PDF Summary:The Right Side of History, by Ben Shapiro

In The Right Side of History, Ben Shapiro argues that the rise of Western civilization stems from Judeo-Christian moral principles combined with ancient Greek philosophical reason. He contends that modern problems—authoritarian regimes, ideological conflicts, societal division—originate from abandoning these core Western values in favor of secular philosophies that devalue the individual, discard objective truth, and lack a coherent ethical framework.

Shapiro examines the troubling real-world impacts of rejecting tradition: how moral relativism empowered Nazism and Soviet communism, how championing group identity over individualism stokes societal rifts, and how forsaking reason fuels existential despair and a modern return to tribalistic mentalities. Ultimately, he calls on society to reaffirm its founding Judeo-Christian/Greek ideals to preserve human freedom and flourishing.

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Practical Tips

• Create a "bias jar" similar to a swear jar. Whenever you catch yourself making a statement or decision based on emotion rather than fact, put a coin in the jar. This tangible action serves as a reminder to pause and consider the objective truth before acting. Over time, you may notice a decrease in emotionally driven decisions as you become more conscious of your biases.
• Initiate conversations with friends or family about the role of despair in shaping worldviews. Use these discussions to explore different perspectives and understand how others find meaning in life. This can be a way to feel less isolated in your experiences and to discover new approaches to dealing with existential concerns.
• Create a 'significance map' of your local community by identifying places, people, and activities that hold personal importance to you. This could involve mapping out spots where you've had meaningful experiences, like a park bench where you had a deep conversation with a friend or a local café where you enjoy moments of solitude. Visit these places regularly to remind yourself of the personal significance they hold in your life.

Abandoning the fundamental ethical and metaphysical principles led to the emergence of disastrous doctrines like nationalism, and ideologies such as communism and Nazism.

Shapiro argues that the Enlightenment period was marked by a shift away from religious figures and embraced a viewpoint that paved the way for both moral and intellectual relativism, subsequently leading to dangerous ideologies filling the resulting void. The emergence of flawed principles during the Enlightenment led to the advent of romantic nationalism, the idea of shared wealth distribution, and the faith in technocratic progressivism, which together fostered a renewed sense of purpose and community identity, often at the expense of personal freedoms and with a toll on human lives.

In their quest to lay new groundwork for meaning and identity, these ideologies often resulted in the erosion of personal freedoms and the sacrifice of human lives.

Shapiro ascribes the rise of various harmful ideologies to a significant deviation from the core principles of the West that occurred during a period known as the Enlightenment. The exaltation of national unity and state sovereignty quickly evolved into a belligerent imperialistic ambition aiming for territorial enlargement. The conviction that society is inherently divided into conflicting classes, coupled with the utopian aspiration for a classless community, is a fundamental aspect of Marxist ideology and has precipitated countless fatalities under communist regimes. The conviction that scientific progress could drive societal betterment culminated in the horrific implementation of eugenic policies under the pretense of advanced technocracy. Shapiro argues that such ideologies emerged by rejecting the notion that each person has intrinsic worth and by disputing the existence of a rationally organized universe with a discernible objective.

Other Perspectives

• The Enlightenment itself was a complex movement with diverse thinkers, and it is an oversimplification to attribute the rise of harmful ideologies to a deviation from its core principles without considering other historical, social, and economic factors.
• Some argue that a strong sense of national unity and state sovereignty can actually prevent imperialistic tendencies by fostering a focus on national self-determination and respect for the sovereignty of other nations.
• The concept of class struggle is an analysis of historical and social conditions, and while it has been associated with violent revolutions, it can also be a tool for understanding social dynamics and advocating for peaceful reforms.
• The belief in scientific progress as a driver for societal betterment does not inherently lead to eugenic policies; it is the misapplication of scientific principles and unethical policymaking that result in such outcomes.
• The concept of a rationally organized universe with a discernible objective is itself a philosophical position that can be debated, and its rejection does not necessarily lead to harmful ideologies.

The 20th-century existentialist movement underscored the importance of individual perspective and the intrinsic lack of any universal meaning.

Shapiro suggests that following the Second World War, the rise of existentialist thought reflects a rejection of the Enlightenment's immutable truths, which in turn precipitated a crisis concerning the meaning of existence. Existentialist thinkers, facing the horrors that characterized the 20th century, saw people as fundamentally alone in a chaotic, purposeless universe, forced to create their own meaning in the face of a vast indifference.

Philosophers such as Kierkegaard, along with figures like Heidegger and Sartre, suggested that without a divine entity or a universal truth, humans live in isolation, lacking intrinsic significance.

Shapiro delves into the responses of existentialist philosophers such as Kierkegaard, Heidegger, and Sartre to the erosion of rational thought and the crumbling of traditional moral values, emphasizing their belief that the universe is devoid of intrinsic meaning and that people are solitary beings without any innate purpose. Individuals must forge their own meaning in a cosmos devoid of inherent value, as they believe that truth varies with each person's viewpoint. Existentialism, while promoting deep self-reflection, ultimately diminishes the capacity for collective and personal advancement by not offering a shared framework for significance or collaborative action. This, Shapiro argues, contributed to the fragmentation and nihilism characteristic of much postmodern thought.

Context

• Martin Heidegger explored the concept of "Being" and argued that humans must confront the "nothingness" of existence to live authentically. He believed that understanding our own mortality is key to finding personal meaning.
• The themes of existentialism have permeated popular culture, inspiring works in film, literature, and art that explore the search for meaning in an indifferent universe.
• Postmodernism, which emerged in the mid-20th century, further explores the idea of subjective truth by deconstructing narratives and questioning the existence of any overarching truths or metanarratives.
• Unlike existentialism, philosophies like utilitarianism or Kantian ethics offer more structured approaches to morality and decision-making, providing clearer guidelines for collective action.
• The existentialist rejection of absolute truths can lead to moral relativism, where ethical standards become subjective and variable, contributing to the perceived moral ambiguity in postmodern societies.

The foundational principles that molded the United States are meticulously explored in conjunction with an analysis that questions the Enlightenment's doubt and the notion of variable moral standards.

Shapiro posits that the founding of the United States, while significantly shaped by Enlightenment ideas, particularly those of John Locke, actually represents a seamless integration of the moral principles derived from Judeo-Christian traditions with the logical reasoning from ancient Greece, laying the groundwork for a political system that upholds individual liberty as well as societal welfare. The founders of our country firmly believed in a deliberately designed universe governed by essential principles, and they held the belief that a supreme entity granted every person inherent rights that cannot be violated. They recognized the individual and communal values at the heart of Western civilization, and they sought to establish a system of governance that would uphold and protect those values for generations to come.

The establishment of the United States was anchored in a mix of Judeo-Christian morals and the logical tenets of Greek thought, as evidenced by their incorporation into both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.

Shapiro argues that unlike the French Revolution, the founding of America did not completely reject historical traditions. The moral framework upon which the founders established their principles was enriched by the ethical teachings of Judeo-Christianity, complemented by the intellectual legacy of Greek philosophy, and also inspired by Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke. The confluence of those traditions, according to Shapiro, is what makes the American system of governance so unique and successful.

The founders of our country were firm proponents of a government with restricted authority, dedicated to maintaining the rule of law in order to protect our inherent rights, which are bestowed by the Divine.

Shapiro explains that the American founding was predicated on the belief in natural rights – rights that are inherent in all human beings simply by virtue of their existence. The belief that every individual is created in the image of the divine, thereby granting them inherent dignity and value, stems from their deep-seated belief derived from holy texts. The founders of our fundamental values firmly believed that certain unassailable freedoms, including the ability to live autonomously, experience freedom, and pursue individual satisfaction, predated the formation of any state and were not bestowed by any terrestrial authority. Their purpose in constructing the American government, therefore, was not to create a utopian society but to establish a system of laws and institutions that would protect these fundamental rights, thereby allowing individuals and communities to flourish in freedom.

