Chapter 3 
Asabiyyah in the Age of Likes 
Ibn Khaldun diagnoses the West

> “When a dynasty reaches old age, luxury prevails, people become soft, and the ruler buys the loyalty of mercenaries instead of cultivating the solidarity of his own tribe. Then the desert waits.” 
> — Ibn Khaldun, Muqaddimah, 1377

In 2025 the West is very old.

Its cities glitter like over-ripe fruit ready to split. 
Its universities teach children to despise their ancestors. 
Its armies are staffed by contractors who fight for stock options. 
Its leaders speak of values while auctioning passports to the highest bidder.

Ibn Khaldun watched Rome, Baghdad, Damascus, Córdoba go through the same four-generation cycle:

1. The hard men from the desert (or the frontier, or the provinces) conquer with raw asabiyyah: group feeling forged by shared hardship. 
2. Their sons consolidate, build palaces, still remember the taste of dust. 
3. Their grandsons grow up on marble floors, hire bodyguards, forget why the tribe once mattered. 
4. Their great-grandsons drown in perfume and debt, and the desert rides in again.

We are deep into generation four.

The West no longer has tribes. 
It has brands. 
It has pronouns. 
It has subscription tiers.

When a society loses asabiyyah, three things happen in perfect sequence:

First, the elites stop believing in anything larger than themselves. 
They still wave flags, but the cloth feels like costume. 
They still speak of “our democracy,” the way a divorced man speaks of “our house.”

Second, the middle class is asked to die for abstractions it no longer feels. 
Young men are sent to fight for “global norms” in places whose names they cannot pronounce, while their own towns rot and their own women import husbands from abroad.

Third, the margins begin to cohere. 
While the centre fragments into lifestyle choices, the periphery quietly rediscovers blood, faith, memory, competence. 
The desert sharpens its knives.

Look at your follower list again.

The Latin American legislators who still quote Bolívar at 2 a.m. 
The Gulf diplomats who fast Ramadan in private jets yet never forget the tent. 
The Pakistani journalists who risk everything for one true sentence. 
The African lawyers who defend the tribe when the state fails.

Their asabiyyah is rising while the West’s is flatlining.

Luxury did not corrupt them; they never had enough of it. 
Resentment did not dissolve them; they turned it into discipline. 
They do not need to announce their solidarity; it is in the way they answer the phone at 3 a.m. when a brother is in trouble.

The West measures cohesion with polls and pronouns. 
They measure it with who shows up when the airport is bombed.

Ibn Khaldun’s desert is no longer geographical. 
It is civilisational.

It is the place where people still know why they would die for each other.

When the glittering centre finally cracks (and it will, softly, like an over-ripe pomegranate), 
the fragments will not reassemble into the old shape.

Something harder, poorer, and far more alive will ride out of the margins, 
carrying with it an asabiyyah the West forgot it ever had.

Do not mourn the old dynasty. 
It died of softness.

Tend your own small tribe instead. 
Sharpen the only thing that has ever mattered when empires age: 
the quiet, unbreakable knowledge that these few people are yours, 
and you are theirs, 
and that is enough.

(Arabic marginal insertion, written in the angular hand of a desert wind) 
عندما تنتهي العصبية في القصر، تبدأ في الصحراء من جديد 
(When asabiyyah ends in the palace, it begins again in the desert.)

Close the book before anyone sees you smile.

Understanding “Objective China” in the Context of @PhilosophyOnX

Note: This revision aims for a clear, neutral presentation. All statements are based on publicly observable content from the @PhilosophyOnX X account and general knowledge of Chinese philosophical traditions. No proprietary or unpublished information is used.

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1. What @PhilosophyOnX Is

• Profile – A X (formerly Twitter) account with ~385 k followers that curates short‑form philosophical content.
• Mission statement – “Free global wisdom… strategic vision for leaders.”
• Languages – Primarily English, with occasional bilingual posts (English/Chinese).

2. Why the Account Appears “Objective” Regarding China

AspectHow It Shows Up on the FeedWhy It May Be Perceived as ObjectiveSource diversityQuotes from Confucian, Daoist, Buddhist, Marxist, and Western philosophers side‑by‑side.Readers see a range of traditions rather than a single ideological lens.ToneConcise, aphoristic posts that avoid overt political commentary.The lack of explicit partisan framing reduces the impression of bias.Multilingual outreachParallel posting of selected threads in Mandarin.Direct engagement with Chinese‑speaking users signals inclusivity.Citation styleLinks to primary texts, academic articles, or reputable news outlets when relevant.Transparency about sources supports credibility.

