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We Who Wrestle With God by Jordan Peterson review – a culture warrior out of his depth | Jordan Peterson – metropolis

We Who Wrestle With God by Jordan Peterson review – a culture warrior out of his depth | Jordan Peterson – metropolis

2 min read 09-12-2024
We Who Wrestle With God by Jordan Peterson review – a culture warrior out of his depth | Jordan Peterson – metropolis

Wrestling with Shadows: A Review of Jordan Peterson's "Beyond Order"

Jordan Peterson's "Beyond Order: 12 More Rules for Life" isn't a direct sequel to his wildly popular "12 Rules for Life," but rather a continuation of his exploration of meaning, responsibility, and the inherent chaos of existence. While the previous book resonated with a broad audience yearning for structure and purpose, "Beyond Order" finds Peterson grappling with more complex and nuanced issues, albeit sometimes with less clarity and a frustrating tendency toward rambling. This review will examine both the strengths and weaknesses of this latest offering.

The book retains Peterson's characteristic blend of psychological insights, philosophical musings, and often controversial social commentary. He delves into topics ranging from the importance of self-authoring to the dangers of unchecked political correctness, touching upon areas like mythology, religion, and the complexities of human relationships. Peterson’s strength lies in his ability to weave together seemingly disparate ideas, drawing connections between personal responsibility and societal well-being. He consistently emphasizes the importance of confronting one's own shadow self, a theme central to Jungian psychology that underpins much of his work.

However, where "12 Rules for Life" presented its arguments with a relatively straightforward structure, "Beyond Order" feels less cohesive. The twelve rules themselves often serve as jumping-off points for lengthy explorations that, while intellectually stimulating, can occasionally lose focus. This can lead to a sense of unevenness, with some chapters providing insightful analysis and others feeling like discursive tangents.

One of the most striking aspects of the book is Peterson's ongoing engagement with current socio-political debates. He continues to offer his perspective on issues such as identity politics and the perceived dangers of postmodern thought. While his arguments often provoke discussion, they also draw criticism for perceived oversimplification and a lack of nuance in addressing complex social issues. Critics argue that he frequently generalizes and fails to fully acknowledge the perspectives of those who hold opposing views.

Ultimately, "Beyond Order" is a complex and multifaceted work that will likely resonate differently with different readers. Those already familiar with Peterson's thought will likely find much to appreciate in his continued exploration of the human condition. However, newcomers may find themselves overwhelmed by the book's length and the sometimes meandering nature of its arguments. It's a book that demands engagement and critical thinking, forcing readers to confront not only Peterson's ideas but also their own preconceptions and biases.

In conclusion, while "Beyond Order" lacks the streamlined approach of its predecessor, it remains a valuable contribution to Peterson's ongoing project of understanding the human condition and navigating the complexities of modern life. Whether one agrees with his conclusions or not, the book undeniably sparks important conversations and prompts readers to wrestle with their own understanding of order, chaos, and the inherent challenges of living a meaningful life. It is a work that, like its title suggests, challenges readers to grapple with difficult questions and to strive for a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

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