
#1006 - Jordan Peterson & Bret Weinstein
Jordan Peterson is a clinical psychologist and tenured professor of psychology at the University of Toronto. You can check out all Dr. Peterson's self-improvement writing programs at www.selfauthoring.com
Bret Weinstein is a biology professor at Evergreen State College in Olympia, WA. Currently he is in the middle of an intense controversy that has been documented by the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and several other mainstream media outlets. Sign up for a free crash course on Evolutionary Thinking at
Episodes with Bret Weinstein
Categories
Key Takeaways
Postmodernism's influence on education leads to mob-like behavior among students.
Understanding this connection is crucial for addressing current campus tensions.
Labeling individuals without context can undermine free speech and civil discourse.
This is important for ensuring meaningful discussions in today's polarized environment.
Political polarization is evolving, influenced by historical patterns and human evolution.
Understanding these patterns helps predict future political dynamics and threats.
Symbols like the swastika carry profound emotional weight in political discussions.
Recognizing this emotional impact can shape how we approach political discourse.
Human beings possess a latent potential for extreme behaviors.
Understanding this can help prevent future societal breakdowns.
Watch the full episode of #1006 - Jordan Peterson & Bret Weinstein.
Episode Timestamps
Discussion on Postmodernism and Free Speech Controversies
- The podcast explores the implications of postmodernism in today's society.
- Brett Weinstein discusses his experiences with free speech suppression at Evergreen State College.
- The conversation addresses the dangers of labeling individuals as 'Nazis' in current discourse.
Exploring the Evolution of Political Ideologies and Threats
- The conversation addresses the complexities of defining political boundaries today.
- Historical patterns reveal the risks of reemerging authoritarian ideologies.
- The emotional impact of symbols like the swastika shapes political discourse.
Examining Human Behavior and Polarization in Society
- Discussion revolves around the latent potential for violence in humans.
- The need for open dialogue on taboo subjects is emphasized.
- Polarization and its historical context highlight societal instability.
Debate on Free Speech and Censorship in Media
- Discussing the dangers of suppressing open communication in society.
- Critique of automated censorship by platforms like YouTube and Google.
- Exploration of biological essentialism and its implications in modern discourse.
Exploring the Intersection of Biology and Social Constructs
- The discussion highlights the impact of biological essentialism on societal norms.
- Legal implications arise from linking biological sex and gender identity in laws.
- Socialization plays a crucial role in shaping aggressive behavior in males.
Exploring Gender Differences in Economic Contributions and Workplace Dynamics
- Discussion on biological differences impacting workplace contributions of men and women.
- Argument for recognizing inherent differences to foster economic equality.
- Controversial views on diversity training and media's role in shaping narratives.
Exploring Individual Responsibility and Ideological Identity in Society
- The discussion highlights the need for personal responsibility amid ideological polarization.
- The speaker argues for the importance of individualism against collectivist movements.
- A connection is drawn between creativity and personal struggle in innovation.
Exploring Biblical Narratives and Their Modern Relevance
- Abraham's journey symbolizes the struggle between divine calling and life's challenges.
- Metaphorical truths in religious narratives hold relevance despite literal inaccuracies.
- Cultural archetypes, like the tyrannical father, shape understanding of societal structures.
Navigating Ancient Wisdom in Modern Contexts
- The importance of updating ancient wisdom for contemporary challenges.
- Religious texts can convey profound truths but may obscure differences across traditions.
- Objective truth and metaphorical truth must be distinguished in discussions.
Exploring the Intersection of Wisdom and Scientific Truth
- The distinction between facts and wisdom is crucial for understanding truth.
- Historical context shows wisdom often emerges from iterative truths across generations.
- Modern interpretations can distort objective reality, leading to nihilism and confusion.
Analyzing Marxism's Influence on Modern Ideologies and Capitalism
- Marxist theory critiques capitalism but can lead to toxic ideologies.
- Postmodern philosophy evolved from Marxist thought, creating complex identity politics.
- Pareto distribution illustrates inherent inequalities in human productivity and capitalism.
Economic Inequality and the Drive for Success
- Economic systems often concentrate wealth in the hands of a few individuals.
- Success is influenced by intelligence and conscientiousness, but opportunities are limited.
- The struggle against poverty can foster creativity and innovation, despite harsh conditions.
Inequality, Innovation, and the Need for Universal Basic Income
- The discussion centers on the relationship between inequality and innovation in society.
- Concerns about the destabilizing effects of income inequality are raised.
- Universal Basic Income is proposed as a potential solution to economic disparity.
Examining Inequality and the Role of Universities in Society
- Economic inequality is perceived as a result of a rigged system.
- Universities are criticized for promoting a leftist ideology that influences students.
- The discussion highlights the tension between capitalism and moral considerations in business.
Balancing Market Freedom and State Intervention in Society
- The market's role in determining social health and individual success is complex.
- Free speech and censorship significantly impact the marketplace of ideas.
- Inequality in opportunity and intelligence is a key concern in society.
Debate on Intelligence, Opportunity, and Historical Figures
- Head Start program shows mixed results on cognitive development and social outcomes.
- Biological influences on IQ signify limits to environmental improvements on intelligence.
- Discussion on freedom, meritocracy, and controversial historical figures like Hitler.
Discussion on Hitler's Policies and Modern Political Implications
- The conversation analyzes the evolutionary motivations behind Hitler's policies.
- It discusses the manipulation of truth in modern politics and its historical context.
- The dialogue reflects on media responsibility in addressing extremist ideologies.
Exploring Ethical Engagement in Documentary Filmmaking
- Louis Theroux's interviewing style emphasizes understanding over confrontation.
- The complexity of discussing controversial topics requires a careful approach.
- Embedding oneself in different perspectives can reveal deeper societal issues.
Discussion on Humor and Controversy Surrounding Memes
- The Pepe frog meme's connection to humor and hate symbols is debated.
- Participants discuss the complexities of memes and their societal implications.
- The conversation highlights the challenges in rational discourse on sensitive topics.
People Mentioned
Brett Weinstein
Biologist, Educator, Podcaster
Jordan Peterson
Author, Psychologist, Public Speaker
Gad Saad
Evolutionary Biologist
James DeMors
Researcher, Commentator
James DeMor
Scientist, Contributor to the discussion
Richard Dawkins
Evolutionary Biologist, Author
Sam Harris
Philosopher, Author
Unknown Speaker
Commentator, Educator
Unidentified speaker
Podcaster/Commentator
Adolf Hitler
Historical Figure, Dictator
Donald Trump
Former President of the United States
Alonzo Bowden
Comedian
Faith Goldie
Journalist
Louis Theroux
Documentary filmmaker, Interviewer
Kamal Bell
CNN show host, Comedian
Books Mentioned
Hitler's Table Talk
Adolf Hitler
Maps of Meaning
Jordan Peterson
Genius
Hans Eisenke
Notable Quotes
"I think there's something actually dangerous to dismiss somebody like Hitler crazy."
Discussing the implications of labeling historical figures as simply insane.
"I'm calling children. give fuck old power people."
Commenting on the youth's perception of power dynamics.
"Tyranny end game prosperity."
Discussing the cyclical nature of political ideologies.
"There's actual danger populations meet like literal pathogen danger liable produced certain instinctive fear."
Talking about the evolutionary basis of political biases.
"need know that. need know situations made likely."
Discussing the necessity of understanding historical behaviors.