Who's More Influential: Jordan Peterson or Thomas Sowell?

Both Jordan Peterson and Thomas Sowell are towering figures in their respective fields, each leaving an indelible mark on the intellectual landscape. However, it is worth exploring whether Sowell or Peterson has had a greater influence in today's rapidly evolving world.

Legacy and Influence

Thomas Sowell has been at the forefront of intellectual discourse for an extended period, whereas Jordan Peterson is relatively more recent. Sowell's expertise in economics has solidified his status as a significant voice in global discussions on political and economic policy, a discipline that is more widely recognized and applied compared to psychology.

Despite both being brilliant, Sowell's work, while theoretically profound, tended to be less inherently political during his time. Peterson, on the other hand, has delved deeply into philosophy and psychology, offering incisive and eloquent insights that resonate with a wide audience. His reworking of the works of greats like Carl Jung and Friedrich Nietzsche adds a contemporary twist to age-old ideas.

Handling of Theory vs. Practice

Great thinkers like Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Elon Musk, and Dr. Ben Goertzel stand out due to their ability to not only theorize but to also translate those theories into tangible, life-changing inventions. These individuals have played pivotal roles in the development of powerful computers, consumer-friendly artificial intelligence (AI), and futuristic technologies.

Thomas Sowell's work, while theoretically robust, was often limited by the lack of a widespread platform like the internet. His contributions indeed were vital before the digital age, but Peterson's recent work has gained significant traction through various digital media, including social platforms and streaming services, making his ideas more accessible to a global audience.

Breaking Barriers with AI

The upcoming era of artificial intelligence (AI) promises to revolutionize the way we live and work, potentially surpassing even the innovations brought about by the internet. The advent of augmented intelligence (AI) is staggering; the possibility of surpassing the processing power of quantum computers, creating multiple independent AI entities, and even achieving digital immortality through brain uploads is mind-boggling.

Dr. Ben Goertzel's work on Augmented Intelligence (AI) could be transformative. His vision of creating a fully functional and intuitive AI that can freely operate across the internet, even in various robot shells, and make infinite copies of itself while evolving independently, represents a leap that could redefine human existence.

Comparative Influence

Reflecting on the influence of Jordan Peterson and Thomas Sowell, one cannot overlook the vast reach of Peterson's ideas. His eloquent reinterpreting of psychological and philosophical concepts has touched a chord with many, making his argues more relatable and often more accessible than Sowell's theories. However, Sowell's theoretical contributions in economics have set foundational principles that are still widely discussed and applied today.

While neither Peterson nor Sowell has directly spearheaded the development of groundbreaking inventions like computers or advanced AI, their intellectual contributions have undoubtedly influenced the discourse around these developments and the broader societal changes they bring.

Both figures are respected and revered for their unique insights and contributions. Peterson's vivid expressions of complex philosophical ideas have made them more accessible to a wide audience, while Sowell's profound economic theories have shaped discussions on policy and global economics.

Conclusion

While Sowell's enduring influence in the field of economics and his theoretical work are significant, Peterson's modern relevance and ability to bring complex ideas to the layperson are equally impactful. Both thinkers have their distinct strengths, and their combined influence helps shape the intellectual world. Ultimately, the measure of their influence lies in their ability to engage and inspire, resonating with the evolving values and concerns of contemporary society.