HRE4M Exam Review - Chapter 1: Why Be Ethical PDF

HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture Chapter 1: “Why Be Ethical” The 7 Catholic Social Teachings 1.​ Life and Dignity of the Human Person 2.​ Family, Community, Partici...

HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture Chapter 1: “Why Be Ethical” The 7 Catholic Social Teachings 1.​ Life and Dignity of the Human Person 2.​ Family, Community, Participation 3.​ Rights and Responsibilities 4.​ Option for the Poor and Vulnerable 5.​ The Dignity of Work and Rights of Workers 6.​ Solidarity 7.​ Care for Creation Bible + Church Teachings= Church & Papal Documents Question: How can the ethical theories of Aristotle, Kant, and Levinas help you understand the ethical, and moral dimensions of the decisions you are called to make? Aristotle: Focuses on virtue ethics, encouraging you to develop good character traits like courage and kindness. Decisions should aim to cultivate these virtues and lead to a balanced, flourishing life (eudaimonia). Kant: Emphasizes duty and universal moral laws. You should act according to principles that could become universal rules, ensuring your decisions are fair and respecting the rights of others. Levinas: Highlights the importance of relationships and responsibility to others. Ethical decisions arise from recognizing the humanity in others and prioritizing their needs over your self-interest. Together, these theories guide you to consider character, fairness, and care for others in your decision-making. Key Terms and Concepts: Ethics -​ A discipline that deals with the nature of the good, the nature of the human person, and the criteria that we use to make right judgments. Morality -​ A system of right conduct is based on fundamental beliefs and an obligation to follow certain codes, norms, customs, and behaviour habits. Autonomy HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture -​ Free self-direction; responsibility Teleological ethics -​ In order for us to figure out how we act, we must consider something’s telos and end. In other words actions are good when they contribute to achieving the goal. Deontological ethics -​ A human act is morally good when it is done for the sake of duty, no matter the consequences -​ The only thing that matters is the rightness of the act itself and our duty to do it Relational ethics (Ethics of the Face) -​ The face of another calls me to respond- vocation -​ The other requires hospitality and care it only asks please for assistance in its misery. Revelation -​ The ways that God makes Himself known to humankind. God is fully revealed in Jesus Christ. The sacred Scriptures, proclaimed within the Church, are the revealed Word of God. God also reveals Self through people and indeed through all of creation. Key Thinkers Aristotle -​ Aristotle believed that everything has a purpose, with human excellence (virtue) being the ultimate goal of life. Virtues are habits formed by choosing the good, requiring balance and reason to achieve human flourishing Immanuel Kant -​ Kant, on the other hand, focused on duty rather than outcomes, arguing that morality is rooted in universal principles and the intrinsic value of goodwill, emphasizing actions done out of obligation. Emmanuel Levinas -​ Levinas shifted ethics toward relationships, highlighting responsibility for others and the unique dignity of each person, where the face of the other calls us to care, reflecting unconditional love and the Golden Rule. Chapter 2: “You are what you do” Question: How does what we do shape who we become? -​ What we do shapes who we become as it is through our actions and words that demonstrate who we are as people. When we do things out of a good heart we will become people who find importance in doing good out of duty(Kant), relationship(Levinas), and human excellence(Aristotle). If we do things that are wrong, it then indirectly shapes who we are and we will then find ourselves doing things that are wrong which can affect others ourselves and our virtues. Key Terms and Concepts: Moral Agent HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture -​ An individual capable of making moral judgments and being held accountable for their actions. Conceptual Framework of Action -​ provides a series of questions that help us to understand the complexity of a human action Free Will -​ The capacity to make choices free from external constraints or force. Freedom -​ The human capacity to choose and to act. I am free because I have the possibilities and capacities to act on these possibilities. Determinism (Social and Religious) ​ Determinism: A point of view that holds that human behaviour is a product, not of free will, but of a complex array of physical, social, cultural, psychological and historical causes Social Determinism: The view that social factors, such as socioeconomic status and cultural norms, significantly influence individual behaviour. Religious Determinism: The belief that God has a predetermined plan for all events, including human actions (e.g., predestination). Naturalism -​ The view that the universe can be explained by natural causes and does not require supernatural intervention. Predestination -​ The view that my behaviour is predetermined, whether by God or by other causes. Providence -​ Divine guidance or care over human affairs. Artificial Intelligence (A.I) -​ The development of computer systems able to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition, and decision-making. Made in the Image and Likeness of God -​ theological concept emphasizing human beings' unique value and inherent dignity as reflections of God's own nature. Key Thinkers: Paul Ricoeur HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture -​ Paul Ricoeur developed the conceptual framework of action, focusing on how human actions shape identity and self-understanding. He explored the interplay between will, decision-making, and the self