The Tech Oligarchs’ Playbook: How Musk, Thiel, and the New Right Have Reshaped America
Eugenics, Dark Enlightenment, and the Rise of Anti-Democratic Tech Oligarchs
Because this is a long write-up, here's the TL;DR first:
Tech oligarchs like Elon Musk, Peter Thiel, and Curtis Yarvin, alongside political figures like Donald Trump and J.D. Vance, are driving a dangerous shift in modern conservatism. Rooted in ideologies like the Dark Enlightenment and eugenics, this movement rejects democracy in favor of authoritarian, hierarchical systems. Thiel and Yarvin, influenced by philosopher René Girard’s theories on societal conflict, advocate for technocratic or monarchist governance, while Musk’s actions—such as promoting far-right conspiracy theories and dismantling government institutions—align with these anti-democratic ideals. Together, they are actively undermining democracy, leveraging their wealth, influence, and control over technology to reshape politics and society in their image. The rise of the New Right, driven by these figures, is an ongoing crisis, as their vision of a future dominated by corporate power and elite rule rapidly takes hold.
Two weeks ago, I expressed my disdain on Bluesky about Elon Musk’s recent fascist salute, given his history of promoting eugenic-adjacent ideas, aligning with far-right figures, and exhibiting authoritarian tendencies. This led me to reflect on the broader implications of eugenics, a concept I first encountered in high school during lessons on World War II. The Nazi regime weaponized eugenics to justify genocide against Jews, disabled individuals, LGBTQ+ people, and other marginalized groups. After hours of deep diving into the connections between eugenics, the Dark Enlightenment, and tech oligarchs like Elon Musk, Peter Thiel, Curtis Yarvin, Donald Trump, and J.D. Vance, this post examines how these individuals and movements are reshaping modern conservatism and threatening democracy.
The Dark Enlightenment and Neo-Reactionary Thought
The Dark Enlightenment, also known as the neo-reactionary movement (NRx), is an anti-democratic, anti-egalitarian philosophy founded by Curtis Yarvin, an American software engineer who writes under the pseudonym “Mencius Moldbug.” The term was coined in 2007 and further developed by philosopher Nick Land. This ideology rejects the idea that history progresses toward greater liberty and enlightenment, instead advocating for a return to archaic forms of governance like monarchism or cameralism. It critiques democracy and promotes hierarchical, authoritarian systems (Populism Studies, n.d.).
Peter Thiel and the Neo-Reactionary Network
Peter Thiel, the billionaire co-founder of PayPal and Palantir, is a key figure in this movement. Despite being an openly gay libertarian, Thiel has funded right-wing causes and figures, including Donald Trump. In a 2009 essay, Thiel argued that “freedom and democracy are incompatible,” criticizing welfare systems and women as obstacles to libertarian ideals. He wrote, “Since 1920, the vast increase in welfare beneficiaries and the extension of the franchise to women — two constituencies that are notoriously tough for libertarians — have rendered the notion of ‘capitalist democracy’ into an oxymoron” (Cato Unbound, 2009). Thiel has since shifted his focus to technologies like cyberspace, space colonization, and seasteading as avenues to create new spaces for freedom outside traditional politics. His ideas have been cited by Yarvin and Land, linking him directly to the Dark Enlightenment.
Thiel’s influence extends to J.D. Vance, the Republican senator and Trump's Vice President. Vance first encountered Thiel during a 2011 talk at Yale Law School, where Thiel criticized the legal profession for stifling innovation, arguing that “the hyper-competitive nature of professions like law is connected to stifled technological innovation” (Salon, 2024). This meeting marked the beginning of a close relationship. Vance later worked at Thiel’s investment firm, Mithril Capital, and founded Narya Capital, funded by Thiel and former Google CEO Eric Schmidt (Salon, 2024). Despite initially opposing Trump, Vance embraced his rhetoric about institutional corruption, becoming a leading figure in the “New Right.”
