Beliefs About Human Wrongdoing

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Questions and Answers

What pessimistic perspective is shared regarding human nature?

Violence is a modern issue that has just recently emerged.

People are likely to ignore injustice if it does not affect them. (correct)

Human beings will inevitably create a harmonious society.

Populations will always act in their collective best interests.

Which of the following factors is suggested to potentially reduce the likelihood of injustice in society?

Growing intolerance among different communities.

A decrease in global population size.

Advancements in technology and better resource management. (correct)

Increasing reliance on traditional resource management.

What role does mass media play in contemporary society, according to the content?

It helps bring attention to injustices and increases accountability. (correct)

It promotes isolation and division among populations.

It enables people to ignore acts of injustice.

It encourages individuals to commit acts of violence.

What is one optimistic view regarding the future of society?

The teachings of Jesus, if followed, could eliminate various evils. Signup and view all the answers

According to Christian beliefs mentioned in the content, what is a fundamental aspect of human beings?

They are inclined toward sin and perceived as fallen. Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of selfishness as illustrated in apartheid South Africa?

Injustice against those not directly affected Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is mentioned as contributing to the Edlington brothers' actions?

A toxic family life with a violent father Signup and view all the answers

How does greed contribute to injustice, according to the content?

By fueling the desire for unfair advantages over others Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred about moral ignorance from the case of the Edlington brothers?

It can arise from a lack of boundaries and guidance Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, what are the three poisons in Buddhism?

Greed, hatred, and ignorance Signup and view all the answers

Which behavior is a result of selfishness as stated in the content?

Tax dodging and antisocial behavior Signup and view all the answers

What is the proposed solution to overcome the three poisons in Buddhism?

Following the middle way Signup and view all the answers

What does ignorance of right and wrong often lead to?

Increased criminal behavior Signup and view all the answers

What does selfishness entail according to Christian teachings?

Prioritizing individual needs over others Signup and view all the answers

Which concept is not directly related to the Christian view of greed?

Compassion towards the needy Signup and view all the answers

According to the non-Christian perspective, what is a fundamental aspect of human behavior regarding selfishness?

It is seen as a natural instinct for survival. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key teaching about ignorance in relation to wrongdoing?

Not being aware of the consequences of one's actions Signup and view all the answers

What qualities does meditation help Buddhists develop?

Metta and karuna Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT typically associated with the causes of injustice?

Economic stability Signup and view all the answers

Which teaching emphasizes the need to care for others in Christian belief?

The Parable of the Good Samaritan Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered a 'root cause' of hatred in Buddhism?

Upbringing with prejudices Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'money is not itself bad, but loving money is' signify in Christian teachings?

Greed stems from an excessive desire for wealth. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following concepts is closely tied to Thomas Hobbes' perspective on human behavior?

The importance of social contracts Signup and view all the answers

What role does alcohol play in violence according to the content?

Alcohol is one of many potential factors leading to violence. Signup and view all the answers

How do Christian teachings generally categorize greed?

As being fundamentally focused on wealth and resources Signup and view all the answers

What is one perspective on the inevitability of hatred and violence?

They are a result of human nature. Signup and view all the answers

In Buddhism, what does hatred represent within the concept of karma?

One of the three poisons Signup and view all the answers

What did Ian Brady claim as his motivation for murder?

Existential experience Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors is suggested to play a part in economic injustice?

Natural disasters Signup and view all the answers

What does Hebrews 13:5 imply about the relationship between faith and money?

Loving money is associated with lacking faith in God. Signup and view all the answers

According to Christian views on stewardship, what should wealthy individuals do with their resources?

Share it for the benefit of others. Signup and view all the answers

What does 2 Corinthians 9:7 say about charity?

Charity must be given willingly. Signup and view all the answers

What do Fundamentalist Christians believe about the Bible?

The Bible is inerrant and everything it states as a sin should be avoided. Signup and view all the answers

What is a positive aspect of greed mentioned in the content?

Greed can drive technological advancement. Signup and view all the answers

How do Liberal Christians interpret the concept of sin in the Bible?

They see some biblical sins as reflections of historical values, not divine laws. Signup and view all the answers

According to Thomas Aquinas, how can individuals minimize mistakes related to their conscience?