in his work Freedom and Nature, emphasizing how actions reflect the self and influence human existence. Ricoeur also highlighted the role of language in shaping human action and its ethical implications. His philosophical contributions reflect a commitment to peace, human rights, and the defense of Christian values. Sigmund Freud -​ One of Sigmund Freud’s most important contributions to the understanding of the human person was to develop the concept of the unconscious mind. Freud demonstrated that human behaviour is often driven by unconscious impulses based on repressed memories and desires St. Augustine -​ St. Augustine was the first to name the human will.St. Augustine, one of the early Church Fathers, profoundly influenced Christian theology through his writings on free will, grace, and the nature of human freedom. He explored the concept of two cities: the City of God, representing holiness and eternal life, and the earthly city, embodying sin and temporal existence. Augustine argued that these cities coexist in history but will be separated on the Day of Judgment. His pivotal work, The City of God, was written to refute claims that Christianity led to the fall of Rome, emphasizing that true fulfillment is found in God's eternal kingdom, not in earthly institutions. Chapter 3: “Conscience: The Self in Search of the Good” Question: What do we need to consider when making moral decisions? When making moral decisions, we need to consider the norms, laws, rules, and principles that guide human actions toward the good. Prudence, or practical wisdom, is essential in discerning how these guidelines apply in specific situations. This involves not only understanding the ethical framework but also recognizing the consequences of actions and the context in which they occur. Ultimately, moral decision-making requires balancing our responsibilities with a commitment to doing what is just and right​ Key terms and Concepts: Character -​ The word character refers to the way your actions, over time, tend to become fixed in your body Conscience -​ An inner sense of right and wrong that guides moral judgments and actions. Moral stance -​ My moral orientation or direction in life; what I “stand for. HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture Narcissism -​ A disorder marked by self-absorption to the exclusion of others​ Humanism -​ a worldview centred on human interest and values, and the individual’s capacity for self-realization through reason and action. Humanists generally reject references to the divine Secularism -​ a worldview that rejects religion and religious considerations. Secularists accept only critical reason The Christian origin of the notion of “person” The Christian concept of personhood was developed using the Greek word prosôpon and the Latin word persona. However, the Christian concept of personhood is distinct from the original meanings of these words. The Greek word prosôpon -​ Originally meant "mask" in Greek tragedy -​ In the New Testament, prosôpon often means "face" -​ In some passages, prosôpon may mean "individual" The Latin word persona -​ In Roman society, persona meant a person's social and legal role The Christian concept of personhood ​ The Christian concept of personhood is based on the idea that humans are the image of God ​ The Christian concept of personhood is based on the idea that humans have a non-physical, spiritual dimension ​ The Christian concept of personhood is based on the idea that humans are created in the image of God Freud’s concept of “Super-Ego” in contrast with moral conscience -​ Origin: -​ Super-Ego: Internalized rules from authority figures (parents, teachers), driven by fear of punishment and need for approval. -​ Moral Conscience: Innate capacity to recognize right and wrong, developed through reflection, experience, and personal values. -​ Source of Commands: -​ Super-Ego: External “shoulds” and “have-tos” imposed by others. -​ Moral Conscience: Internal decisions based on personal moral reasoning and commitment to values. HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture -​ Motivation: -​ Super-Ego: Fear, guilt, and conformity. -​ Moral Conscience: Love, responsibility, and authentic choice. -​ Role of Guilt: -​ Super-Ego: Uses guilt as a tool for compliance. -​ Moral Conscience: Uses guilt as a signal for self-reflection and growth. Summary: The super-ego enforces external control, while the moral conscience fosters internal moral responsibility and freedom. -​ The six aspects of the human person A. The importance of others Others are essential for shaping our identity, beliefs, and moral values. By engaging with others, we learn empathy, develop a sense of community, and understand diverse perspectives. Relationships with others challenge us to grow and help us recognize our shared humanity. Without others, moral and emotional growth would be stunted. B. The importance of having a direction in life My identity lies in my commitments -human lives have a sense of direction -this sense of moral orientation in our lives forms our identity e.g. some people may identify themselves with their religious beliefs, their cultural background, etc. - without being committed to anything, people may suffer from an "identity crisis" My identity emerges from the direction I take in life -there is a link between moral stance/direction in life and one's identity -what is good? what is bad? what is meaningful and important? what is trivial Where do I stand? We identify ourselves and pronounce who we are with a name and a title or a purpose e.g. "I am John Smith & I am a student at HT". To be able to answer where you stand is to know who one is C. The importance of communication and language Your stance in life is also shaped by the fact that you are part of a community which shares a common language Example: Friends- Inside jokes (language is meaningless for others) HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture Religion- I'm Catholic. Texts from the Bible D. The importance of character and one’s body Your actions shape your character - the way your actions, over-time, tend to become fixed to your body - through your body all these human traits become possible E. The importance of conscience Moral Guidance: Conscience helps individuals distinguish between right and wrong, guiding actions and decisions in alignment with moral values. Personal Responsibility: It enables people to take ownership of their actions, fostering accountability and ethical integrity. Inner Freedom: Conscience supports authentic decision-making based on personal values, rather than blind adherence to external rules or societal pressure. Self-Development: It plays a crucial role in moral growth, encouraging reflection, learning, and the pursuit of virtue. Harmonious Living: A well-formed conscience promotes just and compassionate behaviour, fostering community trust and mutual respect. Connection to the Divine (in religious contexts): Conscience is often seen as a means of hearing and responding to God's call to live a good and meaningful life. F. The importance of the development of one’s conscience important as it helps us distinguish between right and wrong. Your conscience develops as you mature. Your sense of right and wrong, which began to be formed within your family, becomes increasingly refined with time. Your conscience develops as you take account of and follow the norms, values, virtues and commandments found in our Christian tradition as guidelines for your conscience. Your conscience helps you deal with your moral failures and sins. Through your faults you become aware of your weakness and fragility as a human being and of your need for support from others, especially from God. HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture Your conscience develops as you participate in the Eucharist and prayer life of the Church. Your conscience develops as you grow in the virtue of humility, realizing that we are not the final arbiters of what is right and wrong. Our humility leads us to seek direction of the Church Moral Fibre -​ Moral Fibre:The strength and integrity of one's moral character. -​ Moral fibre” is like muscle fibre – the more you exercise it, the stronger your character. The three senses of conscience -​ Conscience as the Capacity to Recognize Right and Wrong:​ Our capacity to know and do the good, and to avoid evil. Our fundamental sense of value and of personal responsibility. Our fundamental awareness that there is a right and a wrong -​ Conscience as a Process of Moral Reasoning:​ Knowing how to perceive accurately and to think correctly. This is where moral disagreements and error, blindness and insight occur. The conscience must be formed and examined. Formed in community, it draws upon many sources of moral wisdom in order to know what it means to be human in a truly moral way. Seeks to know the truth, and to make it one’s own. Searches for what is right through accurate perception, and a process of reflection and analysis. -​ Conscience as a Judgment:​ The concrete judgment and decision of what I must do is based on my perception and grasp of values. Conscience makes a moral decision “my own” and the moral action is expressive of “me” by realizing and expressing my fundamental stance. The decision is not simply about this or that object of choice, but also about being this or that sort of person. This is the conscience that I must obey to be true to myself. This is our “secret core and sanctuary” where we are alone with God (Gaudium et Spes #16). All persons “[are] bound to follow [their] conscience faithfully in all [their] activity so that [they] may come to God…. [No one] must…be forced to act contrary to [their] conscience” (Dignitatis humanae #3 Symptoms of a misinformed conscience -​ Rationalization: Stealing may be wrong sometimes, but large stores can afford it because they are making huge profits. -​ Trivialization: It’s no big deal – everybody else does it. HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture -​ Misinformation: My doctor told me that all teenage girls should take the birth control pill to prevent getting pregnant. -​ The end justifies the immoral means: I had to steal the chocolate bar – I didn’t have any money and I hadn’t eaten for 12 hours. I get sick if I don’t eat. -​ Means to an end: By dropping a nuclear bomb to end the war, we’ll end up saving lives. Difficult to reason: Having been kicked out of his home and finding himself with no place to go, a teen acts without thinking. He breaks into an empty home to keep warm when he could have asked for help from the police Moral Decision Making Model (p.58) Moral decision-making represents a complex process that requires individuals to make consistent decisions in actions that can harm or help others, demanding a balanced achievement between personal and other interests, immediate or deferred rewards, and emotional and rational processes ​ HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture Key Thinkers: Charles Taylor (1931–Present) ​ A Canadian philosopher deeply rooted in Quebec’s bilingual and bicultural context. ​ Known for emphasizing the importance of identity and moral orientation. He argues that our commitments give our lives a sense of direction and meaning. ​ Taylor critiques secularism and advocates for a return to Judeo-Christian values, which he believes offer a richer vision of the self compared to modern secular humanism. ​ In his book Sources of the Self: The Making of Modern Identity, he examines how moral commitments shape our identity and stresses that losing such commitments can lead to an identity crisis​​. Sigmund Freud (1856–1939) ​ An Austrian neurologist and founder of psychoanalysis, Freud introduced the concept of the unconscious mind and its role in shaping behavior. ​ Freud’s theory of the id, ego, and superego explains