Abortion, by Olavo de Carvalho

This series of three newspaper columns by Olavo de Carvalho was collected in this order in the book “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”.

“Desire to Kill” explores the abortion debate, emphasizing that it revolves around the fundamental choice to abort rather than rational arguments. It highlights the ethical dilemma of uncertain fetal humanity, framing it as a moral risk and ultimately argues against abortion, concluding that no benefit justifies risking a potential human life. Olavo suggests that the pro-abortion stance is driven by an irrational desire to assert freedom and honor, rather than reasoned debate.

“Logic of Abortionism” argues that the morality of abortion is uncertain because it cannot be definitively proven whether a fetus is an extension of the mother’s body or a separate human being. Given this uncertainty, Olavo contends that the morally justifiable position is to refrain from abortion, as no one should arrogate the right to commit an act that might be homicide. The column criticizes abortion advocates for not recognizing the concept of species and suggests that their position relies on the idea that the status of being human is a social convention rather than a natural fact. Olavo also accuses abortion advocates of moral insensitivity and dishonesty in promoting their agenda.

“Candid Conversation about Abortion” is a commentary broadcasted on Radio Imprensa on December 4, 1996, discussing the morality and logic surrounding the abortion debate. The piece argues that the central question of the abortion debate revolves around whether the fetus is considered human. It critiques both spiritualist and materialist perspectives that claim the fetus is not human, with the author emphasizing that every attempt to argue otherwise encounters illogical contradictions. The column further contends that even if one considers the fetus as an organ or part of a woman’s body, its removal can be likened to self-mutilation. Olavo highlights that the fetus is also partially the father’s, challenging the idea that the mother has sole rights over it. Towards the end, the piece asserts that abortion advocates deceive women, leading them down a path of potential guilt and despair. The commentary concludes with an appeal to women, urging them to recognize the true intentions of those who support abortion rights, implying that they might be driven by insincere motives.

Envy, by Olavo de Carvalho

This series of four newspaper columns by Olavo de Carvalho was collected in this order in the book “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”.

“Dialectic of Envy” explores the complex nature of envy, describing it as a deeply hidden and conflicted human emotion. Envy is portrayed as a conflict between self-aversion and the desire for self-elevation. Olavo discusses how envy is rarely openly admitted and often concealed, as it can be shameful. Envy is seen as a feeling that thrives on secrecy, and it typically revolves around spiritual goods rather than material wealth or power. The column also touches upon the changing motives and expressions of envy in modern times, particularly in the context of revolutionary movements. It suggests that envy can be a driving force behind some social and political movements led by intellectual activists.

“Of Unconfessed Envy” discusses the prevalence of unconfessed envy in Brazilian society, particularly in the context of public recognition and voting. Olavo notes that there is a growing trend where people choose to applaud and vote for individuals who are perceived as less talented or remarkable, not out of genuine admiration, but as a way to avoid feelings of envy. This tendency is seen as a shift from a time when voters recognized and appreciated the talents and qualities of candidates, even if he had flaws. The column highlights how envy has become a pervasive and hidden force in society, influencing public opinion and decision-making, particularly in the realm of politics.

“Affected Contempt” discusses the biggest hindrance to the development of intelligence, which he argues is not economic, social, racial, or familial factors but rather moral ones. He emphasizes the importance of exposure to beauty in various forms from a young age to nurture higher intelligence. Olavo criticizes Brazilian culture for its preoccupation with the irrelevant and contempt for anything beyond his limited comprehension. He uses the example of the Brazilian media’s treatment of Ronald Reagan to illustrate his point that contempt can be a mask for envy.

“The Naivety of Cunning” explores how the 20th century thought of itself as clever by uncovering the flaws and weaknesses in great figures of the past, such as Marx, Freud, and Nietzsche, through psychoanalysis and critique. Olavo argues that this modern tendency towards self-criticism and suspicion led to the deconstruction of both divine and human qualities. He criticizes academic trends that focus on highlighting deficiencies in great individuals instead of appreciating their unique qualities and contributions. Olavo concludes that this self-destructive intellectual trend has made the 20th century appear remarkably naive in retrospect.

