57 - PEG on the French Aristocracy's Selective Breeding Program
May 18, 2024
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Pascal-Emmanuel Gobry, a commentator on French aristocracy, discusses the intricate world of elite matchmaking. He reveals how aristocratic families organize social events to secure advantageous marriages for their children. The conversation explores the decline of exclusive institutions and how modern social events have evolved. Gobry also critiques the relevance of human curation in a content-saturated society and examines the financial implications of segregation in education and career opportunities.
The French aristocracy's rallye mondain network facilitates selective breeding practices among elite families, emphasizing social events to promote advantageous marriages.
Despite its traditional roots, the decline of institutions like rallies reflects evolving societal values and challenges in maintaining historical practices.
Deep dives
The Mechanics of Selective Breeding in French Aristocracy
A unique aspect of the French aristocracy involves selective breeding practices through institutions known as rallies. These events, organized primarily by women, aim to bring together children of elite families for social interactions that are expected to lead to marriage and reproduction. The participants engage in various activities, such as dancing lessons and museum tours, starting from a young age. This process seeks to create a breeding pool while facilitating the natural development of relationships among selected children.
Degrees of Institutional Decline
The discussion acknowledges the decline of traditional social structures, including those of the rallies, wherein some have devolved into merely party-like environments. Factors contributing to this decline include the changing values of contemporary society and the natural decay of institutions over time. Each rally has its unique character, often shaped by parental influences, and this diversity presents challenges in maintaining historical practices. It’s argued that all institutions face inevitable decline, influenced by the passage of time and shifts in societal norms.
The State of Conservative Elites in France versus America
A notable difference exists between the conservative elite in France and that of the United States, where the former retains institutional presence and relevance. French elite schools often uphold conservative values, unlike their American counterparts, which lean more liberal. This nurturing of conservative excellence within elite circles in France fosters a community of like-minded individuals who maintain active participation in the socio-political landscape. By contrast, American conservative voices struggle to find institutional platforms, leading to a fragmented and often disorganized conservative movement.
The Role of Art and Craftsmanship in Right-Wing Narratives
In discussing the potential for right-wing art and media, the importance of quality craftsmanship is emphasized. It is suggested that right-wing narratives should focus on authentic storytelling rather than explicitly propagandistic messages, as the latter often feel disingenuous. The conversation highlights the need for right-wing creators to produce high-quality content that resonates with audiences and reflects reality. Historical examples affirm that excellence in craft can garner respect and attention, fostering a more significant impact within the cultural landscape.
Pascal-Emmanuel Gobry discusses the rallye mondain, a private network of social events held by French aristocratic families to ensure that their children marry well.
Follow him on X at pegobry_en - and check out my retrospective writeup on the EXIT blog: