The Totalitarians Won’t Stop Until One of Us is Destroyed
Peak Prosperity
Deep Dive
Why do people often fall for absurd narratives during mass formations?
People fall for absurd narratives during mass formations because they are driven by emotional reasons, often to regulate anxiety and other emotions, rather than rational thinking. These narratives, spread through mass media, can be clearly seen as wrong by an outside observer, but those under the influence of mass formation become completely blind to any evidence against the narrative.
Why is the belief in human rationality considered a dangerous myth?
The belief in human rationality is considered a dangerous myth because it leads people to think they can control and predict everything, which is impossible. This delusion often results in irrational and destructive behaviors, such as those seen during the Corona crisis. True human understanding involves recognizing the limits of rationality and focusing on ethical principles.
Why does the rationalist worldview lead to irrationality and destruction?
The rationalist worldview leads to irrationality and destruction because it pretends that all uncertainty can be eliminated through perfect rational knowledge. This illusion causes people to ignore the ethical and metaphysical dimensions of life, leading to absurd beliefs and destructive actions. For instance, during the Corona crisis, many irrational measures were taken that had no realistic effect.
Why is uncertainty central to human life?
Uncertainty is central to human life because it is the precondition for our existence as human beings. Unlike animals, whose communication systems have a one-to-one relationship between signs and meanings, human language is constantly evolving and uncertain. This uncertainty drives us to explore and articulate our own answers to life's big questions, making it a crucial aspect of our development and humanity.
Why do totalitarian systems impose strict control and uniformity?
Totalitarian systems impose strict control and uniformity to eliminate the small window of freedom where individuals can make their own subjective choices based on ethical awareness. These systems aim to uniformize society by controlling what people eat, wear, and even think, thereby stripping individuals of their ability to lead authentic lives and make ethical decisions.
Why do some people want to be controlled rather than free?
Some people want to be controlled rather than free because freedom comes with responsibility, which can be time-consuming and energy-draining. Being controlled provides a sense of stability and reduces the need for personal decision-making and self-reflection. This is why totalitarian systems can thrive when a significant portion of the population buys into the narrative and propaganda.
Why is the current system described as a 'diabolic pact' between the elite and the masses?
The current system is described as a 'diabolic pact' between the elite and the masses because it relies on both groups for its existence. The elite spreads the narrative and controls public opinion, while the masses buy into the propaganda to regulate their anxiety and frustration. Without the masses, there can be no totalitarianism, and without the elite, the masses would not have a narrative to follow.
Why can speaking the truth make you lose something in the world of appearances?
Speaking the truth can make you lose something in the world of appearances because it challenges the prevailing narratives and illusions that many people rely on for their sense of stability. This can lead to social ostracization, loss of reputation, and other forms of backlash. However, it also grants you a new sense of strength and purpose in the real world, as you break through the wall of appearances and connect with deeper truths.
Why are mass formations often initially spontaneous but then controlled by propaganda?
Mass formations are often initially spontaneous due to a collective emotional response or shared anxiety. However, they are quickly controlled by propaganda and indoctrination, which can extend their duration and intensity. Without these controlling mechanisms, mass formations typically dissolve quickly. This is why totalitarian systems use sophisticated propaganda to maintain and manipulate mass formations for extended periods.
Why is the current censorship and control of public opinion considered the worst in history?
The current censorship and control of public opinion are considered the worst in history because they are subtle and pervasive, leveraging advanced technology like AI to manipulate and customize narratives. This atomized mass formation ensures that different groups are fed tailored information, keeping them isolated and preventing the spread of dissenting voices. The sophistication of these methods makes it difficult to detect and resist.
- Many people don't want freedom due to the responsibility it entails.
- Human beings are not inherently rational.
- Rationality should not be the sole guiding principle in society.
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