Do you question the world? How do you differentiate right from wrong? Attempting to answer these questions can raise even more questions, and consequently differing opinions arise. Jordan Peterson is a clinician and professor of psychology whose ideas have been considered both thought provoking and controversial. After extensive reading, and reflecting on his personal and professional experiences, Peterson shares his perspective on the best way to compose yourself throughout life, in his bestseller “12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos”.
The book is broken into one chapter for each rule, and if the rules are taken at face value they will no doubt influence how you conduct yourself in everyday life. Each rule investigates the dichotomy of order and chaos, as one normally follows the other. Peterson delves deeper into the rules, with analogies from his own life, and references to popular texts such as the Bible and classical novels which highlight life’s complexities. Given his background, there are also extensive mentions of psychological literature including psychoanalytical techniques.
Peterson is clearly extremely educated which permeates into his writing and complex wording. As the book progressed my understanding improved as I became accustomed to his writing. In saying this, I felt the book was overly verbose, which may have affected the clarity of the intended messages. I feel that some of Peterson’s analogies are convoluted and steer off on a tangent from the intended Rule. This could be a misinterpretation due to my lack of understanding, or the chapters are simply a trail of Peterson’s thoughts.
After reading Peterson’s book I could understand the public’s polarising views of his opinions. Given that this book is intended to help an individual better their life, some of his analyses may be perceived as objectionable, as they have a negative undertone. Opinions are subject to an individual’s values and experiences, and whether or not Peterson’s beliefs are right or wrong, they are based on his personal experiences and his interpretation of the literature.
Many of his discussions support his rules and provide clarity on how to approach your life. Whether or not you adopt the rules, Peterson gives some insightful perspectives on global issues and moral dilemmas. I personally don’t fully agree or disagree with Peterson’s views, but I believe all his insights should be considered for you to interpret society from different perspectives.
Are you interested in learning more by reading this book?
Books for Thought 
I read the book and it requires a reader that is willing to challenge themselves. The book is written in a way where you don’t feel forced to agree but you definitely learn. It is refreshing to find someone who read the book and left having learnt something. Thank you.
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That’s definitely true, I have read many ‘self-help’ type books where you feel forced to learn, and that isn’t appealing. I heard polarising views before reading this book, but I went into it with an open mind. I believe everyone has something to offer.
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