Practical Tips

• You can reflect on your daily interactions and identify moments where you could acknowledge and respect others' natural rights. For example, when you're in a debate or disagreement, consciously ensure you're not dismissing the other person's right to their opinion, even if it differs from yours. This practice can help foster a culture of mutual respect and understanding in your personal and professional relationships.
• You can start a daily affirmation practice to recognize your own dignity and value. Write down three affirmations each morning that reflect your inherent worth, such as "I am valuable," "My ideas matter," or "I deserve respect." This practice can help reinforce your self-worth and remind you of your own dignity on a daily basis.
• Start a "satisfaction challenge" by setting aside one week where you make choices based solely on what would bring you the most satisfaction, within the bounds of your responsibilities. This could involve choosing a type of exercise you genuinely enjoy over one that is merely routine, or cooking a favorite meal instead of opting for convenience. The goal is to prioritize personal satisfaction and observe the impact on your overall well-being.
• Write letters to your representatives about specific issues concerning the protection of fundamental rights. This personal approach to advocacy puts the issues you care about directly in front of those who have the power to make changes. By articulating your concerns and suggesting solutions, you play an active role in shaping the policies that affect everyone's rights.
• You can foster individual and community growth by volunteering to mentor someone in your field. By sharing your knowledge and experience, you help others to flourish, which is a fundamental principle of creating a supportive environment. For example, if you're skilled in graphic design, offer to guide a local student or a peer who's looking to improve their skills.

They considered the chase for individual and shared virtues, along with the realization of personal and communal potential, essential for a community to flourish in freedom and prosperity.

Shapiro contends that the Founding Fathers understood that a free and prosperous society could not be maintained solely through a framework of laws and institutions. A thriving republic consists of individuals who pursue their own ambitions while concurrently committing to the community's collective well-being, recognizing that personal freedom is crucial but must be balanced with personal responsibility, as individual rights are intertwined with societal duties. They further understood the importance of societal resilience, noting that a strong fabric of volunteer associations and public institutions is essential for upholding the fundamental American principles of personal liberty and collective cultural values.

Practical Tips

• Create a "community contribution" chart to track and plan your societal duties. Set goals for community service, like volunteering at a local shelter or participating in a neighborhood clean-up, and mark your progress weekly. This visual representation can serve as a reminder of your societal duties and motivate you to balance your individual rights with community responsibilities.
• You can foster community resilience by volunteering with local organizations that focus on disaster preparedness. By doing so, you contribute to a network of trained individuals who can respond effectively in times of crisis. For example, you might join a neighborhood emergency response team and participate in training sessions that teach you how to provide basic medical aid or how to safely evacuate people during a natural disaster.
• You can support personal liberty by volunteering for a digital literacy program in your community. By teaching others how to safely and effectively use the internet, you empower them with the knowledge to access information, express their opinions, and protect their privacy online. For example, partner with a local library to offer weekly classes on topics like setting up secure passwords, identifying misinformation, and using social media responsibly.

Contemporary thinkers, including Pinker, have endeavored to reignite the core tenets of the Enlightenment; however, this approach falls short.

While Shapiro praises certain thinkers for their dedication to reestablishing the importance of logical reasoning and empirical understanding, and for promoting a worldview that prioritizes human concerns and ideals after the horrors of the 20th century, he argues that their approach is inadequate because it does not provide a robust basis for the timeless values it promotes. By opting to embrace certain tenets that emerged from the period known as the Enlightenment while neglecting the historical and philosophical roots of these notions, these intellectuals struggle to make a compelling case for the lasting importance of these ideas.

Some wrestle with the difficulty of formulating ethical and governmental principles independent of the traditional foundations associated with Western culture.

