanks
I don’t wish him ill, but Peterson is an intellectual hack and dishonest debater. I hope never writes another word of his patented drivel.
I would really love to hear examples that brought you to your conclusions. I would love to all about specific instances where he was dishonest. My guess, based on your conclusions, is you have never watched a single video of Mr. Peterson, cause if you had, you’d know there are plenty of things wrong with all of us, but to call him dishonest is ignorance, because given the content of his lectures, he’s for sure not dishonest, in fact, sometimes, he’s too damn honest
Hi Brian.
JP is intelligent and charismatic but yes very misleading in a way that amounts to a lack of honesty.
“The Shadow of Jordan Peterson:” by Jamie Wrate https://link.medium.com/sNMGeYRLPab
What turned me off from Peterson is how e basically disapproved of homosexual marriage because it didn’t conform to traditional values. In addition to that, Peterson clearly has a bias for tradition, even if those traditions are destructive.
As far as dishonesty goes, Yes, that’s somewhat true. While Peterson is not explosively hostile, e is aggressively defensive at times. Framing eself as morally superior just because e can keep a cool head.
But many of es followers are just as nasty and assumptive as radical leftists. And Peterson eself has expressed intolerant attitudes but claims to be logical and open minded because e believes in freespeech and peaceful conversation.
It’s false equivalency. I don’t follow Peterson that closely, but I used to like the guy. It’s just such a disappointment that e doesn’t actually bother to understand an opposing veiw. E just gets shocked and defensive that such a veiw was ever expressed or proposed but because e’s not screaming about it e frames eself as morally superior to those who do exactly the same thing but from an opposing perspective.
The author’s point of timeliness is well made by some of the ugly comments from self loathing, mediocre minions programmed to recite group thinking. Thank you to fellow commentators truly familiar with Professor Jordan Peterson expressing admiration for his honest convictions and appreciation of his sincere and helpful encouragements to others (“make your bed” personal responsibly, to be better today than we were yesterday, resist comparing yourself to others, don’t lie, etc.). This article was spot on because we need Peterson’s healthy dialogue now more than ever to combat manufactured lies, violence and destruction, and radical hatred exhibited by so many people living amongst us. Dr. Peterson is a gem and will long be remembered by those who choose to value such things as truth, kindness, courage, integrity, and fortitude.
Agreed.
Dishonest debater? Since when does debate suggest honesty? His arguments and opinions are based on history, literature, and imperial data, if at all biased, no more than any cognitive bias that plagues every human mind on the planet, and I argue, considerably less.
So far what I have read about his positions, I can agree on. I think we all know there is a bit of a difference between men and women. The more we can appreciate those differences in each other the more we can actually benefit from all of it. Can everyone just stop dissing on each other?
…so you are unfamiliar with him or attack his ‘intellect’ because you are part of the intolerant left?
peterson is a conservative hack. he’s not smart for coming up with all these brilliant theories – they’re not new. a lot of it is just joseph campbell and the cultural bolshevism conspiracy theory. he’s smart for riding the reactionary conservative false populist tide of donald trump.
Thé intimèrent left is a Peterson mirage. Ahhh you see it too 🙂
Well written. Fluid. True. Simple and painful. But hopeful as well. I can’t help but believe that Professor Peterson will be back. When I first discovered his videos of classroom lectures, I was stunned. Not all of those students were woke. Nor did they all recognize the profound nature of the startlingly simple but complexly healing truth of what he was saying. The lectures on Jung are damn near mystical. His regard for Solzhenitsyn both tender and helplessly howling with rage. It made me grateful to have lived long enough to witness that power rooted in pure agape.
And he knew it would break hlim. His rise from stubbornly righteous simple truth sayer to world wide phenom was a dangerously steep trajectory. He was asked once if he knew how it would end and he said “not good.”
His passion for truth is his addiction, and it is only equalled by his love for his partners in the struggle. I am still overwhelmingly grateful that I tuned in for those remarkable years, that my need for truth unburdened by ambitious agendas was requited.
And if you ever see this, Jordan Peterson, know that there are people like me all across this planet in whose hearts your spirit never flags.
You are a fool, Peterson destroyed him! You obviously did not understand what was being said, I suggest you watch it again with an adult helping you. In
Are you on mind altering drugs? The debate you’re referring to highlighted Petersons’ intelligence and proclivities toward common sense. Far and away Peterson prevailed in that debate, further illustrating why he is considered a threat to Leftist ideology. Of course you are entitled to your opinions no matter how misbegotten they happen to be.
Zizek was perfectly coherent, it just went over your head. He was sober if you are referring to his nervous tics.
Zizek has a far broader and complex understanding of Psychology and Sociology than Peterson.
I could name some crappy pop star who has “helped” more minds than Peterson, it is a weak argument.
Yeah he’s help some, and damaged many more. Besides this he’s views on addictions are obviously incorrect. For if he is right about them, then everything else must be wrong. His missteps only emphasize the need for dialogue. He says he’ll debate, he doesn’t he does the same thing guys like Ted Nugent do, the take control of the conversation by over talking and switching subjects. Fast and furious. His ideology based in Jungian psychology has mostly been replaced or disproven through many other studies and papers. His charm and ability to spout numbers means nothing when you take the man as a whole.
Peterson is a charlatan, who misunderstands social science, statistical methodology, theology, and logic. You don’t leave Harvard because you’re leading your field; you leave Harvard because you don’t get tenure. People in the disciplines he “interprets” for the socially-stunted incel masses he preaches to have no respect for him whatsoever. And the fact that he almost dieted himself to death should be all you need to know to stop listening to his nonsense.
Speaking of nonsense, your incoherent rant reveals that you are definitely the only incel in the room. Such anxiety, judgment and hostility exposes your own narcissistic need to prove something. SO, what exactly are your credentials/bona fides? Are an expert in the social sciences, a statistician, ordained theologian? You are clearly incapable of building an argument, out of touch with reality, and sophomoric. You seem familiar with tenure denied. Crawl back in your hole.
C-16 is the beginning of the end of free speech and thought. I may not agree with J.P on everything (Admittedly most things) but I will never believe its okay for government to legislate my speech or anyone else’s on either side of the left right stupidity.
You are kidding, right ?
You have the support of millions, Dr. Peterson!
BLM and the lie of white privilege one of the most thought provoking talks I’ve ever heard. J.P. is remarkable…only wish he would accept J.Christ as his savior. He knows how to do it!
He seems to be right on the cusp of acceptance. I too pray he will get there. As he states” he lives as if there is a God”. The fact that he does not like the question appears to say he is not ready. I wonder what is stopping him. Faith is believing in those things not seen. He seems to want evidence which is what plagued the disciple ,Thomas. I believe Dr. Peterson is a sincere, humble and highly intelligent person who is a committed truth seeker.
I am a Christian and I actually think he will influence more people the way he is. From what he says in his writings he knows there is someone or something in charge. The second he professes Christianity many will write him off. God will work with him after this life. He has brought me closer to God for sure. I pray for his recovery.
TOO bad he could not deal with the evidence which indicates white privilege.
he’s addressed the “evidence”, or more accurately, the lack of evidence that “Indicates” white privilege ad nauseum. in fact, there has been no coherent explanation of what it is.
“White priviledge” is a plot to destroy Western civilization. Please look for the UN1TY
IMHO the difference is that Sowell speaks his “beautiful” mind the way that very few people can comprehend. Never on the lobster level 🙂
Also, Sowell was supposed to be a poster child of the “social justice” movement back in ’60s but he debated their agenda with stats and real life examples scoring “paraya” status in legacy media. Unfortunately he never harnessed the power of the YouTube, social networking although never stopped writing books. I wish our society would acknowledge his contributions while he is still alive
If it had been called rich privilege, I may have agreed with some of it. However, once critical theory gets into language, it becomes absurd. It needs to deconstruct itself, but can’t.
Is there “black privilege”?
Which is what exactly? Are there studies published im unaware of? Any attempt at studies using the scientific method havent provided the right results, and are quickly scrapped with the results published. This is a gross and, honestly, disgusting use of science, but maybe I just havent seen the studies you surly can provide to back up your comment up. If im being honest, however, im guessing you have no such study.
Too bad you believe in bullshit, you weak-minded victim.
What a perfectly racist thing to say
please enlighten us
Amen.
I don’t think he/she is racist…just rude. It’s too bad people use name calling as a response.
He is a Christian.
Kevin, ALM. Anyone who does not believe this is racist.
The importance of the centrist view, the view that is both and neither at the same time, is what you have done a great job opining for. The hypocrisy of “if you don’t think like me, which is clearly moral and right, then you are evil” is so visible but only to a handful. I hope more sit down, relax, and do the hard work of trying to understand what’s underneath all this chaos instead of jumping right into it, picks side, plant some flags, and scream at others as though their revolution will solve everything.
