By: Staff, Published: February 3rd, 2023
Jordan Peterson and Sam Harris are two of the most well-known public intellectuals of our time. Both men have made a significant impact in the world of ideas, sparking debates and discussions on a wide range of topics. While they share some similarities, they also have significant differences in their views and approaches. In this article, we will take a closer look at these two controversial figures and compare their views on various topics.
Jordan Peterson and Sam Harris - Backgrounds
Jordan Peterson is a Canadian psychologist and professor of psychology at the University of Toronto. He rose to prominence in the early 2010s for his criticisms of political correctness and his views on cultural issues such as gender and religion. Sam Harris, on the other hand, is an American neuroscientist and author who is best known for his critiques of religion and his advocacy for secularism and scientific reasoning.
Views on Religion
One of the most significant differences between Peterson and Harris is their view on religion. While Peterson is a Christian and often discusses religious themes in his work, Harris is a strong critic of religion and has written extensively on the topic. In his book, “The End of Faith,” Harris argues that religious belief is irrational and that it is responsible for much of the world’s suffering. Peterson, on the other hand, argues that religion is a fundamental part of human culture and provides a source of meaning and purpose in life.
Views on Political Correctness
Both Jordan Peterson and Sam Harris have been critical of political correctness and its impact on free speech and cultural discourse. Peterson is a vocal opponent of the rise of political correctness on university campuses, arguing that it stifles free speech and prevents the open exchange of ideas. Harris similarly argues that political correctness is a threat to free speech and intellectual diversity.
Views on Culture and Society
When it comes to cultural and societal issues, Peterson and Harris have different perspectives. Peterson is known for his views on cultural and biological differences between men and women and has been criticized for his views on gender and political correctness. Harris, on the other hand, has focused more on issues such as the role of technology in society and the dangers posed by artificial intelligence.
Conclusion
Jordan Peterson and Sam Harris are two of the most controversial public intellectuals of our time. While they share some similarities in their views, such as their critiques of political correctness and religion, they also have significant differences in their perspectives on cultural and societal issues. Whether you agree with their views or not, there is no denying the impact that these two men have had on the world of ideas and the discussions that they have sparked.
If you enjoyed this article, check out the books mentioned in both Jordan Peterson and Sam Harris‘ podcasts!