Natural Awakening

Spiritual Narcissism, Politics, and Responsibility

Aug 28, 2025
Vince Horn, a scholar-practitioner at the intersection of philosophical naturalism and contemplative practice, dives into profound discussions around spiritual narcissism and politics. He explores how personal trauma shapes political beliefs, particularly through the lens of neofascism and family narratives. Vince critiques modern spirituality's detachment from social justice, emphasizing moral responsibility. He addresses the courage needed to navigate moral complexities in both personal identity and digital engagement, urging a balance between compassion and accountability.
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INSIGHT

Spiritual Silence As Political Risk

  • Vince Horn connects teapot spiritual culture to a postmodern expression of neo-fascism shaped by disengagement and self-focus.
  • He grounds this in personal family history and the moral failure of silence during genocide.
ANECDOTE

Family Trauma And Unexpected Politics

  • Vince Horn recounts his Palestinian grandfather's Nakba experience and the family's displacement to the U.S.
  • He explains how that trauma shaped family politics and his grandfather's later Trump support.
INSIGHT

Beyond-Politics Is A Red Flag

  • Horn says fascism historically claims to be beyond conventional politics, using mysticism as cover.
  • He warns teapot's apolitical posture can mirror that 'we're above politics' fascist move.
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