This Simple Skill Will Make You More Powerful In Life | Jordan Peterson

Summary

The transcript emphasizes the importance of individuals being competent and formidable, rather than weak, to navigate life's challenges effectively. It argues that being dangerous in a controlled manner is virtuous, akin to having a sword and knowing how to use it but keeping it sheathed. The power of verbal competence is highlighted as a key tool for empowerment, especially for young men, drawing parallels with the articulate expression found in rap and hip-hop as a means for the underclass to rise towards their rightful place in society.

Takeaways

• 💡 The importance of being competent and formidable is emphasized for personal strength and preparedness in life's challenges.
• 🗡️ Being 'dangerous' in a metaphorical sense means being a formidable force, not necessarily promoting cruelty or harm.
• 📖 The New Testament's misinterpretation of 'meek' is clarified, emphasizing the value of possessing power while maintaining peace.
• 🚫 The pitfalls of being perceived as weak, naive, and harmless are discussed, as they can lead to inability in facing life's adversities.
• 🦉 The significance of self-control and power is highlighted, showing that true virtue lies in the ability to choose not to be violent.
• 💪 Becoming more articulate and skilled in communication is advocated as a means of increasing one's competence and influence.
• 🎓 Education, particularly for boys, should focus on developing verbal competence and the ability to think critically and articulately.
• 🎤 Rap and hip-hop are cited as examples of how verbal facility can empower and give voice to the alienated and underprivileged.
• 🌟 The power of logos (logos) is showcased, demonstrating how articulate expression can be both redemptive and captivating.
• 🔥 The transformation of negative emotions, such as anger, into compelling and controlled artistic expression is seen as a positive force.

Q & A

Why is it important for individuals to be perceived as 'dangerous' according to the speaker?

The speaker suggests that being dangerous makes an individual formidable, which is essential to be prepared for life's challenges. It implies strength and the capacity to stand up for oneself, rather than being weak and vulnerable.

How does the speaker relate the concept of 'dangerousness' to the New Testament quote about the meek?

The speaker argues that the meek in the New Testament quote should not be understood as weak or harmless. Instead, it refers to those who have the capacity to be dangerous but choose to keep their power in check, thereby being more deserving of their inheritance.

What is the speaker's view on the importance of verbal competence?

The speaker believes that verbal competence is a powerful tool that can make one formidable. It is a form of weaponry that broadens the field of battle and opportunity. The speaker emphasizes the importance of teaching this skill to young people, especially boys.

How does the speaker connect the popularity of rap artists to the concept of verbal competence?

The speaker links the popularity of rap artists to their incredible verbal prowess and the ability to articulate complex ideas and experiences. This resonates with young men who may feel alienated and provides them with a powerful voice.

What is the speaker's perspective on the role of education in developing 'dangerousness'?

The speaker sees education, particularly in verbal and communication skills, as a means to empower individuals and help them become more 'dangerous' in a controlled and virtuous manner. It is a way to help them take their rightful place in society.

Why does the speaker argue that harmlessness is not the same as moral virtue?

The speaker contends that harmlessness is often confused with moral virtue, but true virtue comes from the ability to control one's capacity for danger. It takes strength to be good, and being harmless simply equates to weakness, which does not contribute to moral goodness.

What is the significance of the speaker's reference to the story of King Arthur and Horus and Osiris?

The speaker uses these stories to illustrate the common theme of the young outsider struggling against inadequacies and injustices in their current environment. It highlights the universality of this struggle and the importance of finding one's voice and power in overcoming it.

How does the speaker describe the transformative power of verbal facility?

The speaker describes verbal facility as having a redemptive power that can transform individuals from feeling alienated to finding their rightful place. It allows them to articulate their struggles and experiences in a compelling and powerful manner.

What is the speaker's opinion on the punk movement and its relation to the concept of 'dangerousness'?

The speaker views the punk movement as another example of a genre where 'dangerousness' is channeled into art. It is a way for individuals to express their anger and frustration in a controlled and poetic manner, turning it into something captivating and charismatic.

How does the speaker use the example of a comedy club performance to illustrate the power of logos?

The speaker uses the example of a comedian's spontaneous rap performance to demonstrate the power of logos, or reason, in action. The comedian's ability to weave together diverse topics into a coherent and compelling narrative showcases the impressive and transformative nature of verbal competence.

