he Epic of Gilgamesh, the Genesis creation story, Bhagavad Gita. These are just a few examples of the myths and stories that explain human existence. Individuals like Carl Jung and Joseph Campbell have argued that while these myths sprang from different cultures, they all share similar archetypes and meta-narratives. My guest today has picked up where Jung and Campbell left off and is making an impassioned case that the way to save ourselves from increasing political polarization is to become acquainted with these ancient human myths once again.

His name is Jordan B. Peterson and he’s a clinical psychologist at the University of Toronto. But unlike many clinical psychologists, Dr. Peterson has spent his career studying human myths and how they can provide meaning in a world of tragedy and frustration. Today on the show, Jordan provides an introduction to the world of myths and archetypes. We begin our discussion talking about some of the big archetypes we see over and over again in stories across cultures and time, and why they show up everywhere.

We then discuss feminine and masculine archetypes in detail, how the hero archetype is the link between the two, and examples of the hero archetype from around the world. Jordan argues that disregarding or ignoring these ancient myths led to the rise of extreme political ideologies in the early 20th century, as well as their resurgence today. We end our conversation discussing how these myths can help young men journey into noble manhood, and the books Jordan recommends young men read to learn more about them.

While the subject may seem heady, this is an accessible and fun conversation, filled with insights about how to live a flourishing, meaningful life. You’ll definitely be thinking about its ideas after the show is over.
Show Highlights

How Jordan’s interest in myths percolated
A quick primer on Carl Jung’s philosophy
How stories and myths give meaning and order to life
The Darwinian nature of myths that have been passed down thousands of years
How myths — like creation stories, worldwide floods, and apocalyptic events — relate to everyday life
The big archetypes found throughout world history and cultures
How meta-narratives instruct us and set the pattern for action and behavior
Why accepting and even welcoming struggle is important for a flourishing life
Why ideologies are dangerous
Nietzsche and the death of God
Making the case for mythology in a post-secular world
Why Jordan’s work attracts far more men than women
Why men should forego the pursuit of power and instead seek competence


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