560. The $20 Million Mistake Democrats Made with Young Men | David French
In this episode of The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast, David French and Jordan Peterson examine the challenges facing young men in modern society. They discuss how the lack of father figures and male mentors, combined with an education system that may not suit boys' learning styles, has contributed to a growing crisis of purpose among young men. The conversation also covers the impact of declining manufacturing jobs and changing cultural narratives about masculinity.
French and Peterson explore potential solutions to these challenges, including the importance of mentorship and creating positive outlets for young men's energy. They discuss how addressing these issues could benefit society as a whole, suggesting that the well-being of men impacts family dynamics and community strength. The discussion considers how traditional support networks have changed and what that means for young men today.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Jul 7, 2025 episode of the The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast
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1-Page Summary
The Challenges and Struggles Facing Young Men
David French explores the complex challenges facing young men today, highlighting a crisis of purpose, educational shortcomings, and societal views on masculinity that contribute to their struggles.
Crisis of Purpose and Education
French observes that many young men are "wandering in the wilderness," struggling with despair and isolation. He notes that the lack of father figures and male mentors has left many young men feeling purposeless and alienated. The education system, according to Jordan Peterson's observations, fails to engage boys effectively by requiring long periods of sedentary learning that conflicts with their natural tendencies. French criticizes the overuse of ADHD medications and advocates for a return to play-based learning.
Cultural and Societal Factors
The decline in manufacturing jobs and traditional male-oriented careers has limited young men's ability to find meaningful work, French explains. Peterson notes that the shift to two-income households has reduced community connections that once provided support networks. Adding to these challenges, French points out that media narratives often demonize traditional masculinity, leaving young men without positive role models and pushing some toward harmful "manosphere" ideologies.
Supporting Young Men
French emphasizes the crucial role of mentorship in guiding young men toward fulfillment. He highlights how caring mentors, such as football coaches, can channel young men's energy into positive, community-oriented pursuits. Both French and Peterson advocate for countering negative narratives about masculinity with a vision that emphasizes courage, compassion, and service.
Broader Impacts
French argues that the cultural dismissal of young men's struggles leads to broader societal issues, affecting family dynamics and community wellbeing. He suggests that addressing these challenges could help heal America's cultural and political rifts, emphasizing that the wellbeing of men and women is interconnected. Peterson adds that promoting positive masculinity leads to stronger, more unified communities.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- The crisis of purpose among young men may not be unique to them; young women and non-binary individuals also face significant challenges and may feel a similar lack of purpose.
- The role of father figures and male mentors is important, but it's also crucial to recognize the value of diverse role models, including women and non-binary individuals, in young men's lives.
- While some argue that the education system fails to engage boys, others suggest that the issue is broader and includes pedagogical approaches that may not cater to a variety of learning styles, affecting all genders.
- The decline in traditional male-oriented careers is part of a larger economic shift that also creates new opportunities in fields where emotional intelligence and adaptability are valued, which men can excel in.
- The shift to two-income households may reduce some traditional community connections, but it also provides opportunities for new types of community engagement and support networks.
- While some media narratives may be critical of traditional masculinity, there is also a growing body of media that celebrates a more nuanced and positive view of masculinity.
- Mentorship is important, but young men also benefit from systemic changes in education, employment, and mental health services.
- The idea that promoting positive masculinity leads to stronger communities may overlook the importance of promoting equality and inclusivity for all genders.
- The assertion that addressing the challenges faced by young men can help heal cultural and political rifts may oversimplify complex societal issues that require multifaceted solutions.
- The focus on masculinity may inadvertently marginalize the struggles and contributions of those who do not identify with traditional gender roles.
Actionables
- You can volunteer as a mentor at local youth organizations to provide guidance and support to young men. By becoming a mentor, you offer a positive role model and a listening ear, which can help address feelings of isolation and purposelessness. Look for programs in your community that focus on youth mentorship and sign up to participate. Your involvement could range from one-on-one mentoring to group activities, providing a space for young men to learn, grow, and connect.
