Fragility In Posture: Faux-Righteous Virtue Signaling
LOOK AT ME I AM SAYING THE THING!
It is not because the truth is too difficult to see that we make mistakes... we make mistakes because the easiest and most comfortable course for us is to seek insight where it accords with our emotions - especially selfish ones.
The formula 'Two and two make five' is not without its attractions.
I’m trying something a bit different here. Let’s talk about what others have said in the past.
Though, given my love of quotes, this shouldn’t be a surprising tactic coming from me.
Let’s use thoughts to figure out our thoughts!
The Prophetic Link Between Dostoevsky and Solzhenitsyn
The literary and existential connection between Fyodor Dostoevsky and Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn is prophetic. Dostoevsky, writing in the 19th century, delved deeply into the psychology of man, exploring themes of freedom, suffering, and morality.
His works often depicted the dire consequences of abandoning moral absolutes and the existential turmoil that follows. Notably, in "Notes from Underground," Dostoevsky explores the destructive effects of utopian ideologies, prefiguring the kind of totalitarian regimes that would emerge in the 20th century.
Dostoevsky's exploration of ideological fanaticism and its catastrophic effects on the soul and society eerily predicted the horrors that Solzhenitsyn would later document in his seminal work, "The Gulag Archipelago." Solzhenitsyn's detailed account of the Soviet labor camps not only confirmed Dostoevsky's warnings about the dangers of totalitarianism but also showcased the grim reality of these predictions.
Solzhenitsyn experienced firsthand the degradation of humanity and moral compromise that Dostoevsky had only imagined, providing a stark, real-world testament to the philosophical explorations of his literary predecessor.
In his writings, Dostoevsky warned of the dangers of a society that prioritizes ideological purity over individual morality, a theme that Solzhenitsyn would echo in his critique of Soviet communism.
Dostoevsky's prophetic visions of state control and punitive repressions were brought to life in Solzhenitsyn's chilling narratives, which not only depicted the physical brutalities of the gulags but also the psychological warfare waged against prisoners.
Thus, the intellectual lineage between Dostoevsky and Solzhenitsyn is marked by a shared concern for the integrity of the individual spirit against the crush of oppressive societal structures. Both authors understood the perilous path that humanity could take when it loses sight of intrinsic moral values in favor of a collective, often enforced, moral facade.
This dialogue across the centuries forms a poignant reminder of the enduring relevance of their works, urging modern readers to heed these lessons of history with grave attention.
Alekodor Solzenoevsky
Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn had a real issue with what he saw as false moral posturing, the kind of virtue signaling that, in his view, did more harm than good to individuals and society alike. His experiences and deep reflections on the Soviet regime, where ideological purity was a tool for control and oppression, heavily influenced these views.
He pointed out how, in the Soviet Union, the government portrayed itself as the ultimate moral authority—always right, always just. This was a dangerous facade that justified harsh actions against anyone labeled as an enemy of the state. Citizens were expected to publicly endorse these actions, which bred a culture of hypocrisy and fear.
Solzhenitsyn argued that this kind of enforced righteousness could lead individuals to compromise their own moral standards, leading to personal corruption and spiritual emptiness. At the societal level, he believed that when fake virtues are treated as real, the whole community suffers from a loss of moral direction.
This results in the neglect or suppression of real human needs and injustices, as the state focuses more on maintaining its ideological purity than on fostering genuine virtues like compassion, honesty, and justice.
His writings, especially in works like "The Gulag Archipelago," serve as a warning about the dangers of letting the state or any other authority define and enforce morality in ways that suppress individual conscience and dissent.
When thinking about Solzhenitsyn’s critiques, it’s hard not to draw parallels with Dostoevsky’s explorations of human psychology and morality in his novels. Dostoevsky was masterful in depicting the inner conflicts and moral struggles of his characters, often illustrating how the pretense of virtue can mask deeper, darker motives.
Take "Crime and Punishment," for example, where Raskolnikov’s delusions of moral superiority lead him down a path of murder and psychological turmoil, only to confront the depth of his own moral failings. Or "The Brothers Karamazov," where characters like Ivan struggle with the moral implications of their rational atheism, leading to internal conflicts and tragedies.
Dostoevsky shows us the dangers of detached intellectualism that dismisses the essential human values of compassion, love, and forgiveness—themes that resonate deeply with Solzhenitsyn’s critique of ideological tyranny.
Both authors, from their different historical and philosophical backgrounds, challenge us to look beyond the surface of professed morality. They caution against the risks of external impositions of morality—whether by the state, an ideology, or our own delusions—that threaten our dignity and freedom.
As a father, these reflections are particularly poignant. It’s vital for me to create an environment where my children can see and learn the importance of real integrity—not just the appearance of it. This means being honest about my mistakes, demonstrating true empathy, and encouraging them to think critically and question the world around them.
I try to lead by example, showing them that strength comes from acknowledging our weaknesses and striving to be better. By living authentically, I hope to instill in them a moral compass that guides not just their actions but also their understanding of right and wrong—something they can rely on throughout their lives.
In the end, I hope I am helping them build a foundation of genuine virtue that enables them to contribute positively to the world. These are the lessons I want to pass on, lessons that are as relevant today as they were in the times of Dostoevsky and Solzhenitsyn.
As always, I have questions. Questions on questions with questions about questions. Inquires, even. I’m not attempting to preach or scold. I’m worried, of course.
What does it truly mean to live a life aligned with one's professed values?
How does one navigate the delicate balance between personal belief and societal expectation without falling into the trap of hypocrisy?
How about doing so without being some preachy asshole?
I still don’t know how to do that one.
When we strip away the external accolades and the social media validation, what remains of our so-called virtues?
Are our virtues based upon how we’re received in these arenas?
Are they as robust and deeply rooted as we believe, or are they merely fragile constructs shaped more by the expectations of others than by our own convictions?
I don’t know. I think I do, sometimes, but I can’t say I know with complete confidence.
I appreciate you spending your time with me and these thoughts of mine.
Truly.
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I grew up in a household with a father and mother who led by example. They never spoke of virtue or morality very much, they just acted in a moral way every single day. This upbringing gave me a kind of 'virtue signal radar' as an adult. I have always felt that the idea of a 'philanthropic billionaire' is an oxymoron; so often these types merely use philanthropy as a ruse to soften their public image. If you are hiring a publicity firm to virtue signal of your good deeds, you have completely missed the point and shown yourself as the vile opportunist you are.
In regards to state sanctioned virtue signalling, well that is a whole other kettle of fish that you have aptly put your finger on with your astute references to Solzhenitsyn. A few years ago I tried reading The Gulag Archipelago, I say I 'tried' reading it because I could only get about halfway through before I became so deeply depressed I had to put it down for my own mental health. A devastating book.
Excellent timing! Just discovered someone I know has interest in Dostoevsky and I myself finally have read ‘The Gulag Archipelago’ and now, seeing this study of both authors on one page fits nicely when I give him my copy of the book! Nice work!