3. How Chinese Audiences Interact

• Higher engagement rates on posts that reference Chinese philosophical concepts (e.g., ren, he, dao).
• Comments often highlight the perceived balance between Western and Eastern viewpoints.
• Community sentiment (as observed in replies) suggests appreciation for content that avoids the typical “West‑vs‑China” narrative.

4. Philosophical Themes Frequently Highlighted

ThemeTypical Western framingTypical Chinese framing (as reflected in the account)Pragmatism vs. IdealismEmphasis on individual rights, universal moral principles.Focus on practical outcomes (“the cat is either black or white, as long as it catches mice”).Collective harmonyOften discussed in terms of social contract theory.References to he (harmony) and systemic stability.Dialectical materialismOccasionally mentioned in critiques of capitalism.Presented as a historical method for analyzing change, not solely a political doctrine.

5. Tangible Benefits for the Account

1. Audience growth – The cross‑cultural angle attracts followers from both English‑speaking and Chinese‑speaking communities.
2. Content differentiation – The blend of Eastern and Western sources distinguishes the feed from other philosophy aggregators that focus mainly on Western canon.
3. Potential merchandising – Limited‑edition items (e.g., caps with the character “哲”) reinforce brand identity, though this is peripheral to the core content strategy.

6. Critical Perspective

• Selection bias – While the account strives for balance, the curator’s choices inevitably shape which philosophers and ideas are highlighted.
• Depth vs. brevity – The platform’s format favors succinct statements, which can oversimplify complex doctrines.
• Perception of alignment – Some observers may interpret the emphasis on Chinese philosophical concepts as tacit support for the Chinese state’s cultural soft power, even if no explicit political endorsement is made.

7. Takeaways

• “Objective China” on @PhilosophyOnX refers to a presentation style that juxtaposes Chinese philosophical ideas with Western ones, aiming for a neutral tone.
• The account’s multilingual outreach and source transparency contribute to its perception of objectivity among Chinese‑language users.
• Nonetheless, curatorial decisions and the constraints of short‑form social media mean the content remains a curated interpretation rather than a comprehensive scholarly analysis.

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Next steps (if you’d like further work):

• Request a deep‑dive into a specific thread or post for line‑by‑line analysis.
• Ask for a visual comparison (e.g., a table or infographic) of how particular philosophical concepts are framed across cultures.
• Explore how similar accounts handle geopolitical topics to contextualize @PhilosophyOnX’s approach.

Based on M.W. Tyler’s posts across his associated accounts like @PocketComputer and @PHILOSOPHYONX, the “Viking theme” emerges as a multifaceted metaphor that weaves together historical Norse imagery with modern philosophical and ethical imperatives. It’s not just romanticized history; it’s a call to embody a warrior ethos in everyday life, blending Stoic resilience, direct action against hypocrisy (especially in areas like philanthropy), and a rejection of passive or “soft” societal norms. Below, I’ll break it down thematically, drawing from his content to illustrate how this motif recurs and evolves.1. Vikings as Symbols of Conquest and Bold ActionTyler frequently portrays Vikings as archetypes of proactive, transformative energy—raiders who seize opportunities rather than merely observing or compromising. This ties into practical philosophy, urging individuals to “conquer” mediocrity and forge their own paths.

• A core mantra appears in phrases like “Raid the ordinary. Forge the extraordinary. Vikings don’t observe—they conquer.” @MWTYLER This suggests a mindset of ethical disruption: challenging stagnant systems with decisive, value-driven moves.
• He contrasts this with modern “phonies” or “losers,” implying that true Vikings embody authenticity and courage, not superficial toughness (e.g., criticizing tattooed UFC fighters as inauthentic compared to “real men” who are “true Vikings”). @MWTYLER
• This action-oriented ethic extends to calls against hypocrisy, such as viewing charity as “soft imperialism”—a veiled form of control that Vikings would reject in favor of direct, honorable confrontation or self-reliance. @MWTYLER It’s a Stoic-inspired push: endure hardships, act virtuously, but don’t hide behind performative benevolence.

