https://alexanderwolfheze.substack.com/p/polaris-ep-5-western-civilization

Quick recap

———–

This podcast episode focused on discussing the concept of Western civilization, with participants examining its definition, origins, and current relevance. The discussion began with Hans Vohel’s article introducing Western civilization as a conquering civilization with roots in the Crusades, including Latin America as part of this tradition. Participants debated whether the United States should be considered part of Western civilization, with Charles arguing for its inclusion based on the American spirit of exploration and expansion, while Laurent noted the influence of French Enlightenment thinking on the American founding fathers. The group explored distinctions between European culture and Western civilization, with Sietze emphasizing the role of Roman law in defining civilization, and Alexander discussing the historical taboo against overseas exploration that was eventually broken in the 15th century. The conversation also touched on the Faustian spirit of exploration and conquest, the role of Christianity in Western expansion, and whether Western civilization is in decline, potentially making way for an Asian century.

Summary

——-

### Laurent’s New Book Discussion

Alexander and Laurent discussed Laurent’s new book, “The Papal Curse,” which has been published by Arctos. Laurent agreed to send Alexander a PDF of the book or have Arctos send a copy directly. They also briefly mentioned a previous interview they had done together.

### Exploring Western Civilization Podcast

The group discussed the upcoming podcast episode on Western civilization, with Laurent sharing his experience working with Jeff Arnold on editing his book and having a forward by Alain de Benoit. The conversation then shifted to the format of the podcast, with Laurent praising Alexander’s introduction on Iran in the previous episode. The group welcomed Sietze and Charles to the discussion, and Alexander introduced the topic of the new episode, which will explore the definition and existence of Western civilization. The episode will feature contributions from Laurent, Hans Vohel, Charles, and Alexander.

### Defining Western Civilization Boundaries

The group discussed the definition and boundaries of Western civilization, with Laurent highlighting that Latin America, despite being Catholic, should be considered part of Western civilization, though its colonial history complicates this classification. They explored the influence of the French Enlightenment and Revolution on the American founding fathers, with Sietze noting Thomas Jefferson’s direct observations of the French Revolution and his involvement in drafting the Universal Rights of Man, while acknowledging that the American Revolution was not influenced by the French Revolution itself.

### European Civilization’s Constructed Nature

Alexander discussed Hans’ article, highlighting its original thoughts and the problematic nature of the term “Western civilization” as a constructed and propagandistic concept. He emphasized the distinction between culture and civilization, noting that civilization is a modern invention and that European culture effectively died in 1945 with the defeat of Germany and the influence of globalist regimes in Russia and the United States. Alexander also touched on the expansionist trajectory of European culture, including its crusading element and spiritual orientation towards overseas exploration.

### Civilization vs. Culture Distinctions

Alexander Wolfheze: The group discussed the distinction between civilization and culture, with Sietze explaining that civilization is a product of Roman law while culture involves the transmission of a spiritual component. Laurent noted that Spengler made similar points about civilization and culture, while Charles discussed Hegel’s distinction between different types of Western civilization, particularly the classical versus Faustian spirits. Hans added that conquest is an element of European culture, including both Germanic and Southern European traditions, and highlighted the importance of defeat in European history, which he suggested is reflected in the Southern United States. The discussion concluded with Charles suggesting that America’s bureaucratic government might not align with the Faustian spirit, potentially classifying it as non-Western.

### America’s Colonial Economic Beginnings

Sietze discussed the history of America, explaining that European settlers established plantations as corporate entities rather than colonies, integrating finance and international capital from the outset. Charles noted that the English and Dutch were particularly involved, while religious pilgrims sought freedom of thought. Alexander highlighted the medieval taboo on overseas exploration, citing the concept of “Ne plus ultra” and the breaking of this taboo during the age of exploration, symbolized by the Spanish slogan “Plus ultra.”

### American Idealism and Its Distortions

Alexander discussed the perception of the New World as a paradise, noting that early European explorers were influenced by a mix of idealistic and practical motivations, including religious mission and freedom. He emphasized that while the original settlers aimed to express religious freedom, this ideal has been both preserved and distorted over time, shaping the American self-perception. Alexander concluded that despite the misdirection of this original spirit, particularly in American imperialism, the core impetus remains influential in the nation’s historical and mythological direction.

### Western Civilization and American Identity

The group discussed the historical and cultural aspects of Western civilization, particularly focusing on the United States. They explored how Latin American immigration reflects a desire to be part of the American spirit, contrasting with earlier policies that restricted immigration to whites. The discussion touched on the Enlightenment’s influence on Western thinking, emphasizing individual rights and the pursuit of happiness, versus traditional European values centered around duty and honor. Charles shared a quote from Ricardo Duchesne highlighting the Western spirit’s focus on exploration and mastery, contrasting with modern anti-colonial attitudes. The conversation concluded with a reflection on the need for a new project to inspire collective effort, suggesting that the United States might still lead such an endeavor.

### West’s Decline and Global Shift

Laurent discussed the Faustian spirit of the West, emphasizing its roots in Christianity’s conquering nature and the lack of a unified European empire due to the papacy’s interference. He argued that this led to a state of permanent civil war in Europe, driving Western nations to seek empires elsewhere. Sietze mentioned a Dutch historian’s prediction of an Asian century, which Laurent clarified as a shift in global influence rather than the West becoming more Asian. Alexander introduced a traditionalist perspective, suggesting that Western civilization is in its final cosmological cycle, marked by materialization and despiritualization, and its decline could signal the end of the current cycle, potentially leading to a return to a golden age.