513. Hollywood Undone and the Return to Comedy | Rob Schneider
In this episode of The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast, Rob Schneider and host Jordan Peterson explore the perceived threats to free speech and individual liberty in society, particularly regarding the responses of governments and powerful industries to events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. They discuss the potential influence of sectors like media, technology, and medicine on suppressing dissent and restricting open dialogue.
Schneider shares his perspective on the cultural shifts within Hollywood, academia, and the political establishment, touching on topics like identity politics, postmodern ideology, and the role citizens play in promoting societal change. The conversation also highlights the need to revive classical liberal values and recalibrate the political landscape towards open debate and individualism.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Jan 9, 2025 episode of the The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast
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1-Page Summary
The Threat to Free Speech and Individual Liberty
Rob Schneider and Jordan Peterson warn that governments used Covid-19 to restrict free speech and increase control, according to Schneider. They emphasize free speech as a fundamental right for protecting democracy, with Peterson calling it a "responsibility" for societal progress.
Media, Tech Companies, and Politics Suppressing Dissent
Schneider suggests powerful industries influence policies and agencies to suppress dissent. He criticizes tech companies for silencing conservative views, creating an elite bubble disconnected from most Americans. Still, Peterson and Schneider see alternate media providing a way to bypass such control.
Abuse of Power and Rise of Authoritarianism
Covid-19: Government Overreach
Schneider likens pandemic responses to a "pincer move" against rights, contrasting it with the Founding Fathers not halting the Constitution during crises. He cites Milgram's experiments on people obeying harmful orders from authorities.
Medical and Pharmaceutical Industries' Influence
Schneider and Peterson highlight potential conflicts of interest and suppression of alternative views by the medical and pharmaceutical industries when influencing policy. Schneider criticizes vaccine mandates without exemptions and claims a lack of rigorous safety testing due to profit motives.
Role of Hollywood and Politics In Shaping Culture
Hollywood's Shift Towards Identity Politics
Schneider argues the Oscars' diversity enforcement alienated viewers seeking quality over ideology. He sees Hollywood catering to political correctness over art.
Postmodern/Marxist Impact in Academia
Schneider criticizes postmodern and Marxist ideology infiltration in academia as totalitarian and undermining liberal values. Peterson links it to promoting power narratives over inspiration.
Political Establishment Resisting Change
Schneider faults political parties for maintaining the status quo over admitting faults, suggesting Democrats realign with the center to reconnect with most Americans.
Reviving Classical Liberalism and Recalibrating Politics
Podcast: Reviving Classical Liberalism
Peterson and Schneider advocate moving beyond divisive identity politics towards classical liberal values of individualism and open debate. They discuss a moderate Democratic resurgence and the importance of accountability.
Citizens' Role in Change
Schneider underscores outreach, ending partisan legal actions, and promoting forgiveness for Republican progress on behalf of Americans. They ponder potential moderate Democratic leaders realigning the party when out of power.
1-Page Summary
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Counterarguments
- Free speech must be balanced with the responsibility to prevent harm and misinformation, especially during a public health crisis.
- Some restrictions during Covid-19 were necessary to protect public health, not necessarily to control or suppress free speech.
- Tech companies have a responsibility to moderate content to prevent the spread of harmful misinformation and hate speech.
- Alternate media can also spread misinformation and extreme views if not properly regulated.
- Government responses to Covid-19 were often based on public health expertise rather than an intent to restrict rights.
- The medical and pharmaceutical industries are subject to rigorous regulatory processes, and vaccines undergo extensive safety testing before approval.
- Hollywood's efforts to increase diversity can be seen as an attempt to reflect a broader range of experiences and stories, not just political correctness.
- The influence of postmodern and Marxist ideas in academia can be interpreted as a critical examination of societal structures rather than an undermining of liberal values.
- Political parties may resist change not solely to maintain power but because they genuinely believe in their policies and principles.
- A realignment with the center might not address the concerns of all Democratic constituents, who may have a diverse range of political views.
- Classical liberalism itself can be critiqued for not adequately addressing systemic inequalities and the needs of marginalized groups.
- Identity politics can be a way to address and correct historical injustices and representation issues, not just a divisive strategy.
- Citizens' roles in change also include holding leaders accountable and advocating for policies that address systemic issues, not just promoting forgiveness and bipartisanship.
Actionables
- You can start a personal blog to express your thoughts on current events and societal issues, ensuring you have a platform for your voice. By writing regularly on topics you're passionate about, you create a space for free speech and can engage with a community of readers who share your interest in protecting democratic values. For example, if you're concerned about free speech, write a post discussing its importance and share personal anecdotes or historical examples where free speech was pivotal.