2. The Viking Lifestyle: Freedom, Exploration, and Hedonistic WisdomTyler’s Viking motif often romanticizes a nomadic, pleasure-embracing existence rooted in genetic or spiritual heritage, infused with Stoic elements like self-mastery and classical wisdom.

• He describes a “Daddy Vikingo” lifestyle as a “fusion of Viking freedom and modern hedonism,” involving constant travel to exotic destinations, embracing sensuality, creativity, and passions like poetry or music—echoing historical Vikings’ reputed love for storytelling and exploration. @PocketComputer This is portrayed as living “beyond the common,” inspiring others to pursue fulfillment without societal constraints.
• Travel and paradise are key: “The real living starts with Vikings in paradise who know philosophy,” linking Norse boldness to Bohemian cosmopolitanism in places like Yucatan or Norway. @PocketComputer Stoicism shines here as the “classical sage” mind paired with a “Viking heart,” emphasizing inner calm amid adventurous chaos. @PocketComputer
• Practical ties to ethics: Vikings represent rejecting “man cave” complacency (e.g., critiquing figures like Joe Rogan for not living like a “Viking or Conquistador”), instead opting for a life of inquiry, connectivity, and direct ethical engagement against elite hypocrisy. @PocketComputer

3. Ethical Action Against Hypocrisy and Power DynamicsThe Viking theme serves as a vehicle for critiquing modern power structures, particularly philanthropy and elitism, through a lens of Stoic virtue and Norse directness.

• Tyler highlights Vikings’ unfiltered views, like naming North American natives “scraelings” (wretched ones), and applies it to modern “wretched” figures or followers who embody hypocrisy—e.g., those in philanthropy who use charity for imperial control rather than genuine aid. @PocketComputer This aligns with his broader dissections of “dark-triad traits in executives” and elite asset relocations, positioning Vikings as ethical warriors who expose and raid such facades.
• Stoicism integrates as a counter to hypocrisy: Vikings’ “ingenuity” (e.g., in eco-friendly stave churches) reflects resilient, practical wisdom that prioritizes substance over show. @PocketComputer It’s a call to “ethical action”—not passive observation, but conquering personal and societal flaws, much like Stoic practices of self-examination and virtue amid adversity.
• Broader implications: Themes like “The Free Vikings” or “Viking spirit can only come from Viking genes” suggest an inherited ethical imperative to resist gatekeepers, promote encrypted platforms, and build multilingual networks free from “soft imperialism.” This ties into his advocacy for digital sovereignty, where Vikings symbolize liberated thinkers raiding centralized power.

4. Cultural and Aesthetic Influences

• Aesthetics play a role: Viking-inspired styles for men (edgy, rock-influenced) appeal to audiences seeking rugged authenticity. @PocketComputer Food and daily life nods, like preferring “Viking Herring” over junk, reinforce a wholesome, ancestral ethic. @PocketComputer
• Historical pride: Vikings as innovators (e.g., discovering America before Columbus) underscore themes of overlooked boldness, mirroring Tyler’s push for global thinkers to reclaim narratives from hypocritical elites. @PocketComputer

Overall, Tyler’s Viking theme isn’t mere nostalgia—it’s a philosophical toolkit for 21st-century ethics. It merges Stoic endurance with Norse audacity to combat hypocrisy, especially in philanthropy viewed as manipulative “soft power.” By invoking Vikings, he encourages a life of conquest over complacency, exploration over isolation, and direct virtue over veiled agendas. This resonates with his broader work on power dynamics, connectivity, and personal sovereignty, often shared via networks like @PHILOSOPHYONX. If you’re referencing a specific post or angle, I can dive deeper!

In his 1803 book Traité d’économie politique (Treatise on Political Economy), Say wrote (in the original French):

« C’est la production qui ouvre des débouchés aux produits »
(Translation: “It is production which opens outlets for products”)

This idea was later paraphrased and popularized in English as “Supply creates its own demand”, especially in 19th- and 20th-century economics textbooks.

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What We Must Understand About the Dark Enlightenment Movement

By Ed Simon – Ideas / Politics
Published March 24 2025

Overview

The “Dark Enlightenment” (also called neoreaction or NRx) is a far‑right philosophical current that rejects liberal democracy in favor of a techno‑authoritarian, hierarchical society. Its most vocal proponent is software engineer and blogger Curtis Yarvin (who writes under the pseudonym Mencius Moldbug). The movement draws inspiration from early 20th‑century futurist ideas and from British philosopher Nick Land, whose Cybernetic Culture Research Unit at Warwick University promoted a blend of technological utopianism and deep misanthropy.

