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From: pmd@cbscd5.UUCP
Newsgroups: net.politics,net.philosophy
Subject: Re: TC's altruism
Message-ID: <299@cbscd5.UUCP>
Date: Thu, 21-Jul-83 08:28:51 EDT
Article-I.D.: cbscd5.299
Posted: Thu Jul 21 08:28:51 1983
Date-Received: Fri, 22-Jul-83 12:22:37 EDT
References: <353@houti.UUCP>
Organization: Bell Labs , Columbus
Lines: 18

I don't think that Tom Craver's reduction of Christian teaching to
altruism can be so easily done.  Christianity is not purely altruistic.
Sure it bids man consider himself a fallen sinner, but it also commands
him to do something about it.  I cannot say that I accept Christianity
purely for God's benefit (What does it benefit an omnipotent God that
I submit to him?) or the benefit of others.  Much blessing and reward
is given and promised.  There is a delicate balence in biblical teaching
between altruism and self esteem.  Many who are Christians justify their
selfishness and materialism with Scripture. (Haven't you heard Oral Roberts
preach?).  Others categorically condemn anything that benefits self.
Both positions are out of balence bibically.

Although pure altruism may not work for the individual in society, pure
selfishness doesn't work either.  Ayn Rand's gospel of selfishness cannot
be accepted by everyone.  Can you imagine everyone in society being a
"Howard Roark"? (as in "The Fountianhead")

Paul Dubuc