Jordan Peterson: Why You Need Art in Your Life

Summary

In this thought-provoking reflection, the speaker explores the profound importance of art, beauty, and creativity in human life. They argue that art is a gateway to the transcendent, connecting us to deeper truths and the divine. Creativity is portrayed as essential for the vitality of individuals, particularly for those with an open personality. The speaker critiques modern society’s neglect of beauty and emphasizes the role of the humanities in cultivating critical thinking and communication skills, essential for both personal and societal growth. Ultimately, they call for a deeper appreciation of beauty in our lives and cultural institutions.

Takeaways

• 😀 Art and creativity serve as a vital connection to the Transcendent, offering meaning beyond the mundane.
• 😀 True artists are driven by the unknown, with an innate openness that compels them to create, even when faced with economic difficulties.
• 😀 Creativity is essential for certain individuals' well-being, as they 'wither' without it, similar to how plants need sunlight and water to thrive.
• 😀 Art and beauty are not only culturally significant but also economically valuable, contributing to prosperity and tourism, especially in countries like France and Spain.
• 😀 The value of beauty increases over time, as demonstrated by historical monuments and cathedrals, which grow in significance and appeal the further away we get from their creation.
• 😀 In contrast, Canada's sense of beauty is underdeveloped, and people often fear or avoid engaging with art because of insecurity or lack of taste.
• 😀 The humanities, including literature and art, should be treated as essential subjects because they provide vital wisdom and critical skills necessary for personal and societal success.
• 😀 A humanities education equips individuals with the ability to read, think, communicate, and solve problems, making them indispensable in both personal development and economic contexts.
• 😀 The creation and appreciation of beauty is a courageous act, requiring individuals to overcome fear and criticism, but it is deeply worthwhile as it brings a sense of the divine into everyday life.
• 😀 Art is full of frauds, and distinguishing between genuine art and imitation requires discernment, but engaging with true art offers profound rewards and connections to higher ideals.
• 😀 Art and beauty are essential not just as cultural luxuries but as necessary elements for human existence, as life can feel 'dismal and tragic' without them.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the speaker's reflection?

The main theme of the speaker's reflection is the importance of art, beauty, and creativity in human life, particularly how they connect individuals to the transcendent and offer meaning and vitality to existence.

Why does the speaker emphasize the value of art in terms of economic development?

The speaker emphasizes that art and beauty contribute to economic development because they attract tourism, create aesthetic value, and inspire cultural richness, which in turn fosters societal growth and prosperity.

How does the speaker view creative people in relation to their need to create?

The speaker views creative people as individuals who must engage in creative action for their vitality. Without the ability to express their creativity, they would wither, similar to how extroverts need social interaction or conscientious individuals need a sense of duty.

What role does beauty play in connecting with the transcendent, according to the speaker?

According to the speaker, beauty serves as a gateway to the transcendent, offering individuals a connection to something larger than themselves. This connection is essential for overcoming life's challenges and accessing a deeper sense of meaning.

Why does the speaker criticize the underdevelopment of beauty in Canada?

The speaker criticizes Canada's underdevelopment of beauty because it lacks the grandeur seen in other cultures, particularly Europe. The speaker suggests that this deficiency in beauty undermines cultural and personal growth.

What is the significance of Gothic cathedrals in the speaker's argument?

The Gothic cathedrals represent the ideal of beauty and structure that points to the divine. They symbolize the proper balance between light and structure, which mirrors the balance necessary for meaningful human existence and the quest for transcendence.

How does the speaker describe the relationship between art and religion?

The speaker describes art as one pathway to God, emphasizing that beauty is integral to understanding the divine. This connection is seen in both the architecture of cathedrals and the sublime nature of art.

What does the speaker mean by saying that literature and the humanities are not optional?

The speaker argues that literature and the humanities are essential, not optional, because they provide vital knowledge, cultivate essential life skills like communication, and connect individuals to the cultural wisdom of civilization.

Why does the speaker encourage people to buy a piece of art?

The speaker encourages people to buy a piece of art because it invites beauty and the transcendent into their lives. A real piece of art offers a connection to the artist and can transform one's perspective, enriching life with meaning.

What does the speaker suggest about the role of beauty in universities?

The speaker suggests that the loss of beauty in universities reflects a loss of connection to higher aspirations and ideals. He argues that beauty should be restored in educational environments as it inspires students to reach for a higher purpose and fosters a sense of spiritual and intellectual growth.