Debunking 'Might Is Right': The Unscientific Doctrine of Power

In this arid wilderness of steel and stone, I raise up my voice that you may hear. To the East and to the West I beckon. To the North and to the South I show a sign — Proclaiming, “Death to the weakling, wealth to the strong.” Open your eyes that you may hear, O! men of mildewed minds and listen to me, ye laborious millions!

— Might is Right by Ragnar Redbeard

I've perpetually felt drawn to forbidden books and controversial subjects. The darker the tome, the greater my intrigue. The more daring the topic, the more literary sportsmanship is aroused.

In the annals of provocative literature, few texts evoke the same reaction as Ragnar Redbeard's "Might Is Right." Published in the late 19th century, this contentious book evokes the interests of power-hungry individuals, plagued by their naughty urges, who are searching for meaning.

'Might Is Right' is fraught with moral and intellectual pitfalls that crumble under the weight of scientific scrutiny. It's not a philosophy for those who value critical thinking and reason. It does, however, fill a void for conspiracy buffs seeking the "dirty little secret" under the hood of civil society.

Despite my indulgent stereotypes, this 'brutal tome' promotes a machiavellian mindset, and in a scientific society, one must avoid critical analysis to swallow such garbage. It is better to read Richard Dawkins's book "The Selfish Gene" than to fall under an ancient spell and banish your friends for lacking the dexterity of a self-inflated warlord.

Sapiens Need Laws and Enforcement

Redbeard's work gleefully consigns conventional morality to the rubbish bin, asserting that compassion, empathy, and altruism are nothing more than "slaveries of the mind." In this moral vacuum, the doctrine posits that those who possess power are justified in exploiting and oppressing the powerless. Yet, the very bedrock of human society is built upon principles of fairness, cooperation, and empathy.

Nonetheless, it would be remiss of me to overlook the impact of "strength and authority" in the affairs of humanity. Throughout history, government institutions, religion, laws, and their enforcement have consistently played a crucial role in maintaining the civility of the human species, preventing a descent into what could be likened to a zombie apocalypse.

In the allegorical framework of the Bible, the beast of Revelations (666) symbolizes humanity, with the scriptures serving as its carrot and stick. Prisons and jails confine the primal instincts of human beings, thereby curbing violence within the societal framework. Religion serves as a means to harness and control the inherently sinful desires for power. Jesus embodies ethical and moral values, while Satan provides the illusion that humans are not inherently predatory creatures who relish bloody prime ribs and vengeful cinema.

Angry and Dumb

The 'Might is Right' philosophy attracts individuals seeking to affirm their disdain for society. Within its pages, they hear the echoes of sardonic laughter emanating from a figure akin to a Satanic Overlord. Delving beyond the superficial act of joining the Church of Satan with a menacing demeanor, one must pause and shed the broad stereotypes. It becomes apparent that many astute individuals of diverse backgrounds have recognized the archaic and brutal nature of its content.

Contradictions in Human Evolution

One of the fundamental contradictions within "Might Is Right" lies in its purported connection to the Darwinian concept of survival of the fittest. Redbeard contends that nature is a ruthless arena where the strong dominate the weak. However, this simplistic interpretation ignores the complexities of evolutionary biology. Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection encompasses more than mere brute force. Cooperation, mutualism, and social behaviors have played pivotal roles in the survival of countless species.

Take, for example, the intricate cooperation among bees in a hive. Worker bees selflessly labor to support the colony, ensuring the survival and propagation of their genes. This form of cooperation, in stark contrast to the "might is right" mantra, demonstrates that nature also values selflessness and collaboration.

Selfishness is a Virtue

But let's not overlook the apparent self-interest in "selfless" endeavors. Altruism may outwardly appear selfless, yet beneath the surface, it can be driven by calculated motives. By extending a hand, one can accrue social capital, enhance reputation, secure future assistance, and win the ultimate celestial prize, all serving one's self-interest in the intricate web of human and divine participation.

Mother Teresa, for example, fulfilled "her" destiny, "her" beliefs, and "her" values by giving to the poor, ensuring entrance into the members-only "paradise party" where she could experience eternal pleasure. And no one knows if sexual fantasies accompanied her celestial dreams in light of sacrificial celibacy. If so, due to the suppression of such urges, it would be quite the motivator.

The Empathy Enigma

Redbeard's doctrine dismisses empathy as a weakness. But, as science has shown, empathy is a fundamental trait that has been hardwired into human beings through evolution. Our capacity to understand and share the feelings of others has played a pivotal role in our survival and progress as a species.

I highly recommend Darwin's lesser-known, likely suppressed writings on love:

Darwin's Lost Theory of Love

Contrary to the prevailing notions of selfishness and survival of the fittest, this theory places love, sex, and moral sensitivity at the forefront of our understanding of evolution.

Darwin's Lost Theory 

Page after page of Darwin’s own original writing, Darwin makes the case for the primacy of love, moral sensitivity, mutual aid, and education as higher order drivers for human evolution.

