PODCAST · history
THE TRUTH ABOUT THE FRENCH REVOLUTION!
by Stefan Molyneux, MA
Join the PREMIUM philosophy community on the web for free!Get access to the audiobook for my new book 'Peaceful Parenting,' StefBOT-AI, private livestreams, premium call in shows, the 22 Part History of Philosophers series!See you soon!https://freedomain.locals.com/support/promo/UPB2022
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Part 12
VIDEO:https://rumble.com/v3ww55s-the-truth-about-the-french-revolution-part-12.htmlBrief SummaryIn this episode, we challenge the notion that history strips individuals of free will and reduces them to passive participants. We emphasize the importance of individual agency in shaping the future. Additionally, we discuss the differences between France and North America and the need to take social risks for the greater good. In conclusion, we invite our listeners to reflect on the significance of individual agency in history and encourage them to support FreedomAid.com. Thank you for joining us on this insightful journey.
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Part 11
In this episode, we explore the dark and often neglected issue of child abuse in French society. We reject the notion that social and economic conditions alone were responsible for the revolution and instead shed light on the rampant problem of child abuse in France. Pedophilia is a significant concern in both France and Germany, with ongoing debates surrounding the age of consent. We discuss how various forms of abuse, including sexual, psychological, and physical, have contributed to a society plagued by trauma.The conversation delves into the topic of childhood sexual abuse within boarding schools, where the objective was to diminish empathy through discomfort and rituals. The aristocracy and the church, due to their involvement in predation and verbal abuse, became targets of public outrage during the revolution. The schools, largely operated by the clergy, were notorious for their violent and abusive practices. It is suggested that the revolutionary attacks were driven by a desire to retaliate against those who had abused both the revolutionaries' parents and themselves.One interesting point raised during the conversation is the attack on the middle class for having escaped from the cycle of child abuse. The speaker discusses the reasons behind this attack, highlighting that it stems from the insecurity and resentment felt by those who were left behind. Additionally, individuals who were negligent or abusive parents may want to attack those advocating for better parenting practices because it exposes their own shortcomings. The speaker expresses a desire to address these issues with compassion and self-preservation.The conversation then draws parallels between childhood sexual abuse and various negative psychological effects. Symptoms such as depression, guilt, self-blame, and relationship problems are highlighted. The speaker also explores Maximilien Robespierre, a leader during the French Revolution, and his potential experiences as a survivor of child abuse. The speaker suggests that Robespierre's behaviors, including prudishness, avoidance of sexual relationships, and emotional distance during intimate moments, align with the effects of childhood sexual abuse. Physical characteristics, such as being small and thin, are noted as potential exacerbators of the abuse's impact.The long-term effects of childhood sexual abuse are further examined, including disturbances in eating habits, sleep issues, paranoia, and digestive problems. The speaker also mentions Freddie Mercury as an example of someone with similar issues, possibly influenced by his experiences at boarding school.The conversation emphasizes a correlation between chronic health issues and a traumatic childhood, though it acknowledges that not every individual with health issues has had an abusive past. The speaker shares personal experiences with individuals who have chronic health problems and difficult childhoods. They highlight the potential impact of severe childhood sexual abuse on mental health and overall well-being.The speaker discusses Robespierre's declining health, frequent illnesses, and exhaustion during May 1793. They suggest that Robespierre's severe childhood sexual abuse may have contributed to his mental distress, intrusive thoughts, and desire to escape his own mind, resulting in poor health. The torment experienced by individuals who have suffered severe abuse is emphasized, highlighting the absence of peace and the inability to rest.Accounts and descriptions of Robespierre's health issues, including bloodied pillows, compulsive consumption of oranges, worsening eyesight, growing paranoia, and obsession with assassination attempts, are explored. The speaker explains the connection between childhood abuse, stress hormones like cortisol, and vision problems. They also touch on the impact of childhood sexual abuse on sleep patterns and mental well-being.