Actually watch the debate then. Zizek actually called out political correctness has a huge problem in society, to be in agreement with Peterson.
Your comment is too cryptic. Mind clarifying it?
Such an incredibly smug and ignorant statement. It is likely that Dr. Peterson strikes a nerve in you.
His intellectual prowess is glaringly obvious. His credentials, accolades, oratory mastery and insightful writings are world renowned.
As well put as the original article as well as most of the things JP states!
I have missed you in YouTube world. It is a much bleaker place without your enlightening, educating, common sense approach to the progressive madness we are subjected (and subjugated) to on a daily basis in America in this political season. This season that has lasted for almost four years. I fear the Left will burn the country down if Biden loses and they will destroy our nation if he wins. Please get well and come back. We need the likes of you.
True, true.
Keep looking, it’s going to flip, soon.
Keep your powder dry, my friends.
A great deal of Peterson’s insights parot the insights of Thomas Sowell. It’s curious to me that Sowell is not as well known as Peterson. If their speach is similar, what is it about them that is so different, that “enlightened” people who would attack one, but never mention the other?
In my opinion, Peterson is white so he is more easily associated with “boogie man” white supremacist or misogynist ideologies.
Spoken like a person who has no idea what “credentials” are. He’s an academic failure, but a world-class con man running a depressingly common 21st-century grift.
Interesting. Examples please?
Zizek would be disappointed in your comment. You’re just like one of the fools in the audience cheering. I am sure you’re much more intelligent than Jordan Peterson.. Laughable. Not surprised you’re feeling threatened though.
“The guy has no idea what he’s talking about”? That’s an incredibly vast and sweeping claim to make. Are you sure you know what you’re talking about?
Anyone who conflates Marxism with Post Modernism is a fucking dumbfounded dipshit.
Some say the end is near . . .
Some say we’ll see Armageddon soon.
As the JBP “Tools” congregate here…
Modern cultural Marxism (perhaps a poor name) takes aspects of both. It takes conflict theory from Marxism and uses post modernist deconstruction on anything it disagrees with. It’s break with Marxism is that conflict theory is based on race and culture and not class. It breaks with post modernism by using deconstruction selectively. Instead, reifying notions of “lived experience” as exempt from deconstruction.
What an elequent, post modern way of putting it. Great intellect I see
Sad..sad..sad. Thats all I can say here.
Jordon Peterson is a good caring man and he certainly knows what he’s talking about. (and has the facts to substantiate that which he speaks of.) It is articles like this one that contribute to the frustration that comes out when he is not being understood.
I’d love to get the individual that wrote this article go head to head with him in a live debate.
You would be leaving with your tail between your legs.
Oh, really? You’re unintentionally funny. I’ll have a live debate anytime, anywhere.
The writer of the article is for Peterson. He wishes person a speedy recovery and that he gets to vlogging again because the world needs him. The author states that Peterson is misunderstood by many
Jordan didn’t get addicted to the drug “Benzodiazapine.” There is no such drug by that name. “Benzodiazapine” is a drug classification, not a drug brand. Valium, Ativan, Xanax, and Versed are all examples of benzodiazapines.
Suck that copium, buddy
He’s a cult leader who failed out of the academic world and now peddles his twaddle to people too uninformed to know how ridiculous his ideas are.
The professor has clearly done the research.
Is there anyone reading M. Washburn’s piece or has visited any of Peterson’s content who believes that the dictates of a governing body that has not had the time or perhaps the ability to do the research should be followed in lock-step despite any confidence the dictate will solve the presumed problem?
Would you please provide examples of Dr. Peterson “not knowing what he’s talking about” please?
He conflates Marxism, a unified worldview, with Post Modernism, a rejection of any unified worldview.
He’s hot fucking garbage.
If you think of marxism as unified system, you may need to go relook at the facts. There are large groups of marxists who can’t even agree with each other about how marxism should work. And then link to post modernism exists through that philosophical view on power.
The fact that you need to throw in an insult like ‘hot garbage’ shows you are just mad. You don’t even have a point aside from you obviously don’t like the person the article is about.
Why so angry?
Marxism and Critical Theory (what Peterson calls cultural Marxism) are not the same thing. It’s not Peterson who misunderstands it is you. Critical theory applies conflict theory from Marxism to race and culture and then selectively applies post modernist deconstruction while reifying itself as exempt from deconstruction.
Wow! You really have a way with words. Very erudite. Obviously extremely well educated and well spoken. An excellent contribution to the discussion.
Jbp plainly states that Marxism and postmodernism are not commensurate, that’s one of his arguments for the absurdity of the movement. That the Marxist and postmodernist idealogues are the same inexperienced and uneducated spoiled brats with undeveloped frontal cortexes, within adult size bodies.( That last sentence being purely of my composition and not attributing to Dr Peterson. )
That’s not how the word “commensurate” is used.
They never do.
Well he certainly isn’t an electrical engineer he doesn’t know anything about the storage of power generated by wind and solar. Also why would someone take a benzo for a food allergy? He was laid low by psychiatric medicine that’s enough for me.
You could open any of his books. Word salad farrago swill in copious amounts!
He knows but… Spanish Inquisition, German Holocaust, Stalinist Russia, Chinese Communism. Etc….. All the terrible paths humans have gone when they lose their links to God. Now all those demons attacking him for trying to shine a light of thought on the psychological, sociological and political realities that are not welcome thoughts to many.
Low intellect. 😂
It seems that, unlike you, I have taken the time to listen to Peterson. If you think he has “low intellect”, then I can only assume that you have little understanding of the word. Even his fiercest critics would not say that.
And then, of course, assuming that I am addressing one of “intellect”, can you point me to your articles, lectures, or, perhaps, books, with which I can then make an educated assessment of your right to claim the sobriquet that you are a “person of intellect”?
No, I didn’t think so.
That’s right. Even chimps can write an article like this with minimal amount of coaching.
Jordan Peterson doesn’t know what he’s talking about?? He’s got more intellect in his pinky toe than most of academia and his rational is actually spot on in every way..
Only someone who is ignorant would make such a claim..
Such a wonderful man and a beacon of light in a dark world right now..
The Zizek debate? Is that some sort of a joke?
In which aspect during their debate does either of the two seem to be lacking intellect? It’s a curious matter whenever the ever-growing keyboard warriors of this age establish an opposed opinion without certain criteria that intellectuals would call facts. The debate was at the least insightful, and if you have any lectures in opposition to Dr Peterson’s then please do share 🙂
I think your comment about that debate expounds your lack of knowledge and understanding.
Zizek espoused ideas which mapped Peterson’s, just in a obscure frame of reference.
This made the debate strange, as both participants were more aligned than the viewers were expecting.
No! It is yourself with the vast intellectual shortcomings. Shocked by your naivety.
I would gladly take the intellect of Dr. Jordan Peterson anyday. It is quite clear that you have no idea what you are talking about or watched the debate properly. You are seen as just someone who is triggered by someone vastly more intelligent than yourself.
You stand on the shoulders of giants and are extraordinarily ignorant of that fact. What will happen to you when the giants wake? Don’t be another cautionary tale, wake up!
Im not sure we watched the same debate. It was largely boring as they both basically agree on everything but the end result of course. Peterson is actually very liberal politically and very conservative socially. A key idea in his book is that the more individual responsibility and good each person brings to the table the less government controls are required for society to function. Marxism is war on the individual. Proponents of it always try to create this utopian version of it in theory, but in practice it has and will always (by design) turn tyrannical.
Superb description, Mr. Washburn!
Excellent article. Very accurate description of JP from anyone who has lightly dug in and listened to a few hundred hours of his interviews, books, debates, and lectures.
I find it strange that anyone could say something sincerely terrible about him. Even if you disagree with him, he always has done his research, is an incredible polite debater, and open to have his mind changed all the time.
What truly sold me on him were his views on the evils of Marxism and Post Modernism. Especially bc he breaks them down separately. Some are lazy and put them together(they are eerily similar in tyranny). I was in the Marxist/PM camp earlier in my life. Sometimes it takes someone/something to uncover your ideologies weak points that you have in your blind spot to have your mind and eyes opened.
Is he perfect? No. However, I believe he is a great man.
The proof? The tens of millions he has helped across the world in giving life meaning with responsibility and ownership of their own problems/shortcomings/pain.
JP, please get healthy ASAP. The world needs you back….
Thanks for this comment. I am one of millions that he has helped.
Thank you for that. He saved my life.
