Classic: Memes, archetypes, and the meaning we live by: Jordan Peterson vs Susan Blackmore

Unbelievable?

In this classic edition of Unbelievable? - The Big Conversation we ask: do we need God to make sense of life? In a 2018 debate, Jordan Peterson and Susan Blackmore explore the psychology of belief through the lenses of memes and archetypes. Peterson argues that religious structures underpin even secular life, while Blackmore sees religion as a cultural virus—sometimes beneficial, often dangerous. Though deeply influenced by the Judeo-Christian tradition, Peterson refuses to be drawn on the divinity of Jesus, framing belief in terms of psychological necessity rather than doctrinal commitment. Blackmore, a committed atheist, champions naturalism and memes as the primary drivers of human culture. Together with host Justin Brierley, they wrestle with whether meaning, gratitude, and moral action require a divine foundation, or whether human constructs alone are sufficient. More from The Big Conversation.show Buy Jordan Peterson's new book We Who Wrestle With God and the best-selling 12 Rules for Life 🎙️ Subscribe & Share → Don’t miss more thought-provoking debates! 📌 Stay Connected & Join the Conversation 📍 Twitter (X):@UnbelievableFE 📍 Facebook:@PremierUnbelievable 📍 Instagram:@Premier.Unbelievable 📍 TikTok:@PremierUnbelievable