The intersection of psychology, philosophy, and politics was on full display when Canadian psychologist Jordan B. Peterson sat down for an interview with political commentator Chris Williamson. The conversation, which took place in 2018, was a deep dive into Peterson's views on free speech, cultural Marxism, and the importance of individual responsibility.
Peterson, known for his provocative views and best-selling book "12 Rules for Life," faced off with Williamson, who is known for his left-wing views and support for Jeremy Corbyn's Labour Party. Despite their differing political leanings, the two engaged in a lively and thoughtful discussion that touched on a range of topics.
Peterson's Views on Free Speech
One of the most contentious issues discussed in the interview was Peterson's stance on free speech. Peterson, a self-proclaimed classical liberal, argued that free speech is a fundamental right that should be protected at all costs.
He contended that the suppression of free speech, particularly on university campuses, is a form of censorship that stifles intellectual growth and debate. He pointed to examples of speakers being disinvited from universities due to their controversial views, arguing that this is a dangerous trend that undermines the very purpose of higher education.
Peterson's Critique of 'Safe Spaces'
Peterson took issue with the concept of "safe spaces," arguing that they create echo chambers where people are shielded from opposing viewpoints. He believes that this can lead to a lack of critical thinking and an inability to engage in meaningful debate.
He used the analogy of a gym, suggesting that people need to be exposed to challenging ideas and viewpoints just as they need to lift heavy weights to build muscle. "You've got to put yourself in difficult situations and you've got to overcome them," he said, "because that's how you get strong."
Peterson's Stance on No-Platforming
Peterson also criticized the practice of "no-platforming," where speakers are disinvited from events due to their controversial views. He argued that this is a form of censorship that stifles debate and prevents people from hearing alternative viewpoints.
He used the example of the alt-right, arguing that while their views may be repugnant, they should still be allowed to speak in public forums. "If you're going to no-platform the alt-right, then you're going to have to no-platform the left as well," he said, "because the left is just as guilty of the same sins."
Peterson's Views on Cultural Marxism
Another topic of discussion was Peterson's views on "cultural Marxism," a term he has used to describe what he sees as a creeping influence of Marxist ideology in Western culture. He argued that this influence is leading to a breakdown of traditional values and institutions.
Peterson pointed to the rise of identity politics and political correctness as evidence of this trend. He argued that these movements are divisive and lead to a focus on group identities rather than individual responsibility.
Peterson's Critique of Identity Politics
Peterson took issue with the idea of identity politics, arguing that it leads to a focus on victimhood and a lack of personal responsibility. He believes that this can lead to a culture of entitlement and a lack of individual agency.
He used the example of the #MeToo movement, arguing that while it has brought important issues to light, it has also led to a culture of accusation and guilt by association. He believes that this can lead to a lack of due process and a chilling effect on free speech.
Peterson's Stance on Political Correctness
Peterson also criticized political correctness, arguing that it leads to a culture of censorship and a lack of open debate. He believes that this can lead to a lack of critical thinking and a stifling of intellectual growth.
He used the example of the word "gender," arguing that its use has become so politicized that it is now difficult to have a rational discussion about it. He believes that this is a symptom of a larger trend towards censorship and the suppression of free speech.
Despite their differing views, both Peterson and Williamson agreed that open and honest debate is essential for a healthy democracy. They also agreed that the suppression of free speech, whether it comes from the left or the right, is a dangerous trend that must be resisted. As Peterson put it, "The truth is something that burns. It burns off dead wood. And people don't like having the dead wood burned off, but if you want to be a human being in the human world, you've got to face the truth about yourself."