Paul Harvey, a cherished news commentator and one of the pioneers of talk-radio, had a unique and memorable way of delivering news that touched the hearts of millions across America. His voice, strong and clear, reached over 24 million listeners at the height of his influence.
Harvey was known for his insightful commentary and accurate observations, but none could have predicted just how prophetic his words from over half a century ago would become. Reflecting on his 1965 broadcast today, it feels surprisingly relevant.
On April 3, 1965, Paul Harvey delivered a speech that many find eerily similar to our current reality. He began with the striking line, “If I were the Devil…” and unfolded a vision that, at the time, seemed distant yet now feels familiar.
It’s incredible to think how precisely Paul Harvey captured the essence of societal shifts with his candid words. Years ago, his foresight cast light on the direction we might head if certain paths were followed, and today, those musings seem to have materialized.
In his speech, Harvey imagined himself as the Devil, plotting to envelop the earth in darkness. He warned of a desire to claim the most prosperous parts of the world and expressed a particular focus on influencing the United States.
He envisioned starting with a quiet campaign of persuasion, using words that could sway opinions as subtly as a whisper. Like the serpent in the story of Eve, he suggested tempting society by saying, “Do as you please.” He speculated on convincing the young that sacred things are myths, and turning beliefs upside down, making what’s good appear outdated and square.
Harvey spoke of encouraging young families to devalue hard work, enticing them with the allure of constant pleasure. He would whisper advice that undermined strong moral and religious convictions. And for the older generation, he’d replace their faith with false idolization of worldly powers.
The plot would thicken by educating writers to create sensational stories, overshadowing traditional values and making virtuous content appear bland. Harvey spoke of corrupting entertainment and even influencing the labor force to promote idleness.
He would take advantage of societal vices, peddling substances to vulnerable individuals and soothing others into compliance with medications.
If given the reins, Harvey envisioned an educational system focused on intellect while ignoring emotional maturity, leading to generations with no control over their impulses.
With strategic moves, he foresaw planting atheism at the forefront of justice while steering clergy to support this stance. In courts, he’d advocate for judgments that favored vice, slowly pushing divine influences out of public institutions.
Replacing religious tenets with psychological theories, Harvey imagined a shift from faith-driven to science-revering perspectives. As holidays transformed, materialism replaced spirituality—Easter’s symbol became an egg, and Christmas centered around alcohol.
Under this influence, Harvey speculated about creating a system where ambition died, equality turned forceful, and families were split to serve authoritarian needs, ultimately leading society into despair.
Listening to Paul Harvey, especially when recalling the comforting times spent with family around the radio, his insights hold a chilling weight today. Back then in the 70s, his broadcasts provided a lens to view emerging trends, which many couldn’t fully appreciate until now.
Paul Harvey was undoubtedly a man ahead of his time, his words resounding with incredible foresight and accuracy. His message serves as a timeless reminder of the paths we take and the choices we make. If his predictions echo your experiences today, share his wisdom. Remarkable man, remarkable insight indeed.