Shapiro argues that while Pinker correctly celebrates the positive outcomes stemming from Enlightenment thought, including advancements in human rights, a decrease in violent incidents, and a boost in economic prosperity, he fails to adequately scrutinize the underlying philosophical tenets that have led to these successes. Pinker struggles to maintain the complete authenticity of the values he champions while he minimizes the importance of the moral tenets that originate from the religious beliefs entrenched in Judaism and Christianity, as well as the teleological aspects of ancient Greek philosophy. He assumes the intrinsic worth of commitment to human progress and well-being, failing to acknowledge how the religious and philosophical foundations of Western civilization have shaped these ideals.

Practical Tips

• You can explore your own moral compass by journaling about ethical dilemmas you encounter in daily life. Write down situations where you had to make a tough choice and reflect on the values that guided your decision. This practice helps you understand your personal ethics outside of religious or philosophical doctrines.
• Volunteer for initiatives that aim to improve human conditions. Choose a local organization that aligns with your values and offer your time or skills. This could be anything from tutoring underprivileged children to participating in environmental clean-ups.
• You can explore the influence of religious and philosophical ideas on Western civilization by creating a personal journal. Start by reading a variety of foundational texts from Western religious and philosophical traditions, such as the Bible, the works of Plato, or the writings of Enlightenment philosophers. As you read, jot down thoughts on how these texts might have shaped modern Western values, laws, and societal structures. This reflective practice can deepen your understanding of the cultural and historical contexts that influence contemporary Western thought.

They often engage in circular reasoning, which undermines the foundational principles of liberal democracy.

Shapiro argues that Pinker's attempts to uphold the core values of the Enlightenment, including reason, evidence-based knowledge, and the focus on human welfare, ultimately become circular. He assumes the progress and prosperity of humanity to be beneficial, yet he fails to provide any external justification for this claim. Pinker's implicit endorsement of a form of moral and epistemic relativism, which arises when he overlooks the foundational elements of Judeo-Christian ethics and the Greek quest for transcendent objectives, weakens the very tenets he advocates.

Other Perspectives

• Circular reasoning is not unique to any particular political or philosophical system and does not necessarily undermine liberal democracy more than any other system.
• It could be argued that Enlightenment values themselves provide the tools for their own justification, through rational discourse and the scientific method, rather than requiring an external moral framework.
• The assumption that progress and prosperity are beneficial can be justified by historical evidence showing improvements in quality of life, health, and longevity as societies have progressed.
• The claim that Pinker overlooks Judeo-Christian ethics and Greek philosophy could be challenged by pointing out that one can respect these traditions while still advocating for Enlightenment principles.

The disastrous real-world consequences of abandoning traditional values

Shapiro contends that casting aside the ethical guidance rooted in Judeo-Christian values, along with forsaking the legacy of logical reasoning from the Greeks, has led to an increase in authoritarian ideologies and widespread conflict instead of heralding an era of peace and prosperity. The belief that humanity could be entirely refined, that a utopian society was achievable, or that a world ruled by scientific principles was possible, led to the horrors perpetrated by Marxist regimes and the genocidal deeds carried out by the Nazi regime. In his recent discussions, Shapiro argues that society's divisions and turmoil have been intensified by the cultural Left's departure from the core tenets of Western civilization, which in turn has weakened the traditional frameworks that protect individual liberties.

Ideologies of a totalitarian nature, including Nazism and communism, which have their origins in Enlightenment skepticism, led to the demise of countless individuals.

Shapiro argues that modern thinkers, who assert their ideas stem from the Enlightenment era, are actually spreading concepts that have traditionally set the stage for totalitarian governments to emerge over the past century. The forsaking of principles grounded in the ethical instructions of Christianity and the purpose-driven philosophies of the ancient Greeks resulted in a gap in moral direction, swiftly filled by the enticing promises of utopian, communal beliefs. The ideologies of Nazism and Communism, which held the belief that societal transformation mandated by the state could enhance and refine human existence, resulted in unspeakable suffering and countless deaths.

