Ep. 133 - After Humanity and The Abolition of Man w/Dr. Michael Ward

Sep 30, 2021

In this conversation, Michael Ward, a professor known for his insights on C.S. Lewis and Narnia, shares his thoughts on morality and education. They delve into the significance of Lewis's 'The Abolition of Man,' highlighting the dangers of moral subjectivism. Ward discusses the philosophical implications of objective morality and critiques educational systems influenced by logical positivism. His passion for Lewis's work shines as they explore the integration of Christianity in literature and the need for objective values in a subjective world.

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Intro

00:00 • 2min

Exploring C.S. Lewis: Journey and Impact

01:43 • 12min

Exploring Philosophy and C.S. Lewis's 'Miracles'

14:05 • 4min

The Dangers of Moral Subjectivism

17:39 • 5min

Art, Education, and Subjectivism

23:01 • 7min

Exploring Logical Positivism and Its Educational Implications

29:52 • 2min

The Quest for Objective Morality

31:25 • 28min

Exploring C.S. Lewis's Legacy and Educational Impact

59:00 • 2min

The abolition of man

C.S. Lewis

In 'The Abolition of Man', C.S. Lewis delivers a defense of objective value and natural law, originating from his Riddell Memorial Lectures at the University of Durham in 1943. Lewis argues that education should be conducted within the context of moral law and objective values, which he terms the 'Tao'. He criticizes modern attempts to debunk these values, warning that such actions could lead to a dehumanization of society, resulting in what he calls 'Men without Chests' – individuals whose emotions have not been trained to conform to reason. The book emphasizes the universal nature of traditional moralities across different cultures and warns against the dangers of moral relativism and the reduction of human beings to mere objects of scientific analysis[2][4][5].

Till We Have Faces

C.S. Lewis

This novel is a retelling of the ancient myth of Cupid and Psyche, narrated by Orual, the ugly and bitter older sister of the beautiful Psyche. Orual's story is a complex exploration of envy, betrayal, loss, and the journey towards self-awareness and redemption. The book delves into Orual's life as she grapples with her love for Psyche, her anger towards the gods, and her eventual realization of her own flaws and the true nature of her feelings. The narrative is divided into two parts, reflecting Orual's transformation from a state of bitterness and self-deception to one of understanding and mercy[2][4][5].

Miracles

C.S. Lewis

In 'Miracles', C.S. Lewis argues that miracles are not statistically anomalous events but rather 'an interference with Nature by supernatural power'. He challenges rationalists and naturalists by presenting a case for the possibility of miracles, defining them as events that do not break the laws of nature but rather operate outside of them. Lewis does not attempt to prove the historical accuracy of Christian miracles but instead lays a philosophical foundation for understanding and accepting the possibility of miracles. The book is a significant work in Christian apologetics, using lucid exposition and illuminating metaphors to make its case.

Nineteen Eighty-Four

George Orwell

Published in 1949, 'Nineteen Eighty-Four' is a cautionary tale set in a future where the world is divided into three totalitarian super-states: Oceania, Eurasia, and Eastasia. The novel follows Winston Smith, a minor functionary in the Ministry of Truth in Oceania, who begins to question the all-pervasive authority of the Party and its leader, Big Brother. Winston's rebellion, fueled by his forbidden love affair with Julia and his interest in the mysterious Brotherhood, ultimately leads to his capture and brutal reeducation by the Thought Police. The novel explores themes of mass surveillance, censorship, and the manipulation of truth, serving as a powerful warning about the dangers of unaccountable governments and the erosion of individual freedom and dignity.

Perelandra

C.S. Lewis

In 'Perelandra', the second book of C.S. Lewis’s Space Trilogy, Dr. Elwin Ransom is transported to the planet Perelandra (Venus) to counter a temptation similar to that of Eve in the Garden of Eden. The planet, described as a paradise with floating islands, rich colors, and peaceful creatures, is home to a Green Lady and her King, who are the only sentient inhabitants. Ransom must thwart the plans of Dr. Edward Weston, who has been possessed by diabolical forces and aims to tempt the Green Lady into disobeying Maleldil’s (God’s) prohibition against dwelling on the Fixed Land. The novel explores themes of obedience, free will, and the struggle between good and evil, culminating in a physical battle between Ransom and the possessed Weston to determine the fate of Perelandra[2][3][5].

That Hideous Strength

C. S. Lewis

Published in 1945, 'That Hideous Strength' is the final book in C.S. Lewis's Space Trilogy. The story takes place on Earth and follows the character Mark Studdock, a young sociology faculty member at Bracton College, as he becomes entangled with the National Institute of Co-ordinated Experiments (N.I.C.E.), a sinister organization with totalitarian ambitions. The novel delves into themes of faith, doubt, and the struggle between good and evil, featuring characters from the previous books in the trilogy, including Elwin Ransom. It critiques the dangers of logical positivism and the erosion of moral values, drawing parallels with other dystopian works like George Orwell's '1984'[1][2][5].

Animal Farm

George Orwell

Published in 1945, 'Animal Farm' is a novella that allegorically represents the Russian Revolution and the subsequent rise of Stalinism. The story begins with Old Major, a boar, inspiring the animals of Manor Farm to rebel against their human oppressor, Mr. Jones. After the rebellion, the animals rename the farm 'Animal Farm' and establish a utopian society based on the principles of equality and solidarity, known as Animalism. However, as time passes, the pigs, led by Napoleon and Snowball, consolidate power and gradually corrupt the original ideals, leading to a dystopian regime that mirrors the oppressive human rule they initially rebelled against. The novel critiques totalitarianism and the corrupting nature of power, reflecting Orwell's experiences and views on the Soviet Union under Stalin's rule.

Planet narnia

Michael Ward

Michael Ward's "Planet Narnia" explores the allegorical structure of C.S. Lewis's Chronicles of Narnia, arguing that the series reflects the imagery of the seven heavens. The book delves into the literary and theological depth of Narnia, revealing its profound Christian symbolism. Ward meticulously examines each book in the series, demonstrating how Lewis subtly incorporated theological concepts and celestial imagery. This analysis challenges the perception of Narnia as mere children's literature, showcasing its rich intellectual and spiritual significance. The book is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Lewis's masterpiece.

After Humanity

Michael Ward