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Part 10
Chapters0:00:00 The Historical Evils of Pedophilia0:04:06 Pederasty in Ancient Rome: Hedonism and Power0:08:07 Pederasty in Ancient Greece: Eroticism and Democracy0:11:20 Historical References to Pedophilia0:14:57 Child abuse in 18th century France and America0:22:09 The Discovery of Childhood in 18th Century England0:26:59 Instruction with Delight: The Rise of Children's Books and Toy Stores0:31:23 Locke's Approach: Delighting Children in Learning0:34:01 Middle Class as Social Climbers and Educational Advocates0:39:19 The Impact of the Blank Slate Theory on Education0:43:22 Education for Upper Middle Class and Catholic Girls0:48:02 Importance of family and children in society shifts0:57:53 Robespierre's Escape into Imagination and Classical Obsession0:58:17 Robespierre's Troubled Intimacy and Mysterious Death1:00:14 The Changing Perception of Robespierre's Friendship1:03:32 Robespierre's Celebrity Status and Female Attention1:05:27 Accusations against Robespierre and Meret's Murder1:07:06 Robespierre's Eloquence and Female Admiration1:08:04 Robespierre's Wild Education Policy ProposalLong SummaryIn this captivating conversation, we delve into the enigmatic life of Maximilien Robespierre. We painstakingly unravel the intricate layers of his personality, seeking to understand the influences that molded his beliefs and drove his actions. Drawing parallels to modern times, we explore how some leftist women prioritize empty rhetoric over meaningful action, echoing Robespierre's own tendencies.One of the fascinating aspects we examine is Robespierre's proposal for an education policy, which involved separating children from their parents and placing them in strict boarding schools. This audacious proposal, inspired by Plutarch's Life of Lycurgus, which advocated for adult male lovers for young boys, raises thought-provoking questions about Robespierre's own experiences. Could he have potentially been a victim of sexual abuse as a child?As we delve further into Robespierre's psyche, we establish a connection between his struggle to develop intimate relationships and his fervor for the violence of the revolution. Could these be rooted in his traumatic childhood? The main-speaker asserts that Robespierre's abandonment and lack of protection during his formative years may have played a pivotal role in shaping his character.Altogether, this segment offers a profound understanding of Robespierre's motivations, shedding light on the psychological factors that may have driven his actions during the French Revolution. It invites us to contemplate the complex interplay between personal experiences and historical events, as we attempt to unravel the depths of one man's intriguing persona.
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Part 9
Chapters0:00:00 Challenging the idea of historical causation0:02:06 Explaining the French Revolution through individual decisions0:06:04 The Choice to Smoke and the Cause of Lung Cancer0:08:41 The Unanswerable Question: Where Does Choice Come From?0:11:24 The Value of Truth and Moral Responsibility0:13:05 The Mystery of Choosing to Keep Smoking0:15:05 Balancing the Presence of Nutty People0:16:41 Sociopaths in the French Revolution: Exploring Causality0:18:34 Dancing to the Music of the Mind0:29:03 Pro-war mindset linked to bad parenting0:31:08 Less violent parenting styles lead to technological advancements0:33:30 Traumatic Effects of Parental Modes and Toilet Training0:35:23 Cross-tribal empathy and the concept of free trade0:44:00 Different Mottos: America vs FranceBrief SummaryIn this episode, we discuss the complexities of historical events and the choices individuals make. We challenge simplified explanations and emphasize the power of personal responsibility and empathy. We explore parenting practices throughout history and their impact on society. We also examine the influence of parenting psychology on various aspects such as science, politics, and empathy. Finally, we highlight the connection between parenting practices and societal values.