- Start a book club focused on positive masculinity and personal development to foster community connections. Invite friends, neighbors, and acquaintances to read and discuss books that explore themes of courage, compassion, and service. This can create a supportive environment where men can openly discuss their experiences and challenges while learning from different perspectives on masculinity.
- Encourage local schools to invite guest speakers from various professions to talk about their career paths and the value of their work. This can help broaden young men's horizons regarding potential careers, especially in fields they may not have considered. Reach out to school administrators or parent-teacher associations to suggest this initiative, emphasizing the importance of exposing students to a diverse range of successful role models.
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The Challenges and Struggles Facing Young Men
David French sheds light on the multifaceted struggles of young men, highlighting issues such as a lack of direction and the negative impacts of the current societal view on masculinity.
Young Men Face a Crisis of Purpose and Belonging
David French has observed a disturbing trend among many young men who are "wandering in the wilderness," struggling to find their place in society. He notes the increasing instances of despair, anxiety, and hopelessness that plague young people, especially young men. These emotional challenges, he points out, are mirrored in the alarming rates of "deaths of despair," which disproportionately affect single men who are either never married or divorced. In addition, French draws attention to the decline in friendships among young men, which contributes to a broader context of human suffering.
French discusses the experience of a former Marine who felt a loss of purpose after leaving military service but found direction in Jordan Peterson's advice, underscoring the importance of guidance and solid role models for young men.
Many Young Men Lack Fathers, Role Models, and Community, Leading To Alienation
French emphasizes the significance of fathers or male role models for young men, but notes that many lack these figures, which can lead to a profound sense of purposelessness and alienation. He expresses concern for fatherless young men and those without male mentors, citing this as a source of feelings of wrongness and alienation. Even in areas like rural Tennessee, which historically have been considered "man-friendly," young men are entering an economy and culture undergoing dramatic changes, leaving them without clear pathways.
French also notes common concerns among Americans about the struggles of young men, suggesting that broader societal worries reflect the lack of guidance and community that leads to alienation.
Education System Fails to Engage Young Men
Sedentary Learning Discourages Boys' Natural Tendencies, Causing Disengagement and Underperformance
Referencing Jordan Peterson's observations, French speaks to the inadequacy of the educational system for boys, particularly regarding the requirement for boys to sit still for hours, which conflicts with their active tendencies. He notes a disconnect between young men and traditional educational environments, pointing to a failure of the academic world to engage boys effectively.
Adhd Diagnosis and Medication Suppress Play-Based Learning for Young Men
French also criticizes the move away from a play-based childhood, noting the reduction of recess and an increased academic focus on young children. He suggests that the propensity to prescribe medications such as [restricted term] has been taken to an extreme ...
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The Challenges and Struggles Facing Young Men
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- The concept of a "crisis" among young men may be overstated or not universally applicable, as many young men are thriving and finding their place in society.
- Deaths of despair are a complex issue that may not be solely or primarily due to a lack of direction or purpose, but also to economic factors, mental health issues, and substance abuse.
- The decline in friendships could be influenced by broader societal changes, such as the rise of technology and social media, rather than a specific crisis among young men.
- The role of fathers and male role models is important, but it's also essential to recognize the positive impact of other family structures and mentors, including single mothers and community leaders.
- The educational system may not be failing all young men; there are many who excel in the current structure, and there are alternative educational models that cater to different learning styles.
- ADHD diagnoses and medication can be life-changing for those who genuinely need them, and the issue may be more about ensuring accurate diagnoses and appropriate use of medication rather than an inherent problem wit ...
Actionables
- You can mentor a young man in your community by volunteering at local youth organizations or schools, offering guidance and support to those who may lack positive male role models. By sharing your experiences and skills, you provide a real-life example of virtuous masculinity and help counter feelings of purposelessness.
- Start a book club focused on male authors who explore themes of healthy masculinity and personal growth, inviting young men to discuss and reflect on these narratives. This encourages critical thinking about masculinity and provides a space for young men to connect and form friendships.
- Encourage active learning by organizing in ...
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Cultural and Societal Factors in the Male Crisis
David French and Peterson discuss how societal and cultural shifts over the past decades have inadvertently contributed to a crisis affecting young men.
