In the tumultuous landscape of neoliberal post-modernity, few intellectual figures have ignited as much fervent debate and polarized discourse as Jordan Peterson. Rising to prominence in the 2010s, Peterson’s meteoric ascent was fuelled by his contentious stance against what he terms “postmodern neo-Marxism,” alongside his forays into a diverse array of subjects ranging from lobster hierarchies to the broader implications of existential philosophy. However, this ascent has not been without significant opposition from the Left, which has scrutinized Peterson’s work with a critical eye, labelling him variously as an apologist for the alt-right, a superficial thinker, and a divisive public intellectual whose influence warrants rigorous examination. Myth and Mayhem: A Leftist Critique of Jordan Peterson, co-authored by Ben Burgis, Conrad Bongard Hamilton, Matthew McManus, and Marion Trejo, is a seminal text that endeavours to dissect and deconstruct Peterson’s multifaceted ideology through a comprehensive left-wing lens, offering readers an analysis of his philosophical underpinnings and political ramifications.
This book was crafted by four scholars, each bringing a distinct analytical perspective to Peterson’s expansive body of work. Their collective mission is to unravel the complexities of Peterson’s arguments, from his most profound philosophical assertions to his more quotidian proclamations, thereby demonstrating that engaging with Peterson’s ideas critically does not necessitate an endorsement of his broader worldview. The introduction by Slavoj Žižek sets the tone for this critical inquiry, situating Peterson within the broader context of neoliberal capitalism and the resurgence of reactionary politics, while also highlighting the necessity of providing robust progressive alternatives to counteract the appeal of figures like Peterson who capitalize on the perceived failures of the Left to address contemporary societal challenges.
In this critique lies an incisive analysis of how Peterson systematically misrepresents leftist theory and activism. The authors contend that Peterson’s frequent invocation of nebulous terms such as “postmodern neo-Marxists” and his broad-brush condemnation of various progressive movements obscure the specificities of leftist thought, thereby facilitating the projection of right-wing anxieties onto an amorphous and often inaccurately portrayed ideological enemy. This strategy, the authors argue, not only undermines meaningful discourse but also perpetuates a climate of misunderstanding and hostility that obscures the real dynamics at play within contemporary political and cultural arenas.
Myth and Mayhem goes deeply into the philosophical inadequacies of Peterson’s own proposals for addressing the “anomie” of post-modern neoliberal society. The authors critically examine Peterson’s advocacy for “ordered liberty” and his defence of traditional hierarchies, drawing parallels between his use of biological determinism—exemplified by his infamous discussion of lobster hierarchies—and his broader socio-political theories. They challenge Peterson’s assertion that hierarchical structures are natural and inevitable, arguing instead that such positions are often ideologically motivated and serve to preserve existing power dynamics under the guise of natural law. By interrogating Peterson’s skepticism towards collective action and his emphasis on individual responsibility, the authors highlight the ways in which his rhetoric inadvertently supports the very capitalist structures he purports to defend, thereby revealing a fundamental tension within his ideological framework.
A significant portion of the critique is devoted to Peterson’s engagement with postmodernist and Marxist thinkers, particularly his interpretation of Jacques Derrida and Karl Marx. The authors dissect Peterson’s characterization of Derrida’s deconstructionism and Marx’s economic theories, demonstrating that Peterson’s readings are frequently superficial and marred by significant misinterpretations. Through a detailed exegesis of Derrida’s Of Grammatology and an exploration of Marxist economic principles, the authors reveal how Peterson’s conflation of disparate intellectual traditions serves to create a straw man that is easily dismissed but fundamentally misrepresents the critical nature of these philosophical discourses. This analytical rigor underscores the broader argument that Peterson’s intellectual endeavours often lack the depth and accuracy necessary for genuine philosophical engagement, instead opting for a polemical style that prioritizes rhetorical impact over substantive critique.
Myth and Mayhem situates Peterson’s rise within the broader socio-political context, examining how his narratives resonate with disaffected segments of society who feel alienated by the perceived failures of progressive movements to offer viable solutions to pressing issues such as economic inequality, cultural fragmentation, and the erosion of traditional values. The authors argue that Peterson’s appeal is not merely a reactionary backlash but also a symptom of deeper systemic issues within neoliberal capitalism, which the Left has yet to adequately address. By failing to present an inspiring and coherent alternative, progressive movements inadvertently create a vacuum that Peterson and similar figures are adept at filling, thereby perpetuating a cycle of antagonism and division that stifles constructive political and social discourse.
Myth and Mayhem offers an exhaustive examination of one of the most contentious intellectual figures of our time. It challenges readers to engage with Peterson’s ideas critically and thoughtfully, recognizing the complexities and implications of his rhetoric within the broader tapestry of contemporary political and philosophical thought. Through its dense and meticulously detailed analysis, the book not only dissects the flaws and limitations of Peterson’s arguments but also calls for a more robust and nuanced left-wing response to the challenges posed by neoliberalism and the fragmented state of modern society. As such, it stands as an essential contribution to the ongoing discourse surrounding the interplay of philosophy, politics, and culture in the 21st century, urging a reevaluation of the strategies and narratives that can effectively counteract the pervasive influence of reactionary ideologies.
Simon Gros 
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