The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast

In our second weekly compilation, we are investigating the various methods and practices that humans use to conceptualize God. This investigation leads us down the path of exploring meaning and wonder. What does it mean to live as though God exists? Why are we awestruck when viewing a beautiful painting? Why does walking inside a great Cathedral render us speechless? What is the relationship between these experiences and God? Jordan talks about how living as though god exists is some form of evidence that we as a society hold these values in high regard. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mustafa Akyol, a senior fellow at the Cato Institute, delves into the deep connections between Islam and Christianity. He discusses the vital role of the Virgin Mary in both faiths and explores how religious interpretations can influence civil liberties. The conversation touches on the importance of church-state separation, the dynamics of belief in governance, and the need for modern reinterpretations of Islamic texts to support coexistence. Akyol also highlights the complexities surrounding women's rights in Islam, advocating for a balance between tradition and contemporary values.

Discover the fascinating Pareto Principle, which posits that 80% of results come from just 20% of efforts. Dive into the realities of wealth inequality, where the distribution mirrors social disparities, making simple solutions inadequate. Explore humorous tales of plumbing disasters to highlight the value of skilled labor. Plus, reflect on the emotional journey of caring for loved ones with dementia, revealing themes of love and resilience. This thought-provoking discussion challenges listeners to think critically about societal structures and personal responsibility.

In this enlightening conversation, Clay Routledge, an existential psychologist and writer, dives deep into the psychology of meaning and nostalgia. He discusses how awareness of mortality influences beliefs and behaviors, and explores Terror Management Theory's implications. Routledge shares insights on nostalgia as a comforting mechanism that fosters social connections and emotional resilience. The talk also touches on the modern quest for meaning through unconventional beliefs like UFO phenomena and the evolving role of community in an individualistic society.

In this engaging discussion, Steven Pinker, an esteemed Harvard psychologist, and Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist from NYU Stern, delve into the complexities of morality, truth, and society's evolution. They explore how moralism shapes political ideologies and warn against the perils of utopian thinking. The conversation highlights the decline of traditional religion and its impact on contemporary activism, while also addressing the challenges posed by social media on mental health and democratic discourse. Their insights shed light on how narratives shape cultural values and behaviors.

Michael Shellenberger, an environmentalist and author, challenges mainstream apocalyptic narratives around climate change. He discusses the harmful effects of fear-based environmentalism on mental health, advocating for a hopeful, action-oriented approach. The conversation touches on the benefits of nuclear energy and critiques alarmism in climate activism, urging honest discourse on environmental issues. They also reflect on the intersection of personal responsibility and societal challenges, making a compelling case for a balanced perspective on progress and sustainability.

John Anderson, a sixth-generation farmer and former deputy prime minister of Australia, delves into the complexities of Australia's COVID-19 response. He discusses the tension between government mandates and personal freedoms, offering insights into the effectiveness of lockdowns and vaccination policies. Anderson emphasizes the importance of open debate and critiques the accuracy of COVID statistics. They also explore the evolving role of social media in political discourse and the need for better engagement with younger generations on these pressing issues.

Mohamedou Ould Slahi, a Mauritanian author and former Guantanamo Bay detainee, shares his harrowing tale of 14 years without charge. He discusses the torture and isolation he faced, revealing how journaling became his lifeline. Slahi reflects on his journey from camel herding to urban life, and the phone call that turned his life upside down. He examines the implications of state violence and the psychological tactics of interrogation. Ultimately, he emphasizes themes of resilience, personal growth, and the power of forgiveness amid profound adversity.

Join Dr. James Orr, an expert on philosophy and religion from Cambridge, and Dr. Nigel Biggar, a moral theology professor at Oxford, as they dive deep into the complexities of identity in a secular age. They discuss the interplay of nationalism and patriotism, the evolution of human rights, and the shifts from religious to secular identities. The conversation critiques modern views on authenticity and explores the philosophical roots of rights, all while emphasizing the importance of constructive dialogue in navigating contemporary societal challenges.

In this conversation, Rob Henderson, a US Air Force veteran and PhD student in evolutionary and social psychology, delves into the complexities of dating apps and luxury beliefs. He discusses how platforms like Tinder can promote short-term gratification and exacerbate psychopathic traits. Henderson also explores the social dynamics of dating among different socioeconomic classes, revealing how luxury beliefs shape relationships and societal norms. The pair debate modern issues like monogamy, sexual freedom, and the influence of elite beliefs on lower classes.