Changes Disrupted Young Men's Traditional Paths to Purpose and Belonging
The conversation suggests that several factors have played a role in disrupting young men's traditional avenues to purpose and a sense of belonging.
Fewer Manufacturing Jobs Limit Young Men's Ability to Find Meaning Through Work
French notes that economic and technological changes, such as the decline of manufacturing jobs which once provided young men with a clear path to meaningful work, are contributing to what he terms the male crisis. He remarks that the physical strength once valorized in men has become less relevant in today's economy. Moreover, with the US military shrinking from its Cold War peak, young men find fewer opportunities in traditional areas where male attributes were prized.
Rise of Two-income Households Reduces Stay-At-Home Mothers Creating Community
Peterson reflects on the changes in neighborhoods during the 1960s and 1970s, when a network of stay-at-home mothers created a strong sense of community. He notes that this changed in the 1980s as more women joined the workforce, and the once established and known territories overseen by interconnected women watching over children were no longer the norm. The absence of this network, according to Peterson, may contribute to today's children growing up less supervised and possibly feeling more isolated.
Media Often Ignores Young Men's Needs
French and Peterson argue that the media landscape can have a substantial effect on young men's sense of self, with current narratives often being dismissive or outright demeaning to traditional concepts of masculinity.
Narratives Demoralizing Mascu ...
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Cultural and Societal Factors in the Male Crisis
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The term "male crisis" generally describes a perceived set of challenges and issues specifically affecting men in society. It often encompasses discussions around shifts in traditional gender roles, economic changes impacting male-dominated industries, and cultural shifts that may affect men's sense of purpose and belonging. The concept suggests that men, particularly young men, are facing unique struggles and uncertainties in navigating their roles and identities in a rapidly changing world. Discussions around the male crisis often touch on topics like masculinity, societal expectations, and the evolving landscape of work and family dynamics.
- David French and Peterson discuss how societal and cultural shifts have impacted young men, highlighting disruptions in traditional paths to purpose and belonging. French emphasizes the decline of manufacturing jobs and the changing relevance of physical strength, while Peterson focuses on the shift from stay-at-home mothers to two-income households affecting community dynamics. They both critique the media for its negative portrayal of masculinity, suggesting it alienates young men and lacks positive role models.
- The decline of manufacturing jobs has affected young men by reducing opportunities for meaningful work traditionally associated with male attributes like physical strength. This shift has altered the landscape of employment, leading to a decrease in roles that historically provided a clear path to purpose and identity for many young men. As these jobs diminish, young men may struggle to find avenues to express their skills and contribute to society, impacting their sense of fulfillment and belonging. The changing economic and technological environment has shifted the focus away from physical labor, potentially leaving young men feeling disconnected from traditional notions of masculinity tied to manual work.
- The rise of two-income households in the 1980s led to more women joining the workforce, reducing the number of stay-at-home mothers. This shift altered the traditional community dynamics where stay-at-home mothers played a significant role in creating a sense of community. With fewer mothers at home, the interconnected network overseeing children and fostering community bonds diminished, potentially impacting the supervision and social connections of children growing up during that time.
- Media narratives play a significant role in shaping young men's self-perception by influencing how masculinity is portrayed and understood in society. Negative or dismissive portrayals of traditional masculinity in the media can impact ...
Actionables
- You can mentor a young person in your community to provide a positive male role model and counteract the lack of such figures in the media. By volunteering at local youth organizations or schools, you can offer guidance and support to young men who may feel isolated or undervalued, sharing your experiences and skills in a way that celebrates their strengths and potential.
- Start a book club focused on literature that portrays nuanced male characters to explore and discuss positive aspects of masculinity. This can be a simple gathering with friends or an online community where you read and talk about books that offer diverse and inspiring representations of men, fostering a more balanced perspective on masculinity.
- Engage in local community p ...
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Supporting and Guiding Young Men
David French and Jordan Peterson emphasize the critical need for mentorship and a positive conception of masculinity in guiding young men towards fulfillment and community engagement.