- Engage in thoughtful conversations with friends and family about the importance of diverse viewpoints. This can be as simple as bringing up current events during dinner and encouraging a discussion that respects different opinions. For instance, if a new policy is announced, ask your peers what they think about it and explore the pros and cons together, fostering an environment where free speech is practiced and valued.
- Curate a balanced media diet by actively seeking out information from a variety of sources, including those outside your usual preferences. This helps you understand different perspectives and resist the echo chamber effect. For example, if you typically read news from mainstream media, try adding independent or international news outlets to your reading list to get a broader view of global events and opinions.
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The Threat to Free Speech and Individual Liberty
Rob Schneider and Jordan Peterson highlight the imperiled state of free speech during a podcast discussion, expressing concerns about governmental overreach and the responsibilities of this fundamental right.
Threat of Authoritarianism and Erosion of Civil Liberties Discussed In Podcast
Rob Schneider on Governments Using Covid-19 to Limit Free Speech and Impose Control
Rob Schneider discusses his concerns that governments have used the Covid-19 pandemic to limit free speech and impose more control over the populace. He recounts realizing around 2014 that freedoms he had taken for granted could be illusory. The pandemic, according to Schneider, demonstrated that people might accept government directives that encroach upon their speech liberties.
Free Speech: A Fundamental Right and Guard Against Tyranny
Rob Schneider and Jordan Peterson on Free Speech as a Rare Privilege Vulnerable to Erosion
Schneider emphasizes the endurance of the right to free speech in the United States since 1791, citing it as a principle that will not automatically persist without active defense by individuals. Leaders framing free speech as a privilege concerns him as privileges can be revoked. Peterson adds that free speech, rarely enjoyed throughout human history, should not be taken for granted, noting its historic rarity. Schneider concurs, stressing the uniqueness of the U.S. where even uneducated farmers have the right to criticize their government openly.
Jordan Peterson calls free speech not just a right but also a responsibility. It benefits society by allowing individuals to learn from others, relies on conversation and listening, and necessitates engaging with uncomfortable and diverse ideas.
Rob Schneider identifies free speech as the foremost defense against tyranny and essential for protecting democracy. Echoing the founding fathers, he considers it more vital than even the right to bear arms.
Jordan Peterson also connects free speech with the right to thought, arguing that adaptability and a dynamic economy result from its protection, which facilitates innovators like Elon Musk.
Schneider warns that innovation is stifled without free speech, pointing to China's restricted thought and expression as a reason behind its lower tally of Nobel laureates compared to the West.
Media, Tech Companies, and Politics Suppressing Dissent Threatened Liberty
Podcast Guests Warn Of Power Consolidation and Censorship Overriding Evidence and Public Will
Schneider points to industries ...
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The Threat to Free Speech and Individual Liberty
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Rob Schneider and Jordan Peterson discussed the importance of free speech as a fundamental right and a safeguard against tyranny. They highlighted concerns about governmental overreach during the Covid-19 pandemic and the potential erosion of civil liberties. The conversation emphasized the historical rarity and significance of free speech, its role in fostering innovation and democracy, and the challenges posed by power consolidation in media and technology. The guests also touched on the impact of censorship on dissenting voices and the role of alternative media in providing platforms for diverse discussions.
- The connection between free speech and the right to thought lies in the idea that the ability to freely express one's thoughts and ideas is closely linked to the freedom to think and form opinions without fear of censorship or reprisal. Protecting free speech ensures that individuals can openly explore and share their thoughts, fostering a society where diverse perspectives can be considered and debated without constraint. This connection underscores the importance of both the external expression of ideas through speech and the internal process of thought and contemplation that precedes it.
- Pharmaceutical industries can influence legislation through lobbying efforts, where they use financial resources to persuade lawmakers to create or change laws that benefit their interests. This influence can manifest in the form of shaping regulations, funding political campaigns, and providing expertise on healthcare matters to policymakers. Pharmaceutical companies often leverage their ec ...
Counterarguments
- Free speech, while fundamental, is subject to limitations that prevent harm, such as incitement to violence or defamation, which some argue are necessary for a stable society.
- The assertion that Covid-19 measures were used to limit free speech could be countered by the perspective that public health emergencies require temporary restrictions to ensure safety and prevent misinformation.
- The idea that free speech is a rare privilege might be challenged by noting that many democratic societies have enshrined free speech in their constitutions or legal frameworks, not just the United States.