human behavior and moral development. The superego acts as an internalized authority, shaping morality through guilt and external rules. ​ He introduced the concept of the "death instinct" (Thanatos) alongside the "life instinct" (Eros), which he associated with human drives for destruction and growth, respectively. ​ Freud critiqued morality, seeing it as coercive and rooted in self-aggression, imposed by societal and parental authority rather than a personal moral conscience​​. Sir Thomas More (1478–1535) ​ An English lawyer, philosopher, and statesman who became Lord Chancellor under King Henry VIII. ​ More famously refused to swear allegiance to the Act of Succession and the Oath of Supremacy, which declared Henry VIII as the supreme head of the Church of England. His refusal was based on his moral and religious convictions, showcasing his deep commitment to conscience. HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture ​ More was executed for treason in 1535 and later canonized by the Catholic Church. His final words, “The King’s good servant, but God’s first,” highlight his unwavering moral integrity and loyalty to God over political authority​​. -​ Chapter 4: “Naming of God and Ethics” Questions: How are we to respond to the Revelation of God’s Commitment to us in the Covenant? ○​ By striving to live in accordance with God's will as revealed in the covenant. This may involve acts of worship, service to others, and a commitment to justice and peace. How does being touched by God change the way you understand yourself and the way you choose to live? ○​ An encounter with God can inspire a profound sense of purpose and meaning, leading to a deeper understanding of one's identity and a desire to live a life of love, compassion, and service to others. Key Terms and Concepts: Covenant -​ A binding agreement between two parties that spells out the conditions and obligations of each party. The biblical notion of covenant arose from this contractual notion, but it is far more. God’s covenant is a bond of love that calls to us in our freedom to respond in love. God’s commitment to us is forever. God’s commitment is founded on love Structure of a Covenant Trait What to look for Preamble name/identification Attributes · Genealogy Historical Prologue Recall of past relations/actions. Recall of benefits bestowed HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture Submission List of expectations/conditions to be met. Description of how the future relationship will be. Request/statement of loyalty Witness. Third-party witness to the agreement/promise. Can be elements of nature Blessings/curses What will happen if the agreement is kept/broken. rewards/punishments (tangible) -​ Structure of a call story Component of Call Story Evidence 1. Confrontation with God One of the most astounding examples of confrontation was Saul's conversion on the road to Damascus—He met Jesus. He became a changed man: Paul, one of the more prolific and influential writers in the New Testament (Acts 9:1-25). Moses confronted Pharaoh, “Let my people go” (Exodus 5:1-5). 2. Introductory Speech 3 But forty years after the Israelites left Egypt, on the first day of the eleventh month, Moses addressed the people of Israel, telling them everything the Lord had commanded him to say. (Deuteronomy 1:3) 3. Imparting of a Mission Jesus was sent by his Father “to proclaim good news to the poor... freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favour” (Luke 4:18–19). HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture 4. Objection by the Prophet-to-be Sending Someone Else: Ultimately, Moses asks God to send someone else, highlighting his reluctance to take on the mission (Exodus 4:13). 5. Reassurance by God 1 After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision: “Fear not, Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be very great.” (Genesis 15:1) 6. The Sign the plagues of Egypt were "signs" of divine anger against the Egyptians (Exodus 4:8; Joshua 24:17, and often); and the miracles of Jesus were "signs" to attest His unique relationship with God (Matthew 12:38; John 2:18; Acts 2:22). Prophet/ Prophesy -​ A prophet is a person believed to be chosen to receive and deliver messages from a divine source, often foretelling future events or guiding people in moral or spiritual matters. -​ Prophesy is the act of predicting or revealing future events or divine will, typically through inspiration or direct communication with a higher power. Characteristics of a Prophet -​ Speak on God’s behalf -​ Cry out against injustice -​ Defend the poor / voiceless -​ Obey only God -​ Enormous courage & conviction -​ Visions & conscience of the community -​ Persecuted & mocked HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture The Name of God -​ YHWH (often pronounced as Yahweh) is the sacred name of God in the Hebrew Bible, derived from the Hebrew verb "to be", signifying God's eternal, self-existent nature. It reflects God's unchanging and timeless existence. In Jewish tradition, it is too holy to pronounce and is replaced with Adonai (Lord) or Hashem (The Name). For Christians, YHWH is the God of the Old Testament, with Jesus identified as the fulfillment of God's self-revelation. The name emphasizes God's immanence, transcendence, and covenant relationship with His people. 10 Commandments/Decalogue Found in Exodus and Deuteronomy 1.​ You shall have no other gods before Me 2.​ You shall not make idols 3.​ You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain 4.​ Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy 5.​ Honour your mother and father 6.​ You shall not murder 7.​ You shall not commit adultery 8.​ You shall not steal 9.​ You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour 10.