Debunking the Myth of Secular Enlightenment: A Clash of Perspectives David Bentley Hart vs Terry Sanderson (Replay)
Apr 2, 2024
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Acclaimed author David Bentley Hart challenges the myth of secular enlightenment, arguing against the narrative of secular triumphalism. Terry Sanderson, former President of the UK's National Secular Society, defends the positive impact of secularism on modern society. The podcast explores the intertwined histories of Christianity and secularism, delving into contrasting perspectives on morality, societal values, and the future trajectory of humanity in a post-Christian society.
Christianity played a pivotal role in fostering values that led to the abolition of inhumane practices, showcasing the evolution of moral principles.
Secular societies have demonstrated moral progress through principles of equality and compassion, challenging the notion that only Christian doctrines drive moral advancement.
The interplay between Christian civilization and secular governance has shaped and contested moral frameworks, debunking oversimplified assumptions about the origins of ethical standards.
Deep dives
Abolitionism Roots
Christianity was a cornerstone for the abolitionist movement due to a unique historical context that fostered values like the intrinsic worth of each person. The cultural history of Christian beliefs played a significant role in nurturing the moral vision that prompted the abolition of practices deemed inhumane, showcasing the evolution and impact of moral and ethical values over time.
Secular Progress
Secular societies like in Scandinavia and France have demonstrated moral progress through secular principles, embracing equality and compassion outside religious influence. The shift towards secular governance has provided citizens with a more humane and inclusive environment focused on mutual support and societal well-being, challenging notions that solely Christian doctrines lead to moral advancement.
Ethical Contingency
Recognizing the contingency of ethical values, Christian civilization and secular governance have both shaped and contested moral frameworks throughout history. The complexities of historical narratives debunk oversimplified assumptions regarding the origins and evolution of moral principles, emphasizing the interplay between culture, religion, and societal norms in developing ethical standards.
Human Value and Christianity
Christianity's legacy of emphasizing the sanctity of human life has had a profound impact on shaping societal values. The notion that human beings possess inherent and equal worth derived from Christian teachings has influenced ethics, laws, and social structures, emphasizing the integral role of Christian ethics in contributing to modern conceptions of human dignity and equality.
Secular Moral Dilemma
The dialogue between secularism and religious influences reveals ongoing debates about the source of ethical values and the potential implications of a post-Christian society. While secular frameworks promote democratic principles and equality, concerns arise regarding the continuity of moral progress and the preservation of ethical foundations without the historical grounding provided by Christian traditions.
Today we delve into the contentious debate surrounding the role of secularism in Western civilization and its relationship with Christianity.
A growing chorus of new atheist writers heralds the advent of an enlightened era of secular rationalism, purporting to liberate society from what they perceive as the shackles of outdated Christian influence. However, according to David Bentley Hart, acclaimed author of "Atheist Delusions: The Christian Revolution and its Fashionable Enemies," such claims amount to nothing more than an "atheist delusion." His book, which garnered the prestigious Michael Ramsey Prize for theological writing in 2011, challenges the narrative of secular triumphalism by revisiting the historical contributions of Christianity.
On the opposing side, Terry Sanderson former President of the UK's National Secular Society contends that contemporary society thrives under an increasingly secular framework, asserting that the freedoms and values we cherish are not contingent upon a Christian foundation.
In this engaging dialogue, we see a clash of perspectives as David argues that secular perspectives are rooted in a misguided myth of secular "progress." By examining the intertwined histories of Christianity and secularism, David presents a compelling case that challenges prevailing notions of societal evolution.
This episode originally aired on: 25 June 2011
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