One of the revivalist preachers of the first half of the 18th century is said to have once walked down the street and there was a group of actors in colourful costumes. “Mr. Preacher, look at us!” they shouted. His reply was something like “God forbid I should gaze upon vanity,” and he passed them with his head turned the other way.
I am far from mocking a movement that existed in a different time with different goals. However, it is a good example of a Puritan attitude totally concentrated on leaving no small pleasure, no harmless indulgence in human life. Everything must be concentrated on the supreme sacred goal.
Such efforts occur regularly in history. For example, in the present time. British Prime Minister Starmer, in addition to brutally suppressing the rebellion of the white lower classes, has already managed to announce a forthcoming ban on smoking in public places and measures against good food. Turning up to see a pretty girl has long been unacceptable. The Czech Pirates are again heading for a beer ban (split into several steps). And we could go on for a long time.
In short, it is not enough to impoverish people and shorten their lives. It is also necessary to deprive them of all the joy of life. The only proper joy is the joy of conquering Russia, saving the planet, or promoting multiculti. All energy should be devoted to that too. Idleness is a sin.
Yes, it’s nothing new. But in previous waves it was supposed to be for the exceptional people, now it is to be strictly imposed on everyone in the West. Is our problem really hedonism or fanatical asceticism? Or some strange combination of both?