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Part 8
Brief SummaryIn this episode, we explore the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution and its violent impact on society. We discuss the root of conflicts as the problem of power and the importance of objective rules. We also touch on teaching morality to children and the impact of religious beliefs on ethics. Examining the use of violence in enforcing virtue, we delve into the gruesome details of executions and the dangerous belief of "believe all accusations." As we approach the downfall of Robespierre, we reflect on the repercussions of his actions and the ultimate reinstatement of the monarchy.Chapters0:00:00 The Problem of Power and the French Revolution0:03:16 Power, Control, and the Contradictions of Central Planners0:05:41 GPS: Informing, not Ordering0:07:47 Calculator Ban: Finding Creative Solutions0:08:30 Teaching Kids About Stealing: The Golden Rule and UPB0:10:24 The Principle of Stealing: Can Everyone Do That?0:12:15 Practical Consequences of Stealing and Opposite Rules0:20:06 Unjust to Hold Children Accountable for Unexplained Morality0:22:02 Linking Punishment with Morality and the Role of God0:22:30 The Trial and Death of Danton0:24:40 Robespierre's Report on Political Morality0:33:16 Hébert's Fate: From Bold Words to Overwhelming Terror0:34:59 The Cycle of Violence and its Consequences0:38:59 The Solution: Less Violence, More Power to the State?0:41:32 The Final Moments of Robespierre's Reign of TerrorLong SummaryIn this episode, we delve into the culmination of the French Revolution, the Reign of Terror, and its violent impact on society. Before delving into the brutal details, I start the conversation by exploring the concept of power. I emphasize that the root of societal conflicts lies in the problem of power and the question of whether individuals are obeying someone personally or following objective rules.I draw parallels between power dynamics in various fields, such as science and medicine, to highlight the importance of objective rules and principles rather than blind obedience to authority. I also express my belief that philosophy and peace are interconnected, with rational philosophy rooted in empirical evidence and sound reasoning.Moving on to the topic of teaching morality to children, I provide an example of teaching independence and problem-solving skills to my daughter by giving her a quarter to ride an amusement park-style machine at the mall. I stress the importance of clear explanations in moral instruction rather than relying on fear or punishment.We discuss the impact of religious teachings on morality and the notion of an all-seeing God. I argue that removing belief in God removes the conscience and restraint on human evil, leading to a disregard for morality and consequences. I criticize the idea of eliminating human institutions as a solution to ethical dilemmas, highlighting the universality of certain moral principles.The conversation takes a historical turn as we discuss the French Revolution and its connection to power and morality. We critically analyze the use of violence and punishment to enforce virtue and question the origins of such beliefs. We explore the hypocritical nature of denying individuals their right to defend themselves, as exemplified in the case of Danton.As we delve deeper into the Reign of Terror, I recount the gruesome details of executions and the toying with victims by the executioners. I emphasize that violence only perpetuates and expands violence, and express sadness at the cycle of violence that continues to repeat itself.
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Part 7
In this segment of our discussion, we delve into the gripping story of Marie Antoinette's trial and the disturbing phenomenon of mob mentality. We shed light on the outrageous accusations hurled at her, highlighting the inherent injustices she faced throughout the proceedings. Despite the lack of evidence, the predetermined nature of her trial led to her being branded as guilty before any substantial legal examination took place.We are all fascinated by the power of perception and the way imagined images are often accepted as reality. Marie Antoinette's case exemplifies this disturbing aspect of human nature. The public, swayed by relentless propaganda, bought into a distorted narrative that painted her as a selfish and callous queen. This collective mindset enabled the perpetuation of false beliefs and fueled the mob mentality that emerged during her trial.As we explore Marie Antoinette's final moments, a sense of sorrow and admiration arises. Stripped of her mourning attire and subjected to public humiliation, she endured the jeers and ridicule of those who had cast her as the ultimate villain. However, despite her own suffering, Marie Antoinette had consistently shown compassion and kindness towards the less fortunate.The culmination of her tragic tale came when she faced the guillotine. In a powerful display of dignity, Marie Antoinette met her fate with a profound silence. Her silent defiance spoke volumes, challenging the injustice of her trial and the cruel treatment she had endured. As she ascended the scaffold, the crowd's cheers echoed through the air, a chilling reminder of the mob mentality that had gripped society.In this part of our conversation, we reflect on the complexities of Marie Antoinette's story and the profound impact of mob mentality on shaping perceptions. We are reminded of the importance of critical thinking and the dangers of blindly accepting fabricated narratives.
