[seibelj]

I read an FAQ on neo-reactionism and it's totally insane. But I would be fine with the guy lecturing about computers if he knew his stuff. Honestly I find intelligent, rational people who come to radically different conclusions about society to be fascinating.

On the other hand, if Hitler himself was alive and gave a speech on art, I wouldn't want to hear it because of his politics and actions. So clearly there is a spectrum for me, and at some point the politics become so bad I can't stand the person.

Also, by giving this person a speaking role, he becomes more authoritative in all subjects, so it probably is better not to help him. In summary, lots to think about!

[tomp]

I would love to hear a speech by Hitler. Regardless of his actions, he was a master persuader and accomplished (affected the world) in a decade more than most people couldn't in 1000 years! We could all learn a lot from him - which of course doesn't mean that we would have to use the skills for the same means he did.

[kafkaesq]

That's the thing -- the kind of persuasive talents Hitler had... can pretty much only be used for the kinds of destructive ends he sought.

[tomp]

I'm pretty sure that Steve Jobs had a comparable talent. He used it to lead a great many people to create a great many products instead.

[kafkaesq]

In degree, yes - but in kind, not.

[eli_gottlieb]

>he was a master persuader and accomplished (affected the world) in a decade more than most people couldn't in 1000 years

No. He accomplished what most people wouldn't and oughtn't in a thousand years.

[mikeash]

That's not in conflict with what was said in your quote. Hitler changed the world enormously. It was terrible, but the influence is undeniable. I'm reminded of all the people I've seen making fun of Time for naming Hitler their Man of the Year, without realizing that Man/Person of the Year is purely about the size of impact, not how good it is.

[antifasci]

Or just didn't until Stalin and Mao.

[philwelch]

If Hitler were alive and giving a speech about art, I would either expect he were giving a speech within the confines of a prison, or else I would try and tip off the Mossad as to when and where he was speaking. I think the operative difference here is that Hitler actually conspired to kill a few million people, whereas a neoreactionary blogger just spouts kooky stuff on the Internet.

[eruditely]

You should read his work and not scotty's f.a.q.