Resource: Dr. Jordan B. Peterson

Maureen begins the pod energized having just taught a yoga class.

With over 175 published podcasts on resources, practices, discussions, interviews, reflections, we've somehow not talked about Dr. Jordan B. Peterson. Peterson is a pivotal figure in 'Learning Conversation,' not just for this podcast but for so many who have followed his lead in examining what words mean and how they can be used for good or harm. Peterson's opposition to Canada's speech legislation in Bill C-16, an amendment to the "Canadian Human Rights Act and the Criminal Code," catapulted him to a larger audience.

Jordan Peterson is a clinical psychologist who early on saw the danger of progressive cultural change. He recorded his views in 2016. The recordings went viral. Peterson spoke what few dared. His reaction to the Bill C-16 was not the substance of words but the dynamic of the bill which essentially compelled speech - designating what can and cannot be said and making that part of the criminal code.

In other words, his objection focused on the foundational principles of free speech. Government should not legislate what can and cannot be said. In objecting, Peterson became the grain of sand in the oyster around which other layers of conversation formed. Peterson's podcasts and interviews became the epicenter of conversations, teachings, discussions which were not being had in other parts of Western society, parts that were tamed and shamed and remained silent on Progressivism's righteousness.

With cultural support and power, political correctness began to be legislated. Today, we find ourselves on one side or the other of 'political correctness' with varying degrees of consequence. Cancel culture. Job security or insecurity. Political divides. Social discord.

The binary application of 'for and against' is, unfortunately, part of the political correctness movement. Wielding and leveraging cultural power is key to its change management; no room for discussion, debate, nuance, learning, conversation. Winning is not based on persuasive argument. Of course, speech issues, cultural change, progressive thought, conservation thought are multi-faceted subjects, but without room to examine and discuss facets, discourse is course or dismissed. Shouts and protests are memed and mimed into binary slogans. Black Lives Matter - good, appropriate. All Lives Matter - not good, inappropriate, disrespectful.

How fitting this podcast is released now. In the aftermath of a heinous genocidal assault that has been building over decades and is embedded in political and religous agendas through the charter of Hamas. We are witnesses to digusting binary barbitry that dehumanizes our collective society, and breaks down civilized conversation and actions. Just what Jordan Peterson talks about.

Our hearts go out to all who suffer.

Peace through grace, and let it begin with me.

Live to learn and learn to live.

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