No One Understands Politics. This is why.

Introduction

This tutorial explores the concepts of political ideologies, focusing on the meanings of "right wing" and "left wing" as they relate to European Paganism and broader philosophical themes. Understanding these terms in their historical and cultural contexts can provide deeper insights into modern politics.

Step 1: Understand the Chain of Being

• The Chain of Being is a hierarchical structure that places all entities in a specific order.
• Recognize that this concept influenced political thought, illustrating the relationships between individuals and society.
• Key takeaway: This hierarchy can affect how various political ideologies perceive the role of the individual versus the collective.

Step 2: Explore the Isolated Individual

• Examine the notion of the isolated individual in political discourse.
• This concept often contrasts with collectivist ideologies that emphasize community and societal responsibility.
• Practical advice: Reflect on your own political views and how they align with individual autonomy versus collective governance.

Step 3: Analyze Fate and Heroism

• Investigate how the ideas of fate and heroism influence political ideologies.
• Many heroic narratives revolve around individuals overcoming fate, which can resonate with certain political beliefs.
• Common pitfall: Avoid conflating personal heroism with broader political movements; they can have different implications.

Step 4: Understand Progressivism and Hubris

• Progressivism is often linked to the belief in progress and improvement over time.
• Hubris refers to excessive pride or self-confidence, which can lead to negative outcomes in political contexts.
• Practical advice: Critically assess progressive ideologies to identify potential overreach or pitfalls.

Step 5: Examine the Death of Volsung

• The story of Volsung in Norse mythology symbolizes the consequences of pride and ambition.
• Analyze how this narrative can serve as a cautionary tale in modern politics, warning against hubris and the quest for power.
• Key takeaway: Historical and mythological narratives can provide valuable lessons for contemporary political behavior.

Conclusion

Understanding the historical and philosophical roots of political ideologies enhances our comprehension of modern politics. By exploring concepts like the Chain of Being, individualism, fate, and heroism, we can gain insights into the motivations behind various political movements. Consider reflecting on these themes in your discussions and analyses of current political events.