Recent neuroscience research has elucidated the mechanisms behind empathy. Studies have revealed that when we witness someone else's pain or joy, our brains activate regions associated with our own experiences of pain or joy. This neural overlap underscores the deeply ingrained nature of empathy in the human psyche, challenging the idea that it is a mere "enslavement of the mind."

Societal Stability

The fallacy inherent in this 'Might Is Right' doctrine lies in its wanton disregard for the profound significance of societal equilibrium. Redbeard's fanciful vision, where the muscular few subject the weaker masses to their ruthless dominion, conspicuously omits an essential truth. Namely, that the bedrock of prosperous civilizations is woven from the threads of justice, collaboration, and compassion.

Throughout the annals of history, we observe that societies that embrace principles of equity and empathy flourish, while those steeped in the quagmire of oppression and autocracy invariably crumble into the dustbin of time. 

Although I will admit to the argument that civil society may be nothing more than an engineered front for the "Secret Chiefs" behind the veil of history.

And just as the American Dream lulls entertainment addicts to sleep, democracy may be a contrivance of the 'Illumined Ones' who are pulling the strings.

I implore the reader not to underestimate the predatory nature of this dimension nor dismiss the most daunting of conspiracy theories. — humanity as a food source for . . . well, I'll leave that to your imagination.

The Downside of Democracy

Democracy definitely has its pitfalls. It grapples with election manipulation, political apathy, the rise of populism, and the undue influence of wealth. The tyranny of the majority can neglect minority rights, and gridlock hinders progress. Misinformation corrodes discourse, and it often falls short on complex global issues. 

• Election Manipulation: Some democracies suffer from manipulation, fraud, and voter suppression, eroding the democratic foundation.
• Political Apathy: Many citizens remain politically disengaged, leading to low turnout and extremist influences in elections.
• Populism: Populist leaders exploit public sentiment, sowing division and oversimplifying complex issues.
• Short-Termism: Elected officials prioritize short-term gains over long-term problems like climate change.
• Minority Rights: Majority rule can marginalize minority groups, challenging democratic ideals.
• Gridlock: Multi-branch systems can lead to political gridlock, hampering progress.
• Money in Politics: Wealthy interests wield disproportionate influence, jeopardizing equal representation.
• Representational Shortcomings: Some systems misrepresent the popular vote, skewing results.
• Media Manipulation: Misinformation and "fake news" impact public opinion and elections.
• Complex Issue Handling: Democracies struggle with global issues requiring long-term planning and international cooperation.

To sum it up, human sapiens are susceptible to their cousins' behaviors — bonobo and rhesus monkeys (as observed on social media) no matter how you slice and dice the hairless ape. But let us not forget democracy's brilliance lies in its ability to self-correct through elections, the rule of law, and an independent judiciary. However, its undeniable failures should fuel our commitment to perfect it. Whether our species can do that under the looming threat of nuclear annihilation in 2023 is the optimist's hope and the pessimist's doubt.

I have little faith that "Might" will fail in the quest for global domination by the rulers of terra firma. Their weapons and AI technology are too advanced for the torch carrying herd.

Might is Scientifically Wrong

"Might Is Right" boldly asserts that power is the supreme arbiter of right and that dominance is the ultimate virtue. Yet, as we shine the spotlight of reason and empirical evidence upon this contentious doctrine, it becomes evident that the very foundations of "Might Is Right" crumble under scrutiny.

• Altruism in Evolutionary Biology: In the grand tapestry of existence, nature often surprises us with instances of altruism that defy the dogma of "Might Is Right." Vampire bats, for instance, willingly share their blood with group members who've had an unfortunate night hunting. This selflessness guarantees the collective's survival, a stark counterpoint to the belief that nature is merely a stage for ruthless competition.

• Cooperation in Multi-Agent Systems: Even in the realm of artificial intelligence, cooperation prevails over brute dominance. Algorithms designed for autonomous agents consistently demonstrate that collaboration and resource-sharing yield superior outcomes. It's a lesson lost on those who extol "Might Is Right."

• Empathy in Neurobiology: Neuroscientific findings consistently showcase the prevalence of empathy in human beings. When individuals witness the joy or agony of others, their brains resonate with these experiences. This neural response challenges the assertion that empathy is a mere "enslavement of the mind," revealing it as a fundamental aspect of human nature.

• Reciprocity in Social Sciences: Across various social sciences, the principle of reciprocity counters the "might is right" doctrine. Reciprocity involves exchanging favors or benefits, a practice present in societies that reward cooperative behavior and punish exploitation. This underscores fairness and cooperation, rejecting the notion of unbridled dominance.

• Kin Selection in Evolution: In the intricate tale of evolution, kin selection emerges as a compelling argument against "Might Is Right." This theory elucidates how altruistic behaviors can evolve when they benefit close relatives who share an individual's genes. It highlights the significance of genetic preservation and cooperation.

• Cooperation in Multi-Agent Systems: The realm of artificial intelligence showcases the superiority of cooperation over brute force. Algorithms for autonomous agents consistently prove that collaboration and resource-sharing lead to more favorable outcomes than solitary dominance.

• Social Insects and Eusocial Behavior: In the intricate tapestry of the natural world, social insects such as ants, bees, and termites unfurl the banner of highly cooperative and eusocial behavior. These creatures craft elaborate colonies with specialized roles, diligently working together for the survival and propagation of the entire community.

• Reciprocal Altruism in Primates: The spotlight falls on reciprocal altruism, a captivating phenomenon within the primate realm. Species such as chimpanzees and bonobos showcase cooperative behaviors like food sharing and grooming, underpinned by the expectation of future reciprocation.

• The Tragedy of the Commons: Economics and environmental science provide a cautionary tale known as the Tragedy of the Commons, underscoring that unchecked individualism can spell doom for shared resources. It emphasizes the imperative of cooperation and collective action, directly contradicting the creed that dominance should reign supreme.

• Cooperation in Social Psychology: Social psychology consistently demonstrates that cooperation is fundamental to human behavior. Studies on social dilemmas and group dynamics reveal that individuals often opt for cooperative strategies, leading to mutually beneficial outcomes.

• Epigenetic Factors in Gene Expression: The domain of epigenetics reveals the profound impact of external factors on gene expression. Environmental variables, life experiences, and social interactions carve their mark on an individual's genetic expression, revealing the intricate interplay between nature and nurture. This rebuffs the notion that genetics alone dictate an individual's destiny, painting a richer, more complex portrait of human existence.

The Inferiority of the Church of Satan

Heavy on rhetoric, this provocative book laid a foundation for LaVeyan's Satanism. LaVey, himself a master of dramatic flair, used the book's unscientific, polemical nature to construct a philosophy centered around personal empowerment, individualism, and the rejection of traditional moral values.

The current High Priest of the Church of Satan, Peter H. Gilmore, has made a name for himself as a vocal advocate for the Machiavelli bible "Might Is Right.". While he aligns himself with this philosophy, Gilmore's political stances and actions often contradict the very principles he claims to uphold.

Championing "Might Is Right"

Gilmore has consistently praised "Might Is Right" as a foundational text for the Church of Satan. He sees it as an embodiment of the ethos of radical individualism, where the strong and assertive should reign supreme, unconstrained by conventional moral or ethical considerations. This alignment with Redbeard's philosophy forms a core aspect of Gilmore's leadership within the Church of Satan.

Contradictions in Political Stances

However, a closer examination of Peter H. Gilmore's political stances reveals a striking contradiction with the philosophy of "Might Is Right." While he admires Redbeard's text, Gilmore's actual political positions often veer towards progressive and libertarian ideals that champion personal freedoms, social justice, and the protection of marginalized groups. Herein lies the disconnect.

Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Rights: The Church of Satan, under Gilmore's leadership, has been notably supportive of LGBTQ+ rights and has consistently opposed discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. This stance starkly contrasts the merciless worldview proposed in "Might Is Right," which essentially argues that those who can assert dominance should do so without regard for the rights or dignity of others.

Individualism vs. Social Justice: Gilmore promotes individualism and supports social justice principles. These principles advocate for equitable treatment and opportunities for all members of society, often challenging the notion that "might makes right." In the realm of social justice, the emphasis is on addressing systemic inequalities and supporting the vulnerable, which directly contradicts the callous ethos of Redbeard's philosophy.

Freedom of Expression: Gilmore and the Church of Satan advocate for freedom of expression and artistic freedom. While these principles align with individualism, they also defend diverse perspectives and voices, which is at odds with the concept that the strongest should dominate and suppress dissent.

Rejection of Discrimination: The Church of Satan, under Gilmore, explicitly rejects racism, sexism, and bigotry. These positions challenge the core premise of "Might Is Right," which inherently involves the domination of certain groups by others, often based on power and dominance rather than principles of equality or fairness.

While Peter H. Gilmore champions the philosophy of "Might Is Right" as a core tenet of the Church of Satan, his political stances and advocacy for individual freedoms and social justice demonstrate a significant contradiction. Embracing the principles of social justice, inclusion, and equal treatment for marginalized groups fundamentally contradicts the "might is right" ethos, which is inherently hierarchical and promotes the unchecked assertion of power.

Conclusion

In the crucible of scientific scrutiny, the "Might Is Right" philosophy emerges as an intellectual house of cards, ready to collapse under the weight of empirical evidence and reasoned argumentation. These scientific examples collectively challenge the doctrine's myopic focus on dominance and power.

However, history narrates the tale of the born killer, seldom recognized as the mad, stupid, mindless slaughterer he is. And yet, humans have demonstrated a resilience for Christ-like behavior that challenges misanthropic assertions.

But that doesn't remedy the horror of our impending doom into the dark night of the soul. Nor does it forgive the horrifying legacy of generational child abuse and the unforgivable, tortuous injustices of this human experience. These revelations invoke an antinatalist perspective and taunt nihilistic conversion, which, might I add, is a convenient remedy to the human nightmare.

— Zzenn