Jordan peterson am i right folks?

Oh boy. Just remember, you asked for it.

Over the past year or so, I’ve listened to several of his YouTube videos, and read some of his online articles. Peterson is undeniably a skilled orator who’s adept at persuasion. His psychology education is really paying off in that regard. I get his appeal to young, white, conservative &/or religious leaning males who often feel fearful and angry about their changing status in today’s adversarial sociopolitical climate. More than any other group, white males are treated as “designated oppressors.” Is it any wonder that so many men see him as a father figure—especially those raised in homes with absentee or abusive fathers, &/or male role models with views similar Peterson's? After all, he’s on “their side,” preaching self-promotion & tribalism for white nationalistic, patriarchal, religious views in a language they understand—flush with today’s most popular, yet polarizing label jargon, all the while under the pretense of defending freedom of speech.

Patriarchy and religion have a long and sordid history of oppression—especially toward women, and LGBT folks. Do you you deny this reality? Tribalism suffers from more than its fair share of problematic hate mongering and oppression as well. Just because it’s a time honored tradition, doesn’t make it just or viable.

There’s nothing wise about instigating polarization in order to further one’s own biases and agenda. A truly wise person is able to step outside of oneself to view the big picture with deep comprehension of opposing views, and the ability to fairly represent all sides; devoid of dehumanization (e.g. generalizations/labels), but rather with compassionate critical thought for the greater good. Unfortunately, most humans, no matter how intelligent—are so crippled by our own biases we’re unable to truly incorporate a visionary view of the world. Jordan Peterson is no exception.

Because he has a platform, methinks he has a larger responsibility than most to be a positive influence. As a Gen X, bisexual, semi educated, cis female, I’m concerned that many of his views widen the divide between the genders, which is the LAST thing our species needs. I love men, and hate that we’re too often at odds instead of as partners. Regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, we need each other, and rather than continuing to feed outmoded views of power distribution, perhaps we’d do best seek common ground for the greater good.