Sid Lukkassen’s Post

Giambattista Vico was one of the most significant philosophers of history of the modern era. He famously outlined what he believed to be the recurring cycle of human civilizations, and his outline of the three ages of this cycle may have some applications to us today… to say the least. Read the full article here: https://loom.ly/Ayoetm4

𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 Fr Randall has studied extensively the threads and networks of cultural, literary, philosophical and theological heroes. These people have worked underground or in exile and at severe danger to their own lives in a variety of ways, opposing the totalitarianism, the systematic inhumanity and murderous lies of National Socialism during the 1920s, 30s and 40s. >> https://lnkd.in/gSJPeTFW

THE SUMMARY OF MY PRESENTATION TODAY . our journey through "Philosophy and Worldview: Scientific, and Religious Perspectives" has been illuminating, showcasing the rich tapestry of human thought and experience. As we've delved into various philosophical and religious viewpoints, it has become evident that diversity is not a hindrance but a catalyst for deeper understanding. By embracing different perspectives and engaging in open dialogue, we not only expand our intellectual horizons but also foster empathy and respect for one another. Through this ongoing exploration, may we continue to seek truth, wisdom, and connection, recognizing that our collective journey towards enlightenment is enriched by the multitude of paths we traverse together.

In this entry I explore how certain cultural complexities challenge our view of truth. Is there only one Truth, or are there many truths? Learn more: https://bit.ly/3XcVmD2.

What would the most politically incorrect Taoist sage have to say about our modern world? The teachings of the great Taoist sage Zhuangzi are in part a critique of any society from any time, revealing the absurdity of the conventional moral standards we blindly acquiesce to due to the politically correct narratives of the time that are designed to keep you on a path on the opposite trajectory to your true and innate freedom. LISTEN NOW!!! https://lnkd.in/gwgP9e8K

In our fast-moving culture, we try to make sense of it all by seeking answers in self-help books, tactical development, and technology. Our world and workplaces seem to be increasingly met with pressures to perform and become someone of significance which can often leave us with more questions than answers. At the OCCA, we aim to provide clarity to the big existential questions that are asked by daily life by offering responses grounded in the Christian worldview. So, what is this Life? We’d love for you to join in the conversation by sharing your thoughts on this age-old question! Stay posted for a discussion with doctoral student and pastor, Simon Edwards, on the question, How can I be Happier? In an age where we seem to have almost complete freedom and autonomy, affluence in the West is at an all-time high, and social media has allowed us to be more connected than ever before, why are we still unhappy?  In the meantime, John Lennox, President at the OCCA, has recently published a book titled A Good Return: Biblical Principles for Work, Wealth and Wisdom. Lennox’s book encourages Christians to view their work and vocation as an avenue for worship. You can get your copy here: https://amzn.to/3zaFgjt     We invite you to keep journeying with us and joining in the conversations! Part of the OCCA’s mission seeks to provide credible Christian apologetics to meaningfully engage with the ‘big questions’ that can arise in our professional and personal lives.  

Character is Destiny “An ancient brand of amoralism now haunts the world. Authoritarian-style leaders like Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, and Xi Jinping embody a kind of amoral realism. They evince a mindset that assumes that the world is a vicious, dog-eat-dog sort of place. Life is a competition to grab what you can. Force is what matters. Morality is a luxury we cannot afford, or merely a sham that elites use to mask their own lust for power. It’s fine to elect people who lie, who are corrupt, as long as they are ruthless bastards for our side. The ends justify the means. Those of us who oppose these authoritarians stand, by contrast, for a philosophy of moral realism. Yes, of course people are selfish and life can be harsh. But over the centuries, civilizations have established rules and codes to nurture cooperation, to build trust and sweeten our condition. These include personal moral codes so we know how to treat one another well, ethical codes to help prevent corruption on the job and in public life, and the rules of the liberal world order so that nations can live in peace, secure within their borders. Moral realists are fighting to defend and modernize these rules and standards—these sinews of civilization. Moral realism is built on certain core principles. Character is destiny. We can either elect people who try to embody the highest standards of honesty, kindness, and integrity, or elect people who shred those standards. Statecraft is soulcraft. The laws we pass shape the kinds of people we become. We can structure our tax code to encourage people to be enterprising and to save more, or we can structure the code to encourage people to be conniving and profligate. Democracy is the system that best enhances human dignity. Democratic regimes entrust power to the people, and try to form people so they will be responsible with that trust. Authoritarian regimes seek to create a world in which the strong do what they can and the weak suffer what they must.” These excerpts are from the Atlantic article on September 2023. It is called HOW AMERICA GOT MEAN In a culture devoid of moral education, generations are growing up in a morally inarticulate, self-referential world. By David Brooks This is post #6. https://lnkd.in/ezVQuQPM

Glimpses into Parallel Worlds: A Medium's Perspective Every case in my profession is a challenge, but some blossom into extraordinary experiences, leaving unforgettable imprints when I encounter truly remarkable souls. These may be historical figures immortalized in legends or those who inspire immense reverence. From bygone eras, I've met great kings, saints, and literary luminaries – poets and lyricists. The emotions these encounters evoke are truly indescribable. Unencumbered by prejudice, I judge no one based on religion, caste, ethnicity, language, or race. My respect bows only before the greatness of historical figures and the nobility of their deeds. Were you to ask, I'd confidently assert that the diverse beliefs around spirits – both those who have passed and those existing outside physical form – held across cultures, religions, and indigenous communities, possess a truth beyond mere fantasy. The stories surrounding them might be embellished, but their essence is undeniably real. My experiences have become a testament to the existence of parallel worlds, each teeming with unique disembodied spirits. The number of these parallel realities is likely beyond the grasp of a single human lifetime.