- The claim that free speech is the foremost defense against tyranny could be met with the argument that other factors, such as a strong and independent judiciary, a free press, and a robust civil society, are equally important in protecting democracy.
- The connection between free speech and innovation could be nuanced by pointing out that innovation also relies on factors like education, investment in research and development, and economic policies.
- The view that China's lower number of Nobel laureates is due to restricted thought and expression might be countered by considering other variables, such as differences in the education system, research funding, and cultural emphasis on certain fields of study.
- The criticism of tech companies' power consolidation might be balanced by acknowledging the efforts these companies make to combat misinformation and hate speech, which some see as necessary for maintaining a civi ...
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Abuse of Power and Rise of Authoritarianism
Rob Schneider and Jordan Peterson discuss the challenges and fears surrounding the apparent rise in authoritarianism, particularly in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic and influences from the medical and pharmaceutical industries.
Covid-19: Government Overreach and Misuse of Emergency Powers
Crackdown on Protesters and Enforcement of Mandates
Rob Schneider uses the term "pincer move" to describe the governmental response to the Covid-19 pandemic, suggesting an encroachment upon rights and liberties has accompanied public health measures. He draws a historical parallel with the American Revolution, during which, despite a smallpox epidemic, the Founding Fathers did not put their endeavors or the Constitution on hold. This, Schneider implies, contrasts sharply with the current measures, which he views as beyond what the Constitution intended for times of crisis.
Tendency to Acquiesce To Authority Despite Unjust Actions
The podcast makes reference to Stanley Milgram's social psychology experiments, suggesting that these studies show people's propensity to obey authority to the point of causing harm to others. Schneider relates the willingness to follow orders to the actions seen during pandemic regulations, where individuals may become aggressive and abusive towards others under the perceived authority of such mandates.
Medical and Pharmaceutical Industries Influence Policies and Public Discourse, Contributing To Authoritarianism
Rob Schneider and Jordan Peterson on Financial Incentives, Conflicts of Interest, and Suppression of Alternative Perspectives
Rob Schneider and Jordan Peterson discuss the influence of the medical and pharmaceutical industries on policy and public discourse, pointing to potential conflicts of interest and the suppression of alternative perspectives. Schneider illustrates his point through legislation in California, where he asserts the pharmaceutical industry has prompted laws that infringe on individual freedoms, such as mandated vaccines without the possibility for a medical exemption.
Schneider also brings to light the enormous profits earned by pharmaceutical companies from drugs that never enter the generic market and references the 1986 Childhood Vaccine Safety Act, where an agreement with the Reagan administration effectively shielded vaccine makers from lawsuits – a move he suggests has had long-term consequences for legislation surrounding vaccines.
Furthermore, Schneider criticizes vaccine passports as a form of medical and governmental overreach, predicting eventual, more severe restrictions on individual freedoms. He emphasizes the need to reflect deeply on the health issues plaguing American children and the general state of health in the United States, pointing out the unsustainable economic and infrastructural consequences of continued decline.
Criticism of Political Parties and Big Pharma
Schneider expresses his dismay at the lack of attention given to the statistic that 54% of American children now suffer from chronic illnesses, which was nearly nonexistent de ...
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Abuse of Power and Rise of Authoritarianism
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The term "pincer move" used by Rob Schneider describes a coordinated and forceful approach by the government in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. It implies a strategy where measures are implemented from multiple directions, potentially leading to a sense of being cornered or restricted. Schneider suggests that these actions may encroach upon individual rights and freedoms, creating a metaphorical image of being squeezed or pressured by the government's pandemic-related policies.
- Stanley Milgram's social psychology experiments in the 1960s focused on obedience to authority figures. Participants were instructed to administer what they believed were increasingly severe electric shocks to another person, demonstrating how individuals could act against their own moral beliefs under the influence of authority. These studies highlighted the powerful impact of authority on behavior and the potential for individuals to engage in harmful actions when directed by authority figures.
- The influence of the medical and pharmaceutical industries on policies and public discourse is often linked to financial incentives, conflicts of interest, and the suppression of alternative perspectives. This influence can manifest in the form of lobbying efforts, campaign contributions, and partnerships with policymakers to shape regulations and public opinion. Critics argue that these industries can prioritize profit over public health, potentially leading to policies that benefit their interests rather than the well-being of the general population. This influence can impact decisions related to healthcare access, drug pricing, research priorities, and public health campaigns.