Mentoring Young Men Is Crucial
French and Peterson point out that mentorship can have a substantial impact on the lives of young men, helping them find meaning and purpose.
Caring, Respectful Mentors Can Impact Young Men's Lives
David French highlights a "desperate hunger in America" for constructive mentoring of young men. Caring individuals who communicate to young men that they are valued and want them to succeed are essential, with French recognizing the influential role of figures such as football coaches in socializing young men.
Mentorship Guiding Young Men to Channel Energy Into Virtuous, Community Pursuits Is Valuable
Many former football players regard their coaches as life-changing, sometimes more influential than their fathers. French explains that the best coaches channel young men's energy, drive, and aggression into positive directions, fostering a sense of brotherhood, community, and fellowship. He emphasizes that intentional mentoring is key to guiding young men toward virtuous masculinity and community-centered activities.
Valuing Positive Masculinity Is Essential
French and Peterson tackle prevalent issues surrounding young men and masculinity, advocating for a compassionate and service-oriented perception.
Countering Demonizing Narratives With Courageous, Compassionate, Service-Oriented Masculinity
French criticizes the view that traditional masculinity ideology is inherently toxic. Instead, he suggests countering negative messages with narratives that present masculinity in a positive light, characterized by courage, compassion, and service. Peterson furthers this point by talking about the shepherd as a symbol of powerful, protective service.
Creating Spaces for Young Men to Develop Identity and Belonging Is Crucial
French acknowledges the need to address young men's loneliness, alienation, and lack of belonging. Inspiring young men with a virtuous vision for what it means to be a man, such as the one expressed in Rudyard Kipling’s "If," is essential. This vision is focused on attributes like courage, compassion, and service rather than dominance and ag ...
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Supporting and Guiding Young Men
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Counterarguments
- While mentorship is valuable, it is not the only path to fulfillment; self-discovery and personal experiences can also play significant roles.
- The impact of mentors may vary, and some young men may find equal or greater support from peers or through self-guided learning and exploration.
- The emphasis on sports figures like football coaches may overlook the value of mentors in other areas, such as the arts, academics, or trades.
- The concept of "virtuous masculinity" could be seen as prescriptive, potentially marginalizing men who do not fit into this framework.
- Positive masculinity is subjective, and different cultures or individuals may have varying definitions of what constitutes positive male traits.
- The focus on traditional masculinity, even if portrayed positively, may not address the full spectrum of gender identity and expression among young men.
- The idea that aggressive traits should be remolded could be challenged by those who believe that aggression, when properly channeled, can be a positive and productive force.
- The call for reforms in education, family, and culture may not account for the complexity of these systems and the potential unintended consequences of ...
Actionables
- Volunteer as a mentor at a local youth organization to guide young men in developing their identities. By offering your time at places like Big Brothers Big Sisters or a community center, you can become a positive role model. Share your experiences and listen to their stories, helping them navigate challenges and celebrate their achievements, which can foster a sense of belonging and community.
- Start a book club focused on stories of virtuous masculinity for young men in your neighborhood. Choose books that showcase courage, compassion, and service, and organize regular discussions. This can create a space for young men to explore and discuss positive male identities and the values associated with them.
- Encourage young men to engage in community service proj ...
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The Broader Societal Impacts of the Male Crisis
David French and Jordan Peterson discuss the cultural dismissal of young men's struggles, exploring the familial and community issues it exacerbates and the political and societal polarization it engenders.
Male Crisis Impacts Families and Communities' Wellbeing
French and Peterson examine how young men's struggles can disrupt families and highlight the need for societal improvement.
Young Men's Struggles Disrupt Families
French asserts that the cultural dismissal of male struggles leads to broader cultural disasters. By denigrating traditional male roles and attributes, many young men feel less needed and valued, which can affect the emotional wellbeing of families. Peterson mentions the lack of mentorship among young men and the negative influence of pornography on their understanding of relationships, which can disturb family dynamics.
Male Crisis Dysfunction Highlights Need For Societal Improvement
David French points out that healing the male crisis could reduce division and dysfunction in American politics. He argues that regard for the wellbeing of young men should transcend politics and that concern for their alienation and distress is crucial regardless of political affiliations. Peterson suggests that addressing these issues could unify and fortify society by reintegrating pushed-aside elements and values.