Outlines

00:00

💡Embracing Competence and Danger for Personal Strength

This paragraph discusses the importance of individuals becoming competent and formidable to navigate the complexities and challenges of life effectively. It emphasizes that being dangerous in this context does not advocate for cruelty or harm but rather the possession of strength and capability as a means to deter weakness. The speaker references the misinterpretation of the concept of 'meek' in the New Testament, arguing that true power lies in having the ability to wield force but choosing to keep it sheathed. The paragraph also touches on the negative outcomes of promoting naivety and weakness, such as the inability to handle life's tragedies and responsibilities, and instead advocates for a balance of strength and peacefulness. The speaker further explores the idea that being dangerous in the controlled sense is a virtue and that self-control without the capacity for danger lacks moral value.

05:01

🎤The Articulate Path to Personal Empowerment

The second paragraph delves into the power of verbal competence and its role in personal empowerment. It suggests that articulacy is a primary weapon, even more so than physical prowess. The speaker argues that the ability to communicate effectively and think critically is a broader and more impactful field of battle. The paragraph highlights the importance of teaching these skills to young boys, especially those who are skeptical of the educational system. It points out that agreeable boys tend to perform better academically, regardless of their IQ, due to their compliance and ease of interaction. The speaker also discusses the popularity of rap artists, particularly among disaffected young men, as they embody the ideal of articulate competence. The paragraph draws a parallel between the power of language in rap and the ability to give voice to the alienated and underprivileged, turning struggle into a path towards the light. It concludes with the notion that verbal prowess is a controlled form of danger that can lead to redemption and personal growth.

Keywords

💡Competence

Competence refers to the ability and confidence to perform tasks effectively and efficiently. In the video, it is emphasized as a necessary trait for individuals to navigate the complexities of life successfully. The speaker argues that being competent is a way to be prepared for life's challenges and to avoid the pitfalls of weakness.

💡Dangerous

In the context of the video, being 'dangerous' is not about being harmful or cruel, but rather about being a formidable and strong presence that can withstand life's difficulties. It is about having the capacity to be powerful, yet choosing to control that power and use it responsibly.

💡Meek

The term 'meek' is often associated with being gentle and submissive. However, in the video, it is suggested that the true meaning of meek is more nuanced, referring to those who have the capacity to wield power (like a sword) but choose to keep it sheathed. This interpretation emphasizes strength and self-control over passivity.

💡Strength

Strength, as discussed in the video, is the inner resilience and capability that enables individuals to be good and to face life's adversities without succumbing to bitterness or negativity. It is the antithesis of weakness and is seen as a foundational quality for goodness.

💡Articulate

Articulate refers to the ability to express oneself clearly and effectively, which is highlighted in the video as a crucial skill for individuals to assert their presence and competence in the world. Being articulate is seen as a form of power that can be used to influence and persuade.

💡Verbal Competence

Verbal competence is the ability to communicate effectively using language. In the video, it is portrayed as a powerful tool that can make an individual formidable, not through aggression, but through the ability to marshal arguments and present ideas compellingly.

💡Martial Arts

Martial arts are systems of combat and self-defense that often involve physical training, mental discipline, and the learning of techniques to control or defeat an opponent. In the video, martial arts serve as an example of how one can learn to be dangerous while also learning to control that danger.

💡Alienation

Alienation refers to the feeling of being disconnected or estranged from one's social environment or from aspects of oneself. In the video, it is discussed in relation to young men feeling disconnected from their rightful place in society and the importance of finding a voice to articulate this experience.

💡Rap and Hip-Hop

Rap and hip-hop are musical genres characterized by rhythmic speech and street vernacular. In the video, these genres are presented as a form of expression for the alienated and underprivileged, providing a voice and a platform for those who might otherwise feel unheard.

💡Redemptive Power

The redemptive power refers to the ability of individuals or art forms to transform negative experiences or emotions into positive or constructive outcomes. In the video, it is suggested that the power of verbal facility and artistic expression can redeem and uplift those who feel marginalized.

💡Logos

Logos, in a broad sense, refers to the principle of reason, knowledge, and speech. In the video, it is described as the redemptive power of articulate language and thought, which can manifest in various forms, such as comedy or music, to inspire and captivate audiences.

Highlights

The importance of being competent and dangerous in the world is emphasized, as it is seen as an alternative to weakness.

Dangerous in this context does not mean being cruel, but rather formidable to effectively navigate the challenges of life.

