
 Making Sense with Sam Harris - Subscriber Content
 Making Sense with Sam Harris - Subscriber Content #406 - The Legacy of Christianity
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 Apr 7, 2025  Tom Holland, an award-winning historian and co-presenter of the popular history podcast, shares insights from his book, Dominion. The conversation dives into Christianity's profound influence on modern morality and historical interpretations of key events like the crucifixion. Holland examines moral frameworks from ancient civilizations, the darker legacies of Christianity, and tensions between religious and secular identities today. They explore the challenges posed by migration, ethical dilemmas, and the complex dynamics of faith, ethics, and the ongoing cultural transformations. 
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Paradoxical Appeal of Christianity
- Christianity's appeal is paradoxical, as its symbol, a crucified man, represents abject failure.
- Yet, this symbol became globally inspiring, unlike deified Roman figures.
Modern Crucifixions in Sinjar
- Tom Holland witnessed crucifixions in Sinjar by ISIS, who viewed it as Romans did.
- This experience highlighted how the value of a tortured person underpins Western morals.
Pathological Ethics of Antiquity
- Ancient ethics, like the Roman ideal of strength over weakness, appear pathological today.
- We judge jihadists similarly, but rarely apply such moral judgment to Greeks and Romans.