Intellectual Foundations: Girard, Thiel, Yarvin, and the Critique of Modern Society
René Girard, a French historian and philosopher, is best known for his theory of mimetic desire, which posits that human desire is not inherently individual but imitated from others. This process leads to rivalry and conflict, which societies mitigate through mechanisms like scapegoating. Girard’s theories, explored in works such as Violence and the Sacred (Girard, 1972) and The Scapegoat (Girard, 1982), provide a framework for understanding social dynamics, cultural conflict, and political systems. His ideas have influenced a wide range of thinkers, including Peter Thiel and Curtis Yarvin, who apply Girard’s insights to their critiques of modern democracy (New Republic, 2024; The Verge, 2024).
Peter Thiel, the billionaire entrepreneur and venture capitalist, has been heavily influenced by Girard’s theory of mimetic desire, particularly in his views on competition and innovation. Thiel acknowledges Girard’s ideas, stating that they helped him understand how competition shapes human behavior and economics (Cato Unbound, 2009). Thiel’s philosophy, outlined in his book Zero to One (Thiel, 2014), emphasizes the importance of monopolies over competition and advocates for technological progress driven by visionary elites. His skepticism of democracy and his belief in the role of technocratic leadership align with Girard’s analysis of societal conflict and order (Financial Times, 2024; Vanity Fair, 2022).
Curtis Yarvin, the founder of the neo-reactionary movement (NRx), shares Girard’s analysis of how political systems function to maintain stability through mechanisms of scapegoating and control. Yarvin’s critique of democracy, articulated in works like The Dark Enlightenment (Yarvin, 2010), argues that democratic systems are inherently unstable and prone to collapse. He advocates for a return to monarchist or technocratic governance, emphasizing the need for strong centralized authority to prevent societal chaos (Populism Studies, n.d.). Yarvin’s ideas have influenced figures like J.D. Vance, who has expressed admiration for Yarvin’s proposals to restructure the federal bureaucracy and place loyalists in key positions (The Verge, 2024).
J.D. Vance, the Republican vice-presidential nominee, has acknowledged the influence of both Yarvin and Girard on his political philosophy. Vance credits Girard’s theory of the scapegoat as a significant factor in his conversion to Catholicism (An Injustice Mag, 2024), and he has expressed support for Yarvin’s ideas, including the restructuring of government institutions to prioritize loyalty and efficiency (Salon, 2024; Semafor, 2024). Vance’s alignment with these thinkers underscores the growing influence of neo-reactionary ideas within the New Right (National Conservatism, n.d.).
Elon Musk, while not a formal part of the neo-reactionary movement, has been linked to its ideas through his actions and statements. Musk’s political philosophy reflects a skepticism of democratic institutions and a preference for corporate-style governance (The Atlantic, 2023). His attempts to influence government operations and his support for far-right political movements align with the neo-reactionary belief that democracy leads to social decline (Financial Times, 2024). Musk’s vision of a future shaped by technocratic elites mirrors the ideas of Thiel and Yarvin, further highlighting the intellectual connections between these figures (The Intercept, 2023).
These connections reveal a shared belief in the flaws of modern democracy and the need for alternative systems of governance. Their ideas converge on the role of elites in shaping society, with Thiel advocating for technocratic leadership, Yarvin calling for a return to monarchy, and Musk envisioning a future dominated by corporate power. Together, these thinkers represent a growing movement that seeks to redefine politics and governance in ways that challenge the foundations of democracy.
The New Right: A Fusion of Tech, Religion, and Authoritarianism
The New Right is a movement that seeks to redefine conservatism by blending localism, religious identity, and skepticism of democratic institutions. It opposes abortion, immigration, and globalism while advocating for a society guided by Christian principles. Unlike traditional conservative factions like MAGA or QAnon, the New Right emphasizes intellectual discourse and policy development. It attracts a diverse coalition, including tech entrepreneurs, crypto enthusiasts, and disillusioned intellectuals, all united by the belief that democracy is leading society toward dystopia (National Conservatism, n.d.).
Thiel has played a significant role in mainstreaming this movement. He has funded and spoken at the National Conservatism Conference (NatCon), which aims to unite those who see the nation as central to conservatism. In a 2022 Vanity Fair article, reporter James Pogue described Thiel as “a nefarious godfather or a genial rich uncle” to the young crowd of Republicans (Vanity Fair, 2022). Thiel’s financial support for Vance’s Senate campaign and Blake Masters’ political ambitions further underscores his influence. Masters, a Thiel protégé, is reportedly under consideration for a key regulatory role in a potential Trump administration (Semafor, 2024).
