Uncover the origins of our civilization. See how each ancient city–Jerusalem, Athens, and Rome–the three mighty pillars of the West, made an enduring impact that continues to stand the test of time.

All five hosts return together in this final episode, focusing on the necessity of a unifying vision for the future. Shapiro, Klavan, Pageau, Bishop Barron and Dr. Peterson discuss the war on the West, the direct impact of postmodernism on our present day, and why understanding our past and where we came from is necessary to our survival. Together they trace the golden thread that has spanned across history, reawakening the ideals that might just save the West.

Foundations of the West

Symposium: War on the West

Bishop Robert Barron leads Dr. Jordan B. Peterson through ancient Rome's complex city and theology. The journey begins at Santa Maria in Trastevere, the birthplace of the modern church. Witness the church’s persecution unfold at the site of the Colosseum and delve deep underground into the chilling historical significance of the Catacombs. Thus, the emergence of Western Civilization is finally upon us, culminating at St. Peter's cathedral - the very bedrock of Roman society. Discover the seat of great power and the order through which life as we know it has been formed.

Rome & The World Made New

Jonathan Pageau joins Jordan in the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus spent his last night before being arrested. Then, Jonathan and Jordan walk down the Via Dolorosa, the road on which Jesus walked to his crucifixion. While visiting these sites, the two discuss Jesus’ journey to willing sacrifice and why remembering these places help hold the West together.


Christ, the Center of the World

From divine revelation in Jerusalem, we move on to explore how man grapples with sacred truth. Dr. Peterson, joined by Spencer Klavan, journeys to Athens to behold the pinnacle of civic achievement. At the Parthenon, trace the origins of free speech and free association. As concerns about our democracy's fragility grow, understand its birth at the Pnyx. Finally, at the ancient Theater of Dionysus, delve into the interconnections between tragedy, criticism, drama, and philosophy. Experience these profound concepts in some of the world's most beautiful and historically significant locations.

Athens & the Logos

Humanity's quest for a north star–an orienting compass through time and space sets the stage for the Axis Mundi. Jordan B. Peterson and Ben Shapiro explore the very city that bridges the gap between God and man: Jerusalem. A visit to the Temple Mount reveals the sacred story and epicenter of religious controversy. Marvel at the Shrine of the Book where literacy and culture are passed down generationally. Witness the land where power led to corruption and discover the catalysts that led to rulers being held accountable in the City of David. Concluding at the newly discovered Pilgrimage Road, Jordan and Ben embrace the idea that the journey of life is to move from the lower to the higher—the ascension toward God.

Jerusalem & the Axis Mundi

Foundations of the West | Trailer

Peterson and Shapiro consider how geography and religion play a critical role in the conflict in the Middle East, the collective agreement in a transcendent authority, and how the ancient wisdom embodied in Jerusalem may be the missing link in forging a path for peace.

Extra: Dinner In Jerusalem & The Middle East Conflict

Against the backdrop of the Acropolis, Peterson and Klavan touch on the hidden motives of the  Ukraine-Russia conflict, suggesting it may be partly fueled by an erosion of core Western values and what Peterson terms "anti-human environmentalism." Listen in on their discussion of the relationship between good and evil, morality and reason, and the value of preserving classic ideas as a means to address current global crises and foster personal and societal well-being.

Extra: Dinner In Athens & The War In Ukraine

Dinner in Bethlehem has special significance to the West’s present society, as the Palestinian city is a foundation for our shared civilization. Pageau and Peterson address the competing worldviews that persist from a joined past to today and the realistic danger of a potential collapse. Neglecting the past will not serve a society, as history itself has proven true, and society has a responsibility to shared values. Pageau and Peterson discuss ways to cultivate and uphold society in the way it should be structured and how suffering and sacrifice can be understood alongside the reality of death — and the meaningfulness of resurrection — with Christ at the center of Western civilization.

Extra: Dinner in Bethlehem & Diagnosing the West

Postmodernism stems from the spirit of Cain. Much of this influence is seen in modern culture and thought today. Seated atop the beautiful Roman skyline, Bishop Robert Barron and Dr. Jordan B. Peterson share a meal as a cascade of light frames the conversation, both literally and figuratively. Unlock the power of listening to orient oneself to the highest form of good and ultimately tethering to the truth of God.

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