JP’s denial that white privilege does not exist is suggestive of covert racism. In his U of T lecture explaining data from IQ testing using the Bell Curve, he claims that the data shows that Ashkenazi Jews are the smartest people in the world and that non-whites are not as smart as white people, relies on biased interpretation. As an intellectual leader, he does not assist his students in critically examining the information. This used to be the primary role of Universities, but in Ontario, where critical thinking is taught and practiced at the elementary school level, he ignores the way the data is presented. Questions he should have examined are: Why does the data separate testing results between Ashkenazi Jews and Sephora Jews, while other groups are lumped together as White, Asian, etc. The way the data is displayed is biased and therefore lacks credibility. This is just one small example of the bias in the data he used. It ignores that there is inherent bias in any test. My statement has nothing to do with the results because of anti-semitism, before anyone jumps all over me- it has to do with flawed data. If biased data and interpretation appear to exist, then a Professor should address it. It’s not as though bias in IQ test results is a novel subject and it has been used to try and prove the superiority of one racial group over another for a long time. To use this data without questioning it is unacceptable and to deny the existence of white privileged because it lacks acceptable research is also wrong because without unbiased research he should not make absolute assertions.
I agree with you wholeheartedly…although never being in the Marxist/PM camp…it is refreshing to read someone acknowledging their blind spots😎….Get Well Soon Dr. P…..O(+>
You have gotta be kidding! JBP has been shown to be the charlatan huckster shamelessly self promoting his brand of subversive, insidious nuevo fascism & guruism. A great man, Really? Consider these facts:
1) He’s been repeatedly reprimanded by the Toronto Psych lic. board for continual malfeasance as a psychologist mishandling his patient’s information (to the point if censure)
2) Cambridge retracted their offer to be visiting professor after faculty & student body adamantly rejected having this blatant Grifter of other’s ideas stain their prestigious Univ.
3) He quickly & quietly shut down his Patreon acc where he was charging somewhere in amount of $500 for a 30 min facetime sessions with Prof Lobster Brain. All in the name of 1-on-1 personal therapy for his susceptible, naive fans. (Talk about hypnotised highway robbery! The fact he hasn’t been charged with such flagrant, swindling malpractice, abusing his position as a Psych proff for the simple accumulation of his own personal coffers is the paradigm of Cultish Guruism not seen since the likes if Jim Jones & Heavens Gate.
4) Treatment for his particular addiction was nowhere to be found in all continental N. Amer that he had to run away to Russia for adequate care? Seriously? So much for the horrific inadequacies of Communist/Marxist ideology, apparantly they have better healthcare. That is if you’re a hypocritical hack whose views can be thrown to the refuse heap of worthless ideas that his so parallely aline with.
I could keep going – but why? Now that we’re on the cusp of a post Trump wake-up from the bizarre coma that has been the last 4 yrs, we can safely say that the blind myopia of the masses to such Populist fascists & “Wolves in sheep’s cloathing” is still a very real & viable reality in civilised society. Shame on you Mike W. for such sycophantic adulation & promotion to such a cheat & scoundrel as the notorious JBP!
Wow. Everything you pointed out in that reply seemed based in cynical leftist ideologies, the mere fact that you think the end of the Trump admin is the relief of the us into a brighter future is evidence of that. Jbp’s intentions are positive, and his influence has had an overwhelmingly positive affect on those who have understood and embraced it, just because you are incapable of critical thinking, don’t mean you should debase brilliance.
A great deal of Peterson’s insights parot the insights of Thomas Sowell. It’s curious to me that Sowell is not as well known as Peterson. If their speach is similar, what is it about them that is so different, that “enlightened” people who would attack one, but never mention the other?
both brilliant men. but just because they draw similar conclusions about similar subjects doesn’t mean one is “parroting” the other. dr sowell is an economist and the sources and “insights” come from a completely different place and perspective than dr peterson’s. in fact, the applications don’t even compare to a degree that could be called “parroting”. what they do is present a compelling viewpoint. together it’s difficult to argue that either one is saying, “polly wants a cracker.” in short: hogwash.
color
Don’t be ridiculous
And you, our enlightened poster, YOU know more about the subject matter than this world renowned 30+ year clinical psychologist, professor and successful lecturer?
You haven’t seen the debate or you are ignorant and nobody in you home knows.
He’s an academic failure. He reinvented himself to separate rubes from their money. He’s the Elmer Gantry of shallow pop psychology.
Continue with the name-calling. Very intelligent and will surely change a lot of people’s minds.
If you went into that debate with that marks as piece of shit and thought he said anything of value seems to me like you already had made up your mind
That was not his best, I admit. His error was anticipating Zizek would defend Marxism based on the Communist Manifesto which he did not do. So, I agree if that was the only discourse you heard it would not impressive and if you had heard others, which I have, you would be disappointed, which I was. There are much better lectures out there.
Your comment is objectively false.
The fact that you choose to say something like you just did, supports the idea of the uninformed, entitled, test run throwing cry babies that just want it their way, while not even understand what it is they are crying about. Of course you are e titled to your opinion. We all are. But we now live in a global society where we cannot even have a healthy debate and listen with the intent of understanding rather than listening with the intent destroying the other person (literal destruction of the other person, not their views). I pray that compassion, love, understanding, truth and honesty can find their way back into our conscious thoughts, even while we disagree.
Correction – not test run throwing crybabies. Tantrum throwing…
You have eloquently put into words what I have been thinking for a long time. I hope you don’t mind if I share your words with others. I will credit you anonymously.
This post displays the exact problems the article is highlighting. It attempts to cancel a body of thought with nothing more than vague and ad-hominem attacks. If you disagree with one of his theses, statements, etc., critique it and pick it apart as viciously as you like. That can have a use. The diatribe you posted is useless.
Good article I like Petetson for many reasons iam an INDEPENDENT Veteran his ideas Philosophy and very good logic Can appeal to anyone Don’t think the left with their HATE for everything that’s notary of their narrative Eill ever give this GREAT THINKER the time of day Too bad a sorry thing
sorry, no one thing in any reasonable assessment of another’s intellect is sufficient.
I lean liberal and don’t agree with all of Peterson’s perspectives but I agree with him a lot. I don’t know why he is so controversial. He’s intelligent, thoughtful and has obviously deeply considered all his perspectives, which transcend the partisan divides. If anything, listening to him has compelled me to think more deeply about my own perspectives and why I have them.
I think his controversy lies in his career as a professor and his obvious intelligence. If you’re trying to make the argument that he lacks intelligence you likely need to question your own. In my opinion the left feels betrayed that one of their own will not fall in line and is terrified that his arguments are rational and may actually contain some truth.
Liberals claim to want to give a hearing to other views, but then are shocked and offended to discover that there are other views.
William F. Buckley
I sincerely pray Mr. Peterson finds solice. He has taught us much. His message that’s available is germaine and sufficient. Ample in my opinion. Paraphrasing, what the hell are you going to do?….. Its a hell of a thing! We can hear enough of Peterson on YouTube to battle today’s upheavals. Armed with answers if we listen. Thank you Jordan.
Indeed. He only really appeals to those too lazy or incapable to think know themselves. Anyone willing and able to do the research quickly finds all the errors, cherry picking and dishonesty in his so-called philosophy. But he is a good speaker and thinks well on his feet, but then so does any second hand car salesman or estate agent, which is the class I would put Peterson into. He’s not a genuine intellectual, that’s for sure.
I saw the debate, Jordan Peterson was brilliant. Keep being progressive, you will lose your freedom and never know why.
Zizek avoided any serious debate by using a cheap trick, name the Marxists, knowing full well such a discussion would inevitably lead to a tedious drawn out discussion on what defines a marxist and whether or not a particular individual fits that description. Peterson thankfully side stepped that but it resulted in a tame conversation that demonstrated they had quite a lot in common. They could have debated ideas where they differed but it seemed Zizek didn’t want that.
I watched that debate & it surprises me that you claim to have done the same. In no way can you make that claim after watching the Zizek/Peterson debate!
Peterson has helped me (& countless others) regain a perception of reason & sanity in our extremely polarized modern society, both personally & socially. His core philosophy is simply that extreme ideologies, left or right, are self-destructive and lead to the death of tens of millions of human beings as repetitively proven by history. He is sounding an alarm we need to listen to: Stop being a victim & understand life is a struggle which needs to constantly be confronted! These types of debates are the best remedy for our society’s dilemma…
Get well Dr. Peterson & thanks for all you do!!
The fact that Reich, who is one of the smartest commentators out there, gets under this bird Washburn’s skin is very telling. Another right wing “just sit down and shut up” apologist. Peterson reminds me of a comedian who called himself Prof. Irwin Corey, the World’s Foremost Authority. His entire act was hilariously spouting psuedo intellectual gobbledygook, only Peterson isn’t funny, except unintentionally. It’s like these clowns only just discovered Dostoyevsky. In a conversation with Sam Harris, when asked to define one of his terms, I forget which, Peterson said “It would take me 40 hours to explain that.” I’m not kidding. My reaction? Well, J, when you can boil it down to about 10, 15 minutes, please let me know, Until then, buzz off.
