Jordan Peterson: "I'M Not Anti-Feminist" | Q&A

In a world that is constantly evolving, one thing should be abundantly clear: talent knows no gender boundaries. The movement of talent from all corners of society into the workplace should be championed by anyone with a modicum of common sense. After all, talent is a rare gem, and we should harness it to its fullest extent.

But, and here comes the twist, there exists a brand of feminism that pushes the narrative of our culture being an oppressive patriarchy. Now, let's be clear, I find that notion rather appalling, and it's not just for sociological reasons. You see, it has far-reaching negative psychological effects, and these effects won't be confined to one gender.

Why? Well, let's dive into it. If we accept that there's something inherently toxic about masculinity itself, then as women start embracing traditionally masculine roles, shouldn't that toxicity simply dissipate into thin air? It sounds like a logical straw man argument, but hold on a second – no one says masculinity is toxic in and of itself. The term 'toxic masculinity' exists, but it's not an indictment of all things masculine. It addresses harmful aspects of masculinity that affect both men and women.

You may have heard about the American Psychological Association guidelines for the treatment of boys and men. These guidelines go way beyond just the aggressive side of masculine behavior; they take a more holistic approach. There's a range of accusations hidden beneath the surface. So, it's not a straw man argument at all, my friends. It's a nuanced discussion.

A Gender Journey: Insights from Catherine McGregor

Now, let's shift gears and introduce a fresh perspective. Catherine McGregor, a person who's straddled both sides of the gender fence, offers valuable insights. She brings a unique and personal dimension to the conversation.

Catherine's journey isn't rooted in sociological motives; it's intensely personal. Her story adds depth to the ongoing discourse. And what does she have to say? Well, she's not entirely unsympathetic to Jordan's critique. Despite being the oldest person on this panel, she's witnessed tectonic shifts in the Western world's institutional fabric.

From the post-World War II era, built on the Bretton Woods agreement, NATO, and the United Nations, to today's global order fraying at the edges, Catherine has seen it all. She highlights the rise of autocratic and totalitarian capitalist states, a situation reminiscent of the 1930s.

The Erosion of Male Identity: A Political Consequence

Let's delve into a historical perspective. In 1968, Robert F. Kennedy, a political hero for many, addressed disenfranchised Americans. These were white men who felt the pinch of deindustrialization, losing their jobs as industries exported work to the developing world.

Kennedy's message was clear: when you strip a man of the right to be the breadwinner for his family, you sow the seeds of discontent. Some may label this as patriarchy, but it's a nuanced issue. The removal of meaningful work, especially for unskilled men, has far-reaching political consequences.

This problem isn't new; it's been simmering since the 1980s, with the advent of the Reagan Democrats and the gradual erosion of the New Deal coalition. While Jordan Peterson's analysis may not align entirely with Catherine's views, one thing is undeniable: the problem of disenfranchised men can't be dismissed.

The Unusual Comparison: Jordan Peterson and Shane Warne

Now, let's end with a quirky note. Jordan Peterson's influence has reached unexpected heights. As an example, he's outselling Shane Warne – a culturally specific reference for cricket enthusiasts. What do Jordan Peterson and Shane Warne have in common? They're both iconic figures in their own realms, transcending boundaries and expectations.

This unusual comparison highlights the diverse and unpredictable nature of influence in today's world. Just as talent knows no gender boundaries, it also knows no confines within a single field. It's a testament to the power of ideas and personalities in our ever-evolving society.

In conclusion, the discussion around gender roles and their impact on society is far from one-dimensional. It's a tapestry of perspectives, historical context, and personal experiences. In this dynamic and evolving world, we must embrace talent from all quarters and foster an environment where everyone can flourish, regardless of gender. After all, talent is our most precious resource, and we should harness it with open arms and open minds.