The Whole Parent Podcast
How to Not Raise a Nazi (with Alfie Kohn).... #39
Feb 20, 2025
Alfie Kohn, a renowned author and parenting expert known for his critique of traditional parenting methods, discusses the dangers of prioritizing obedience in children. He connects historical events like the Nuremberg Trials and the Milgram experiment to parenting, illustrating how unquestioning compliance can undermine empathy and critical thinking. Kohn advocates for a shift towards punishment-free parenting that fosters emotional understanding, independence, and ethical decision-making, encouraging children to challenge authority and stand for justice.
36:35
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast highlights how an emphasis on obedience in traditional parenting can hinder children's development of empathy and critical thinking skills.
- Unconditional parenting promotes an approach that prioritizes emotional well-being and independent thinking over compliance, fostering a supportive environment for children.
Deep dives
The Defense of Following Orders
Many defendants at the Nuremberg Trials claimed they were simply following orders, highlighting a troubling aspect of obedience within totalitarian regimes. Rudolf Höss, commandant of Auschwitz, exemplified this mindset when he stated he acted without malice but followed directives from higher authorities, including Adolf Hitler. This defense raises critical questions about accountability and moral responsibility, as Höss insisted he believed obeying orders was necessary and never considered the ethical implications of his actions. Such reasoning was common among Nazi leaders, illustrating how an emphasis on compliance can allow individuals to detach from the consequences of their actions.
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