- The 1986 Childhood Vaccine Safety Act established a no-fault compensation program for individuals who suffer vaccine-related injuries. It aimed to stabilize the vaccine market by shielding manufacturers from certain liability risks. This Act has been criticized for potentially limiting legal recourse for those harmed by vaccines. It has influenced the landscape of vaccine safety regulations and legal accountability in the United States.
- The Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) is a U.S. system for reporting vaccine side effects. It allows healthcare providers and the public to submit reports on adverse events following vaccination. However, it's important to note that VAERS reports are not always verified or proven to be caused by vaccines, and the system may capture b ...
Counterarguments
- The measures taken during the Covid-19 pandemic, including mandates and restrictions, were based on public health concerns and aimed at minimizing the spread of the virus to save lives.
- Historical comparisons, such as those to the American Revolution, may not be directly applicable due to differences in the nature of the crises, available technology, and understanding of disease transmission.
- Milgram's experiments do show a tendency to obey authority, but they also highlight the complexity of human behavior, and the context of a public health crisis can alter the ethical considerations of obedience.
- The medical and pharmaceutical industries' involvement in policy can be seen as a necessary collaboration, given their expertise in developing treatments and vaccines, especially during a health emergency.
- Financial incentives in the pharmaceutical industry are not inherently negative if they lead to the development of effective treatments and vaccines that benefit public health.
- Vaccine safety is heavily regulated, with multiple phases of trials and ongoing monitoring for adverse effects, and the benefits of vaccines have been well-documented in reducing the incidence of preventable diseases.
- The Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) and other safety monitoring systems are in place to ensure transparency and allow for the detection of potential vaccine-related issues.
- Political contributions from pharmaceutical companies are subject to disclosure and regulat ...
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Role of Hollywood and Politics In Shaping Culture
Rob Schneider and Jordan Peterson delve into the impact Hollywood and politics have on shaping cultural values and norms. They argue that the shift towards political correctness and identity politics is alienating the public and promoting divisive ideologies.
Podcast Examines Hollywood's Shift From Art To Political Correctness, Identity Politics, Leading To Industry Decline, Public Alienation
Rob Schneider Criticizes Oscars' Diversity Focus, Citing Public Disinterest
Rob Schneider argues that the Academy Awards have lost touch with the public owing to their pivot towards identity politics rather than the craft of film-making. He traces the viewership decline to the Oscars starting to enforce diversity criteria. Schneider suggests that the shift towards political correctness in Hollywood content is leading to viewers seeking alternative entertainment avenues.
He also discusses the need to pre-approve Disney movies for his children, mainly to screen for what he deems as "woke nonsense." Schneider suggests that this level of caution speaks to a broader trend in Hollywood where content is being produced with political correctness in mind over artistic value.
Impact of Postmodern and Marxist Ideologies in Academia and Culture
Podcast Explores how Educational Infiltration Undermines Liberal Values and Promotes a Divisive, Power-Focused Worldview
Schneider criticizes the infiltration of postmodern and Marxist ideologies in academia, stating it promotes a totalitarian state and undermines traditional liberal values. Alongside, Jordan Peterson bemoans the influence of these ideologies, claiming that they equate inspiration with power, causing cultural and creative decline.
They discuss the impact of such ideologies on education, with Schneider noting the insertion of Marxist studies in academia is fostering divisive narratives. He contrasts the liberal undergraduate environment with more conservative business schools, emphasizing the advocacy of ideologies over practical education.
Political Establishment's Role In Perpetuating Status Quo Critiqued
Podcast Spotlights Parties' Reluctance to Relinquish Power
The conversation ...
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Role of Hollywood and Politics In Shaping Culture
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Counterarguments
- Hollywood's focus on diversity and political correctness can be seen as an effort to reflect the evolving demographics and values of society, aiming to be more inclusive and representative of different groups.
- The Oscars' diversity criteria may be a response to longstanding criticisms about the lack of representation and could potentially lead to a richer variety of stories and perspectives in film.
- Art has always been a reflection of cultural and political climates, and what some may view as "political correctness" could be interpreted by others as a necessary evolution of the storytelling process that challenges outdated stereotypes.
- Postmodern and Marxist theories provide frameworks for critiquing power structures and can offer valuable insights into societal issues, contributing to a more critical and engaged citizenry.
- The presence of diverse ideologies in academia, including postmodern and Marxist thought, can stimulate critical thinking and intellectual diversity, which are foundational to a robust educational environment.
- Business schools and liberal arts programs have different objectives, and the presence of ideological advocacy in ...
