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In his thought-provoking analysis titled "Orthodoxy as 'Objectivity'" within the larger work "Thinking About Empire," Michael Parenti delves into the concept that not all opinions hold equal value. He posits that as orthodox views become more deeply ingrained, evidence that contradicts these views becomes increasingly disregarded. Parenti highlights the contrasting functions of heterodox and orthodox perspectives. While heterodox views aim to challenge prevailing orthodoxies, expand the scope of debate, awaken individuals to new perspectives, and bring suppressed information to light, orthodox views tend to reinforce existing beliefs and prompt individuals to retreat when faced with unfamiliar or challenging ideas.
Parenti further explores contentious topics such as the legitimacy of the 2004 presidential election in the United States and the idealized portrayal of Tibet prior to Chinese intervention.
These topics disrupt conventional narratives, eschew rational discourse, and assert alternative viewpoints that can potentially shape dominant paradigms.
Parenti emphasizes that the reception of these alternative perspectives often hinges on the intellectual reputation and professional standing of those presenting them.
In the section "The Myth of Innocent Empires," Parenti challenges the notion that empires are benign, unintentional creations.
He argues that empires are not innocent entities that emerge inadvertently, but deliberate constructs driven by motives of conquest and exploitation.
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Despite being portrayed as innocent or lacking in strategic intent, empires historically have engaged in acts of aggression, exploitation, and subjugation. Parenti cites examples such as British imperialism in India and American military interventions in Iraq to illustrate the predatory nature of empire-building.
I concur with Parenti's assertion that entrenched orthodox views tend to dismiss contrary evidence as irrelevant.
His succinct presentation of this idea underscores the pervasive influence of established beliefs and the resistance to challenging them.
The inertia of orthodox viewpoints, rooted in long-standing assumptions and cognitive biases, often leads individuals to reject opposing evidence in favor of reinforcing their existing beliefs. This phenomenon underscores the importance of critically examining entrenched orthodoxies and remaining open to alternative perspectives.
Regarding the innocence of empires, I align with Parenti's perspective that empires are far from innocent entities. Throughout history, empires have wielded power through conquest, exploitation, and coercion, resulting in widespread suffering, loss of life, and environmental degradation. While empires may have fostered unity and prosperity in some instances, they have also perpetuated division, conflict, and inequality. Parenti's critique of the myth of innocent empires challenges conventional narratives that portray imperial ventures as benign or altruistic endeavors.
In conclusion, Michael Parenti's exploration of orthodoxies, heterodoxies, and the nature of empires offers valuable insights into the complexities of power, ideology, and historical narratives. By interrogating entrenched beliefs and exposing the fallacies of innocent empire-building, Parenti encourages readers to critically engage with prevailing narratives and consider alternative perspectives. His work serves as a reminder of the importance of intellectual curiosity, skepticism, and openness to diverse viewpoints in navigating complex historical and political landscapes.
Summary and Response in the Face of Imperialism. (2017, Jan 09). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/summary-and-response-in-the-face-of-imperialism-essay
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