Questioning a Worldview Rooted in Power
Historian Yuval Noah Harari has pushed back against the power-focused ideology promoted by Stephen Miller, former deputy White House chief of staff for policy. In an interview with Ezra Klein, Harari argued that the story of humanity is one of collaboration, not brute strength. He described this as a central issue in philosophy and spirituality, calling the belief that 'the only reality is power' a false premise. Harari contends that nationalism can exist without hatred toward outsiders, but it cannot survive without love for one’s own community.
Liberalism in Crisis and the War in Ukraine
Harari also examined the crisis facing liberalism, which he believes has lost its connection to nationalism. He pointed to Ukraine as a case where the two concepts align seamlessly.
“Ukrainians are fighting simultaneously for national survival and independence, and for liberal democracy. There is no contradiction between these two things.” — Yuval Noah Harari
Regarding the war in Ukraine, Harari highlighted a miscalculation by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who 'was certain he would crush Ukraine in 48 hours. He was wrong.'
Separately, Harari addressed the dangers of artificial intelligence, which he described as a new wave of immigration. He warned that 'AI systems will not necessarily be politically loyal to your country or your government. At best, they will be loyal to just two countries in the world—the United States and China.' Harari cautioned that AI could hack human psychology and build systems beyond human comprehension.
The debate over cooperation versus force, along with the link between liberalism and nationalism, is sparking intense discussion today. Harari stressed that the history of philosophy has always aimed to dispel the myth of power as the sole reality. He noted that 'money is the greatest story ever told,' since it is the only narrative almost everyone believes in.
Harari’s remarks underscore the need to rethink traditional approaches to nationalism and liberalism, especially in light of current global challenges. This aligns with a broader search for new forms of cooperation among nations and peoples—a search made more urgent by technological shifts like the rise of artificial intelligence, which could profoundly reshape social structures and values. Harari’s perspective offers fresh insights into world events and the pressing issues of our time.