Conspirituality Episode Summary: "Why Didn’t I Yell STFU at Jordan Peterson in 2017?"

Release Date: February 8, 2025

In this compelling episode of Conspirituality, host Matthew Vaith delves deep into his personal reflections and broader societal implications surrounding his encounter with the controversial psychologist and public intellectual, Jordan Peterson. Vaith dissects the intricate web of conspiratorial influences, cult dynamics, and the intersection of capitalism and fascism that he believes underpin Peterson’s rise to prominence. This episode serves as both a memoir and a critical analysis of the contemporary socio-political landscape influenced by figures like Peterson.

1. Introduction: Navigating a Tumultuous Political Landscape

Matthew Vaith opens the episode by acknowledging the overwhelming nature of the current political climate, marked by the rise of fascist regimes in America and their chaotic impacts globally. He commends courageous journalists like Tim Marchman from Wired magazine for their relentless reporting on significant events, including Elon Musk's "TechnoFash" coup and the threats faced by journalists defying powerful figures.

“Where are we at? It's day 20 in America's continually emerging fascist regime and its chaotic influence over the rest of the world.” ([00:25])

Vaith sets the tone for a reflective journey, aiming to understand his own inaction in the face of rising authoritarianism.

2. The Genesis of Reflection: Confronting Jordan Peterson

Vaith recounts his memory of attending a Jordan Peterson lecture in Toronto in June 2017. Initially intrigued by Peterson’s credentials, Vaith was soon confronted with rhetoric he found alarming, including anti-transgender sentiments and accusations of cultural Marxism.

“In particular, I want to ping Tim Marchman and his team at Wired magazine... how it does not improve the day to day lives of those we serve.” ([00:25])

The lecture, ostensibly about Bible symbolism, veered into contentious territories, leaving Vaith paralyzed and questioning why he didn’t confront Peterson more aggressively in that moment.

3. Dissecting the Rhetoric: From Cultural Marxism to Authoritarianism

Vaith delves into Peterson’s use of loaded terms like "cultural Marxism," tracing its historical roots back to Nazi propaganda and its evolution in post-war American politics. He critiques Peterson’s ability to distort and weaponize academic jargon to stoke fear and division.

“They are children and they need order restored in their lives.” ([Timestamp])

Vaith highlights how Peterson's rhetoric not only demonizes progressive movements but also subtly promotes authoritarian values, aligning with far-right extremism.

4. Cult Dynamics and Charismatic Leadership

Drawing from his background in cult journalism, Vaith analyzes Peterson's lecturing style, likening it to that of a high-demand cult leader. He observes the charismatic and ritualistic nature of Peterson’s presentations, noting how they foster a devoted following.

“He has this shtick about how those who want to change the world... they too can have authoritarian tendencies.” ([Timestamp])

This section underscores the manipulative techniques employed by Peterson to cultivate loyalty and suppress dissent within his audience.

5. Capitalism and Fascism: An Inextricable Link

Vaith posits that the rise of cult-like figures on the right is a hyper-concentrated and volatile form of capitalism. He argues that such figures thrive within capitalist systems that reward charisma and media savvy, making them potent agents of fascist ideology.

“Cults are really just hyper concentrated and volatile forms of capitalism.” ([Timestamp])

This analysis challenges the notion that cults are mere societal aberrations, suggesting instead that they are symptomatic of deeper systemic issues.

6. Anti-Fascist Strategies: Beyond Debate and Discourse

Exploring traditional anti-fascist approaches, Vaith critiques the reliance on education and rational debate as insufficient against charismatic authoritarian figures. He references Kwame Ture’s ideas on confronting fascism through organized and sustained action rather than passive resistance.

“You don't calmly explain why the anti racists are not the real racists... They are exercising power through propaganda.” ([Timestamp])

Vaith emphasizes the need for proactive disruption and organized resistance to effectively counteract the legitimization of extremist rhetoric.

7. Personal Regret and Call to Action

In a moment of vulnerability, Vaith expresses regret over his lack of confrontation during the 2017 lecture. He reflects on how his own liberal upbringing and intellectual tendencies may have hindered his ability to act decisively against the rise of authoritarianism.

“I'm a little bit shocked and a little ashamed that this is only sinking in for me now.” ([End of Transcript])

He concludes with a powerful call to action, urging listeners to move beyond intellectualization and engage in meaningful resistance to dismantle the influence of figures like Peterson.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Matthew Vaith [00:25]:

  “It's day 20 in America's continually emerging fascist regime and its chaotic influence over the rest of the world.”

• Jordan Peterson [36:28]:

  “They're not interested at all in education. They're interested in the indoctrination of people as young as they can get their hands on, so to speak.”

• Pierre Poilievre [38:52]:

  “We're going to be grateful again and we're going to inculcate the values of gratitude for our incredible history, build up the country, celebrate what we have in common rather than dividing what, obsessing about what divides us, focusing on the shared values that make us all Canadian.”

• Matthew Vaith [End]:

  “I'm a little bit shocked and a little ashamed that this is only sinking in for me now. But I guess it's better late than never.”

Conclusion: A Reflective Journey Toward Understanding and Action

Matthew Vaith’s narrative serves as both a personal memoir and a critical examination of the socio-political forces shaping contemporary society. By dissecting his own hesitations and the allure of charismatic authoritarian figures, Vaith provides listeners with a nuanced understanding of the mechanisms that facilitate the spread of fascist ideologies under the guise of intellectualism and self-help.

This episode of Conspirituality is an invitation to introspection and action, urging individuals to recognize and resist the subtle encroachments of authoritarianism within modern discourse and societal structures.