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Part 6
During the French Revolution, the main speaker discusses the efforts of the Jacobins to dechristianize France and establish a state-dominated religion. This involved pressuring Catholic priests to align with the cult of reason and aggressively enforcing the de-christianization. The historical context of religion being controlled by the state is explained, as well as the rise of Christianity as a challenge to polytheistic beliefs in the Roman Empire.The speaker then shares personal experiences of childhood abuse that was not addressed by church, state, or private charities. This failure to address child abuse has resulted in a society plagued with problems. The speaker argues that the rage against hypocrisy, especially in those who claim to solve social issues, fueled the movement to dechristianize during the revolution. This rage stems from the unsolvability of hypocrisy and the opposition to those in power who fail to fulfill their obligations.Moving on, the speaker discusses how the opposition during the French Revolution became violent and chaotic instead of building towards progress. The corrupting nature of power is emphasized, highlighting how even the power held by kings was seen as corrupting. The speaker questions whether priests have too much power in determining someone's eternal fate and argues that this power has not solved societal problems but has revealed the power-hungry nature of those in authority.The speaker explores the anger directed towards priests, nobles, bishops, and kings, explaining that it stemmed from a collusion between the poor and the leaders. The poor received benefits in exchange for supporting the power of the elites. The conversation delves into the universalization of conscience, where individuals externalize their own corruption onto the elites, fueling violence and aggression. The government's control over the economy is also discussed, and how individuals seek unjust benefits and turn against the government when those benefits diminish. The underlying bargain between individuals and the elites is deemed hypocritical and fuels anger and resentment.The negative consequences of mercantilism during the French Revolution are then explored, with the government's control and regulation of trade and production leading to chronic famine and mass death. The American Revolution is mentioned, where some soldiers were inspired by free-market ideals. However, the French people preferred using the power of the state for their own benefit rather than embracing free-market principles. The excessive government spending and national debt eventually led to a fiscal crisis.The conversation continues with a discussion on the cult of reason and the cult of the Supreme Being, two secular religions established during the revolution. The cult of reason celebrated liberty and rationalism while denying the existence of deities, while the cult of the Supreme Being aimed to unite religion, morality, and republicanism. However, both movements ultimately failed. The speaker questions whether Robespierre genuinely believed in the Supreme Being or used it to enhance his own power. The legislation of beliefs and the suppression of gatherings deemed contrary to public order are also criticized.The manipulation of the masses through positive language during the revolution is explored, along with the attack on the clergy and religious symbols. The revolutionaries looted church valuables and converted churches into revolutionary centers. The speaker also highlights the hatred towards bankers, seen as benefiting from the poor and enforcing high interest rates. The violence and mass executions orchestrated by Joseph Fouché are discussed...
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Part 5
During this episode, we explore the dark and disturbing events of the French Revolution, highlighting the manipulation of the mob and the lack of access to information that shaped their actions. We discuss the personal experiences that shape our beliefs and the importance of philosophy in objectively evaluating perspectives. The conversation then delves into the intellectuals and leaders of the revolution and the cycle of violence that occurs when the brutalized become the brutalizers. We examine specific events such as the Champ de Mars massacre and the taking of the Tuileries Palace, emphasizing the violence and atrocities committed during these moments. The role of fear and indoctrination in inciting violence is also discussed, along with the consequences of taking sides in a conflict. We explore the dangers of abandoning reason and resorting to brutality, highlighting the need to seek truth and the potential consequences of disregarding reason and philosophy. The discussion concludes by examining the physical motivations behind violence and the tendency to shift blame onto external factors. We reflect on the tragedy faced by individuals such as Princess Lambelle and the fickle nature of the mob. The episode ends by observing the absence of rules in chaotic circumstances, where the strong hold power while the weak suffer.
