Jordan Peterson Broke Down After Hearing This Question…

Summary

In this conversation, Jordan Peterson explores the complexities of happiness, truth, and suffering. He argues that happiness is fleeting and not the ultimate goal of life. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of pursuing meaning, even through hardship, and suggests that the question 'How are you doing?' is more profound than asking 'Are you happy?' Peterson reflects on his experiences with individuals overcoming severe struggles, emphasizing the transformative power of truth. His belief that truth, beauty, and love will ultimately save the world encapsulates his mission to connect with others and navigate life’s challenges.

Takeaways

• 😀 The guest asks Jordan Peterson the question, 'Are you happy?' which sparks a conversation about happiness not being the ultimate goal in life.
• 😀 Jordan Peterson argues that life is not about pursuing happiness, but rather about aiming for deeper, more meaningful experiences.
• 😀 Peterson compares happiness to 'elevator music,' describing it as shallow and lacking depth, unlike profound emotional experiences found in art and music.
• 😀 He discusses the idea that true meaning in life comes from acknowledging suffering and striving for transcendence rather than chasing fleeting happiness.
• 😀 Peterson uses Hank Williams' music as an example of deep emotional expression, showing how suffering and beauty can coexist in powerful art.
• 😀 Happiness should be a gift that comes unexpectedly while pursuing something deeper and more meaningful, rather than being the central pursuit of life.
• 😀 In discussing his own experience, Peterson reveals that people often come up to him, sharing personal stories of despair and triumph, reflecting the deep emotional impact of his work.
• 😀 While the personal stories of triumph are uplifting, Peterson acknowledges that the depth of despair people have endured is emotionally overwhelming for him.
• 😀 He reflects on the significance of his interactions with people, seeing both their despair and their triumph as part of a profound journey of personal transformation.
• 😀 Peterson emphasizes the importance of truth and speaks about his belief that truth, beauty, and love have the potential to save the world, even if the outcome is uncertain.

Q & A

Why does Jordan Peterson say happiness is not the ultimate goal of life?

Jordan Peterson suggests that happiness is fleeting and shallow. He compares it to elevator music, which is harmless but lacks depth. Instead, he emphasizes the pursuit of meaning and transcendence, which can involve suffering but provides a deeper, more fulfilling experience.

How does Peterson view the relationship between happiness and suffering?

Peterson believes that suffering is an integral part of life, and that the pursuit of meaning, even through hardship, is more valuable than seeking happiness. He sees true transcendence as arising from the acknowledgment and navigation of suffering.

What does Peterson mean by 'brilliantly and terribly' in response to 'How are you doing?'

When Peterson responds with 'brilliantly and terribly,' he acknowledges the complexity of life. While he experiences moments of joy and success, he is also confronted by deep human suffering, both his own and that of others, which makes life a mixture of highs and lows.

Why does Peterson prefer music that encompasses both beauty and suffering?

Peterson appreciates music that reflects both beauty and suffering because it conveys the depth of human experience. He uses examples like Hank Williams' blues and early 20th-century black blues, which express both emotional pain and transcendence, as more meaningful than superficial happiness.

What does Peterson believe is a more valuable pursuit than happiness?

Peterson argues that the pursuit of meaning is more valuable than the pursuit of happiness. Meaning involves striving toward something greater, even if it requires facing hardship and suffering. Happiness, on the other hand, is seen as a temporary and superficial emotion.

What role does faith play in Peterson's philosophy?

Faith, for Peterson, is the belief that truth, beauty, and love can ultimately save the world. It is not about believing in the impossible but making a conscious decision to trust that these ideals can guide us toward a better future, despite uncertainty.

How does Peterson feel about the impact his work has had on others?

Peterson feels both humbled and burdened by the impact his work has had. He often meets people who share their struggles with him, including overcoming suicidal thoughts and nihilism. While he finds it meaningful to help others, he also feels the weight of their suffering.

What does Peterson mean when he says, 'truth will save the world'?

Peterson believes that truth has the power to guide individuals and societies toward a better future. By speaking and seeking the truth, despite its often harsh nature, people can confront reality in a way that ultimately leads to growth and improvement.

Why does Peterson say 'you cannot predict how [programs] are going to end'?

Peterson refers to the unpredictable nature of life and the programs he runs, highlighting that even when one seeks truth, the outcomes are uncertain. Life and truth are not always predictable, but it is essential to engage with them honestly, regardless of the results.

How does Peterson view the concept of happiness in relation to personal struggle and triumph?

Peterson suggests that happiness is a gift that comes unexpectedly, often during the pursuit of something meaningful. However, it should not be the focus of one's life. Instead, overcoming struggle and enduring suffering leads to a deeper sense of fulfillment, even if happiness occasionally arises along the way.