The concept of the 'meek' in the New Testament is clarified, suggesting that it refers to those who have power but choose to keep it sheathed.

The necessity of being powerful and formidable before striving for peace is discussed.

The misconception of equating harmlessness with moral virtue is critiqued.

The value of martial arts is highlighted, not just for their capacity to make one dangerous, but also for teaching control.

The importance of verbal competence and articulate communication is stressed as a means of becoming more dangerous in a non-violent way.

The particular significance of teaching verbal competence to boys is mentioned, as it can greatly increase their formidable nature.

The link between verbal facility and the power to articulate the experiences of the underclass, as seen in rap and hip-hop, is explored.

The alienation felt by young men and the struggle for their rightful place in society is discussed, drawing parallels with ancient stories and modern music.

The power of logos and its redemptive potential is exemplified by the spontaneous rap performance at a comedy club.

The captivating charisma of artists who can channel and control their anger is highlighted, using Johnny Rotten as an example.

The transformation of anger into compelling art, as demonstrated by punk rock and artists like Johnny Rotten, is noted.

The satirical brilliance of Sid Vicious' version of 'My Way' is praised as a work of genius.

The discussion emphasizes the importance of developing competence and dangerousness as a means to withstand life's tragedies and responsibilities.

The transcript argues against the encouragement of naivety, weakness, and harmlessness, especially in young men.

The potential for young men to identify with the powerful voices in rap and hip-hop, which resonate with their own feelings of alienation, is recognized.

The transcript suggests that the ability to articulate and control one's words and actions is a key to taking one's rightful place in society.