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Part 4
In this part of the conversation, I discuss the dangers of being loved by the mob, using Marie Antoinette as an example. Initially, she was adored by the French people, but economic hardships and rumors led to a shift in public sentiment. Despite her good deeds and benevolent nature, the mob turned against her. I emphasize that the mob does not do nuance or ambivalence, and their love can quickly turn into hatred. Marie Antoinette's experience serves as a cautionary tale about the volatility of public sentiments. I also draw a parallel to Princess Diana, who, like Marie Antoinette, experienced immense popularity before her untimely death. Lastly, I discuss Marie Antoinette's belief that the mob had been misinformed and that reminding them of her virtues would change their perception, but I highlight the dangers of underestimating the mob's irrational behavior, comparing them to stalkers.There is a discussion about the misconception that Marie Antoinette said "let them eat cake." The statement actually came from Jean-Jacques Rousseau's writings and was attributed to an unnamed princess. It is emphasized that lying about what people say can have serious consequences, even leading to mass murder and genocide. The harmful effects of gossip and bearing false witness are highlighted, particularly in Christianity.The conversation then shifts to the French Revolution and how women can be capable of violence, especially in local revolutions where they are not conscripted into formal armies. The disturbing actions of a predominantly female mob during the revolution are described, including their chants, destruction of property, and intentions towards Queen Antoinette. Eventually, the royal family is confined and degraded in the Tuileries Palace, and King Louis XVI concedes to the demands of the mob. The conversation also criticizes the church for not protecting children and highlights the civilizing effect of mother-child bonding. The host reflects on his own experience as a father and how seeing his daughter grow has expanded his empathy towards others.We now see people differently after becoming parents, not just as individuals we meet, but as individuals with a long history starting from conception. We consider the impact of a mother's stress during pregnancy and the effect it may have had on a person's development. We also contemplate their early childhood experiences, such as breastfeeding, eye contact, and safety. While not excusing everyone's actions, we recognize that individuals with unaddressed trauma often have limited free will and are easily manipulated. Just as choosing to smoke limits the ability to run a marathon, not addressing childhood trauma reduces one's free will. We understand that individuals raised poorly themselves struggle to parent effectively. This understanding led to hostility towards the church, as religious institutions often fail to address child abuse. The people of France, living in a dysfunctional and evil society, directed their anger towards those in charge of moral values. They believed that these moral leaders were either themselves evil or hypocrites unable to enact their virtues in a corrupt society. In such circumstances, there seems to be no good answer.
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Part 3
In this part of the conversation, we focus on the continuation of the French Revolution and the escalating violence. We discuss how the mob, driven by deep-seated anger and resentment towards authority figures, begins to target the police, guards, and anyone in a position of power. This anger is rooted in their negative experiences with parents, teachers, and other figures of authority in their lives. The mob's rage fuels their destructive actions as they storm the Bastille, a symbolic act of rebellion against the oppressive regime. The negotiation attempts by Delaunay, a guardian of the Bastille, are seen as weakness by the mob and they violently assault him and other guards. The brutal fate of Delaunay and the mayor's bodies, paraded around as symbols of vengeance, exemplify the violence and chaos of the revolution.We then shift our focus to the grievances of the French citizenry, particularly the Third Estate, who make up 98% of the population. They are driven by resentment towards the unequal taxation and governance dominated by the elite. Despite the establishment of the National Assembly and their growing power, the revolution shows no signs of waning.Alexander Hamilton expresses his concerns about the unruly nature of the French populace to Marquis de Lafayette. They discuss the history of being attacked, abused, and confined, highlighting the volatile state of affairs. The Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, influenced by ideas from Abbé Emmanuel Joseph Saïs and Count Gabriel Mirabeau, embraces the ideals of the Enlightenment, emphasizing the value of the individual, the social contract, and separated government powers. However, political rights are still limited to males who own property, resulting in only around 15% of the population having the right to vote. The main-speaker finds it astonishing that citizens were only required to pay taxes equivalent to just three days of work per year.