Lol, it seems like there are a lot of very immature arguments, and they just take great joy in shooting down any popular idea, because it makes them feel like they’re smarter than everyone else. They don’t seem to understand that some ideas become popular because they’re correct. I guess also they have a particular loathing for anything they consider “p.c.” – which is kind of a privileged viewpoint, to take high offense to anything that challenges white male privilege.
Strange comment. While I respect both men, Peterson and Zizek, for their knowledge and openness, to say Paterson is essentially a fake is an absurdity. I watched that debate and he performed quite well, as he always does. Jordan’s grasp of historical context, social nuance and, well… an unsympathetic but hopeful look at reality, is unique these days.
The truth is usually somewhere In the middle.
Existence is no exception … aging has its own rewards…
Well articulated!
Yes agreed 100 percent!!
Zizek spent most of the time rambling and agreeing with Peterson, so I have no I dea what you are talking about.
“No Idea what he is talking about”.
And who are you?
Yeah, I got through about a quarter of this article before it became clear that both Peterson and the article’s author are terrible.
Thank you for reading!
Clown! 🤡
You may not agree with what he says, but he is hardly low intelligence.
To disparage and denigrate seems to be the normal tactic of the left. Too bad you cannot debate the issues.
Guy debates in bad faith, is a pseudo-intellectual, super ignorant. If you guys ever want to know why people hate him so much, here you go: https://www.reddit.com/r/enoughpetersonspam/comments/c2ny3g/why_do_you_hate_jordan_peterson_the_megathread/
Peterson definitely has had his lessons in humility. I am glad to see he and his family survived. The videos widely available on social media are informative and entertaining. He’ll be back!
One debate is not enough to characterise anyone. Your assertion is baseless, on the account you provided no evidence whatsoever. As far as your remark on ‘low intelligence’, is concerned, I would assume you have something more tangible to offer the world. If so, what is it?
Professor Peterson has brought far more comfort to people, who are suffering in this increasing dystopian existence, than you have. So, I would suggest that unless you can do better, kindly keep your negative and unwarranted opinion to yourself.
Erudite article.
Well written
Wow, im guessing your angry about Peterson being correct on some issue that you’re passionate about, but know in your heart, wrong about?
Well written article by Mr. Washburn and the most accurate I have seen. I watched the Zizek debate in full and recommend to everyone although this is only one small part of deep knowledge shared by Dr. Peterson. Watching some of his lectures, he promotes debate and free thinking. This is something that the left is afraid of. JBP is neither far left or right. He is a truth seeker like most of us and open to be proven wrong. On the religious note,there is very little where he stands, and as far as I can tell, he opens the debate on the values of religion that has held our civilization intact. I encourage everyone to open their mind and critically explore – not bound by ideology.
I agree Zizek was far more convincing and informative. Talking about neoglism “postmodern neo marxist” as Zisek said “I dont see the Marxism”. Anyone can read Nietzsche and Dostevsky they’re very insightful but easier than Hegel to read who Zizek has written books on and Petersons philosophy is vastly different to Nietzsche’s and Dostevskys who was a chronic gambler. It’s right wing wokeism no better than left it’s all a joke.
People who dislike him refuse to listen 👂
You said it! The fact that this article praises him makes me think very little of this writers integrity.
I just watched that and I agree. When Zizek asked him to name. some of the ‘postmodernist’ or ‘Marxists” that caused him to be critical, he danced around the question a while and then casually dropped Foucault and Derrida’s name. Zizek was kind about it, but he pointed out how Foucault didn’t say what he believed he said. Watching one of his interviews with Joe Rogen he was less careful to make ridiculous arguments against ‘straw men’ that had little resemblances to the demon postmodernists. He’s good at giving oversimplified advice about how to live your life, but he fakes his understanding of philosophy.
Low intellect. That’s cute. The world needs JBP now more than ever. As the throngs of resentful simpletons (as indicated by the above comment) spurred on by the deeply corrupt hand of identity politics worsen, a voice championing responsibility and personal strength is key to overcoming the plague of ignorant selfishness sweeping the world. Glad he is doing well and continuing his work! Bring on the hit pieces you petty hopeless scum!
His absence has been a blessing. Clean your room? He can not even get out of bed. The end.
So a wise observation, and likely a good idea, is dismissed because the man struggles? Have you ever met another human? or are your are perfectly consistent in ever area of your life to award such a judgement? Just curious.
You are clearly a person of great emotional sensitivity, and unparalleled understanding of the human condition, notwithstanding your untrammelled reading of the vicissitudes of great historical figures.
And, given that your expectations of others are perfection, I can only assume that god is waiting for an audience with you…
Not only that, but it must be such FUN listening to you at parties! The end.
I don’t quite think you realize what he’s been doing for the past year is exactly that… He’s cleaning his room and will return when it’s been clean. He’s a man of his word and he has shown that this past year. Don’t let your intellectual bias clowed your judgment so much that it blinds you to the obvious…
Pretty terrible thing to say about someone who almost died and is recovering.
Man’s working on cleaning his room again. Maybe you shouldn’t be expecting perfection from mortals
That’s true, deep and meaningful compassion right there. Have you ever delved into his work? Or perhaps, even better, have you had a loved one, say your wife, diagnosed with terminal cancer? I’m sure the reach of compassion in any remote human form isn’t something that you’re particularly familiar with if this is how you discredit your own self with statements like these.
The man has been sick. What the hell is the matter with you, if anything besides the lack of minimal human decency is?
Wanker.
Wish you were absent
Are you proud of this puerile comment?
You must have a very sad life to be this vitriolic. What’s worse is that you likely consider yourself progressive and “on the right side”.
The arts degree types dislike being told they should be personally accountable and work hard. Jordan is a mirror to their vulnerable narcissism and palpable insecurity. There’s a reason society does not value those types.
Chris you really are a spanner. Take a good look at you picture here it will give you a clue
Shameful comment Chris. The man is ill physically. That doesn’t detract from his bravery, intellect and productive insight one little bit.
What a douchebag.
He asked for an example?
You responded with dribble.
Which beats criticism if that criticism is only drivel, so a projection.
Stated the hateful and cowardly elitist who claims superiority over those suffering from rare mental and/or physical health diagnoses. Go change your printed luau top for the brown shirt hanging in your closet.
Do you look like you’re having a midlife crisis, how old are you 50? And what are you angry about exactly? That he doesn’t hate himself for being white? That he believes in personal responsibility? What a monster
Sounds like you dont have your life in order. I hope you never have to deal with a loved one dying of cancer though, despite how painfully dumb and passive aggressive you come across as
That seems petty
The words of victim –
You’re ignorant and it’s likely karma will leave someone you love bedridden while others needlessly mock them. A fate well earned.
Wow, what an acute contribution, do you do children’s psrties too?
What a nasty jerky thing to say. Anyone of decency, compassion, would not say this, regardless of their political leanings. What’s the point? So you feel better after saying your ugly hateful words? Your attitude makes society worse, hostile, mean…so sad really. Why not chill out and appreciate intelligence and differing perspectives in the interest of a healthy dialogue to bring about the best conclusions, not just to support your positions? Sometimes the truth and reality is not what we expect,but I’d rather have the truth, than to be in an echo chamber
By far the best comment here.
What your address Chris…. i would love to pay you a visit.. or Let’s go for a coffee
Internet anonymity has allowed mob mentality to infect every exchange of text.
Used to be you actually had to be in a mob to engage in vile, venal and abhorrent behavior. Alone, you run the risk of losing your teeth when lashing out.
So now, any forum invites the pathetic narcissistic rage addict to vent his venom because he knows no one will kick his teeth in.
I, for one, look forward to the day when quantum computers can break any security protocol and the venom posters will be unmasked, and held to account for the poison they post. No more anonymity for you.
Spot on.
Kind words from the ones who preach compassion and wish to bloat the welfare state to collapse the system.
He’s a much-needed beacon in the post-modernist fog. May he shine on.
This guy is right i have been missing him but I know he will be a figure in the long term if he gets his health right and wants to still be in the public eye. I still read the 12 rules to keep myself in line.
Agreed
He is missed and I pray for his return to the game if life.
Jordan speaks truth and this experience will only make him stronger and even more relevant to everyone who is open to having a better live.
His views are critical to help the world get untangled from this distorted “victim” frame the left been so deviously crafted for decades.
You be cannot be responsible and a victim so honour this great man by embracing what he teaches and spit the hook we have been forced fed by the left.
Wow, your opinion constitutes “The End” of all discussion regarding the value of Jordan Peterson’s intellect. You must be some smart.
Now go clean your room.
Small quibble, but I believe Dr Peterson is currently being treated in Serbia, not Bosnia.
We have corrected that quibble.