Elon Musk has embraced far-right ideologies, promoting conspiracy theories like the “Great Replacement Theory,” which alleges a plot that Jewish people want to replace white populations with immigrants. His acquisition of Twitter (now X) and his alignment with figures like Thiel and Vance highlight his growing influence in shaping political discourse. Musk’s support for eugenic theories and his authoritarian tendencies position him as a central figure in the tech oligarchy’s rise to power, as we are witnessing in real-time with his stronghold on the White House and his systematic dismantling of various government institutions via DOGE. Musk’s views on governance and society often align with anti-democratic principles. In one instance, he tweeted, “The woke mind virus is either defeated or nothing else matters,” reflecting his disdain for progressive social movements. His alignment with figures like Thiel and Vance underscores his role in the broader neo-reactionary network.
Why Tech Oligarchs Seek Control of the U.S. Government
The motivations behind tech oligarchs like Musk and Thiel seeking control or influence over the U.S. government are multifaceted. First, they aim to preserve and expand their economic power. By shaping policies on taxation, regulation, and antitrust, they can protect their vast wealth and ensure their companies remain dominant. For example, Thiel’s Palantir has secured billions in government contracts, highlighting the financial incentives for influencing policy (The Intercept, 2023). Similarly, Musk’s companies, such as SpaceX and Tesla, have also secured billions in government contracts and subsidies, further demonstrating the financial benefits of aligning with political power.
Second, they seek to advance anti-democratic ideologies. Thiel, in particular, has openly criticized democracy, arguing that it is incompatible with freedom. His vision for a post-democratic future aligns with the neo-reactionary belief that democracy is a failed system. By controlling or influencing the government, these oligarchs can push for systems that prioritize efficiency and technological advancement over democratic governance (Cato Unbound, 2009).
Third, they aim to reshape society according to their values. Musk, Thiel, and other tech oligarchs see themselves as visionaries who can redefine culture and governance. For instance, Musk’s promotion of eugenic-like theories and Thiel’s funding of nationalist causes reflect their desire to create a society that aligns with their techno-utopian and libertarian ideals (The Atlantic, 2023).
Finally, they seek to counter perceived threats to their power. Government regulation, antitrust actions, and progressive taxation are seen as existential threats. By influencing or controlling the government, they can neutralize these threats and ensure their continued dominance (Financial Times, 2024).
The Feudal Parallel: Tech Oligarchs and Modern America
The current political landscape resembles a feudal system, where tech oligarchs like Musk and Thiel wield unprecedented power over government and culture. These figures have built the infrastructure of the modern world—social media, data networks, and global marketplaces—and use their wealth and influence to reshape politics. Their alignment with far-right movements mirrors historical patterns where industrialists and oligarchs supported authoritarian regimes to protect their interests (Sexton, 2024).
Thiel has explicitly framed his vision for the future in apocalyptic terms. In a recent statement, he claimed that “Trump’s return to the White House augurs the apokálypsis of the ancien regime’s secrets,” suggesting that Trump's second term would reveal supposed hidden truths about institutions like the media, universities, and government-funded NGOs (New Republic, 2024). Thiel’s vision aligns with the neo-reactionary belief that democracy is a failed system, and that only radical, anti-democratic measures can restore order.
The Role of Silicon Valley in Shaping the New Right
The Financial Times highlights how Silicon Valley’s tech elites, including Thiel and Musk, have become central players in the New Right’s rise. The article notes that “Thiel’s network of right-wing techies is infiltrating Donald Trump’s White House,” with figures like Vance and Masters serving as key channels for this influence (Financial Times, 2024). Thiel’s ability to bridge the worlds of technology, finance, and politics has made him a pivotal figure in the movement. The FT also points out that Thiel’s investments in political campaigns and his funding of nationalist causes reflect a broader strategy to reshape American conservatism in the image of the tech industry’s elite.
