Benedict Beckeld: When Society Loses Its Identity So Does the Individual

One of the main causes of the decline of Western civilization is hostility toward its own culture, says Benedict Beckeld. He argues that self-hatred is not a new phenomenon, but a natural byproduct of prosperity and peace. In an interview with Magyar Nemzet at the MCC Fest, the writer and philosopher also explained why returning to religious and cultural traditions is important—and why Hungary is less at risk in this regard.

Benedict Beckeld, philosopher and writer

"This isn't just a left-wing issue. In the U.S., even some on the Right now idealize countries like Russia—because compared to the ‘enemy’ they perceive in American leftists, Russia seems less threatening."

Beckeld also ties the phenomenon to intellectual vanity:

When you hate your own society, it gives you a sense of moral superiority. It’s a manifestation of intellectual arrogance.

Beckeld also shared his thoughts on core societal values: "Conservatives typically don’t believe in utopias—neither do I. But if we imagine a better society, it would be one where people have more children and where religion plays a stronger role." "Even those who don’t believe in God should still appreciate religion’s aesthetics and community-building power."

In a world dominated by hedonism and materialism," he said,"it’s especially important to have something that transcends all that.

To young people who want to preserve their cultural identity, Beckeld offered this message: "In today’s world, rebellion means going against leftist hegemony. If all institutions are controlled by the Left, then being conservative is the true form of rebellion. Young people in many European countries already sense this—and are voting right-wing." He added that Hungary is in a different position now, but warned: "If the left gains power here and takes over educational and cultural institutions, that could change quickly."

Hungarians are proud people—I’ve noticed that in many conversations. That kind of national pride is rare in Europe today, and it’s vital to preserve it.

"Because if the left takes over culture and education, even that pride will disappear," the philosopher concluded

My interview with @mandiner here in Hungary, translated into Hungarian (though I believe the original English version will also be made available soon), facilitated by the excellent people of the @MCC_Budapest and the #MCCFeszt :https://t.co/ilmPQ621WZ

— Benedict Beckeld (@BenedictBeckeld) August 1, 2025

Cover photo: Benedict Beckeld, philosopher and writer (Photo: KEMMA / Peter Wierl)