Neal, you related the murdered mycologist Stephen pollack?
I am not!
Were you related to the actor/director Sidney Pollack ?
Michael Washburn- This article is obviously a direct result of hatred of Peterson. Well disguised as something it’s not but in the title it’s even clear you have little respect for him but more disturbingly no compassion as well. Your the reason the world is a worse place.
Huh?
I feel Jordan Peterson is one of the most important people existing in this planet. His experience is extremely relevant and will only expand his mind which in turn will help us expand ours. I wish us the best.
You noticed. Yes, more fence straddling from Journalists who wish to keep their jobs.
John 3:7
“Marvel not that I said unto thee, YE MUST BE BORN AGAIN.”
Can’t return to public life soon enough.
Eloquent, gifted, and sometimes manipulative and wrong.
Got an example for us?
Please explain.
Provide specific examples please.
But also manipulative and right. I understand the hatred it produce partly because some of his followers are adopting him for tribalistic reasons but in the other hand you can’t simply deny very competent arguments. Indeed necessary evil to balance things out, as should be.
Great man with insight that few can articulate
I miss him. I miss the voice of reason.
Jordan Peterson was treated in Russia and Belgrade, Serbia. He is a great intellectual and I sincerely hope that he will recover and continue making this world a better place.
This man is a genius. When i see someone trying to insult him, it’s always radical left or radical socialists, it’s so funny. These people are desperate to make his poweful voice disappear and terrified of his return.
Saw the zizek debate some other commenter brought. I came to the opposite conclusion, and as a redditor stated, after the opening statement it was less of a debate as it was a discussion.
There is a reason the other commentator couldn’t provide specific examples too…
A brilliant mind that provides insights and clarity that has been sorely missed. The negative comment you read on here are from those same people who would chose to do everything in their power to prevent him from speaking at all. Reason and debate are two things that can move us forward as a species.
Οne of the most valuable minds in the Western world , if only for engaging by common sense and pure reasoning , the heritage of global Civilization and sacred Tradtions against a misanthropic and diabolical tsunami of egotistical self adoring paranoia and sin .
Referencing one sub-par performance is a silly summary which indicates a partisan attitude and an unfortunate, irrelevant comment to an interesting article about an undeniably significant voice of our time.
Terrific read. Thank you for this!
We can all be wrong sometimes but it doesn’t make everything we say wrong. JBP is not saying what he believes. but takes what others believe and runs those ideas through to the end. If we all did this then we would find that 99 % of our ideas would be bad, but we just get ideas and as much support for that idea and bully it through the rest of the community. I have watched JBP and find that the people with most to lose are the one’s who are most angry. When he stops someone in their tracks you can actually see that person realise that maybe what they think is actually wrong. He doesn’t tell them they are wrong he gives them information and they work it out for themselves. Unfortunately the Canadian government were unable to do this, so are the supporters of BLM or any other mad cap group.
Dr. Peterson is arguably the most important intellectual of this time. His thoughts are so deeply embedded in our cultural history. Dr. Peterson has helped both men and women. I believe there is and always has been a hierarchy and, in fact hierarchies.
Why would anyone want to suppress or deny the basic idea, the biological and psychological and social reality of hierarchies?
Only revisionist historians, postmodern psychologists and postmodern sociologists claim another, inadequate, theory of civilization. Dr. Peterson is a genius. He will not say he believes in God because to do so is to claim the unknowable. Yet Judeo-Christian values have shaped the Western world for millennia. Such values create a productive and highly creative, innovative society with freedom and liberty. To believe otherwise is simply wrong historically. Such delusions create false beliefs such as European-Americans are racists and owe a debt to all other minorities. In fact, all other minorities owe a great debt for their freedom and the comforts of a modern life primarily to Europeans and European-Americans.
To say otherwise is blindness, sir, pure blindness to the FACTS of history in all its fields to include the formation of a political democracy and representative republic to technological innovation.
Perhaps sir, you require additional education in these matters.
You are right!!!
if he returns, it may take time. his wife had a terminal diagnosis. he coped for years, so did she. people cannot tolerate unbearable emotional distress.
Yes he is very intelligent but unwise in his personal life. Intelligence is God given but wisdom comes from following God and believing and knowing true heirachy…
God first and when you follow him you self care eat right drug free and relieve your anxiety with acceptance and faith. Psalms 37 be anxious for nothing.. he got hooked on anti anxiety meds.. He has a horrible diet meat salt and water…! That is almost suicide!!! Green and other vegetables and fruits are a must for good health!!
Well said Mr. Blackburn. I could not have stated it better myself.
The historical/society facts ARE out there, and Dr. Peterson has skillfully listed them to support his own observations on the world.
To all those in this comment section who still misunderstand Jordan Peterson, I strongly encourage you to look at his work and lectures carefully (if you have not done so already) because it seems to me that many of you who dislike or hate the Canadian doctor seem to have not devoted enough of your time in properly researching him and have not read his book, “12 Rules of Life”.
Accidentally posted this below, replying to you directly
Peterson has helped prop up the intellectual canon he was brought up in (Modernism, let’s call it). He could be important in it’s defense, if you believe it needs defending, but to me he seems symptomatic of a society uncritical of it’s roots, unwilling to examine it’s own failings personally or systemically. These are some of the shortcomings of how Modernism has unfolded in the 20th century
The facts are that Peterson has shown no sign of understanding any post-modern criticisms of the West, beyond the idea that it attempts to dismantle it. He conflates postmodernism with Marxism; while the two are loosely connected through their criticisms of Modern forms of power, both are thoroughly part of Modernity (and Western thought). Peterson shoes no sign of this understanding personally or publicly.
He is symptomatic of people clinging to a passing worldview. He doesn’t understand what’s coming (who can?), and reacting by alarming people. He’s an educated, engaging figure. People cling to him as a voice of reason, not knowing he doesn’t know what he’s talking about, despite those accolades.
No one is trying to deny that the West has built some incredible things, but the modern age is built upon imperialism and colonialism. To ignore these forms of violence are dishonest, and ignoring historical fact. The whole of the Judeo-Christian history is filled with violence which creates and perpetuates civilization.
Just because some people won’t focus on only the (purportedly) great things we have doesn’t mean it’s historical revision
Your initial claim mixes up cause and effect. Out cultural history is deeply embedded in Peterson. He clings to one interpretation of that history as less favourable ones emerge BESIDE them (and not instead of).
Postmodernity looks to the possibility of more than one interpretation being valid. It’s not a zero sum game. But Peterson (and Modernity) can’t understand those rules
Spot on.
I hope his notoriety will bring attention to the nightmare of benzodiazepines that so many have experienced. Anatomy of an Epidemic by Robert Whitaker is a must read on this subject
Hey there, just noticed a small error. Benzodiazepine is a drug class, not a medication in itself. The way it is written suggests that Benzodiazepine is the name of the drug. Have a nice day, great article.
We will make a correction, thanks.
“Jordan Peterson” Canada owes you a lasting debit. Best wishes going forward. Thank you, Don, Alaska.
How incredibly frustrating it must be for him to have so few who can actually understand such a brilliant mind…I am enthralled with this generous, kind, authentic, brave and expansive Spirit. Love you Dr. Peterson…
Great article thanks. I hope JP gets back on his feet real soon
The problem with zizeks debate is that you have to watch the debate with a non partisan attitude. I came to watch the debate as a marxist(engels side of ‘marxism’ which is a lot better than his later work) but kept my head neutral and researched what was said in the debate for atleast a month. So, im pretty sure anyone that came to a outright conclusion that one side won without researching is kidding themselves. Not gonna state my current political and economical view
Peterson is an incredible intellectual. The problem is that he is trying to have a conversation with a society that hasnt yet evolved to a point of properly underatanding, so the nuance of his views becomes lost. He has flaws, so the modern media eatablishment and social media defines him by those flaws. He opposes leftist group think, so that makes him a right wing fascist. The people of the modern world are still not yet smart enough to understand that someone can be pro-trans rights and against enforced vocabulary, pro-womens rights and anti-affirmative action and he doubly has emerged at an unfortunate time of polarization and fascist resurgence, making him a pariah of the left and a figurehead of the right, both of which are so reductionist and stupid at this point that his true message is totally lost.
Calling Peterson a conservative idealogist is as absurd as calling him a liberal one. The man is a free-thinker, something our world desperately needs more of while tolerating fewer and fewer. And his greatest real accomplishment was and will continue to be as an example of just how lost and confused both sides of the political spectrum have become.
Very well said. Couldn’t agree more.