Addressing the Male Crisis Offers a Chance to Cultivate a Unified, Compassionate, Resilient Culture
French and Peterson highlight the societal benefits of cultivating a service-oriented masculinity and bridging gender divides with empathy.
Cultivating a Virtuous, Service-Oriented, Community-Based Masculinity Benefits Society
French recounts the values instilled in young men during World War II, emphasizing the societal benefits of a compassionate, service-oriented approach. He uses the preference of Axis forces to surrender to the Allies over Soviets due to the former's compassionate behavior as an instance of how virtue positively impacts society. Peterson echoes the sentiment by discussing the societal implications of demoralizing young men, suggesting that promoting positive masculinity leads to stronger, unified communities.
Bridging Gender Divides and Addressing the Male Crisis With Empathy Can Heal America's Cultural and Political Rifts
French believes that empathy is essential in approaching the male crisis ...
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The Broader Societal Impacts of the Male Crisis
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The "male crisis" is a term used to describe challenges and struggles faced by men in modern society, including issues related to identity, mental health, and societal expectations. These challenges can impact families, communities, and broader societal structures, leading to concerns about well-being, relationships, and political polarization. Addressing the male crisis involves recognizing and supporting men's emotional and social needs to foster healthier individuals and communities.
- David French and Jordan Peterson discuss the societal impacts of the male crisis, emphasizing how the dismissal of young men's struggles affects families, communities, and politics. French highlights the need for societal improvement to address the disruption caused by male crises, while Peterson suggests that cultivating a service-oriented masculinity and bridging gender divides with empathy can lead to a more unified and resilient society. They argue that understanding and addressing the male crisis is crucial for healing cultural and political rifts and promoting a compassionate and inclusive society.
- The relationship between young men's struggles and societal polarization is rooted in how the dismissal of their challenges can lead to feelings of alienation and distress, contributing to a sense of division within society. When young men's issues are overlooked or marginalized, it can deepen existing societal rifts and exacerbate political polarization. Acknowledging and addressing these struggles can be a unifying factor, fostering a more cohesive and empathetic societal framework.
- Cultivating a service-oriented masculinity involves promoting values of compassion, empathy, and a focus on contributing positively to society. It emphasizes the importance of men engaging in acts of service and support for others, prioritizing community well-being over individual gain. This approach aims to redefine traditional notions of masculinity towards a more inclusive and cooperative model. By encouraging men to embody qualities like kindness, altruism, and a sense of duty towards others, it seeks to foster a culture of care and responsibility.
- Empathy plays a crucial role in addressing the male crisis and societal division by fostering understanding and compassion towar ...
Counterarguments
- The cultural dismissal of young men's struggles might be overstated, and there could be a need to balance the focus on men's issues with ongoing gender equality efforts for women and non-binary individuals.
- The disruption of families might not solely be due to the denigration of traditional male roles but also due to broader societal changes, including economic factors and evolving family structures.
- The impact of pornography on family dynamics is complex and may not be universally negative; it could also reflect deeper issues related to sex education and communication within families.
- While healing the male crisis might reduce some division, it is not the sole solution to political dysfunction, which is multifaceted and influenced by numerous social, economic, and ideological factors.
- The assertion that concern for young men's alienation should transcend politics might oversimplify the inherently political nature of addressing social issues, which often involve policy decisions and resource allocation.
- The idea of reintegrating "pushed-aside" values assumes that these values are universally positive and neglects the possibility that some traditional values may be outdated or incompatible with modern, diverse societies.
- The concept of a service-oriented masculinity, while beneficial, may not address all aspects of the male crisis, which could also require a reevaluation of societal expectations and definitions of masculinity.
- Promoting positive masculinity is important, but it should be done in a way that does not reinforce harmful stereotypes or negate the experiences of those who do not fit traditional masculine norms.
- Empathy is crucial, but structural changes and policy interventions are also necessary to address the root causes of the male crisis and societal division.
- The i ...
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