The Importance of Being Ethical, with Jordan Peterson
Recorded on April 20, 2022, as part of a Classical Liberalism Seminar at the Graduate School of Business at Stanford University.
By any measure, Dr. Jordan Peterson is the most famous (now former-as is discussed in this interview) Canadian professor of clinical psychology in the world. He’s also a deep thinker and a best-selling author of multiple books, and has amassed a huge following through podcasts, KZhead videos, and public speaking. Today, Jordan Peterson is one of the most influential voices in the “anti-woke” movement and this powerful interview demonstrates why.
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I’ll never understand how a large number of people disagree with and attack JP when his overriding message is “Make yourself a better person by looking after your own body and mind, because that will make you more capable of looking after those around you including your family, friends and the wider community”. His message changed my life and I imagine that of hundreds of thousands of others like me across the world. What’s not to agree with?
As a Chinese, it hits me hard when Jordan said "a wealthy slave, that's no life man". Have been learning a lot about life from Jordan Peterson. Thank you sir.
The last statement by Dr. Peterson. That is what every young adult needs to hear. Don't let the sins of your father (parents, ancestors, etc) become your own. You aren't a bad person. You can make this world a better place by placing responsibility on your shoulders. And by making that decision, you become indispensable in a world where everyone blames each other for their failures.
One of the greatest men alive right now. God bless Dr. Peterson.
"The only thing more difficult than contending forthrightly with existence, is failing to do so." -Jordan Peterson
Great to see Jordan interviewed by the best interviewer in the west.
What an ending. The entire interview was phenomenal. I loved the quote " those who believe nothing, will believe in anything". Fascinating indeed.
When Jordan Peterson, takes few moments to think about what he is trying to say is nothing but an absolute proof that this genius is so humble and is willing to spread GOOD in the world. Thank you sir!
Having come across his teachings, helped me a lot. He said” I’ve learned that no one gets away with anything “.
I’m a Muslim, non-aligned centrist. I think a lot of what Professor Jordan Peterson has said is heroic!
He genuinely cares for the next generation and their potential. We DESPERATELY NEED more teachers and professors like him.
Jordan Peterson is a “global treasure”. I so admire his lifelong pursuit of truth.
👍
Peter Robinson is the pinnacle of interviewing. His preparation, his ability to cut to the heart of the meter, represent the audience reaction, and to gently steer the conversation and then simply stay silent and allow his guest to speak is fantastic. He’s protestations of ignorance and stupidity are funny but, truly he is a master. Love his conversations and this one is a peach.
This is Jordan in his prime. Giving goosebumps with every thought he articulates. Dear God, bless him and keep him safe. WE. NEED. HIM.
Wow, nice collab. Peterson and Robinson. Now imagine Sowell, Peterson and Robinson together in 1 show. One can dream.
While I don't 'identify' as conservative, I agree with a lot of what Dr. Peterson says. There is room for nuance and discussion and differing views in a healthy democracy. As a Canadian, divide and conquer has been a tactic of our federal government, very disheartening to experience.
Actually brought to tears when he started crying. I don't see it, but I totally believe that kids and people my age or younger are being fed that they're a virus on the earth. And that would be very demoralizing. Such a conversation
I was crippled, going blind and homeless. I was making plans to end it all. But I couldn't bring myself to throw away this life. So I put those plans aside and gave my life to God saying look I can't make this work so here's my life. Make what you will of it. And I waited to die. Now I live in a tiny chateau, on a remote island. When I leave the place I drive a rare exotic roadster. No debt, no money. Good health, I've started down hill skiing again at 71. Make what you will of it.
cool story, bro.
Finally. Peter Robinson is the best interviewer and it’s about time Jordan Peterson was interviewed by someone on his level or higher.
This man is helping me to tolerate and understand different perspectives even if I am also in ideology - muslim. I give my best to be open minded and also to be a proper and good muslim. Building bridges between different perspectives is one of the most important things to do if we want to grow as people.
“Don’t think your ambition is corrupt.” Well said Mr. Peterson
You can tell he's a professor by how he was constantly speaking to the crowd and not the interviewer. Love Dr. Peterson, probably saved my life. Stay well good sir.
The irony in my watching this when I did is that 2 minutes prior, I watched a news item reporting on suicides in those under 22 in astronomical numbers never before seen. The last 2 minutes of this discussion answered a lot of the reasons why.
If world leaders had half the deduction and reasoning skills of this man. Well. We’d not have the issues we have.