​You shall not covet How Jesus summarized the 10 commandments into these two ones. Found in Luke 10:27 Is that you shall love the lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength; and love your neighbor as yourself (The greatest commandments) Revelation -​ The ways that God makes Himself known to humankind. God is fully revealed in Jesus Christ. The sacred Scriptures, proclaimed within the Church, are the revealed Word of God. God also reveals Self through people and indeed through all of creation. Sin -​ An offence against God. This is what separates us from God. Vocation -​ Vocation is a call from God. Jesus calls all people into the family of God. God also calls each one of us personally to a way of life that is founded on the love of God and the love of neighbour. For some this way of life leads to priesthood; for others, consecrated religious life; for others, service in the context of family life or the broader community HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture Key Thinkers: Moses is revered as a prophet and lawgiver who foreshadows Christ. His role in leading the Israelites out of Egypt and receiving the Ten Commandments is seen as preparing the way for Christ’s ultimate redemption. The Exodus is viewed as a prefiguration of Baptism and the New Covenant established by Jesus. C.S. Lewis, though Anglican, is highly regarded for his Christian writings. His works, like Mere Christianity and The Chronicles of Narnia, align with Catholic themes such as redemption, suffering, and moral law. His defense of Christian faith and exploration of virtue resonate deeply with Catholic teachings on natural law and the transformative power of Christ’s sacrifice. Both figures are seen as central to understanding salvation, with Moses pointing to Christ and Lewis offering accessible apologetics and spiritual insights. Chapter 5: Where your Treasure is; there your Heart will be” Question: How are we called to participate in the Kingdom of Heaven? Key Terms and Concepts: Exegesis -​ Study of scripture in its original context. Language. Historical context, religious traditions etc Hermeneutics -​ A way of interpreting texts and events to help us understand what they mean for us in the twenty-first century. Apocalyptic Literature -​ A style of writing that evolved during Israel’s troubled history around the time of Jesus. It focused on the end of history and the time of God’s purifying judgment. It frequently employed frightening imagery of end-time wars between good and evil and of convulsions in nature. Sermon on the Mount -​ In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches about the nature of the Kingdom of God, focusing on attitudes, actions, and relationships that reflect God’s will. He emphasizes humility, mercy, purity, reconciliation, and love. Central to His teaching is the call to live according to God's deeper moral will, not just external compliance with the law. Beatitudes HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture -​ A form of pronouncement that presupposes that a good or happiness has already been given or is about to be received. The Sermon on the Mount contains a list of beatitudes: “blessed are the poor in spirit…” Kingdom of Heaven/God -​ Does not mean the afterlife -​ Metaphor for God -​ The central image of Jesus’s message Eschatology/ Eschatological -​ Pertaining to the end of times, in the sense of its fullness. The coming of the kingdom of God at the end of time, according to Jesus, has already begun in his life, death and resurrection. Eschatological ethics is an ethics that insists that we can already live what God will realize or reveal at the end. Parousia -​ A term used to refer to the second coming of Christ at the end of time. Gospel The Gospel refers to the "good news" of salvation through Jesus Christ. In a Christian context, it has two main meanings: 1.​ The Message: The Gospel is the central message of Christianity—the proclamation that through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, humanity is offered forgiveness, reconciliation with God, and eternal life. It emphasizes God’s love, grace, and the possibility of salvation for all people. 2.​ The Books: The term also refers to the first four books of the New Testament: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, which are known as the Gospels. These books contain the life, teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Each Gospel presents a unique perspective on Jesus' mission and message. The Gospel is foundational to the Christian faith, revealing God’s plan for salvation and calling believers to live according to Jesus' teachings. Synoptic Gospels -​ Matthew, Mark, Luke Key Thinkers: Matthew: ​ Audience: Primarily Jewish Christians. HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture ​ Key Themes: Matthew emphasizes Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. He presents Jesus as the Messiah (the anointed King) and the new Moses, drawing strong connections between Jesus’ life and Jewish law. ​ Focus: Matthew stresses the kingdom of heaven, Jesus’ teachings (especially the Sermon on the Mount), and the idea of Jesus as the teacher of righteousness. He also emphasizes the continuity between the Old and New Covenants. Mark: ​ Audience: Primarily Roman Christians, possibly Gentiles. ​ Key Themes: Mark is the shortest and most action-oriented Gospel, focusing on the deeds of Jesus more than His teachings. He emphasizes Jesus' suffering, presenting Him as the Suffering Servant prophesied in Isaiah. ​ Focus: The central theme in Mark is the Messianic secret—Jesus often instructs others not to reveal His identity. Mark portrays Jesus’ passion, death, and resurrection as key to understanding His mission. Luke: ​ Audience: Gentiles, particularly the Greek-speaking world. ​ Key Themes: Luke highlights Jesus as the universal Savior, emphasizing His compassion, particularly toward the marginalized, such as women, the poor, and sinners. He stresses God’s mercy and the idea of salvation being available to all people. ​ Focus: Luke places significant emphasis on