Reaction to Gay Marriage = Litmus Test for Worldview

06.25.2011 By
Marriage-Now-530

In what Mayor Michael Bloomberg called "a historic triumph for equality and freedom," New York joined the growing number of states that have legalized gay marriage, including: Massachusetts (2004), Connecticut (2008), Iowa (2009), Vermont (2009), New Hampshire (2010), and Washington, D.C. (2010). Modern, postmodern and integral thinkers nationwide celebrate New York's decision to take its place on the "right side of history." Traditional thinkers obviously don't agree with this view—which I will elaborate on below. Bloomberg also offered support to the Republicans who voted for the measure, stating that he believetheir actions were consistent with GOP ideals of liberty and freedom, "The Republicans who stood up today for those principles I think will long be remembered for their courage, foresight and wisdom" He added, "Ten, 20, 30 years from now, I believe they will look back on this vote as one of the finest and most proud moments in their life." Indeed. The Human … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Community, Culture and Society, Current Events, Home, Integral Theory and Methodology, Leadership, Morality, Politics, Psychology, Religion, Worldviews

Morality that Fits…the Pope and Condoms

01.23.2011 By
Pope-benedict

Catholic theologian Bernard Lonergan once said, “The church always arrives on the scene a little breathless and a little late.” It’s unfortunately true that religious institutions generally get dragged into the modern world kicking and screaming. Their beliefs and practices often lag the reality of contemporary life as well as the lifestyles of members. The Catholic Church is a modern institution clinging to some pre-modern ideals. Her buildings are some of the most exquisite examples of enlightenment architecture. What takes place inside is often archaic and superstitious. Her members are people of conscience and knowledge having been liberated by many of the tools of modern science –multiple translations of Bibles and commentaries in native languages, and the internet to name a few. However they are expected to follow official teachings, some of which are pre-scientific and outmoded. The most significant mentors (past and present) in the lives of most Catholics are nuns … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Current Events, Morality, Religion Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Thank God, Condoms No Longer a Sin

11.20.2010 By
Pope Benedict

Pope Benedict XVI recently signaled what some consider to be an historic shift in the position of the Roman Catholic Church, saying condoms can be morally justified. After decades of fierce opposition to the use of all contraception in every circumstance, the pontiff ended the Church's absolute ban on condoms. Asked whether the Catholic Church is not fundamentally against the use of condoms, he replied that he does not see it as a real and moral solution, however... "In certain cases, where the intention is to reduce the risk of infection, it can nevertheless be a first step on the way to another, more humane sexuality." He goes on to say, "There may be justified individual cases, for example when a male prostitute uses a condom, where this can be... a first bit of responsibility, to redevelop the understanding that not everything is permitted and that one may not do everything one wishes. But it is not the proper way to deal with the horror of HIV infection." Well, I'm glad to … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Current Events, Morality, Religion