A Crisis of Democracy
The rise of the New Right, fueled by figures like Thiel, Vance, and Musk, represents a profound threat to democracy. Their embrace of anti-democratic ideologies, combined with their vast resources, has enabled them to infiltrate and reshape political institutions. As history has shown, the concentration of power in the hands of a few inevitably leads to authoritarianism. The current moment, marked by the ravages of neoliberalism and the rise of faux-populist movements like MAGA, is a critical juncture. The battle for democracy is far from over, but the stakes have never been higher.
References
An Injustice Mag. (2024). J.D. Vance’s Conversion to Catholicism and Girard’s Scapegoat Theory. Retrieved from https://www.aninjusticemag.com
Cato Unbound. (2009). Peter Thiel on Education and Libertarianism. Retrieved from https://www.cato-unbound.org/2009/04/13/peter-thiel/education-libertarian/
Financial Times. (2024). Elon Musk and the Neo-Reactionary Movement. Retrieved from https://www.ft.com
Financial Times. (2024). Peter Thiel’s Network of Right-Wing Techies Infiltrates Trump’s White House. Retrieved from https://www.ft.com/content/a46cb128-1f74-4621-ab0b-242a76583105
Genetics and Society. (n.d.). Eugenics. Retrieved from https://www.geneticsandsociety.org/topics/eugenics
Girard, R. (1972). Violence and the Sacred. Johns Hopkins University Press.
Girard, R. (1982). The Scapegoat. Johns Hopkins University Press.
Sexton, J.Y. (2024). What’s Actually at Stake: MAGA and the Oligarchs. Retrieved from
National Conservatism. (n.d.). A Statement of Principles. Retrieved from https://nationalconservatism.org/national-conservatism-a-statement-of-principles/
New Republic. (2024). Peter Thiel’s Vision for Trump’s Second Term. Retrieved from https://newrepublic.com/article/190129/peter-thiel-truth-reconciliation-trump-internet
Populism Studies. (n.d.). Dark Enlightenment. Retrieved from https://www.populismstudies.org/Vocabulary/dark-enlightenment/
Salon. (2024). J.D. Vance Owes Almost Everything to Peter Thiel. Retrieved from https://www.salon.com/2024/07/22/jd-vance-owes-almost-everything-to-peter-thiel-a-pro-billionaire-and-new-right-ideologue/
Semafor. (2024). Blake Masters Under Consideration to Become Trump’s Top Gun Regulator. Retrieved from https://www.semafor.com/article/12/06/2024/blake-masters-under-consideration-to-become-trumps-top-gun-regulator
The Atlantic. (2023). Elon Musk’s Dangerous Vision for Humanity. Retrieved from https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2023/09/elon-musk-eugenics-ai/675123/
The Intercept. (2023). Peter Thiel’s Palantir and the Surveillance State. Retrieved from https://theintercept.com/2023/03/15/palantir-peter-thiel-government-contracts/
The Verge. (2024). J.D. Vance and the Influence of Curtis Yarvin. Retrieved from https://www.theverge.com
Thiel, P. (2014). Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future. Crown Business.
Vanity Fair. (2022). Inside the New Right: Where Peter Thiel is Placing His Biggest Bets. Retrieved from https://www.vanityfair.com/news/2022/04/inside-the-new-right-where-peter-thiel-is-placing-his-biggest-bets
Yarvin, C. (2010). The Dark Enlightenment. Retrieved from https://www.unqualified-reservations.org
Fantastic insights - this is really concerning. Do you think is it co-ordinated takedown of democracy or emergent from their individual beliefs?
Great article. I believe the slide away from democracy has been under way for decades, triggered by people like Ayn Rand and then James Buchanan with public choice theory. The tech bros, and the neocons, justify their philosophy based on the deeply anti-social morality promulgated by Rand and her acolytes. You see the start of this in the 1980s with the arrival of Thatcher in the UK and then Reagan in the US. Both led economic revolutions that labelled government involvement in markets as anathema, the right of the individual as paramount to that of society with Thatcher claiming in one interview there was no such thing as ‘society, only individuals’. Theil et al don’t believe in the social contract between state and individual implicit in a democracy. The big question now is ‘what happens to America? No one knows, but it will never be the same.