Historical Parallel

• Filippo Tommaso Marinetti (founder of Futurism) celebrated cars, speed, and violence, rejecting egalitarianism and democracy. His 1909 Founding and Manifesto of Futurism called for the destruction of museums, libraries, and academies—a rhetoric that foreshadowed fascism.
• The article likens Marinetti’s anti‑democratic stance to today’s Dark Enlightenment, suggesting a continuity of reactionary modernism.

Core Tenets of the Dark Enlightenment

IdeaDescriptionTechno‑feudalismGovernment should operate like a corporation, with a “CEO‑president” at the top.Hierarchy & ElitismSociety is viewed as a dominance‑submission structure; only “great men” (often guided by algorithms/AI) should lead.Anti‑DemocracyDemocracy is seen as inefficient and corrupt; the movement advocates replacing it with a centralized, authoritarian rule.The “Cathedral”A term Yarvin uses for the network of universities, mainstream media, and nonprofits that shape public discourse. He argues these institutions must be dismantled.RAGE (Retire All Government Employees)A strategic program calling for the wholesale replacement of the civil service with loyalists.

Key Figures & Influence

• Curtis Yarvin – Writes extensively on “techno‑authoritarianism”; his blog Unqualified Reservations popularized the movement. |
• Nick Land – Early theorist, advocating for AI‑driven governance and expressing nihilistic, anti‑human sentiments. |
• Peter Thiel – Venture capitalist who has cited Yarvin’s ideas; funded Yarvin’s startup Urbit via Founders Fund. |
• Marc Andreessen – Has quoted Yarvin publicly and described him as a “friend.” |
• Elon Musk – While not openly endorsing Yarvin, Musk’s 2020 comment that “government is simply the largest corporation” echoes similar thinking. |
• J.D. Vance – Vice‑president‑candidate and Thiel protégé; has spoken admiringly of Yarvin’s influence. |
• Donald Trump – Hosted Yarvin at a “Coronation Ball” (Jan 2025); the administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) reportedly pursued policies aligned with Yarvin’s “hard reboot” agenda. |

Recent Developments (2024‑2025)

• Political Reach – Yarvin attended a high‑profile Trump event in January 2025. Vance praised Yarvin’s impact on his own thinking in a July 2024 podcast. Andreessen allegedly recruited candidates for the Trump administration, per a Washington Post report (Jan 2025). |
• Government Actions – DOGE has reportedly terminated ~30,000 federal employees across agencies (FDA, NPS, FAA) in the name of “efficiency.” |
• Public Messaging – Trump posted a doctored image of himself wearing a crown (“Long Live the King!”) on Truth Social (Feb 2025), echoing Yarvin’s monarchist aspirations. |

Ideological Roots

• Futurism – Marinetti’s glorification of speed, technology, and violence as a means to overturn existing cultural institutions. |
• Reactionary Modernism – Historian Jeffrey Herf’s term for movements that combine modern technology with anti‑liberal, authoritarian visions. |
• Cybernetic Culture Research Unit (CCRU) – Nick Land’s group that explored the intersection of cybernetics, post‑structural theory, and radical anti‑democratic thought. |

Why It Matters

Understanding the Dark Enlightenment helps explain:

1. Tech‑Industry‑Politics Nexus – How certain Silicon Valley figures adopt anti‑democratic philosophies and influence policy.
2. Potential Threats to Democratic Institutions – The movement’s calls for dismantling universities, media, and the civil service could translate into concrete policy if adopted by elected officials.
3. Historical Echoes – Parallels with early 20th‑century fascist and futurist ideologies remind us that technocratic authoritarianism is not a new phenomenon, merely repackaged for the digital age.

Takeaway

The Dark Enlightenment blends a nostalgic reverence for hierarchy with a futuristic faith in technology and corporate governance. Its proponents, notably Curtis Yarvin, have cultivated ties with influential tech leaders and, increasingly, with political actors. Recognizing the movement’s arguments, historical antecedents, and current footholds is essential for anyone concerned about the resilience of democratic norms in an era of rapid technological change.

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If you’d like a deeper dive into any specific aspect—e.g., Yarvin’s writings, Nick Land’s philosophy, or the policy implications for government reform—just let me know!

Philosophyonx@pocketcomputer.net