I have had great respect for this man but I am sad that he hasn’t been able to take or use his own advice. There is sadly a small margin between a genius and someone who is on the brink of insanity. I hope for JP that is not the case. I cannot believe anything JP now says. I can’t believe how many people have succumbed to prescription drug addiction. Surely with his Insight into human psychology he might have avoided the fate of many. I wonder if he hasn’t experimented with psychedelics in his quest to find truth and enlightenment. Is he in actuality experiencing psychotic episodes? Pretty sure a carnivorous diet isn’t helpful. I who have suffered many years with MDD. I really found JP a help now I am starting to believe in my own philosophy. Take your pills see your psychiatrist regularly and get on. Others depend on me.
Ijudeo_christian values, complex thoughts, organised religion with peados and cruelty attached, has made the teachings difficult to hear.
Jordan pulls the benifits of judeo_christian education and value to the forefront, then the question is are they worth fighting for??, I’m interested in learning more, so Jordan is a winner in that respect
I wish him well and look forward to his return. Thank you for an interesting article.
Tim–
Peterson has helped prop up the intellectual canon he was brought up in (Modernism, let’s call it). He could be important in it’s defense, if you believe it needs defending, but to me he seems symptomatic of a society uncritical of it’s roots, unwilling to examine it’s own failings personally or systemically. These are some of the shortcomings of how Modernism has unfolded in the 20th century
The facts are that Peterson has shown no sign of understanding any post-modern criticisms of the West, beyond the idea that it attempts to dismantle it. He conflates postmodernism with Marxism; while the two are loosely connected through their criticisms of Modern forms of power, both are thoroughly part of Modernity (and Western thought). Peterson shoes no sign of this understanding personally or publicly.
He is symptomatic of people clinging to a passing worldview. He doesn’t understand what’s coming (who can?), and reacting by alarming people. He’s an educated, engaging figure. People cling to him as a voice of reason, not knowing he doesn’t know what he’s talking about, despite those accolades.
No one is trying to deny that the West has built some incredible things, but the modern age is built upon imperialism and colonialism. To ignore these forms of violence are dishonest, and ignoring historical fact. The whole of the Judeo-Christian history is filled with violence which creates and perpetuates civilization.
Just because some people won’t focus on only the (purportedly) great things we have doesn’t mean it’s historical revision
Your initial claim mixes up cause and effect. Out cultural history is deeply embedded in Peterson. He clings to one interpretation of that history as less favourable ones emerge BESIDE them (and not instead of).
Postmodernity looks to the possibility of more than one interpretation being valid. It’s not a zero sum game. But Peterson (and Modernity) can’t understand those rules
Now who’s conflating? You can’t possibly think Peterson advocates imperialism or colonialism. He naively (optimistically) may have believed he’d be allowed to remain apolitical after cogently standing up for reason introduced it into the fray, but acknowledging that the tyranny of western systems has been less destructive to the human spirit is hardly a wholesale endorsement. He would tell you (correctly) that such a gross oversimplification is indicative of B-Cluster disordered black-and-white “splitting” whether your own or someone else’s you’ve accepted. He would also point out that splitting is an exploitative device used by people who insist they be given all exceptional benefit of doubt to deny others the benefit of any gray area latitude. All any of us can know is our own observation and experience, and because of his clinical work he is more aware than most of the degree to which even that cannot always be trusted. He’s informed his own opinions with a formidable amount of study (observation) yet retained the humility to not deceive himself into the belief any political system which aligns with his personal agenda is therefore the best one for others as well. He’s actually spoken out against what would’ve been safest not to amd denounced the right wing extremists who took that for some kind of trannyphobic hate signal.
Abused populations have inordinately high positive correlation with those having highly-externalized identities, and surely there can hardly be someone more confused about who they are than transsexuals (who’ve almost always sustained the dissociatively-reinforcing damage of pretending to be someone else). Life in the closet too-enthusiastically embraced is a huge part of why narcissism is so high in the gay community, and for sure it was narcissistic self-appointed community leaders (thanks anyway Rosie you don’t speak for me) seeing only increased numbers who let them in under our protective umbrella (apparently we are the people who are least-often a mortal a threat to them) to ride on our coattails only to destroy years if not decades of any goodwill we might’ve finally gained with delusionally-entitled incidents just like that debacle.
Offering no solution yourself beyond the one that for yourself is an effort to elevate you by diminishment of him is to speak the same abusive irrational language that calls someone respectfully and diplomatically standing up for himself the abuser. Only someone with a nefarious agenda even feels sufficient threat from perceived disagreement to dismiss commonsense everyday smarts so categorically. Grow up
I can’t figure out how to edit on this page but I would like to add that I don’t invalidate the experience of any other person simply because it has not also been within my own. The tranny argument as biological destiny likely has validity in the same way homosexuality is an epigenetically-mediated outcome. By saying there can be no one more confused I’m asserting society puts that confusion on us/them, not that they are uncertain of who they’ve always been.
That was a lot of words for how little you said. What hogwash did you just make me read? That was truly Petersonesque. You wrote a lot of smart-sounding words with no substance beyond reactionary vitriol.
Just because you can write something that sounds complicated doesn’t mean you’re saying anything.
Trans people speaking up, being seen, demanding rights and protections do not harm the queer community. Equality is not a zero sum game. As someone who has likely experienced homophobia and hatred it’s sad to me that you would turn around and spew the same hatred to trans people.
Also. Come on. It’s not 2005, you know every word you used to talk about trans people were slurs. Be better.
Lol. I wish this deserved more comment.
Regarding “began taking the anti-anxiety drug Benzodiazepine a few years ago,” benzodiazepine is not a brand name, but a class of drugs. I believe it’s been reported that is/was taking alprazolam (brand name Xanax), which is a benzodiazepine.
There will be a day you will be unable to rise from your bed.
Chomsky offers an interesting counterpoint to Peterson, the fact that Chomsky is a linguist is also an important point to remember and research.
Excellent and balanced article. I wish Dr Peterson and his family all the best in this trying time. Looking forward to his new book.
A great deal of Peterson’s insights parot the insights of Thomas Sowell. It’s curious to me that Sowell is not as well known as Peterson. If their speach is similar, what is it about them that is so different, that “enlightened” people who would attack one, but never mention the other?
“The Strange Fate of Human Existence”
“The Battle of the minds”
“The Self Adoration”
“Revelation to the real Revelations!”
” The word,”Blessing” strange here how some use it, in their comments. Manipulation! Some, will be blinded!
Some, will be gifted!
Some, will prophesy!
“THE END”
Sad..sad..sad. Thats all I can say here.
Jordon Peterson is a good caring man and he certainly knows what he’s talking about. (and has the facts to substantiate that which he speaks of.) It is articles like this one that contribute to the frustration that comes out when he is not being understood.
I’d love to get the individual that wrote this article go head to head with him in a live debate.
You would be leaving with your tail between your legs.
Great article!
Jordan get well mate!
A voice wandering in a desert of PC irrationality in a very confused western society.
My kids turned me on to JBP in ’16 and I’ve enjoyed viewing his talks but always chafed at his low view of scripture. Fortunately I found a 500 pge book by Joseph Andre Gattuso titled A Christian Response to 12 Rules for Life, available on Amazon, which presents Dr. Peterson’s insights respectfully, and thoroughly, while recognizing the existence of an Intelligent-Loving-Mercifull-Just Creator GOD.
What part of roughly 75% uf the U.S. population cant stand you and your woke media agenda do you NOT get?
I would also be willing to bet that the International, & utter disgust for you woke media pundits is close enough to rival that percentage in the U.S..
Either get a real job, or do us all a favor and die off like the annoyingly outdated relics that you media NPCs really are. Its YOU that no one has a use for.
Peterson is a great man!! When I read all these negative comments about him, you can’t help but feel a sense of anger. All you want to do is reply with harsh words and call then names the sea won’t be able to wash off. But the reason I started with ” Peterson is a great man “, is because I have learned so much from him. One thing is, to control your anger, and to be very careful about what you say. My going off on these haters of Peterson, although it will feel good, it won’t make things any better. It might infact, even make things worse. Thankyou to this author, for this perfect description, and light in which he paints Jordan Peterson. I really enjoyed reading it. And my best wishes go out to mr. Peterson and his family. I really hope he gets better soon, and may Gob bless him for all the lives he has inspired.
He may be a conservative. He may be a drug addict. He may believe in God. We don’t know because Jordan speaks ‘carefully’ and chooses his words ‘wisely’. So guess we don’t deserve to know these things.
It’s going to be hard coming back from the shame of being an addict after getting your PhD studying addiction. Shows a lack of applying knowledge to the real world, one of his main shticks.
Brilliant and balanced piece, thanks for that. Some people seem to forget that Prof. Peterson has published over a 100 scientific pieces, which are peer reviewed and well-cited. It is rare for an accomplished scientist to be this articulate and bothers to engage in public affairs. He is very emotionally mature and engaged with the people he speaks to, even they ones that do not agree with him. As a scientist myself, I recognize what an absolute unique character this man is. We should cherish him, he can handle it.