These endeavors sought to transform society and humanity according to utopian schemes, completely disregarding individual liberties.

Shapiro contends that the brutal violence characteristic of authoritarian regimes like Nazism and Communism stemmed from their shared objective to forge an ideal society by coercively reshaping its social structure and the people within it. These philosophies negated the inherent worth and self-determination of individuals, viewing them simply as elements in an extensive societal machine, to be manipulated and sacrificed for what is perceived as a greater communal objective. The gravest horrors in history have consistently stemmed from disregarding the importance of the individual and possessing an unwavering belief in the effectiveness of state-imposed collective measures.

Other Perspectives

• The use of brutal violence in authoritarian regimes is not solely a function of their utopian goals but can also be attributed to the consolidation of power and the suppression of dissent, which can occur even in the absence of utopian objectives.
• While these regimes did aim to reshape society, it can be argued that their methods were not solely coercive; they also relied on propaganda and ideological persuasion to gain voluntary compliance from many individuals.
• The notion of a "greater communal objective" can be aligned with individual liberties if the process of determining that objective is democratic and includes the participation and consent of the individuals involved.
• State-imposed measures are sometimes necessary to protect individual rights, as in the case of laws against discrimination and hate speech.

The cultural Left's embrace of the notion that moral values are not absolute but rather personal and the prioritization of group identity over individual attributes have deepened societal rifts, eroded communal bonds, and threatened the core tenets of a liberal democratic system.

Shapiro suggests that while we have moved past the most severe expressions of skepticism that arose during the Enlightenment, a contemporary form of cultural Leftism continues to undermine the foundations of Western civilization. The rise of modern Leftist ideology, marked by its endorsement of moral relativism, emphasis on collective identity rather than personal uniqueness, and the rejection of logical reasoning, has eroded the core principles that traditionally protected individual liberties, resulting in increased social fragmentation and conflict.

The atmosphere has grown increasingly antagonistic toward the practice of open discourse and critical discussion, largely because universally acknowledged truths are being dismissed and due to the impact of intersectional theory.

The writer argues in "The Right Side of History" that the cultural Left's embrace of concepts like intersectionality has created an environment that is hostile to reasoned debate and the pursuit of verifiable truths. Intersectionality promotes a perspective that categorizes individuals by their race, gender, and sexual orientation, which leads to a focus on power dynamics over logical discourse and considers truth to be relative to individual perspective. Shapiro contends that the emphasis on personal viewpoints has undermined essential frameworks that sustain the free exchange of thoughts, resulting in the stifling of opposing opinions and fostering a climate of intimidation and antagonism that threatens the foundational tenets of a liberated society.