Jordan Peterson is a treasure. It was great to see him interviewed by someone who wasn’t antagonistic and trying to put words in his mouth. Excellent discussion, and the very end hit much harder than I expected it to. His care and integrity are obvious.
That closing from Peterson hit hard. I know it wasn't the optimism Robinson probably wanted, but that's a message the youth really needs. Great interview.
I swear, evertime i listen to this man talk, i learn something new about the world and myself simultaneously.
He always brings me to tears. I cry with him. I get angry with him. Learn from him and I constantly nod my head with him. It's like the light bulb inside my brain that is already on just gets more voltage and shines brighter very few do this, but then it's like my heart opens up to the inherent truth and that's just so mind-blowing because what he has done like it or not is confirmed that what I know to be true, what I feel to be true, what is actually true... IS TRUE and with the fundemtal removal of lingering doubt that has cursed so many of us, A seed sown by the one who wishes to undermine the very highest value and the deepest truth (call him what you wish he goes by many names) I'm once again set free by the truth which like many others I did not even know I had lost. Thank you JP and thank you for such an insightful, challenging, compelling and real interview. Wow.
Very little of what Dr. Peterson does is devoid of meaning and I cherish every scrap of thought and wisdom that he is so generous to share, but this was extraordinary.
To label this interview as excellent would be a crass understatement. This is the kind of stuff that should be required curriculum in all schools.
Peter Robinson's face at 33:47 is why we come back again and again to these interviews. Because he is just amazed and delighted and stunned by the excellence and clarity pouring out in front of him. No jealousy, no confusion, no bitterness, no desire to tear down. Just delight in another human being's clarity & brilliance.
GOD BLESS! Let's work together to help people like Dr. Peterson carry this load! He needs us!
I love his passion and his heart. I think he earned that with age, pain and wisdom that comes from searching deeply and sincerely. I love his boldness in speaking up when others tear down. Prayers and blessings. 🙏🏽💗
I’d love to see an interview with Dr Peterson and Dr Sowell, that would be amazing
Peterson is a modern day prophet and doesn't know it. I am 99.99% sure God is working through him. God bless him.
Ethics have not been present in our govt or society for a long time. It is shameful and a tragedy. Love Peterson. Great thinker and a great man.
Wow, Jorden Peterson is a gift to humanity. I’m Canadian and in my 60’s. I am embarrassed to say that I have only recently been introduced to him. Incredibly because I saw a rant he did about Covid, so ironically I have Covid to thank. He is an incredible thinker and speaker. My impression is that he is the most unbiased person I’ve ever heard speak. He tells it the way it is, drawing from his incredible volume of knowledge and putting it together in such an understandable format that it’s generally infallible. Then people want to shoot the messenger and call him provocative or controversial. I guess that could be said, but only if one considers the truth and reality of “what is” as being provocative and controversial. Great interview! Great questions, great conversation. Wow. I have been enjoying listening to Jorden Peterson’s incredible mind, what a treat. The university and students loss is society’s gain. I would disagree with him when he expressed that if he hadn’t left his teaching position that his students would be at a disadvantage from getting hired, I beg to differ, I think that NOT getting hired by those people/companies would be a badge of honour for the student because those people/companies are not the quality ones that they should be working for. 👏👏👏👏💕
Wow, what an explosive last 2 minutes! It was so poignant and significant; I wish they could have explored that a bit more but it was nearing the end and it was the capstone to a solid conversation. It is so true that this society is putting into young people's heads that there's no point of even being here anymore, that "human beings are doing damage and have no inherent value", where the culture mocks a religious foundation. So young people are literally floating and wondering why they exist without learning the tools of being able to persevere when times are difficult.. We're seeing negative effects of that-- higher teen suicide rates and just a general existential crisis. Don't believe the lies! Your life is important and it comes from being the best person that you can be and not being ashamed of who you are and your successes or failures that you learn from. I'm so glad I discovered Hoover Institute and Peter Robinson and Jordan Peterson. Wish I had done so earlier in my life.
This guy is easily the best interviewer I’ve ever listened to. Super articulate, with deep and profound questions to JP. Really enjoyed this 🙏
What a wonderful man. Being ethical in this day in age is crucial.
First time I came across Jordan Peterson. And I must say I am going to buy every one of his books because this man hits a home run on so many issues and quite frankly has a wealth of knowledge to share and all politicians should at least try to do their bit for society listen to this man.
As Peterson gets older he gets more emotional and I’m here for it. There’s nothing more important than fighting for what you believe.
