You Have Permission The (Spiritual) World is Not Fair (#310)
Feb 10, 2025
Philosopher Michelle Panchuk, an expert in the philosophy of religion and feminist philosophy, joins the discussion on the troubling 'just world hypothesis.' She uncovers how this belief can distort spiritual teachings, implying that those who feel abandoned by God must be spiritually inadequate. Michelle highlights the impact of this idea on survivors of spiritual abuse and examines historical narratives like Job's, which challenge notions of deserved suffering. The conversation also touches on the neurobiology of spiritual experiences and the commercialization of spirituality.
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Just-World Hypothesis in Trauma Therapy
- The just-world hypothesis states that people get what they deserve: good things happen to good people, and bad things happen to bad people.
- This can be harmful to trauma survivors, leading to self-blame and hindering recovery.
Sermon on Job and Spiritual Just-World
- Michelle Panchuk recounts hearing a sermon that initially challenged the just-world hypothesis but then reintroduced it in a spiritual context.
- The sermon suggested that God offers a sense of presence during suffering, implying a spiritual just-world fallacy.
Two Versions of Spiritual Just-World
- Dan Koch differentiates between a strong and weak version of the spiritual just-world hypothesis.
- The strong version posits God's relational presence at any moment of seeking, while the weaker version suggests this happens sometime in one's life.