#66 - Brett Andersen - Jordan Peterson's Hero Mythology, Science & God.
Nov 3, 2022
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Brett Andersen, a PhD researcher in evolutionary psychology and writer of 'Intimations of a New World View', dives deep into the intersection of science, morality, and mythology. He discusses Jordan Peterson's Meta-mythology as a framework to tackle the modern meaning crisis. Andersen explores the quest for new values in a secular age, the complexities of the hero’s journey, and how cultural shifts affect moral perspectives. Intriguingly, he examines the role of resentment in moral responsibility and the impact of today's attention economy on ethics.
Brett Anderson advocates for a new worldview that combines evolutionary psychology and science to address contemporary moral and existential challenges.
The erosion of shared moral frameworks post-'death of God' creates societal resentment, highlighting the need for a nuanced understanding of human values.
The intersection of personal responsibility and historical wisdom empowers individuals to reclaim meaning and navigate complexities in their lives.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Worldviews
Brett Anderson emphasizes the need for a new worldview that integrates evolutionary psychology and cognitive science to address current challenges in understanding morality and meaning. He discusses how his personal experiences fueled his intellectual journey, leading him to explore the complexities of values and existential questions. His writings on Nietzsche and Jordan Peterson illustrate an effort to bridge the gap between science and spirituality, seeking a coherent framework that transcends the traditional dichotomy of good and evil. This new perspective aims to ground humanity's moral judgments within a scientifically informed understanding, moving beyond the outdated models derived from religious absolutism.
Morality and Modern Conflicts
Anderson argues that the erosion of a common moral framework due to the 'death of God' has fueled a resurgence of resentment among individuals who feel disconnected from their traditions. This resentment manifests as a moral superiority complex, often leading people to vilify those who are successful or different. He posits that ancient moral systems, particularly those of the Homeric Greeks, are reflective of a time when values were rooted in glory rather than compassion. By analyzing this shift, he highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of morality that incorporates both historical context and the evolving nature of human values.
Complexity and Human Potential
The discussion also revolves around the idea of complexity emerging at the border between order and chaos, linking back to the concept of self-organization in both nature and human behavior. Anderson parallels Jordan Peterson’s notion of the mythological hero, who thrives in this dynamic space, with the scientific understanding that biological systems function optimally at critical points. This intersection of philosophies and scientific principles suggests that individuals can cultivate their potential by navigating the complexities of their environments. Ultimately, fostering this understanding empowers people to strive for personal growth while contributing positively to their communities.
The Quest for Meaning and Redemption
Both Anderson and Peterson emphasize the quest for meaning as an essential part of the human experience, particularly in light of contemporary existential crises. They argue that traditional religious frameworks have lost their hold in secular society, leading individuals to seek meaning in materialism and technology instead. The shared narrative of heroism and personal responsibility offers a pathway to reclaim that lost sense of purpose, urging individuals to forge meaningful lives through intentional action and self-improvement. This perspective invites listeners to reassess their values and aspirations, ultimately serving as a call to action against nihilism.
Emergence of New Frameworks
Brett Anderson envisions a synthesis of traditional wisdom and modern understanding, positioning it as a way to navigate future challenges. His work suggests that exploring the foundations of past value systems can illuminate paths toward a balanced moral framework conducive to societal development. The conversation reflects a broader philosophy where the self becomes integral to collective progress, promoting a culture of proactive engagement and responsibility. He posits that as more individuals align their actions with this emerging worldview, the potential for a more harmonious and purposeful existence increases, benefitting individuals and society at large.
Brett Anderson is an Evolutionary psychology PhD researcher and author of the 'Intimations of a New World View' Substack (you can subscribe below)
In this podcast, we are talking about Brett’s work answering the meaning crisis with Jordan Peterson’s Meta-mythology, a new grounding of value in science, providing a naturalistic argument for God, Zombie Christianity and more!