Free speech allows us to extract truth from chaos. Perfect.
This man is sacrificing his physical and emotional health to teach us! I fear it may not end well for this prophet. He has my prayers. I am endlessly grateful for your sacrifice, doctor.
Mr. Robinson, thank you. Your incisive questions and patient listening led to a revealing, uplifting interview with a beautiful man. Dr. Peterson is the greatest philosopher of our age.
In his voice I have heard the pain of someone who wholehearted enjoyed his students and the opportunity to teach.
I've been watching Peterson off an on for five years, and the way he explained the power of postmodern literary criticism just blew my mind. I had never put it together like that, but he is absolutely correct.
This was one of the most brain expanding discussions I have ever heard. Oh how I wish most of society could think.
If I had a chance to sit with anyone in the world, Jordan Peterson would be my choice. I have so much respect for his commitment behind his views when he speaks. DO NOT STOP TALKING!!!!!!!! We are listening. Thank you Jordan.
Science should not exist outside of ethics. Yes, Peterson said that. And that is crucial.
This should be broadcast to the world as a wake up call to the insanity that we are living today! Thank you for articulating with courage so many truth.
I don't think of him as a hero, just an intelligent man who speaks with logic and common sense, which is such a welcomed change in today's woke world.
The last 5 minutes is so powerful! It is so true that those hyper-concerned of other's morals are lacking in their own self-awareness.
Jordan Peterson has absolutely changed how I interact with my wife and Children.. thinking the whole time I was doing a great job.. Thank You Mr. Peterson for all your help. Amazing man. 🙏 Jesus Saves.
Wow, that ending is powerful. The whole conversation is filled with good things, but the ending brought me to tears. I agree we've lost sight of our divine God given value, and it's playing out in all sorts of destructive ways. There is hope in that. If it came from God, it can be restored.
This man stands out because he is a true stand up guy, in a world where sadly, to many people are just content to remain seated!
That last few moments did hit Jordan hard! He is 100% Right about the demoralization of our youth! I felt that way for years, until I found Jesus, and started reading the scriptures! Stand up for what is good!
I'm 62 and disabled. Jordan Peterson and I are approximately the same age and he's changed my life over the last 2 years. This is what our young people need to know, that in their confusion over what they are told, not to lose sight of the fact that YOU ARE INVALUABLE in your potential to do GOOD. What a great interview this was, one of the best I've been blessed to see. And that's saying a lot, considering he's consistently brilliant in all he does.
Peter Robinson is the best interviewer I've ever had the pleasure to see in action.
I love this man. What a great interview. We are graced to have access to Prof. Peterson’s intellect and morals.
Imagine having a genuine heart for complete strangers and a passionate desire to want them to realize meaning and purpose in their lives. That conviction runs so deep in Dr. Peterson that it often brings him to tears.
This is why we love Peter Robinson, he is a commensurate interviewer never tearing down his guests simply probing their minds and allowing them to bring forth their mastery for the benefit of humankind
I could tell Peter Robinson is used to a different kind of interview (and as usual, he was excellent), but we are as close to the fire as we have been in a long time. It's great to see Jordan Peterson fired up and ready to help us all get our act together and take on the world. I love that this interview was done in an environment that Jordan shines best.
My lord this was one of the most shaking and powerful conversations. My hair is standing.
This interviewer is totally absorbed and fascinated and is learning from that professor as well. I’ve not have been exposed to either of them, so it’s a good surprise to me. Thank you.
This is a humble man. Never seen any man Like Jordan Peterson with so much faith and humility. He loves his brothers and sisters of humanity. Full of compassion in his teaching of our confused generations and misguidance in political sciences.
If you all think I'm going to set here and watch an hour long interview with a psychologist....you're right. I will.
Thank God for this man and his courage to speak the truth.
This has to be one of the best Jordan Peterson videos I’ve seen, I have been listening to Jordan for over five years. The importance of Jordan Peterson in the world is letting people realize they can think and be productive without negative condensating issues within themselves. Jordan Peterson is the sugar in the kitchen, on the top shelf but you have/need to stretch to reach it, you can’t be lazy and try to understand this man. So many people are reluctant to even try, this is a HUGE curse upon the world. Jordan Peterson the man, he is has helped me physically, spiritually, emotionally and mentally. Thank you Jordan…
What a rare soul and wonderful treasure is Dr. Jordan Peterson!! Thank you, GOD, for giving us this man in this hour!!
I think he’s a hero, and I’m not a young conservative male.