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Part 2
In this part of the lecture, we examine the state of pre-revolutionary France, particularly the role of the chartered professions. These professions played a significant role in society, as they held exclusive rights and privileges granted by the monarchy. The chartered professions encompassed a wide range of occupations, from lawyers and doctors to craftsmen and traders. These individuals were protected from competition by strict regulations and licensing requirements. However, the chartered professions also faced criticism for their exclusivity and barriers to entry, which limited social mobility and economic growth.We delve into the reasons behind the establishment of chartered professions, highlighting the desire to maintain quality standards in various industries. The guilds, in particular, played a crucial role in training and regulating craftsmen, ensuring that they produced high-quality products. However, over time, the guilds became more focused on protecting their own interests rather than fostering innovation and competition. This led to a decline in productivity and hindered economic development.The lecture then delves into the consequences of the chartered professions and their impact on French society. The exclusivity and privilege granted to these professions created a stark divide between the privileged few and the rest of society. This contributed to growing resentment and dissatisfaction among the lower classes, who felt oppressed and excluded from opportunities for advancement.Furthermore, the monopolistic nature of the chartered professions stifled innovation and hindered economic growth. The strict regulations and barriers to entry prevented new ideas and entrepreneurs from entering the market, limiting competition and stifling creativity.The lecture ends by exploring the role of the chartered professions in the lead-up to the French Revolution. The discontent among the lower classes, combined with their exclusion from lucrative professions, fueled revolutionary sentiments and a desire for social and economic equality.Overall, this part of the lecture examines the chartered professions in pre-revolutionary France, analyzing their impact on society, innovation, and the grievances that ultimately led to the French Revolution.
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Part 1
In this lecture, I present a radical thesis that challenges the conventional view of history. I argue that the grand movements, ideas, and politics are not the cause of historical events. Instead, I propose that the sway between violence and reason in human conflicts is determined by our predisposition to listen to the language we already speak, shaped by our childhood experiences. I explore the tragic consequences of individuals who escape from chaos but fail to help others, leaving them to suffer.To understand the French Revolution, we must consider childhood experiences and objective ethics. I delve into the difference between the French Revolution and the American Revolution, uncovering the dark underbelly of the French Revolution characterized by child abuse and neglect. The middle class, who could have been beacons of hope, turned a blind eye or contributed to the chaos. I discuss the influential thinkers of the time, such as Voltaire and Diderot, and their criticisms of religion and power structures.I then focus on the contrasting perspectives of Rousseau and Locke on childhood and their impact on society. Rousseau believed that the state should have complete control over education, while Locke emphasized the importance of individual agency. I discuss their ideas on the tension between reason and emotion and the role of childhood in shaping society's acceptance of various ideas.Moving on, I explore the mistreatment of children in 18th century France and its contribution to the French Revolution. I highlight the neglect and abuse that children endured, as well as the beliefs in original sin and sexual guilt that perpetuated mistreatment. I emphasize the importance of addressing the mistreatment of children in understanding the historical and societal context.In conclusion, this lecture offers a provocative and thought-provoking perspective on history, showcasing the significance of childhood experiences and the mistreatment of children in shaping societies and historical events.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Join the PREMIUM philosophy community on the web for free!Get access to the audiobook for my new book 'Peaceful Parenting,' StefBOT-AI, private livestreams, premium call in shows, the 22 Part History of Philosophers series!See you soon!https://freedomain.locals.com/support/promo/UPB2022
HOSTED BY
Stefan Molyneux, MA
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