Here’s What I Saw Before I Got Expelled From Jordan Peterson’s Online “University”

Slate Magazine, By Luke Winkie, on October 3, 2024

https://slate.com/life/2024/10/jordan-peterson-academy-university-online.html

The launch of Jordan Peterson's online university seems like a calculated move to exploit the disillusionment of individuals frustrated with mainstream education. Peterson has branded his institution as a place for free speech and open debate, but it appears to be more about capitalizing on people's distrust of established educational systems than providing real academic value. Rather than focusing on delivering quality education, Peterson emphasizes buzzwords like "self-improvement" and "debate" while glaringly omitting any mention of rigorous academics or intellectual challenge. 

His school offers classes taught by people without relevant expertise—such as a theologian teaching decolonization and an author, not a medical professional, leading a course on nutrition. This lack of qualified instructors raises red flags about the integrity of what’s being offered. When someone attempted to question the legitimacy of the university, they were expelled, demonstrating a serious lack of tolerance for genuine inquiry or criticism. 

This speaks to an environment more concerned with reinforcing Peterson’s narrative than fostering true intellectual growth. Despite claiming to seek accreditation, Peterson's university is unwilling to meet the educational standards required by accrediting bodies. Instead, they defiantly declare that they won't change their methods to fit what they call an "outdated system." In reality, accreditation is a safeguard ensuring that students receive an education that meets minimum quality standards. By dismissing these standards, Peterson's project reveals itself as more of a self-serving business venture than a legitimate academic institution. This so-called university seems to exist to cater to a particular demographic: individuals who feel alienated by modern educational practices and are eager to hear perspectives that align with their biases. Rather than engaging with the complexities of issues like gender, colonization, or global history, the courses offered appear to be narrow, one-sided, and ideologically driven. 

The fact that Peterson’s university lacks diversity of thought—despite his claims of championing free speech—is a glaring contradiction. This institution, marketed as an antidote to "woke" academia, seems to prioritize indoctrination over real education, feeding followers a steady diet of shallow, agenda-driven material. Ultimately, Peterson’s venture looks like an opportunistic cash grab, using the guise of education to sell his ideological brand. Instead of offering meaningful academic opportunities, it’s preying on those who want to learn but can’t afford traditional higher education, all while delivering a product that lacks depth, nuance, or academic rigor. The question remains: Is this really about education, or is it just another way for Peterson to fleece his followers?

The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.42.2 featuring Kelley Laughlin, Jonathan Roudabush, Cindy Plaza and Cynthia McDonald

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.