Jordan Peterson Deserves a Closer Reading Than the Media Gives Him

“With that mindset, no wonder we feel bitter, absurd, and helpless. Even though we are living in great times, it is hard to see it.”

Jordan Peterson’s 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos is filled with not only psychology—but also mythology, literature, subjective views, and even modern references. Who would think when discussing a man’s posture you could reference Fifty Shades of Grey? Moreover, the book undertakes a huge journey with twists and turns into philosophy, psychoanalysis, the world of archetypes, and self-reflection. Just when you think you’ve found a crack in the author’s reasoning, Peterson has an answer waiting on the next page, anticipating your criticism before you can make it.

I desperately looked for an excellent interview with Peterson on the book—or at least an adequate review of the book. I looked for someone who actually read the book—not just the bullet points that publishers release. Sadly, most mainstream media journalists do not read these days. Being on Twitter does not qualify as reading, where sensation and clickbait have taken over. They’ve shut off all the sensors of critical thinking and responsibility. But, this piece is not about the media. It’s about trying to find an in-depth examination of this important book and finding none.

What might surprise people after starting 12 Rules for Life is the long-lost damage done by news and social media. After all, they continuously strive to increase the insanity of our perceptions. When someone hears a title like 12 Rules, or “Five tricks” or “Three Easy Hacks,” they are trained to think these are simple things that are easy to understand and follow. But as soon as one starts to read Peterson, they’re quick to find nothing easy about it.