We're all Christian without knowing it | Glen Scrivener | EP42
Jul 11, 2024
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Glen Scrivener, an author, speaker, and Anglican pastor, dives into the profound influence of Christian values on modern society. He discusses how moral beliefs like equality and compassion stem from Christian history, urging listeners to reflect on their own values. The conversation also tackles the clash between humanism and Christian ethics, highlighting the necessity of spiritual frameworks in moral discussions. Additionally, Glen explores ethical dilemmas in a post-Christian context and the resurgence of interest in Christianity among secular individuals.
The podcast discusses how widely-held moral values like equality and compassion are deeply rooted in a Christianized history, revealing their influence even on secular individuals.
The conversation highlights a trend of disillusioned atheists exploring Christian teachings in search of a cohesive worldview that supports their ethical beliefs.
Deep dives
Uncovering Moral Intuitions
The discussion highlights the origins of widely accepted moral intuitions such as equality, freedom, and compassion, which are often taken as universal values. These beliefs have evolved significantly within the context of a Christianized history, suggesting that even secular individuals may unknowingly subscribe to these values. The speaker emphasizes that these moral beliefs did not emerge solely from logic or reason but rather through the narrative shaped by Christianity, particularly the story centered around Jesus. By examining these roots, individuals might begin to see themselves as part of a larger belief system that has been influenced by Christianity, regardless of their personal faith.
Engagement with Secular Perspectives
The speaker engages with criticisms from secular perspectives, particularly those who believe values such as progress can be derived from Enlightenment humanism without the need for a Christian foundation. By examining figures like Steven Pinker, the speaker argues that while acknowledging societal progress through various metrics, these calculations often overlook deeper philosophical questions regarding the origins of moral values. The reference to biblical language in secular texts underlines that even non-religious scholars find it challenging to escape the influence of Christian thought when discussing moral issues. This reveals a tension between the critique of secular humanism and the continuing relevance of Christian narratives in shaping modern ethical discussions.
The Quest for Unity in a Fragmented Society
The conversation also explores the growing interest in Christianity among individuals disillusioned with atheism and secular approaches to morality. Figures such as Ayaan Hirsi Ali, who describe themselves as 'lapsed atheists,' reflect a broader trend of individuals examining the cultural roots of values they hold dear, such as human rights. The desire for a cohesive worldview that transcends secular fragmentation may lead many to explore Christian teachings as a unifying story. This journey towards rediscovering Christian values suggests that even in a post-Christian society, the underlying principles espoused by Christianity continue to resonate and shape ethical frameworks.