Questions and Answers
What are the three parts of morality?
Social Morality, Internal morality (character), Morality in terms of a higher power
Why is it most important to address the third part of morality first?
We need to understand why our morality matters and what goal we are trying to reach before we start pursuing it.
Why is it important to address the second part of morality before the first?
You cannot do good to others unless you work on cultivating good in yourself.
Why does C.S. Lewis dislike the idea of moral 'idealism'?
Signup and view all the answers
What are the four cardinal virtues?
Signup and view all the answers
What does 'cardinal' actually mean?
Signup and view all the answers
How has the word Temperance been restricted in modern times?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the difference between a man who does just actions and a just man?
Signup and view all the answers
What are three reasons it is important to recognize the difference between just actions and a just man?
Signup and view all the answers
Why is it important to have prudence as a Christian?
Signup and view all the answers
What is true of good moral teachings according to C.S. Lewis?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the role of Christianity and the Church regarding social issues?
Signup and view all the answers
What are five characteristics of a Christian society according to C.S. Lewis?
Signup and view all the answers
What does Lewis mean by the phrase, 'For the longest way round is the shortest way home'?
Signup and view all the answers
In what way is psychoanalysis contradictory to Christianity?
Signup and view all the answers
Explain the illustration with the three men who go to war.
Signup and view all the answers
What is Lewis' 'one last point' in chapter 4?
Signup and view all the answers
Why is the moral direction a man is headed more important than a single action?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Three Parts of Morality
- Social Morality: Actions and principles relevant to society.
- Internal Morality (Character): Personal virtues and self-regulation.
- Morality in Terms of a Higher Power: Spiritual standards guiding moral actions.
- Understanding the significance and objectives of morality (third part) is essential before pursuing moral actions.
- Developing personal virtues (second part) is crucial for actions towards others to be genuinely good.
C.S. Lewis's View on Moral Idealism
- Diverse Ideals: Individuals have various moral beliefs; morality should have a consistent universal standard.
- Limitations of Idealism: Simply striving to do right without correcting mistakes lacks a true moral framework, similar to resolving errors in arithmetic.
Cardinal Virtues
- Prudence: Wisdom and common sense guiding decisions.
- Temperance: Balance and restraint in actions and desires.
- Justice: Fair treatment and decision-making.
- Fortitude: Strength and perseverance in facing challenges.
Meaning of "Cardinal"
- Refers to something pivotal or essential, akin to a door hinge, crucial to moral foundation.
Modern Misunderstanding of Temperance
- Temperance is often defined narrowly as total abstinence from alcohol.
- This restriction leads to neglect of self-control in other areas of life.
Distinction Between Virtuous Individuals and Actions
- A just or temperate individual embodies virtue continuously, while anyone can randomly perform virtuous acts without internalizing them.
- Recognizing this distinction is vital for:
- Understanding the importance of motives over actions.
- Aligning with God's desire for genuine moral character.
- Appreciating the significance of virtue in an eternal context.
Importance of Prudence in Christianity
- Jesus's teaching emphasizes balancing gentleness with wisdom.
- Wisdom is vital for ethical living and decision-making.
Nature of Good Moral Teachings
- Effective moral instruction revisits and reinforces familiar principles that people often overlook.
- Genuine moral teachings are not novel but serve to refresh existing knowledge.
Role of Christianity and the Church in Social Issues
- Christianity should influence society through moral living rather than direct political engagement.
- Individuals apply Christian values to their respective fields, promoting ethical practices in various contexts.
Vision of a Christian Society According to C.S. Lewis
- Emphasis on the importance of work and productivity.
- Universal obedience and adherence to principles are expected.
- A society with reduced anxiety levels among its members.
- A social structure devoid of interest through a socialistic approach.
- Culture of generosity and charity towards the less fortunate.
Meaning of "The Longest Way Round is the Shortest Way Home"
- Achieving a moral society requires understanding divine principles over reliance on human methods.
- Following God's ways, though seemingly inefficient, leads to the desired ethical outcomes.
Contradictions in Psychoanalysis and Christianity
- Psychoanalysis often addresses inherent human weaknesses rather than moral choices, creating tension with Christian values.
- Despite these differences, both recognize the need to improve the individual's potential.
Illustration of Three Soldiers in War
- Soldiers illustrate self-directed choices irrespective of improving life circumstances.
- One soldier chooses courage through personal effort, while others rely on external counsel but still must make moral choices.
- The internal moral choice remains critical despite the absence of fear or external barriers.
Lewis's Final Point in Chapter 4
- Moral growth brings awareness of one's inner evil; the most immoral individuals may lack understanding of their wrongdoings.
- Knowledge of one's moral failings is essential for true improvement.
Importance of Moral Direction
- Continuous actions guide a person’s moral trajectory, either towards goodness or evil.
- Ignoring one’s inner evil is more perilous than any singular immoral act, as it allows negative traits to take root and flourish.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Explore the fundamental components of morality in this quiz, focusing on social morality, internal character, and morality in relation to a higher power. Understand the significance of addressing these parts in a specific order for a comprehensive view of moral development.