Transcripts

it's very helpful for people to hear

that they should make themselves

competent and dangerous and take their

proper place in the world competent and

dangerous why dangerous because it's the

alternative to being weak and weak is

not good the people who shoot up the

high schools they're weak they're weak

how is it good to be dangerous

because it makes you formidable and life

is a very difficult process you're not

prepared for it unless unless you have

the capacity to be dangerous that

doesn't mean that you should be cruel it

doesn't mean any of that there's a

statement in the New Testament the meek

shall inherit the Earth but the meek

isn't well translated it means something

more like those who those who have

swords and know how to use them but keep

them sheathed will inherit the world

that's a way better way of thinking

about it you have to be powerful and

formidable and then peaceful in that

order and that's not the same as being

naive and weak and harmless which is

what young men are being encouraged to

be it's like that's a very bad idea it's

a very bad idea because naive weak and

harmless means that you can't withstand

the tragedies of life you can't bear any

responsibility you'll end up bitter and

when you get bitter then you get

dangerous but one thing I'm not getting

there's a big difference between letting

people do something for themselves and

saying men should be dangerous

by dangerous that implies I should be

ready to threaten someone to hurt

somebody no you should be capable of it

but that doesn't mean you should use it

there's nothing to you otherwise like if

you're not a formidable Force there's

not there's no morality in your

self-control if you're incapable of

violence not being violent isn't a

virtue people who teach martial arts

know this full well right if you learn a

martial art you learn to be dangerous

but simultaneously you learn to control

it both of those come together and the

combination of that capacity for danger

and the capacity for control is what

brings about the virtue otherwise you

confuse weakness with with moral virtue

I'm harmless therefore I'm good it's

like no that isn't how it works that

isn't how it works at all if you're

harmless you're just weak and if you're

weak you're not going to be good you

can't be because it takes strength to be

good it's very difficult to be good

you said that a harmless man is not a

good man A Good Man is a very dangerous

man who has that under voluntary control

how should people become more dangerous

oh becoming more articulate is

definitely I would say that's the

primary array of weapons so mean

physical prowess is something and it's

not nothing that physical confidence

that comes along with that as well but

the same thing replicated at the level

of the ability to communicate and to

think that's way broader field of of

battle and opportunity

so this is one thing that isn't taught

well especially to boys it's more

important to teach it to boys I would

say because they're more skeptical of

such the educational Enterprise in

general generally speaking partly

because they're less obedient partly

because they're less agreeable that's

particularly true for disagreeable boys

and agreeable boys get higher grades

independent of their IQ and their and

their academic achievement because

they're easier to deal with so what do

you tell disagreeable boys there's

nothing that makes you more formidable

than verbal competence than being able

to articulate be able to think to

Marshal your arguments right it's a

battlefield metaphor get everything in

order it all your information straight

so to Marshal your forces so I mean

that's part of the reason that rap

artists are so popular especially among

disaffected young men black and white

alike because they're unbelievably

articulate they have this incredible

verbal prowess it's unbelievably

attractive you know and it's associated

with genuine artistic and Redemptive

activity often focusing on something

that's approximately the voice of the

underclass let's say but a powerful

voice right and it's interesting to see

how many young white guys identify with

that was it aldously that wrote dolls of

perception yeah yeah so this is kind of

an equivalent of that right that you

have a experience which many people

struggle to articulate you take the best

of us the one that has the most precise

most articulate erudite language you

drop them in and you say Okay show us

what you've learned this is the

equivalent but for just a different

Community a different sort of life that

maybe you don't have the ability to

describe what it feels like to live on a

council estate in Manchester or in you

know the one of the neighborhoods of

Brooklyn or whatever it might be and

then this person can

and it feels like it's your voice yeah

well you still if you're a young man you

still feel alienated from your place as

rightful error of the proper Kingdom I

mean that's an existential truism for

everyone for every particularly for

every young man because he is an

outsider in many ways he's young and

juvenile and not very highly valued and

and then is is in some sense hurt by the

inadequacies of the current King the

current culture and is easily turned

against it because of that and that's

the machinations of the evil Uncle

that's the King Arthur's story that's

the story of Horus Horus and Osiris it's

an Ancient Ancient story it's the story

of Sauron and it's there all the time

and you see in that in rap music in

hip-hop the all of that alienation being

given an articulated voice in in an

artistic sense and that's a good example

of the power of verbal facility and

that's the route to let's say marketing

education to young man it's like you

want to take your rightful place in the

Kingdom it's like get your tongue

straight man get it on under control in

the highest possible sense we went to a

comedy club Tammy and ion in New York

the comedy seller it's a great comedy

club and the last Comic was an English

guy and uh he was not particularly

physically pre-possessing and he he made

a lot of jokes about that and it was

quite funny and then he divided the

audience into five sections and he asked

each section to toss up a topic just to

Yellow the topic and they were like

random topics like the Kennedy

assassination and electric lighting

before 1890 those were two of the topics

and the other three were just as diverse

and then he put on some beats and he did

about an eight minute wrap

with every verse rhymed

and he tied the whole thing together at

the end and ended at the end of the

music all spontaneously it was

unbelievable

and that's logos man that's the

Redemptive power of the logos right

there the magic word the sacred word

it's just manifesting itself on stage

this is something very impressive

something about that that does feel

dangerous as well and not in a I need to

be concerned and they should be

contaminated and walled off but in a way

that you think that person has so much

competence that it it's flowing out of

them and you almost feel competent by

being around them so but you certainly

feel confident by appreciating it right

because it speaks to the part of you

that is capable of appreciating such

things you think wow that's really

something that's really that's an

amazing display that's an amazing thing

to see amazing right a very interesting

word amazing and you're you're trapped

and you're trapped by the Charisma of

that and that Charisma that's not

nothing that's that's a signal of

something Redemptive occurring that that

accounts for virtually all of the

attraction of hip-hop and raps the

articulate articulated voice of the

struggling but worthy underclass I

suppose that's a good way of putting it

but those who are alienated

from their rightful place and so that

verbal prowess is one of the ways they

struggle up towards the light you know

and and that that's a good example of

that uh of having that danger under

control because it's a dark genre in

many ways right it's it's a there's a

there's a there's a real undercurrent an

air of violence that surrounds that and

its culture like the punk movement in

the in in the UK back in the late 70s

same same sort of thing but that that

capacity to express that in a poetic

manner in a compelling manner Joni

rotten was great at that he's so intense

he has a song called rise which I used

to show my my clients all the time when

I was starting uh assertiveness training

with them I'd put on Johnny rotten's

rise and the line in there is anger is

an energy and he's got these

unbelievably intense eyes anger is an

energy you bet and John Lyden man he

could Channel out like almost no one

I've ever seen he'd get that anger built

up inside him and then it was completely

under control and he expressed it in his

music and he's absolutely captivating

unbelievably charismatic and I really

liked his music that raw anger and the

music that but it was

it was in the bloody music wasn't it

wasn't some random Riot you know he

transmuted that into something you know

you can argue about the poetic merits of

um of punk rock although I don't think

you should I mean uh I Did It My Way Sid

vicious's version of it did it my way my

God that's a work of Genius that it's so

it's so brilliantly satirical