prayer, the Holy Spirit, and the role of women in Jesus' ministry. He also provides a detailed account of Jesus’ birth, offering a more comprehensive and compassionate portrayal of His life and work. John: ​ Audience: Early Christians, likely in a more theological context (both Jewish and Gentile Christians). ​ Key Themes: John’s Gospel is the most theologically complex, focusing on the divinity of Jesus. He emphasizes that Jesus is the Word (Logos) made flesh, revealing the Father’s will to humanity. John stresses the themes of light vs. darkness, eternal life, and Jesus’ role as the Son of God. ​ Focus: Unlike the synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), John offers long, reflective discourses by Jesus, such as the "I AM" statements (e.g., “I am the Bread of Life,” “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life”). John emphasizes the HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture relationship between Jesus and His Father, and the importance of believing in Jesus for eternal life. Compare the Ten Commandments and the Sermon on the Mount. How do the 10 Commandments differ? How do they overlap? The 10 Commandments How are they similar? Sermon on the Mount (p. 70-71) (p.92-98) -​ More about what Jesus’s sermon on the -​ Talks more about you should not do mount reveals the true what you should do -​ Thou Shall not intention of six of the Ten -​ God is referred to as Commandments Father in the Sermon on the Mount There was a crowd The places where Moses and Jesus did their duties were from a mountain Both provide ethical guidance for individuals and community behaviour HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture Chapter 6: “The Church, The Sacrament of God’s Grace” Questions: How does the church have an impact on Moral vision? ○​ The Church provides a community for moral formation, offering teachings, sacraments, and opportunities for service that shape our understanding of right and wrong. How does the Church respond to Moral issues and crises? ○​ The Church addresses social and ethical issues through advocacy, social justice initiatives, and prophetic proclamations. How does an appreciation of our history and tradition guide our day-to-day living? ○​ Understanding the Church's history and traditions provides insights into enduring Christian truths and helps navigate contemporary challenges. Key Terms and Concepts: Apostle -​ A title given in the gospels to the twelve chief disciples of Jesus, and later also to St. Paul. Church -​ The assembly or communion of the baptized followers of Jesus. Challenges/Periods of the Early Church The Period of Jewish Christianity (AD 30-130): The early Church began within Judaism, spreading from Jerusalem to Jewish communities around the Mediterranean. Christians lived communally, sharing possessions and practicing Jesus' teachings. However, conflicts arose, such as resource inequality, social divisions, and dealing with sinners. The Church embraced imperfection, guided by Jesus' parable of the wheat and weeds. HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture The Period of Greek and European Christianity (AD 50-1964): Christian history includes the early Church spreading into the Roman world, its growth under Emperor Constantine, medieval changes like new ideas and the East-West split, the Protestant Reformation's divisions, global missionary work during the European colonization, and challenges from new ideas and industrial changes that reshaped its role. The Period of Global Christianity (1960-present): Since the twentieth century, the Church has shifted toward being a truly global community, embracing diverse cultures rather than being dominated by one. As envisioned by theologians like Karl Rahner and Robert Schreiter, this global Church must balance local traditions and global unity, celebrating cultural diversity while fostering solidarity and mutual interaction. Conversion -​ A radical transformation of values, a turning around, that takes place at the intellectual level as an awareness and openness to truth and true knowing, at the moral level when I recognize myself as free and responsible, and at the religious level where my pre occupation with myself is taken over with the love of God and love for others. Gentile -​ Person who is not part of the Jewish faith, or not of Jewish ancestry. Magisterium -​ The official teaching office of the Church: the bishops in union with the bishop of Rome, the pope. Protestant Reformation HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture -​ The term “Protestant” derives from the word “to protest.”At the end of the Middle Ages, Catholicism experienced a period of decay with serious abuses in the sale of sacred goods (church offices, indulgences), in the office of the papacy (for a while, in addition to the legitimate pope there were two other contenders), the lack of training of the clergy, the worship of the Church, and the abuse of power by bishops and priests.Martin Luther (1483–1546) is seen as the foremost leader in this protest against the abuses in Germany.Other reformers such as John Calvin and Zwingli soon followed.Most of Northern Europe came to follow these reform movements.It gave rise to numerous conflicts and wars in the sub sequent centuries Counter-Reformation -​ The Catholic Church's response on the Council Trent is that deeds are important Key Thinkers: St. Paul (Saul): ​ Background: Originally known as Saul, a zealous Pharisee and persecutor of Christians, he converted to Christianity after a dramatic encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9). ​ Contributions: St. Paul is often considered the most influential Christian theologian after Jesus. His letters (Epistles) form a substantial part of the New Testament and lay the foundation for key Christian doctrines, such as justification by faith, the role of grace, and the universal call to salvation. He was instrumental in spreading