Influential techno-libertarians in the technology and finance sectors are all a-Twitter over “The Sovereign Individual.” This book, jointly authored by James Dale Davidson and William Rees-Mogg, is experiencing an incredible second life. The book originally published way back in 1997. Its 2020 edition jumped to renewed fame after tech mogul Peter Thiel, co-founder of PayPal, authored a foreword for it. That’s precisely what the famed libertarian Peter Thiel loves about the book. It promotes a harmful idea of a new ‘cognitive elite’ and pushes us to adopt selfishness as a virtue in an ever complicated world.
“The Sovereign Individual” is much more than a philosophical treatise. At 400 pages, it’s a practical guide. Retrofitted to today’s tech billionaires, it serves as their survival manual. The authors argue that the book equips readers to navigate the challenges of the 21st century, emphasizing autonomy and self-preservation in an age marked by technological upheaval and governmental instability. Davidson, pictured above, is a private investigator and financial advisor. Rees-Mogg, the former editor of The Times who died in 2012, imagined a world where people succeed by using their brains and assets.
The Message of Selfishness and Survival
The Sovereign Individual lights candles on a similar altar and recommends the worship of somebody else’s interests first. This philosophy sounds an awful lot like the ideas of the late Ayn Rand. The authors assert that embracing selfishness can lead to greater societal progress, particularly in a world where mass democracy may hinder innovation. The article argues that rich people naturally, unconsciously hoard wealth and insulate themselves. Yet this behavior is not only justified, it’s necessary for survival in the modern world.
One of the book’s key assertions states that individuals should “take advantage of the opportunities of the new age and avoid being destroyed by its impact.” This call to action challenges readers to rethink their place within society’s institutions and structures of power and oppression. It inspires them to seek freedom from conventional limitations.
This perspective has found favor among prominent figures such as venture capitalist Marc Andreessen, who lauds the book as “the most thought-provoking book on the unfolding nature of the 21st century that I’ve yet read.” He urges attention to the book’s deep and diverse well of ideas, some of which are gaining traction at break-neck speed and others that are still considered fringe.
Peter Thiel’s relationship to “The Sovereign Individual” runs deeper than just praise. His foreword further outlines his personal convictions of individualism and self-determination, values that are defined as central tenets of the book’s ideological framework. Thiel has previously expressed thoughts on the implications of one’s actions shaping future realities, stating the importance of considering “carefully about the future that your own actions will help to create.”
Thiel’s decision to secure fast-tracked New Zealand citizenship in 2011 through an “exceptional circumstances” clause reflects the book’s themes of autonomy and retreat from state control. His actions have generated discussions about personal sovereignty in a globalized world, reinforcing the idea that individuals must prepare for changing societal landscapes.
Tech elites love “The Sovereign Individual.” Its principles strike a deep chord in libertarian, entrepreneur-fundamentalist circles that lionize disruption and demonize all things establishment. Thiel’s influence has helped revive interest in the text, positioning it as both a guide and a warning for those navigating the complexities of modern life.
A Vision for the Future
In “The Sovereign Individual,” Davidson and Rees-Mogg predict a looming conflict between traditional government structures and a new breed of autonomous individuals. They contend that “the clash between the new and the old will shape the early years of the new millennium,” suggesting a landscape fraught with both peril and opportunity. This governance dichotomy exposes the potential cracks for gamechanging changes to our governance framework. In the future, as technology upends more traditions, we’ll start to hear a rebranding of personal liberty.
The authors flesh out a rich dreamscape of an Information Society. Under this plan, those who are able to learn and self-motivate will escape the yoke of government tyranny and woke discrimination. They posit that “genius will be unleashed,” enabling talented individuals to realize their productivity without being hindered by outdated systems or collective opinions.
As society grapples with rapid technological advancements and evolving political landscapes, “The Sovereign Individual” serves as both a blueprint for survival and a manifesto for those seeking an individualized approach to life. Its ideologies push readers to question their place in society, all while motivating them to force change themselves and to lead change before it’s thrust upon them.