A short paragraph leading off with a few thoughts on Consensus:
206. The solution is not relativism. Under the guise of tolerance, relativism ultimately leaves the interpretation of moral values to those in power, to be defined as they see fit. “In the absence of objective truths or sound principles other than the satisfaction of our own desires and immediate needs… we should not think that political efforts or the force of law will be sufficient… When the culture itself is corrupt, and objective truth and universally valid principles are no longer upheld, then laws can only be seen as arbitrary impositions or obstacles to be avoided”. [Laudato Si’ 123]
What do you make of this assessment of relativism, a phenomenon of the powerful running roughshod over the weak? I also find myself skeptical of too much criticism of tolerance, especially in personal relationships. There is a distinct difference between accepting a person and engaging with them and allowing them to steamroll us.
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Catholic Sensibility 