Practical Tips

• Start a 'Dinner Table Topics' jar to encourage open discourse at home. Write down a variety of thought-provoking questions on slips of paper and place them in a jar. During family dinners or gatherings with friends, pull out a question and use it as a starting point for a discussion. This can help create a safe space for sharing different viewpoints and practicing respectful debate.
• Start a conversation with friends or family where each person brings a commonly accepted truth and discusses its validity. This can be done during regular get-togethers or as a dedicated "truth discussion" night. It's a way to expose yourself to different perspectives and understand the reasons behind the acceptance or dismissal of certain truths.
• Develop a habit of conducting "Intersectional Analysis" before forming opinions on social or political issues. This involves researching the historical and cultural context of the issue, considering the perspectives of various intersecting groups, and then synthesizing this information to form a more nuanced viewpoint. By doing this, you train yourself to consider multiple facets of an issue, which can lead to more informed and less hostile debates.
• You can start a personal journal to reflect on your own experiences with race, gender, and sexual orientation. Write daily or weekly entries about situations where you noticed intersectionality at play in your life or in the lives of those around you. This could include reflecting on a news story, a personal interaction, or even a policy at work or school. The act of writing helps to solidify your understanding of these concepts and how they affect individuals.
• You can analyze your own conversations for power dynamics by keeping a journal where you note down interactions and reflect on how power played a role. After a discussion or debate, write down who held the most influence, what the power sources were (such as social status, knowledge, or eloquence), and how it affected the logical flow of the conversation. This will help you become more aware of power dynamics in real-time and may guide you in adjusting your approach to communication.
• Create a "perspective map" for decision-making. When faced with a decision, draw a mind map that includes various individuals or groups that might be affected by your choice. For each, list potential viewpoints and outcomes based on their unique circumstances. This will encourage you to consider a broader range of impacts and recognize the subjectivity inherent in any decision.
• Volunteer to moderate or participate in local community debates, ensuring you take the time to research and understand all sides of the issue at hand. This real-world application helps you practice the art of free thought exchange and appreciate the value of diverse viewpoints in public discourse.
• Develop a personal policy of "Active Encouragement" where you make it a point to give at least one genuine compliment or word of support to someone each day. This habit can contribute to a more supportive atmosphere around you. For instance, praising a coworker's presentation can boost their confidence and promote a culture of positivity.
• Create a habit of engaging in conversations with a diverse group of people about their views on freedom and society. Approach these discussions with curiosity rather than debate, aiming to listen and understand different perspectives. This can broaden your understanding of how various individuals perceive and value the tenets of a liberated society.

The contemporary debate over the importance and truthfulness of ideas is marked by an increased interest in polytheistic ideologies and a rejection of logic and definitive certainties.

Ben Shapiro argues that the profound existential crisis facing modern Western society is a result of straying from the core principles that were crucial to its success. Our quest for purpose has thus faltered, giving rise to tribal tendencies and a rejection of reason and timeless truths.

In their search for meaning, many people have shifted towards various forms of modern paganism and ideologies centered on individualism following the erosion of traditional moral and metaphysical systems.

Shapiro notes that modern forms of paganism are seeping into Western culture, not through a return to ritual sacrifices, but by abandoning the belief in intrinsic value and the tradition of engaging in logical debate. Prioritizing feelings over concrete evidence, an obsession with self-indulgence disconnected from any deeper purpose, and valuing collective identities over individual freedom reflect the chaotic, self-centered characteristics common to the old pagan religions.

The cultural Left has advocated for a renewed emphasis on group identity and highly personalized perspectives, while simultaneously downplaying the significance of rational thought and factual evidence.

Shapiro contends that the cultural Left's advocacy for identity politics and intersectionality, along with their denial of objective truths, inadvertently leads to a revival of tribalistic behavior and a reality based on personal perception, echoing the pre-Enlightenment era. He argues that abandoning rationality and time-honored traditions gravely threatens the foundation of individual liberty, which could precipitate the collapse of societal structures, conflict, and ultimately, the crumbling of civilization.