Actionables
- You can diversify your media consumption by seeking out independent films and shows that prioritize storytelling and craft over political agendas. By supporting creators who focus on the art of storytelling, you contribute to a demand for content that values artistic integrity. For example, use platforms like Vimeo or local film festivals to discover new talent and narratives that resonate with you on a human level, rather than a political one.
- Engage in conversations with friends and family about the importance of diverse viewpoints without resorting to ideological labels. This can be done over dinner discussions or book clubs where you can introduce and explore literature and media from various perspectives. For instance, select a book or movie that presents a narrative outside of mainstream political correctness and facilitate a discussion on its artistic merits and the themes it explores.
- Reflect on your own beliefs and values by journaling about how they al ...
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Reviving Classical Liberalism and Recalibrating Politics
Jordan Peterson and Rob Schneider discuss how a revival of classical liberalism could solve societal challenges. They reflect on the current state of politics, debate alignments within the Democratic Party, and consider the citizen's role in democracy.
Podcast: Reviving Classical Liberalism to Tackle Society's Challenges
Peterson and Schneider examine the potential for classical liberalism to address societal challenges amidst populist narratives.
Rob Schneider and Jordan Peterson Advocate Moving Beyond Divisive Identity Politics and Group Narratives
Jordan Peterson suggests that the Democrats should move away from policies and initiatives like DEI and affirmative action, which he views negatively. He implies a need for the party to return to an appreciation of the free market and classical liberal values.
In their conversation, Peterson and Schneider discuss Schneider’s transition to conservative views and their shared advocacy for moving beyond identity politics. Schneider redefines traditional liberalism, associating it with civil rights and free speech, and emphasizes the importance of open debate in progressing the best ideas.
Peterson adds that classical liberalism values the individual above all, critiquing progressivism and conservatism for straying from this principle.
Exploring Moderate Voice Resurgence in Democratic Party
Peterson calls for moderate voices within the Democratic Party to push for sensible policymaking. He discusses whether it would be better to have a reasonable two-party system or for those in power to face consequences. He shares his conversations with moderate Democrats, emphasizing the need to understand the difference between equity and equality of opportunity.
Schneider is hopeful that the Republican Party can represent the average person, moving away from corporate alignment. He sees potential in the Republican Party to meet American demands.
Schneider and Peterson ponder the strategy for the Democratic Party, debating whether to let the party self-reflect or to promote moderate members. They hint at the importance of dialogue in the Democratic Party and suggest that establishing boundaries is essential to prevent ideological extremism.
Citizens' Role in Change and Accountability in Democracy
Schneider advises engaging in outreach, such as legislation to end politically motivated legal actions and promoting forgi ...
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Reviving Classical Liberalism and Recalibrating Politics
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Counterarguments
- Classical liberalism may not fully address the complexities of modern societal challenges that involve systemic issues and collective action.
- Identity politics and group narratives can be important for recognizing and addressing historical and ongoing injustices that affect specific communities.
- The free market and classical liberal values may not always ensure equitable outcomes or protect vulnerable populations without some form of regulation or intervention.
- Redefining traditional liberalism solely as civil rights and free speech advocacy may overlook other aspects such as the role of government in providing public goods and services.
- Open debate is important, but it must be coupled with fact-checking and accountability to prevent the spread of misinformation.
- Valuing the individual above all can sometimes conflict with the need for collective action on issues like climate change or public health.
- Moderate voices in the Democratic Party may not necessarily lead to sensible policymaking if they do not address the root causes of societal issues.
- The Republican Party's ability to represent the average person may be questioned if it does not address economic inequality and corporate influence in politics.
- Dialogue within the Democratic Party is important, but it must also be accompanied by action and policy implementation.
- Outreach and promoting forgiveness are valuable, but they must be balanced with justice and accountability for wrongdoing.
- The ...
Actionables
- You can foster open-mindedness by initiating conversations with individuals who hold different viewpoints, aiming to understand their perspective without trying to win an argument. This practice encourages the exchange of ideas and can lead to a deeper understanding of classical liberal values like free speech and civil rights. For example, if you find yourself in a discussion about a contentious issue, focus on asking questions that clarify the other person's point of view rather than immediately presenting counterarguments.
- Encourage personal responsibility in political discourse by fact-checking information before sharing it on social media or with friends. This habit helps combat misinformation and emphasizes the importance of truth in public dialogue. When you come across a provocative political statement online, take the time to research its accuracy from multiple sources before deciding to pass it on.
- Promote individual engagement in community issue ...
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