Neo-Paganism, Abortion, and the Fall of the West w/ John Daniel Davidson
May 15, 2024
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Guest John Daniel Davidson discusses the rise of neo-paganism in America, exploring moral relativism and nature worship. They touch on the impact of Christianity on modern values, potential future population control measures, challenges of social media, and the influence of paganism in society. The conversation also delves into ethical dilemmas in medical interventions, embracing Catholic communities for faith preservation, overcoming pornography, and the historical prevalence of paganism in America.
Neo-paganism's rise threatens traditional American values of individual rights and self-government.
Modern paganism is characterized by radical moral relativism and a 'nothing is true, everything is permitted' ethos.
Pagan societies trend towards relativistic moral beliefs, empowering the powerful to rule over the weak.
Post-Christian paganism accelerates in society due to materialism, technology, and societal isolation.
Forming strong Christian communities is crucial to resist modern paganism's influence and confront cultural challenges with unity.
Deep dives
Pagan America and the Decline of Christianity
The podcast delves into the concept of America entering a post-Christian era, asserting that traditional American values like individual rights and self-government are diminishing. The speaker predicts a swift transition to a pagan empire based on power dynamics and the denial of individual rights as Christianity's influence wanes.
Neo-Paganism Vs. Ancient Paganism
While discussing paganism in America, the podcast differentiates between neopaganism and ancient forms. Neo-paganism is characterized by a radical moral relativism where human will and power determine what is right. Contrary to sincere polytheism, this modern paganism centers on a 'nothing is true, everything is permitted' ethos.
Nature Worship and Moral Relativism
The discussion links paganism to nature worship and moral relativism, emphasizing the inconsistency and fickle nature of ancient gods. It reveals a trend in pagan societies towards relativistic moral beliefs and the creation of self-defined truths, ultimately leading to a societal structure where the powerful rule over the weak.
The Acceleration of Post-Christian Paganism
The podcast explores the rapid acceleration of post-Christian paganism in modern society, where traditional Christian values are eroded by materialism and technological advancements. The speaker highlights the impact of social media and digital technology in isolating individuals and steering society towards a pagan ethos of self-worship and moral relativism.
Recognizing the Shift Towards a Radical Christianity
Embracing a form of radical Christianity is necessary in the face of a rising pagan world that challenges traditional values. This radical Christianity extends beyond conventional issues like sex or abortion, encompassing a broader lifestyle shift and communal reorientation.
Establishing Counter-Cultural Christian Communities
In response to societal pressures promoting a new paganism, forming strong Christian communities becomes essential. By creating communal spaces rooted in Christian values, individuals can resist isolation and confront cultural challenges with unity and shared beliefs, such as organizing to influence local politics and reclaim public institutions.
Engaging in Evangelization Surrounded by Modern Paganism
Facing a growing trend of modern paganism among acquaintances, attempting to evangelize without alienating requires a delicate balance. Expressing genuine care for their beliefs while offering a personal, sincere invitation to Christian events or celebrations can present an alternative without dismissing their spiritual journey.
Pagan Conversion to Christianity and Empowerment
The podcast discusses the historical conversion of pagans to Christianity as a powerful testament to the lure of Christianity over paganism. It mentions the mass conversion of 9 million Aztecs and Mesoamericans after the appearance of Our Lady in the 16th century. Pagan practices, such as witchcraft and empowerment among young women, are explored, linking them to feminist ideas and subverting the patriarchy. The episode emphasizes engaging individuals who may be drawn to paganism through historical resources and literature.
Paganism, Satanism, and Historical Precedents in America
The discussion delves into the relationship between paganism and Satanism, suggesting that paganism and Satanism can be viewed as interconnected belief systems. The episode highlights the ancient pagan deities as beings recognized by pagans and draws parallels between ancient paganism and modern Satanism. Furthermore, it touches on the presence of paganism in American history through groups like Freemasonry and the Ku Klux Klan, indicating a recurring trend of pagan influences in American culture and politics.
John Daniel Davidson is a senior editor at The Federalist. Over a twenty-year career in journalism, he has written widely for national publications including the Wall Street Journal, National Review, the Guardian, the New York Post, the Claremont Review of Books, and First Things. He has also been a regular guest on many podcasts and radio and television shows, including Tucker Carlson Tonight, Glenn Beck, The Ingraham Angle, Fox and Friends, NPR, the BBC, and the Megyn Kelly Show. A Texan for many years, he now lives with his family in Alaska.