Practical Tips

• Create a book club with friends or colleagues that focuses on reading and discussing literature by authors from various cultural backgrounds. This can be a simple yet effective way to immerse yourself in different perspectives and group identities. Each month, select a book that provides insight into a different culture or social group, and during your discussions, focus on understanding the unique viewpoints and experiences presented.
• You can explore your own identity by creating a personal identity map. Draw a circle with your name in the center, then branch out to different aspects of your identity such as race, gender, class, religion, and sexual orientation. For each branch, write down how you think these aspects have shaped your experiences. This visual representation can help you understand the complexity of your own identity and how it intersects with societal structures.
• You can start a personal truth journal to track instances where you encounter subjective interpretations of facts in your daily life. Each day, jot down moments when you notice subjective truths being presented as objective facts, whether in the media, in conversations, or in your own thoughts. This will help you become more aware of the prevalence of this phenomenon and encourage critical thinking.
• Implement a 'no labels' week in your social interactions, where you consciously avoid categorizing people by their political or cultural affiliations. This can help you see individuals as complex and multifaceted, rather than as representatives of a particular group, which can counteract tribalistic divisions.
• Engage in a "Role Reversal" exercise where you consciously adopt a perspective opposite to your own on a specific issue for a week. This strategy will push you to step out of your comfort zone and explore how adopting a different viewpoint can alter your perception of reality. For instance, if you hold a strong opinion on a political matter, try to understand the reasoning behind the opposing view, discuss it with others, and notice how this affects your perception of the issue.
• You can enhance your decision-making by starting a "rationality diary" where you record daily decisions and the reasoning behind them. This practice encourages you to reflect on your thought processes and identify when emotions or biases might be leading you away from rational choices. For example, if you decide to skip a workout, write down the reasons and assess whether they're based on sound judgment or short-term desires.
• Create a family tree that includes not just names and dates but also traditions and stories associated with your ancestors. This can help you understand the role of traditions in your own lineage and how they've contributed to your family's identity. As you gather information, you might discover patterns, such as certain celebrations or customs that have been important in your family's history, and reflect on how these have shaped your sense of belonging.
• Engage in 'Critical Consumption' by analyzing the media you consume each week to identify instances of irrational thinking or the dismissal of traditions. This habit can sharpen your critical thinking skills and help you recognize and question narratives that may contribute to societal collapse. When watching a news segment or reading an article, take notes on any sensationalism or biases and discuss them with peers to foster a culture of critical analysis.
• You can foster rational dialogue by starting a 'Rationality Reminder' group chat with friends or family. Whenever a discussion starts to veer off into emotional or irrational territory, anyone in the group can send a pre-agreed signal, like an emoji or a keyword, to remind everyone to return to a more rational and tradition-respecting approach. This helps maintain a level-headed conversation and honors established practices that have proven effective over time.
• Engage with traditions by volunteering for a local historical society or heritage group. By actively participating in the preservation of local traditions, you not only contribute to maintaining cultural heritage but also gain a personal understanding of the value these traditions hold in society. This hands-on experience can deepen your appreciation for the role traditions play in maintaining the fabric of a community.

The forsaking of fundamental principles that have traditionally underpinned Western society endangers personal freedoms, communal well-being, and the ongoing advancement of humanity.

Shapiro expresses his concern that abandoning the core pillars of Western civilization, particularly the combination of moral principles that are based in Judeo-Christian traditions with the critical reasoning that began in ancient Greece, might seriously endanger individual liberties, societal well-being, and the continuous progress of humankind. Shapiro argues that the erosion of long-standing values leads to a decline in individual abilities, a weakening of collective moral fortitude, and a fragmentation of community cohesion, thereby threatening the legacy and achievements that define the civilization of the West.

When communities do not share a commitment to undeniable truths, logical reasoning, and the inherent value of every individual, they frequently descend into chaos, oppression, and a deep sense of despair.

Shapiro argues that the profound crisis the West faces goes beyond simple political disagreements, originating from a departure from the core values that have historically defined its character. The waning commitment to Judeo-Christian principles and the core tenets of logical reasoning has led to a rise in subjective thinking, a heightened focus on collective identity, and an escalating aversion to analytical reasoning. He argues that rejecting the concept of absolute truth and the significance of each person could result in societal decay, which might ignite more disputes, exacerbate subjugation, and create an overwhelming feeling of despair.

Context

• The idea reflects a broader historical perspective where societies that have abandoned shared values or truths often experience instability. For example, the fall of the Roman Empire is sometimes attributed to a loss of common civic values and internal discord.
• This is a mode of thought where personal feelings, tastes, or opinions are prioritized over objective facts. It contrasts with objective reasoning, which relies on observable and verifiable data.
• This is the process of evaluating information logically to form conclusions. It involves critical thinking skills, such as identifying assumptions, evaluating arguments, and solving problems systematically.
• This involves the domination or control of individuals or groups, often through oppressive means. It can result from power imbalances and lead to the loss of freedom and autonomy for those subjugated.