If I were Peterson, I would be hiding too. He gave us insights into the situation we are in now. He pointed out things could go bad quickly. It is not up to him to solve it for us. We have to do that for ourselves.
He is missed and I pray for his return to the game if life.
Jordan speaks truth and this experience will only make him stronger and even more relevant to everyone who is open to having a better live.
His views are critical to help the world get untangled from this distorted “victim” frame the left been so deviously crafted for decades.
You be cannot be responsible and a victim so honour this great man by embracing what he teaches and spit the hook we have been forced fed by the left.
I’m not smart or intelligent enough to articulate my words into a great comment but I’ll say this, Jordan Peterson has had an incredibly positive impact on so many people’s lives world wide. His words alone have help through very difficult times. He dares to stand up against the tyranny of the radical left of course he going to make enemies. I think for so many people he’s a symbol of personal sovereignty. When he speaks it resonates with me on such a deep level I didn’t even know existed. I’m constantly analysis my own life and finding ways I can be a better person to my self and everyone around me. I don’t know if I’d be where I am today if it wasn’t for Dr. Jordan Peterson.
Boring fan article. JBP is a great orator and that leads gullible people to believe that he’s an intellectual.
Jordan Peterson s knowledge of hierarchies and innate role genders is unmatched, his defiance of forced legislation that the PC crowd is pushing is both refreshing and courageous! The difference between him and his critic’s on stage could be likened to that of a college professor with a group of kindergartner s ,’ They are wholly intellectually outmatched! Two years ago, I didn’t know that he existed! Now I listen to everything that he has to say intently,,!! I wouldn’t spend two minutes listening to any of any of the pseudo intellectual pretenders who embarrass themselves while undermining their own argument s and try to box him in !
Loved this article, Michael Washburn. (And I only had to look up one word — tee hee). You eloquently expressed my thoughts which I am not good at). Definitely going to check out some of your other writings. As for your summary of the fate of Jordan Peterson, I thought you nailed it. I don’t understand why your overview was not recognized as totally accurate by everyone who commented. Sigh. Unless, of course, they are on that other side — opposite of right. ☺️
Yes
Ah yes, the serotonin lobster guy and his book that goes on and on about how chaos, the source of all things vile and female, should be avoided at all times to obtain happiness except the few mandatory “it’s still necessary, yin and yang and shit” sentences he grudgingly put in order to hide his sexism.
I do wish his health gets better, but his silence is a great improvement from what he used to do, spewing few cherrypicked science-and-other-pseudo-academic-stuff he claims to know in order to sound persuasive.
Hey, thanks for the anonymous personal abuse. Really courageous of you.
If this seems like personal abuse, I’m afraid you’re just one of those special snowflakes you ‘ve talked about in the article.
Today’s left wing ideology is tomorrow’s neonazism.
Their arrogance doesn’t allow the rights of the defence and the principle audi alteram partem, as the Nazi did.
They are unable to self criticise, which should self evidence they could be wrong, but no.
Jordan Peterson was a punch in their faces when a scholarship stand against their sense of purity.
“Get your head out of the ground, try to become enlightened, quit parroting what your ignorant parents told you, stop being a Neanderthal if that’s remotely within your power.”
Ooof. Sounds like that was really hurtful for you to hear. You seem like you’re working through your anger here. I hope Jordan Peterson sends you his thanks for the glowing wax-shine-job you’ve done on his intellectual work. You deserve his direct and personal praise. Also maybe it would help with all the grumps.
What you’re calling fate I call inexperience and lack of understanding in the medical industry.
I’ve been through the exact same shit like he is…
And they’re prescribing this shit still.
Theres nothing natural about Benzos and it’s a Crime to give that shit a bit troubled but otherwise healthy people!
I’m only 25 and those pills ruined my life and brain health forever.
I’m from Germany, so I can clearly say this here: Fuck you BAYER for producing and still selling this shit!
I am curious…
If there are people in this comment section who DISLIKE Jordan Peterson, then why are they here?
From what I can tell this article by Mr. Washburn is a fair and positive assessment of Jordan Peterson and what he has done.
I can only assume, that all those commenters who have typed negative and heinous statements about Jordan Peterson, have done so with the express purpose to defame him and lead other people into hating the man.
Dr. Peterson brings forth the necessary balance that’s needed in today’s time. The writer has insightfully said, “It’s not that Peterson is a conservative, it’s just that thoughtful and balanced policy proposals line up suspiciously well with conservative ones”. Hence, I always say that if you tip the scale to either side (e.g. liberalism / conservatism, being a feminist / misogynist, etc.) it will obviously cause an imbalance in the scales of life, and anything that is imbalanced has the proclivity to become oppressive. Think about it.
A voice for truth, a voice of rational thinking! What a relief. While no person is perfect,
(as you are not, fellow reader) some provide the clarity needed in confusing times. Jordan Peterson speaks to logic, reason, and time tested evidence. Excellent mind and a kind man.
Gender equality is fairly new to Sweden. We will need another twenty years to see if women will continue to prefer the helping professions. I hope they do. The term white privilege ledge ignored poor whites and the phrase privilege seems to blame folk for what they were born into. Some whites have advantages would be a better way of putting it.
It’s a pity, but probably inevitable that Peterson has been co-opted by the right, his thesis is much more to do with personal ethical integrity than politics, and his suggested personal goal for people a lot closer to existential notions of authenticity, than the crude right wing dog whistle tropes of his politically motivated followers.
A man in witch has been Blessed and will learn from his adversity and become better and better when he comes out of this trial that he is faced With,,
Apology in adavnce to Zeke. I wasn’t calling out your intelligence. I was referring to the many posts throughout the thread claiming Peterson was not intelligent.
I found Dr. Peterson right as he hit the spotlight from the Canadian bill fiasco. I liked him immediately, not because I agreed with him but because it seemed the way he thinks about things is weirdly close to how I think about things. There’s a lot to learn from Dr. Peterson but I think one of the more important things is how he speaks and behaves when he’s being interviewed. More often than not, the people interviewing him are hostile to him as is usually revealed very quickly in an interview. Despite this, Dr. Peterson uses a method you could call an aggressive presumption of good faith by the person interviewing him or usually, just arguing with him. Secondly, and perhaps most important, he’s very precise in the words he uses. If you’re not used to speaking in public, this can be a problem. Thankfully, he’s mastered this over his years of teaching. We would all be better off if our candidates for high offices utilized these techniques to debate each other. Unfortunately, it’s a little much to ask of our politicians and probably too cerebral for the average voter. It also requires honesty. This is probably the main reason you’ll never see this on in a political debate.
I was introduced to Peterson recently, but have greatly enjoyed the lectures and appearances from him that I have seen. The Zizek debate especially was of the type of discussion outcome I crave when I engage with people whom out the outset it would seem I have little in common with (leaving with a greater appreciation and understanding of the other and finding common threads even if I still have some fundamental disagreements). Peterson started out the debate aiming at Marx when he was debating Zizek who is an independent (and brilliant) thinker and not a clone or a zealot and even acknowledges the failings of communism in the 20th century without sugarcoating them. Discussions like that are not possible among those who are not pursuing truth. I believe Peterson tries to practice what he preaches, but I have a theory about him based on what I have witnessed. He doesn’t say he believes because he struggles personally with something that predates the addiction that we know about. It could be anger, it could be sexual, a different type of addiction, who knows, but it’s something in conflict with his core beliefs of how a person should act or feel. My hope for him is that at the end of his current trials, he finds his true faith and the transformative connection that I think he yearns for and comes out on the other side whole. It’s what we all hope for when our faith waivers, whether it is in humanity, God, or ourselves. Falling into true addiction is a very cruel thing to someone who believes in individual responsibility and has consistently tried to walk that walk. Harder to ask for help, harder to accept yourself when you realize that you aren’t in control: lack of trust in self, shame, self loathing, knowing too well how vulnerable you are. Get well Mr. Peterson. My non-professional advice: start by not reading any more comments and surrounding yourself in the light.
Most of the comments are a sewer of ignorance and hate.
The Subjectivitiy worship and hubris of the Left is on full display, and gearing up for another genocide.
Sadly, it looks like we’re heading towards a global dark ages…as the Soviet Union and China models can always find eager fodder faster than the arc of Civilization can educate them to stay off the philosophical crack.
Peterson cherry picks from all over to support his preaching, but without much basis. He has an assumption of universality which is so defunct, no honest theorist would touch it. Notions of university and innate differences between men and women or different races is preposterous. Postmodern society recognizes this. Peterson has to place himself in opposition to Marxism and postmodernism in orderd to be able to preach as he does. These movements were in opposition to the fascism that was cropping up in Europe in the 30s. Ultimately Peterson ends up aligned with those fascists and it’s a dangerous road he headed down. He’s a classic populist. The dumb mans intellect.
