Jordan Peterson lobbies Canberra on cheaper energy, nuclear family
The controversial author addressed conservative MPs, including Scott Morrison, at Parliament House.
Controversial psychologist and political commentator Jordan Peterson has urged federal parliamentarians to fight for cheaper energy, smaller government and the nuclear family in a private address in Parliament House on Thursday.
The invitation-only event was attended by a number of conservative MPs including former prime minister Scott Morrison, former deputy prime minister Barnaby Joyce, One Nation Leader Pauline Hanson, a range of Coalition MPs and Australian Christian Lobby managing director Martyn Iles.
In Canberra today with former PM Scott Morrison talking about a renewed classic liberal/conservative vision... pic.twitter.com/de25g1kGHP
— Dr Jordan B Peterson (@jordanbpeterson) November 24, 2022
The event was organised and hosted by Queensland Nationals Senator Matt Canavan who told The Australian he invited MPs from across the political spectrum who would “appreciate” Dr Peterson’s views.
Mr Canavan said it was a “huge privilege” to host Dr Peterson in Parliament House, praising him for being authentic in his beliefs while he discussed cheaper energy and how to protect the local environment.
“I think the best takeaway is that we have to stand true to our values and principles to be successful in life, you need to be authentic and have a sense of purpose and meaning,” Senator Canavan said.
“From our conservative viewpoint, it is wrapped up in family, the education of the next generation and strong principles.”
Dr Peterson is a clinical psychologist and author who has built a reputation for his outspoken views on modern politics including criticisms of the Left. He rose to fame after publishing his second book titled “12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos”.
Opposition defence spokesman Andrew Hastie said Dr Peterson made a “reasoned” argument as he emphasised the importance of differing opinions being heard.
“Democracy is about the contest of ideas,” Mr Hastie said. “You don’t have to agree with everything that people say but you have to be prepared to listen,” he said.
Speaking today to Australian parliamentarians. Empty seats? Politicians called to vote. In Canberra... pic.twitter.com/Qt3eYR0YuJ
— Dr Jordan B Peterson (@jordanbpeterson) November 24, 2022
Liberal MP Phillip Thompson said he spent a “considerable” period of time with Dr Peterson after his address during which they discussed the value of military service.
“I like the differing of opinion, and how he communicates it,” Mr Thompson said.
“Its something we’ve lost in Australia. Someone yells at someone or calls them a name and we demonise them when they have a different view on the world.”
Posting a photo of himself and Mr Morrison on Twitter, Dr Peterson said he had used his visit to Canberra to talk about a “renewed classic liberal/conservative vision.”
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