Is it time to revalue Christian values?

Today, 25th October 2024, I would like to share something I have been pondering for weeks. As we observe global developments, it becomes increasingly evident that Asian powerhouses like India and China are making remarkable strides in economic and social progress. The rise of new millionaires in these developing nations occurs at an astonishing pace, outstripping similar trends in the wealthier, developed countries. However, this economic growth comes at a notable cost.

This perspective may be seen as contentious, but it is important to acknowledge that the benefits gained by some often result in significant losses for others. The nations experiencing such losses are predominantly located in North America and Europe. Many Western countries have come under scrutiny and have even become subjects of mockery, as they no longer hold the same degree of influence in international affairs that they once enjoyed, particularly exemplified by the United Kingdom.

I would like to delve deeper into a thought-provoking idea. Reflecting on my law school days, I recognize that I once dismissed the philosophy of Friedrich Nietzsche, viewing him as a proponent of immorality. After careful consideration and reflection, I have come to understand that the struggles faced by Western countries can be traced back to traditional interpretations of Christianity. This belief system often promotes the idea that true riches and rewards await believers in the afterlife, leading many to shun material wealth in the present.

While the emphasis on spiritual rather than material wealth was admirable in earlier times, I believe it is crucial for Western nations to rethink and reevaluate these age-old values. Rather than discarding these longstanding Christian teachings, there is an opportunity to remodel them to better fit the contemporary world. This resonates with Nietzsche’s philosophy—suggesting that he was indeed ahead of his time, with ideas that challenge the understanding of the average individual.

To illustrate this point, I would like to quote a poignant passage from Nietzsche.

"How shall we, murderers of all murderers, console ourselves? That which was the holiest and mightiest of all that the world has yet possessed has bled to death under our knives. Who will wipe this blood off us? With what water could we purify ourselves? What festivals of atonement, what sacred games shall we need to invent? Is not the greatness of this deed too great for us? Must we not ourselves become gods simply to be worthy of it? There has never been a greater deed, and whosoever shall be born after us—for the sake of this deed he shall be part of a higher history than all history hitherto."

In this profound passage, Nietzsche appears to equate humanity with the "murderers of all murderers," attributing our responsibility for the death of Christ to the broader human experience. In contrast, the major belief systems of those in India, including Hinduism, and the ideologies found in China, such as Communism and Buddhism, do not align with traditional Christian principles. This adaptability allows them to navigate the complexities of the modern world more effectively, and it affects the competitive positioning of Western countries on the global stage.

Furthermore, the Jewish community has managed to accumulate significant wealth, a fact attributed to their strong moral framework, which does not fully align with Christian doctrines. As someone who was educated in a Roman Catholic school, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges inherent in reconciling traditional beliefs with the realities of modern life.

The repercussions of societal decline in the present world are often profound, surfacing in various facets of daily life and governance. The astute populations of India and China recognize this reality and have thrived in navigating it. In an ideal, equitable world, the teachings and values of Christianity would be applicable and beneficial to all. Unfortunately, our contemporary world does not reflect such fairness.

In conclusion, I genuinely empathize with those who uphold the Christian faith, wishing that their beliefs could manifest as they envision. Regrettably, the complexities and challenges of our current global landscape often interfere with those aspirations.

Thank You for reading this.