Why Evil Triumphs - Dennis Prager

Understanding Evil

Prager begins by asserting that human nature is not inherently good, a belief he considers essential for wisdom. He argues that those who do not confront evil often harbor resentment towards those who do. This observation stems from his experiences in high school, where he noted a disparity in attitudes toward communism and Nazism. While Nazism was universally condemned, communism was often viewed with a degree of sympathy, leading Prager to conclude that people who do not fight against evil may feel threatened by those who do.

He defines evil as "unjust harm done to another," emphasizing that the concept of evil is not subjective but rather rooted in moral truths. Prager believes that the moral confusion prevalent in contemporary society stems from a loss of understanding about what constitutes evil. He argues that secularism has contributed to this moral chaos, as it often leads to a subjective interpretation of right and wrong.

The Role of Religion

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around the Judeo-Christian roots of Western civilization. Prager highlights the importance of these religious traditions in shaping moral values and societal norms. He argues that the decline of religious belief has led to a corresponding decline in moral clarity. He posits that without a divine source of morality, concepts like good and evil become subjective, leading to chaos.

Prager discusses the historical context of the Jewish people, noting that they have often been at the forefront of moral and ethical discussions. He points out that the Jewish tradition emphasizes the importance of learning and wisdom, which has contributed to the overrepresentation of Jews in various fields, including academia and the arts. However, he also warns that when Jews abandon their religious roots, they risk losing the values that have historically guided them.

The Crisis of Academia

Prager expresses concern about the current state of universities, which he describes as the least wise institutions in society. He argues that academia has become a breeding ground for moral confusion, where good intentions often lead to harmful outcomes. He emphasizes that wisdom is more critical than knowledge, as knowledge without wisdom can result in disastrous consequences.

He illustrates this point by referencing the four sons mentioned in the Passover Haggadah, where the wise son is contrasted with the evil son. Prager notes that the absence of a "good son" in this narrative highlights the importance of wisdom over mere goodness. He believes that many people, despite their good intentions, lack the wisdom necessary to navigate complex moral issues.

The Unique Hatred of Jews

The conversation also delves into the historical and contemporary hatred of Jews. Prager explains that anti-Semitism is unique in its exterminationist nature, as it seeks the complete annihilation of the Jewish people. He references the Talmud, which notes that throughout history, there have always been forces seeking to destroy the Jews. This persistent hatred, according to Prager, is rooted in the moral and ethical framework that Judaism introduced to the world.

He discusses how Jews have often been involved in various secular movements, which can lead to resentment from non-Jews. However, he emphasizes that this does not justify hatred towards Jews as a whole. Prager argues that the focus on Jewish identity in discussions about leftist ideologies is misguided, as it overlooks the broader context of moral and ethical failures that transcend any single group.

The Importance of Wisdom

Throughout the podcast, Prager reiterates the necessity of wisdom in combating evil. He believes that society must return to a framework that values wisdom over mere knowledge or good intentions. He argues that the moral crisis facing the West is largely due to a lack of wisdom, which has been exacerbated by secularism and the abandonment of religious values.

Prager concludes by urging listeners to recognize the importance of wisdom in their lives and to seek out moral clarity in a world filled with confusion. He emphasizes that the pursuit of truth, beauty, and goodness is essential for the survival of Western civilization, and that these pursuits are deeply rooted in the Judeo-Christian tradition.