You’re miserably uninformed. Postmodernism as we know it today didn’t arise in Europe in the 1930s. Peterson sees its prime theoretician as Michel Foucault, who taught and published in the 1970s and 1980s. Peterson has lucidly analyzed the contradictions of this very contemporary movement.
Of all the criticisms one could make of Peterson, “he’s aligned with those fascists” is one of the more laughable.
All the great minds in history were deemed in their time insane, a heretic or even Liars. So it is no wonder would today’s technology all the Bots are out there jumping all over this to get everybody to fight with each other. People if you know this man if you read this man if you invest the time you will see that in the not too distant future he will go down as one of the greatest minds of our day and we should be proud and delighted that we had a chance to experience this exceptionally gifted man. God bless JP!
What I find fascist about his thinking, is his insatiable need for “order”. Without much support he claims women are agents of chaos. He naturally places men above women in this respect. His idea that there are universal truths about the nature of man in general are one step from deciding a master race, to maintain that order he seeks.
Sorry, but you’ve failed miserably to draw a convincing historical parallel here. Jordan Peterson is obviously not a fascist, and you haven’t even begun to make a case. May I leave you with the words of George Orwell:
“The word ‘fascism’ has no meaning now except in so far as it signifies ‘something not desirable.'”
Jungian archetype theory.
Go salute your sooooooooo.. progressive Red flag, and add more oblivious opinion
to your trailer-park compatriots
Whatever one’s position, Left, Centre, or Rights, and Pro or Contra Feminism and ‘Equality’, whatever that means, and everything else, one of the problems some people have with Jordan Peterson is that they are not used to such precise use of language and vocabulary, and are unable to really focus intently and carefully, often lose the thread, and don’t absorb…however I have heard much of what he has said on YouTube, and was gripped/drawn in by his use of language and presentation of ideas….he is precise and detailed and careful, and thinking all the time…it is fascinating to listen and absorb and think…
He tends to be a bit strident, and not particularly gentle in his presentation, and some are put off by that…or many have listened to one or two videos, and before getting a broad perspective, form an opinion, prejudging. So be it…it takes all kinds…and of course one doesn’t need to agree….However his thinking is very valuable and we have to hope that he continues to present his ideas and and keep us stimulated…
The majority of people posting and commenting fail to understand that once you take off the mask and go beneath your own insecurities, scars and trauma, stop judging anyone who does not fit within your field of reality. This is a man who is only speaking his mind with outward expression trying to make sense of the world. This is the problem with the world as we know it, humans! We are so selfish they forget that anyone else in the world is here living and are continually trying to make sense of it all. Someone please tell me where empathy and compassion have gone? Love thy neighbour!?
This is why people hate this pseudo-intellectual. A whole host of reasons. https://www.reddit.com/r/enoughpetersonspam/comments/c2ny3g/why_do_you_hate_jordan_peterson_the_megathread/
Excellent article. Praying Peterson is completely healed.
Congratulations Michael Washburn on an excellent article! Peterson is not someone who can be understood quickly and easily; for example, I know someone who dismisses him as a bad person and bad thinker, just because many conservatives admire him.
Millions disagree with your ” ill -informed ” — opinion. Your Trailer- park supervisor is
probably a susbcriber to his you-tube channel
I guess he made his bed and laid in it.
Petersen is very clever, extremely well-spoken, but in the end, he promotes complacency. It’s as if, in his version of the world, everything is fine just the way it is, and no one should lift a finger to change it. That’s why I personally don’t support his “logicisms” about left-wing politics.
He complains about how we seek the change we want to see in the world while offering no insight of his own that would help to facilitate it. He’s a lot like the football fan who complains about football players taking a knee in protest of police brutality during the American national anthem.
He doesn’t have a solution to anything, a better alternative, or a willingness to see justice. He just wants to see his football game without interruption. And if he actually does find players kneeling to be an acceptable form of protest, then in every other way he argues against world social change, he behaves in the same way as the Football fan.
Petersen is a forgettable contrarian, and as humanity inevitably grows in enlightenment along with our relationship to technology, his relevance to the world will fade into obscurity. Such is the fate of people who choose to live as contrarians. It probably wouldn’t matter to him that he’s forgotten by then, but what we leave behind either matters or it doesn’t.
I like to think of Petersen as if he’s standing in the middle of a field, screaming at a storm that doesn’t care what he says because a storm isn’t going to change direction as a result of what anyone says. Action is all that matters, and his condemnation of active efforts to do good in the world isn’t going to change those actions or efforts. It’s foolishness, not intellect.
Looking forward to his next book and I miss hearing his courageous voice.
And I understand the sentiment that we need him now more than ever. But that misses his central message.
It is time for us to shoulder the terrible responsibility for our own lives, clean up our rooms and set our houses in order.
Altho peterson as some insight in his area of expertise, a vast majority of his writing and talks are similar to a male baby finding his ding dong for the first time and telling people how he found his ding dong. 90 precent junk insight, really inane conclusions, and mostly irrelevant unneeded discourse plague this guy. I do hope he gets better, but also hope his public “work” fades away.
The people who are cajoled by Peterson’s writing are like him, end of story. Often rage filled white guys who have been lied to about being special all their lives, because they’re white. Lashing out at growth and change is all they have. This is nothing new and neither are Peterson’s ideas.
Peterson is a haphazard sophist, perhaps a pop-sociologist in his finer moments. He is fluent in psychobabble, which apparently fools many into thinking he has real insights. This includes the author of this article. The fact that he says that Peterson “stands out for his rare pedagogical talent” is telling of such a gullible hypnosis. The author of this article then goes on to say, “watching Peterson stride back and forth in business-casual attire and speak in front of a class can be a fascinating and, sometimes, humbling experience”. How naive. Least of which is the fact that Peterson has admitted to spending thousands of dollars on his sartorial expression. There’s nothing wrong with this, but it certainly calls into question Michael Washburn’s (the author’s) sense of critical distance here. It is obvious that Peterson is dressed to the nines, especially in his debates. The fact that he thinks that Peterson’s musings are coherent, is another symptom of this sad cult. Peterson thrives on political correctness and a lack of critical thinking. He’d be nowhere without these phenomena. They are two sides of the coins that fill his coffers.
We live in a society that was designed to permit anyone to express any opinion, no matter how repugnant or void. This is healthiest and best, because an unguided Darwinian social process elevates the opinions and thoughts worth hearing from those that have earned oblivion.
People are free to disagree with Peterson, but I have yet to hear anyone criticize him for any reasons other than his failure to comply with their ideology–radical feminism, Marxism, totalitarianism, compelled speech, or that living hell called “political correctness.” Political correctness is nothing more than totalitarianism by a prettier name. Peterson points out that the 20th century was a high-water mark for communism and totalitarianism, with about 100M people murdered as a result. In those days, it was lethal to show less than enthusiastic support for your leaders, just as it is in China, Tibet, Xinjiang, and Hong Kong today.
Peterson is a very bright guy who has read much, much more that you or I ever will and remembers most of it. From all of this information has has solved some amazing puzzles that explain why people do what they do. He has created an interpretation of the human mind using a science-based wall of logic with almost zero flaws. I am a Ph.D.-level physicist and I think I have detected maybe one incorrect comment among hundreds of his theses and statements.
A stellar example of Peterson’s logic is his assessment of social hierarchies. He points out that these are associated with certain structures and neurotransmitters in the human brain, and that these have very similar counterparts in the lobster brain from which human undeniably descended. Lobsters have been around for almost 500M years (predating trees by about 100M years), and so this hierarchy mechanism has been around for eons and must have some important social utility and stabilizing effect or it would not have survived for as long as it has, in as many species as it has.
Thus, those who assert that social dominance hierarchies are a mechanism created by the powerful to keep the weak submissive, or worse yet, a recent invention of white males to oppress everyone else, are completely full of crap and are only generating self-serving fictions. They have zero science to back this up and are simply trying to disrupt a system based on millions of years of biology and to make themselves famous and increase their social power.
Praise God, Peterson calls them out for this terrible malpractice. I wish more people had the courage to stand up to the totalitarians. Sadly, most, including leading thinkers, are too afraid of being called names by famous idiots on social media.
The only way this nonsense stops is that we call it out and get it judged on its merits. Good ideas live, bad or false ones die, just as in all life on earth.
Speak the truth fearlessly, even if it costs you, even if you might be cancelled. This is the only way to end the PC/social justice reign of terror.
I’m not sure that Peterson has read much, more more than I ever will, but otherwise, you have, as they say, nailed it. How very rewarding to hear from someone who knows Peterson’s work so well. Thanks for your comments, Paul.
Mr. Washburn, thanks for your comment. I guess I should say that you and JBP have read much more than I ever will.