How the Modern World Misunderstands Freedom: A Conversation with Brad Littlejohn

In 'The Abolition of Man', C.S. Lewis delivers a defense of objective value and natural law, originating from his Riddell Memorial Lectures at the University of Durham in 1943. Lewis argues that education should be conducted within the context of moral law and objective values, which he terms the 'Tao'. He criticizes modern attempts to debunk these values, warning that such actions could lead to a dehumanization of society, resulting in what he calls 'Men without Chests' – individuals whose emotions have not been trained to conform to reason. The book emphasizes the universal nature of traditional moralities across different cultures and warns against the dangers of moral relativism and the reduction of human beings to mere objects of scientific analysis[2][4][5].

'On Christian Liberty' by Martin Luther is a seminal work that articulates his understanding of Christian freedom. Luther argues that Christians are freed from the burden of the law through faith in Jesus Christ. This freedom, however, does not lead to lawlessness but to a life of love and service to others. Luther emphasizes the importance of both faith and good works, explaining that good works are the natural outflow of a heart transformed by faith. The treatise explores the relationship between the inner freedom of the Christian and their outward actions, advocating for a life of joyful obedience to God's will.

Barry Alan Shain's 'The Myth of American Individualism' challenges the conventional view of the American founding as rooted in Lockean individualism. Shain argues that the early American political thought was shaped more by Protestant communalism than by individual rights. He examines sermons, pamphlets, and other documents from the period to demonstrate that early Americans prioritized the common good and social order over individual autonomy. Shain contends that this communal ethos provided a foundation for republican self-government and civic virtue. By reinterpreting the intellectual and cultural origins of American politics, Shain offers a fresh perspective on the nation's founding principles.

In 'Being Consumed,' William Cavanaugh critically examines the theological implications of the free market and consumerism. He argues that the logic of the market shapes our desires and identities in ways that are often contrary to Christian values. Cavanaugh explores how consumerism fosters a culture of endless consumption, leading to a sense of dissatisfaction and a loss of meaning. He also addresses the ethical dimensions of economic globalization, highlighting the social and ecological consequences of unchecked market forces. By analyzing the relationship between economics and Christian desire, Cavanaugh challenges readers to reconsider their participation in consumer culture and to seek alternative ways of living that are more aligned with their faith.

This book is a primer on the topic of faith and culture. It challenges readers to see if they could take all the different things they've been wrestling with and boil them down into one concise form. Brad Littlejohn discusses spiritual freedom, moral freedom, and political freedom, highlighting how these concepts are interwoven. He draws on Protestant insights, distinguishing between justification and sanctification, and explores the relationship between spiritual and moral freedom. The book also examines political freedom as liberty under law and self-government. It also discusses the erosion of political freedom due to the decline of moral freedom.