s07e31 | It Ain't Easy, Being Heathen, with Mike Maxwell of Imperium Press
Dec 14, 2024
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Mike Maxwell, head of Imperium Press, dives into his critiques of liberalism and why he champions heathenism as a meaningful alternative. He discusses the challenges of maintaining tradition in a 'woke' culture and critiques the complexities of power dynamics in society today. The conversation explores the role of masculine responsibility, ancestral beliefs, and the intriguing concept of the 'cultured thug.' Maxwell also reflects on the influence of classical literature, urging a return to cultural roots amid modern identity crises.
Heathenism is presented as a meaningful alternative to Christianity and liberalism, offering individuals a sense of belonging rooted in traditional values.
Liberalism's impact on family dynamics is critiqued, highlighting how it undermines paternal authority and disrupts traditional roles within households.
Imperium Press aims to challenge mainstream narratives through publications that emphasize historical texts and foster a deeper understanding of cultural identity.
Deep dives
Exploration of Heathenism
The discussion delves into the concept of heathenism as an alternative belief system to Christianity and liberalism. It emphasizes that individuals can embrace heathenism even in a world predominantly shaped by Christian and liberal values over the last two millennia. Participants discuss how heathenism can provide a sense of belonging and identity that challenges the status quo of modern ideologies, suggesting that it caters to a deep-rooted desire for traditional values and practices. The conversation highlights the resilience of heathen beliefs amidst the prevailing dominance of liberal ideologies.
Patriarchy and Cultural Critique
The critique of liberalism is accentuated, particularly the way it impacts family structures and the roles of men and women. The conversation points out that liberalism has created challenges for traditional family dynamics, often leading to weakened paternal roles and a breakdown of authority within households. This shift is seen as detrimental not only to the effectiveness of governance but also to the happiness of individuals within the family structure. The assertion is made that reviving a patriarchal framework could restore order and create a more cohesive cultural identity.
The Role of Imperium Press
The podcast highlights the mission of Imperium Press in publishing works that challenge mainstream narratives and provide robust alternatives to liberal ideology. Publications range from classical literature to contemporary works that aim to revive forgotten voices and significant political discourse. The focus is on producing academic-quality editions that present historical texts with critical analysis, fostering a deeper understanding of the roots of contemporary social issues. The intent is to create a repository of knowledge that supports the evolution of a healthier cultural identity.
Cyclical Nature of History
The participants discuss the cyclical nature of history, arguing that societies naturally oscillate between periods of degeneracy and flourishing. This perspective posits that recognizing cycles can inform contemporary societal strategies and promote resilience against decline. Drawing on historical examples, the conversation suggests that when civilizations abandon traditional values, they tend to destabilize and face crises. However, there is hope in the belief that returning to foundational principles can facilitate recovery and growth.
The Concept of Oikophilia
Oikophilia, or the love of home and community, is presented as a foundational idea supporting folkishness. It's addressed as a counter-argument to liberal globalism, advocating for the prioritization of local identity and heritage over abstract universal concepts. The discussion promotes returning to familial and communal roots, where individuals cultivate relationships based on geographical and cultural proximity. This notion is examined through the lens of classic literature, emphasizing that literature reflects the enduring human desire for belonging and community.
The Vision for Future Generations
Looking ahead, the conversation emphasizes the importance of fostering a mindset and societal framework that encourages young people to embrace traditional family roles. It argues that early parenting and stable family structures contribute significantly to societal well-being and personal happiness. Furthermore, there is a call to action for current generations to model behaviors that promote strong familial ties and cultural continuity. The vision revolves around creating a supportive environment that empowers future generations to uphold and advocate for shared cultural values.
Mike Maxwell heads Imperium Press, which publishes classics and new takes on politics and philosophy. In this calmvo, we cover his critiques of liberalism and why he thinks heathenism is the cat's meow. Check out his work below:
