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Arguments of Fact Part I: Mark Lilla's Case for Faith in the Era of Mistrust

Bradley Dixon

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Arguments Of Fact Part 1

by Mark Lilla

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11681 KB
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Print length	:	120 pages
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In his acclaimed book "The Shipwrecked Mind: On Political Reaction," Mark Lilla argues for the significance of faith in an era characterized by widespread mistrust. Lilla, a professor of humanities at Columbia University, contends that secularism has failed to provide a meaningful foundation for society, leading to a loss of faith in institutions and a decline in social cohesion.

Mark Lilla, Professor Of Humanities At Columbia University And Author Of 'The Shipwrecked Mind' Arguments Of Fact Part 1 Mark Lilla

Critique of Secularism

Lilla critiques secularism for its inability to provide a shared set of moral values upon which society can be founded. He argues that secularism, by rejecting the idea of objective truth, has created a vacuum in which relativism and nihilism have flourished. This, in turn, has led to a loss of faith in institutions and a decline in social cohesion.

Lilla further argues that secularism has contributed to the rise of populism and authoritarianism by undercutting the authority of experts and undermining trust in institutions. When people no longer believe in objective truth, they become more susceptible to demagogues who offer simple solutions to complex problems.

The Importance of Faith

Lilla contends that faith is essential for the flourishing of a healthy society. Faith, he argues, provides a shared set of moral values that can unite people and give meaning to their lives. Faith also fosters a sense of trust and belonging, which is crucial for social cohesion.

Lilla emphasizes that faith does not necessarily require a belief in God. He argues that faith can be based on any number of sources, such as human reason, nature, or the arts. What is important is that faith provides a foundation for our moral values and our sense of purpose.

The Case for Religious Liberalism

Lilla argues that religious liberalism is the best way to preserve faith in an era of mistrust. Religious liberalism, he explains, is a form of liberalism that is open to the influence of religion. It recognizes the importance of faith in people's lives and seeks to create a society in which people of all faiths can live together peacefully.

Lilla believes that religious liberalism is the best way to balance the need for faith with the principles of liberal democracy. He argues that religious liberalism can help to bridge the gap between secular and religious people and create a more tolerant and inclusive society.

Mark Lilla's "Arguments of Fact" is a timely and important work that addresses one of the most pressing challenges facing our society today: the loss of faith in the face of widespread mistrust. Lilla's critique of secularism and his argument for the importance of faith offer a compelling case for a return to shared moral values and a renewed sense of purpose.

While Lilla's ideas may not be universally accepted, they provide a valuable starting point for a much-needed conversation about the role of faith in our society. As we navigate the challenges of a polarized and mistrustful world, it is more important than ever to find ways to bridge our differences and create a more just and equitable society for all.

Arguments Of Fact Part 1

by Mark Lilla

4.8 out of 5