By educating themselves through scripture and church. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common belief among the majority of Christians regarding the Ten Commandments?

They reflect God's will and should be adhered to. Signup and view all the answers

What is the general Christian perspective on ignorance as an excuse for actions?

Ignorance is generally not considered a valid excuse. Signup and view all the answers

According to Christian beliefs, what is the importance of confessing sins?

Confession allows for accountability within a community. Signup and view all the answers

How do non-Christians view the teaching of right and wrong in society?

Parents and schools play a crucial role in this education. Signup and view all the answers

What does Jesus' statement on the cross about ignorance imply?

Forgiveness can be granted in cases of ignorance. Signup and view all the answers

What perspective do Christians hold about consumerism in relation to sin?

Consumerism can lead to exploitation and therefore is considered sinful. Signup and view all the answers

What does Matthew 5:48 imply about Christian expectations?

Christians are encouraged to strive for perfection. Signup and view all the answers

What is highlighted as a consequence of Western consumerism in clothing production?

Child labor and poor working conditions for workers. Signup and view all the answers

What role does the concept of omniscience play in Christian beliefs about sin?

It reinforces the belief that God's laws are always for humanity's benefit. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Objectives

Outline religious and non-religious beliefs about human wrongdoing
Categorise responses to selfishness, greed, and ignorance
Assess how these beliefs affect life

Key Vocabulary

Greed: Excessive desire for things, unrelated to needs
Ignorance: Lack of knowledge about right and wrong
Selfishness: Self-interest neglecting others' needs
Sin: Behaviour against God's law

Differing Views on Selfishness, Greed, Ignorance, and Sin

Selfishness

Christian View: Selfish people prioritize themselves over others; this is wrong. The Golden Rule (treat others as you want to be treated) underscores the importance of concern for others. The Parable of the Good Samaritan highlights the Christian responsibility to help others, even strangers. Christians are specifically encouraged to help others by the teachings of Jesus.
Non-Christian View: Self-interest may be natural; selfishness may not be inherently negative unless it directly harms others. Thomas Hobbes argued that self-preservation is a fundamental human drive.

Greed

Christian View: Greed is related to selfishness and concerns the use of resources; it is seen as a fundamental problem when resources are misused or acquired unjustly.
Non-Christian View: Greed is sometimes seen as a motivator for progress and innovation, especially in capitalist societies. Greed in some contexts drives people to work hard and achieve more.

Ignorance

Christian View: Ignorance about right or wrong is not usually an excused for wrongdoing. Conscience plays a crucial role, and Christians should strive to understand God's law; education and religion are important. Ignorance can be partially overcome by education and going to church.
Non-Christian View: Societal and educational systems teach individuals about right and wrong.

Sin

Christian View: Any action against God's law is considered sin. Fundamentalist Christians believe the Bible is without error, so anything violating it is considered a sin. Liberal Christians may interpret scripture's teachings according to a higher purpose beyond obedience to the letter of the law.
Non-Christian View: Opinions vary greatly on how sin is viewed (or if this concept exists)

Case Study Examples

Selfishness: Apartheid in South Africa, where white people neglected the needs of people of color.
Ignorance: The Edlington brothers case demonstrates the negative results of a lack of moral education.
Greed: Consumerism illustrates how greed for cheap products can exploit workers and harm the environment.

Additional Points

Causes of Hatred, Injustice, Violence, and War: Greed, selfishness, and ignorance are commonly cited as factors, but other factors like economic inequality, historical injustices, and lack of understanding also significantly contribute.
Inevitability of Violence: The existence of violence can be considered inevitable due to human factors like greed, prejudice, and historical injustices. However, people can work to reduce such violence through education and social change.
Optimistic View of the Future: Some perspectives believe that societies can become more tolerant and just. Technological advancements and better use of resources might lead to less violence and injustice.

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Description

Explore various religious and non-religious perspectives on human wrongdoing, focusing on selfishness, greed, and ignorance. This quiz assesses how these beliefs influence moral behavior and societal norms. Delve into the contrasting views on these ethical concepts and their implications for personal conduct.