I did not begin to realize the depth of understanding that Dr. Peterson has until I watched this interview. Very impressive!
I didn't think this type of interview was even possible anymore. It was MOVING, yes, in an ethereal, yet concrete way. Thank you for this.
Dr. Peterson is without doubt one of the great minds of the times. We listen and consider to our benifit. We ignore at our peril.
One of the best lectures I have ever heard. Jordan is able to express the basic Christian principles in a very logical, scientific and clear way - he makes extremely complex ideas understandable. I love his heartfelt passion - he knows that ideas matter - thinking has consequences - even for eternity.
It makes sense if one considers how they used and are using universities’ young people’s relative innocence + emotional vulnerability to accomplish their end. Thank you, Professor Peterson
Jordan Peterson is a man of honor, courage and a brilliant man that understands the human condition and behavior on an unparalleled level.
I was amazed to see Peter actually lose control of the interview to a brilliant but emotional thinker- but in a good way. He let Jordan speak- which was the most important. Great interview.
Peter Robinson, you're in a "class" by yourself. Thank you! Thank you Hoover Institute!
Brilliant interview. I so admire Dr Peterson for his intellect and his humanity.
I'm definitely more left-leaning than right though I wholeheartedly support Jordan Peterson, mainly because of his agile and searching intellect and his insistence on producing truisms only via the longest path of deducing from first principles. JP is a giant of free thought and listening to him is akin to hearing a verbal orchestra.
Thank you Peterson and Robertson for fostering space for not only freedom of speech but also thought !!
"Understanding is outside of Computation" - Sir Roger Penrose, in recent interview with JBP.
This man is beyond brilliant. What I wouldn't have given to be a student in his early classes. Being a thinker most of my life, totally misunderstood, I listen to this man and see a like soul.
Thank you, this interview especially the last 5 minutes moved me to tears. Our children and young people must hear this!!!!
We need more men like Petersen speaking out against our moral decline and the harm on mental health. Good man.
One of the best interviews I've witnessed in the last 5 years. Bravo Hoover Institute and God bless Jordan Peterson.
This guy gives me goose pimples. He has opened my mind completely. Thank you Jordan. 💗
This is one of your best, Mr peterson. Extremely uplifting. I feel you as a good man. Blessings and peace. ❤️🔥
This has been the finest, most elegant, deep and warm conversation I've heard lately.
Dr. Peterson is just quite brilliant…he gets to the core importance of truth…. and freedom of speech. This core essential belief in truth and freedom of speech …. is the battle our society is fighting for at this moment……without a society built on truth and freedom of speech…. we ALL will fall into tyranny….. Great interview…. Well done!!!
Simply outstanding; what a different world we’d be living in if our political leaders had a tiny shred of these minds’ ethics and moral understanding
The most compelling interview for any free thinking person to listen to and consider the implications
What I like about Jordan Peterson is that you can tell he really listens to the question, gives time to ponder, and then responds. You can tell he is thinking in real time and not saying some rehearsed talking points, or just saying what other people say.
This was one of the best recent Jordan Peterson interviews I’ve seen this year. I could barely leave my seat!
I have passed this clip to everyone I care about. Wokeness has destroyed my family relationships as well many the families of many of my friends.
one of the things i find amazing is that just because you investigate what is unethical doesnt make you become unethical in time, rather, you discover what is unethical in yourself. solomon who was the wisest man in scripture talks about his persuit of wisdom and madness. he comes to an intresting conclusion: sorrow. ecclesiastes 1:16-18 16 I communed with mine own heart, saying, Lo, I am come to great estate, and have gotten more wisdom than all they that have been before me in Jerusalem: yea, my heart had great experience of wisdom and knowledge. 17 And I gave my heart to know wisdom, and to know madness and folly: I perceived that this also is vexation of spirit. 18 For in much wisdom is much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow. so, the persuit of understanding madness and foolishness brings grief and sorrow. but we learn why in the process.
What a hell of a strong finish! Intellectual who has a heart, deeply, not superficial.
Unfortunately KZhead will only allow me one “thumb up” 👍🏼 I’ve watched a lot of Thomas Sowell on here but I’ve got to say Peter Robinson does a fantastic job. I could have watched 12 hours of this.
He is a hero through and through never breaks a word off never says what's true to his heart trying to help people make themselves better he is a hero
Robinson, Sowell, and Peterson. One room. One to two hours. Make it happen Hoover. Sowell is in his 90s. We only have so much precious time left