Michael Malice on the Joe Rogan Experience: Anarchy, History, and the New Right

Ever wondered what a self-described “an-ideological” intellectual anarchist thinks about politics, history, and the future? Joe Rogan recently sat down with Michael Malice, author of “The New Right” and “Dear Reader,” for a wide-ranging conversation that dives deep into these topics. Get ready for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges conventional wisdom and explores some uncomfortable truths.

TL;DR

Malice defines himself as an anarchist and explains his philosophy of individual liberty and skepticism towards all forms of authority.
The conversation explores the history of the New Right, its key figures, and its evolution.
Malice shares insights into the importance of reading and his unique approach to engaging with literature.
They discuss the role of technology, social media, and cancel culture in shaping contemporary society.
Malice and Rogan touch on the nature of fame, identity, and the pursuit of self-knowledge.

Key Topics Covered

Anarchy and Individual Liberty

Michael Malice strongly believes in individual liberty and is deeply skeptical of all forms of authority. He does not believe in being forced to do anything. He argues that individuals should be free to make their own choices, even if those choices are unpopular or unconventional. The concept of a “benevolent dictator” is a fallacy, because power always corrupts. Malice’s position is not advocating for chaos, but rather for a society where individuals are responsible for their own actions and interactions.

Malice’s view of anarchy is deeply rooted in the non-aggression principle. He argues that individuals should not initiate force or fraud against others. He believes that a free society would naturally develop systems of voluntary cooperation and mutual aid, rendering centralized authority unnecessary.

“Anarchy is the lack of rulers, not the lack of rules.” – Michael Malice

The History of the New Right

Malice’s book, “The New Right,” delves into the history of the conservative movement. Rogan and Malice delve into this history, discussing key figures like William F. Buckley Jr. and the movement’s evolution over time. Malice offers a nuanced perspective, highlighting both the positive and negative aspects of the movement and its impact on American politics. His writing demonstrates that understanding historical context is crucial for understanding modern events.

The conversation touches on the shift from traditional conservatism to the more populist and nationalist tendencies of the modern right. This shift reflects a changing political landscape and the rise of new issues that resonate with voters. Malice argues that the New Right is not a monolithic entity, but rather a diverse coalition of individuals with varying beliefs and priorities.

The Importance of Reading

Michael Malice is an advocate for reading. He believes that reading is essential for intellectual growth, self-discovery, and developing a nuanced understanding of the world. He shares his thoughts on how to read more effectively. He emphasizes reading a variety of books and reading actively, as a conversation with the author.

Malice also encourages people to read books from different perspectives, even those with which they disagree. He argues that engaging with opposing viewpoints is crucial for developing critical thinking skills and challenging one’s own assumptions. By seeking out diverse perspectives, readers can broaden their understanding of the world and become more informed and well-rounded individuals.

“Read everything. Read things that you agree with, read things that you disagree with. You’ll learn more that way.” – Michael Malice

Intriguing Anecdotes & Stories

Malice shares an anecdote about his experience working as a ghostwriter for various celebrities and public figures. He discusses the challenges of capturing someone else’s voice and writing authentically in their style. This anecdote provides insight into the world of ghostwriting and the often-invisible work that goes into shaping public perception.

They discuss Malice’s personal journey and his exploration of different ideologies. He shares his own struggles with identity and the pursuit of self-knowledge. He emphasizes the importance of questioning assumptions and remaining open to new ideas throughout life.