Christianity beyond Jewish communities to the Gentiles and teaching about the Church as the body of Christ. Constantine: ​ Background: Emperor of Rome from 306 to 337 AD, Constantine is famous for being the first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity. ​ Contributions: Constantine played a pivotal role in the spread and legalization of Christianity. He issued the Edict of Milan (313 AD), which granted religious tolerance and allowed Christianity to be practiced openly. Constantine also convened the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, which aimed to address the Arian controversy and define Christian doctrine, particularly the nature of Christ’s divinity. He helped establish Christianity as the dominant religion of the Roman Empire, significantly shaping the course of Christian history. Martin Luther: ​ Background: A 16th-century German monk, priest, and theologian, Luther is best known for his role in the Protestant Reformation. HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture ​ Contributions: Luther’s 95 Theses (1517), which criticized Church practices such as the sale of indulgences, sparked the Reformation. He emphasized sola scriptura (scripture alone) as the basis of Christian authority, and justification by faith alone (sola fide) as the means of salvation. His ideas led to a major split in Christianity, resulting in the formation of various Protestant denominations and challenging Catholic authority, particularly on issues of salvation, the sacraments, and the authority of the pope. Bishops of Vatican II: ​ Background: The Second Vatican Council (1962–1965) was a significant ecumenical council convened by Pope John XXIII and continued by Pope Paul VI. It involved thousands of bishops, theologians, and other Church leaders. ​ Contributions: Vatican II was a groundbreaking event that modernized many aspects of the Church’s teachings and practices. It produced key documents, including: ○​ Lumen Gentium: Emphasizing the Church as the People of God and calling for greater lay participation. ○​ Gaudium et Spes: Addressing the Church's relationship with the modern world, advocating for peace, social justice, and human rights. ○​ Sacrosanctum Concilium: Promoting liturgical reforms, including the use of vernacular languages in Mass. ○​ Nostra Aetate: Fostering interfaith dialogue, particularly with Jews, Muslims, and other religious traditions. ​ Vatican II sought to open the Church to the modern world, promoting renewal and unity within the Church and with other Christian denominations. In summary: ​ St. Paul laid theological foundations for the Church and its outreach to Gentiles. ​ Constantine legalized Christianity and made it the dominant Roman religion. ​ Martin Luther sparked the Reformation, challenging the Catholic Church’s authority. ​ The Bishops of Vatican II modernized the Church’s teachings and practices, fostering dialogue and renewal. SolaFIde (faith) vs SolaScriputra (deeds) HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture Chapter 7: “The Good Life: Our Search for Happiness” Questions: How do the philosophical and moral theories of Plato, Aristotle, St. Thomas Aquinas, Immanuel Kant, and Emmanuel Levinas approach the search for the good and the good life? Compare and Contrast. ○​ Plato: Emphasized reason and the pursuit of knowledge as the path to true happiness. ○​ Aristotle: Focused on developing virtue and living in accordance with reason and moderation. ○​ St. Thomas Aquinas: Combined Greek philosophy with Christian theology, emphasizing the importance of reason, virtue, and love for God and neighbor. ○​ Immanuel Kant: Stressed the importance of duty, moral law, and the categorical imperative. ○​ Emmanuel Levinas: Emphasized the importance of ethical responsibility towards others, particularly the vulnerable and marginalized. Describe the connection between the good life and being happy. ○​ Happiness is often a goal, but it is not always the same as the good life. The good life involves living virtuously, cultivating meaningful relationships, and pursuing a life of purpose and meaning. True happiness often comes as a byproduct of living a good life. Key Terms and Concepts: Happiness -​ The gospels speak of happiness in terms of beatitude – blessedness. God has placed the desire for happiness in the human heart in order to draw us to the One who alone can fulfill it. We find happiness in life by living the good life; that is, life in the way of Christ. Good -​ In Catholicism, the Good refers to what aligns with God's will and divine law. God is the ultimate source of all goodness. Moral goodness involves living in accordance with God's commands, particularly through the virtues of faith, hope, charity, and the cardinal virtues. The highest good is eternal union with God in Heaven, attained through grace and following the teachings of Jesus. Socially, the Good also involves working for justice, the common good, and helping the poor and vulnerable, as emphasized in Catholic Social Teaching. Virtues (Theologica/Cardinal) HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture Human virtues are firm attitudes, stable dispositions, habitual perfections of intellect and will, that govern our actions, order our passions and guide our conduct according to reason and faith Cardinal Virtues -----> Basis for moral life Theological-------> perfecting our relationship with God Cardinal Virtues Theological Virtues -​ Prudence (Good Judgement) Helps -​ Faith you to stop and think before you act -​ Hope -​ Justice -​ Love (greatest of all the theological -​ Fortitude (Courage in pain or virtues) adversity) -​ Charity -​ Temperance (Moderation) Gluttony -​ This sin refers to excessive indulgence in food and drink, going beyond moderation. It symbolizes a lack of self-restraint and an obsession with physical pleasures. Chastity -​ means living in such a way that our own needs, desires, agendas, and