Review of 'Understanding and Rejecting Extremism' on 'Goodreads'
3 stars
I am happy for David Myatt, that he ultimately renounced extremism, even if it's too little and way too late. I still think this is worth a read if interested in why individuals hold extremist beliefs and what kind of an ideological quaqmire of projection and egoism it can easily become.
Myatt provides some important insights into inner workings of the processes of reflection and how his views changed after the suicide of his loved one. I feel Myatt's come to the same conclusions that I have, that the largest predictor in extremist violence is the lack of humanity and empathy combined with the need for control, purpose and adventure. Myatt is a shining example that being a well-read and an intellectual person will not alone guarantee fairness or kindness. On the contrary, it will just make it easier to justify fanaticism and distorted views on humanity.
The middle part …
I am happy for David Myatt, that he ultimately renounced extremism, even if it's too little and way too late. I still think this is worth a read if interested in why individuals hold extremist beliefs and what kind of an ideological quaqmire of projection and egoism it can easily become.
Myatt provides some important insights into inner workings of the processes of reflection and how his views changed after the suicide of his loved one. I feel Myatt's come to the same conclusions that I have, that the largest predictor in extremist violence is the lack of humanity and empathy combined with the need for control, purpose and adventure. Myatt is a shining example that being a well-read and an intellectual person will not alone guarantee fairness or kindness. On the contrary, it will just make it easier to justify fanaticism and distorted views on humanity.
The middle part felt a bit unnecessary. I understand why it was included, but there was a lot of rehashing and flowery language about working through grief, which I don't think gave much substance to the issue at hand.
There is a real problem with the book however; the other extremists out there are unlikely to read it.