Individualism, the Decline of Institutions, and Friendship
Manage episode 298467228 series 2925086
On this episode, Chris is joined by Fr. Justin Brophy, O.P., professor of political science at Providence College, Rhode Island. In a short diagnosis of our present moment as Americans, Fr. Brophy points to (among other points not discussed) a tension between Lockean individualism and a Puritan ethic, and a decline in our traditional institutions and trust in authority. A Christian response includes Fr. Brophy argues, is a focus on friendship (among other things), in which we deeply and truly care about the good of the other. In a post-Christendom age the extension of friendship entails risk, as it necessarily requires we be vulnerable and exposed to rejection. Such failure, though, ought not dissuade us from the endeavor -- as Christians, we can receive great joy from the constant nearness of Jesus, who never fails! Follow Fr. Brophy's work at www.cjbrophy.com
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