impatience do not get in the way Temperance -​ restraint of human passions and appetites in accordance with reason; self control of the body. Sophism -​ A deceptive or misleading argument. The three ways of pursuing the good -​ Aristotle's Teleological Ethics: The pursuit of happiness. Aristotle believed that the good life is the aim of ethics and that happiness is the condition of the good person who succeeds in living and acting well. His emphasis was on the rational nature of humans and the need to develop good habits. -​ -​ Kant's Deontological Ethics: The experience of obligation. Kant believed that the good is the aim of a moral life but emphasized the importance of the will and the concept of duty. For him, an action is morally good when it is done for the sake of duty, and people should act in a way that they would want everyone else to act. -​ HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture -​ Impact of the Gospel: The gospel proclaims that the Son of God has entered human history as a man opens up to possibilities for action that are motivated by God’s love in our hearts. Key Thinkers: ​ Plato: Focused on ideal Forms, the Good, and the pursuit of truth through philosophy, influencing Christian views on the soul and divine goodness. ​ Aristotle: Emphasized empirical knowledge, virtue ethics, and teleology (purpose in nature), shaping Christian thought on ethics, natural law, and the nature of the world. ​ St. Thomas Aquinas: Synthesized Aristotle’s philosophy with Christian theology, developing the doctrine of natural law and showing that faith and reason work together in understanding God and the world. Together, these thinkers deeply influenced Christian philosophy, ethics, and theology, especially in the realms of natural law, virtue, and the relationship between faith and reason. The 7 Deadly Sins 1.​ Pride 2.​ Envy 3.​ Wrath 4.​ Sloth 5.​ Greed 6.​ Gluttony 7.​ Lust Chapter 8: “Norms for Moral Living” Question: How do norms and moral principles function in protecting and promoting the Good? ​ Norms and moral principles provide a framework for ethical decision-making. They help us to: ○​ Guide our actions: By providing clear standards for what is considered right and wrong. ○​ Protect individual rights and the common good: Ensuring the needs and well-being of all members of society are considered. HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture ○​ Promote social harmony and cooperation: By fostering a shared understanding of ethical values and expectations. ○​ Hold individuals and institutions accountable: By providing a basis for evaluating actions and holding people accountable. Key Terms and Concepts: Duty & Obligation In Kantian ethics, both duty and obligation are interconnected but distinct concepts. ​ Duty refers to the internal, rational motivation to act according to moral laws. It’s the recognition that one must act in a particular way because it’s the right thing to do, independent of personal desires or consequences. A person acts from duty when they follow moral laws purely out of respect for the law itself, guided by the categorical imperative (i.e., act only in ways that could be universally applied without contradiction). ​ Obligation, on the other hand, is the external binding force of those moral laws. It’s the idea that individuals are required to perform certain actions, regardless of their personal inclinations or the expected results. Obligation arises from the rational recognition that one must follow moral law because it is universally and necessarily valid for all rational beings. Thus, duty is the internal commitment to act morally, while obligation is the external requirement to fulfill that duty. In Kant’s view, to be morally responsible is to recognize both that you have a duty and that you are obligated to perform it. -​ Common Good -​ The general well-being of all within society. Moral principle -​ Basic truths are used to determine rules of conduct. In moral reasoning, principles are used to measure moral obligation or to determine how to act in particular situations. Natural Law -​ The original moral sense which enables people to discern by reason what is good and what is evil, what is true and what is a lie. Principles of Natural Law (St. Thomas Aquinas) firstly, natural law is Unwritten but known by all who use reason Principles of natural law 1.​ Do good and avoid evil HRE4M EXAM REVIEW Church & Culture 2.​ Preserve and protect life 3.​ Procreate and educate 4.​ Pursue truth and peace in society Prudence -​ A cardinal virtue, Prudence (Good Judgement) Helps you to stop and think before you act Church’s stance on reproductive strategies & Euthanasia (use text- pp. 156-158)) The Catholic Church opposes euthanasia and assisted suicide, emphasizing the sanctity of life as a gift from God. It teaches that humans are stewards of life, not its owners, and that life should be preserved. The Church rejects the idea of controlling when life ends, even in cases of suffering, advocating instead for compassion and palliative care to ease pain. It also stresses mutual responsibility for others, with the moral duty to protect life and care for those who suffer. Euthanasia is considered morally unacceptable because it violates the dignity and value of life. Key Thinkers: Plato: Emphasized ideal Forms, the nature of the Good, and the pursuit of truth through reason, influencing Christian theology on the soul and divine goodness. Aristotle: Focused on empirical observation, ethics based on virtue, and the concept of a "telos" or purpose, which shaped later Christian and philosophical thought. Immanuel Kant: Introduced the concept of duty and moral law through the "categorical imperative," arguing that morality is grounded in reason rather than consequence. Thomas Aquinas: Synthesized Christian theology with Aristotelian philosophy, advocating for the existence of God through reason and emphasizing natural law.