Education, by Olavo de Carvalho

This series of six newspaper columns by Olavo de Carvalho was collected in this order in the book “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”.

“Jesus and Stalin’s dove” discusses the relationship between reason, spirit, and feelings in guiding human conduct. It emphasizes the importance of subordinating feelings to reason and spirit, with reason being the pursuit of unity in the real world and spirit serving as the inspiration for seeking the ultimate Good.

“Education in Reverse” discusses the concept of education as a right versus a personal duty, using the lack of emphasis on self-education as a reason for Brazil’s poor performance in international tests.

“The Future of Boorishness” discusses the concept of “commonplaces” – stereotyped arguments stored in collective memory – and their impact on public opinion. These commonplaces can be intentionally created through slogans and repeated until their origins are forgotten, shaping people’s beliefs and reactions.

“The New Collective Imbecile” discusses the evolution of a concept called “The Collective Imbecile.” Originally referring to intelligent individuals corrupted by ideological influences, Olavo notes that the concept now applies to a new generation of internet-driven individuals aged 20 to 40. They have been influenced by different societal and cultural forces from their predecessors.

“Long Live Paulo Freire!” criticizes the educational methods of Paulo Freire, highlighting that his techniques were widely praised by communist parties and movements but did not lead to any significant reduction in illiteracy rates. Critics argue that Freire’s ideas lacked originality, were vague and repetitive, and failed to address practical implementation and potential manipulation of the masses. Olavo emphasizes that the critiques are not coming from right-wingers but rather from individuals who dedicated years to studying and following Freire’s teachings, suggesting that his “pedagogy of the oppressed” ultimately became an “oppression of pedagogy.” Despite this criticism, the article ironically approves of the posthumous recognition of Freire as the “patron of national education,” sarcastically highlighting the alignment of his educational philosophy with the decline in educational standards and academic performance in Brazil.

“Educating for Sissiness” discusses the concept of “sissiness” in the context of American education, particularly focusing on public schools. Olavo argues that there is a pervasive conditioning within the education system that promotes cowardice, weakness, and timidity, labeling it as a form of moral perfection. Olavo criticizes the education system for diminishing qualities like bravery and assertiveness, resulting in students who are vulnerable and paralyzed in the face of danger. Olavo highlights instances of school shootings and questions why more individuals didn’t take proactive measures to defend themselves and others. Olavo contrasts this perceived sissiness with historical conflicts and incidents where strength and courage were evident. The article also discusses how some individuals, such as security consultant Allen Hill, advocate for teaching boys to be braver and more aggressive to counteract criminal threats. Overall, the article emphasizes the negative impact of this perceived sissiness on the younger generation and criticizes certain aspects of American education while suggesting alternative approaches to fostering courage and self-defense.

Intelligentzia (But You Can Call It Mafia), by Olavo de Carvalho

This series of thirty-nine newspaper columns by Olavo de Carvalho was collected in this order in the book “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”.

Topics covered: 1. Illiteracy & Glory: Tutto è burla nel mondo; Academic glories of Lula; Phrases and lives; 2. People & Representation: Down with the Brazilian people; The esoteric obvious; Empire of pretense; 3. Media & Concealment: Who were the rats?; The price of collaborationism; The greatest of dangers; Nostalgia for stupidity; It is forbidden to stop lying; The technique of reverse labeling; The enlightened ones; 4. Morality & Inversion: Teachers of corruption; It is forbidden to notice; The recycling of ethics (part of 500 Years in Five Notes); Brace for the worst; The pit of Babel; 5. University & Farce: A generation of predators; The option for farce; Academic deceit in action; The true black culture; 6. History & Deception: The official history of 1964; Summary of what I think about 1964; The time of the military and the present days (part of Drugs are culture); The year when time stopped; 1968, the deception that hasn’t ended; 7. Marxism & Deceit: Devotees of a swindler; The plan and the fact; Weaknesses; 8. Decadence: Nostalgia for journalism; Where the fall began; From depressing fantasy to fearful reality; 9. Asylum: Speaking Brazil; Geese that speak; The revolution of the madmen; 10. Conspiracy: Conspiracy theory; False secrets; Zero credibility.