Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Quote of the day: morals, religion and a republic

"Without morals a republic cannot subsist any length of time; they therefore, who are decrying the Christian religion, whose morality is so sublime and pure, which denounces against the wicked, the eternal misery, and insures to the good eternal happiness, are undermining the solid foundation of morals, the best security for the duration of free governments."

- Charles Carroll of Carrollton (1737-1832), Founding Father and only Catholic signer of the Declaration of Independence, letter to Charles Carroll, Jr., November 4, 1800, quoted in The Founders on Religion:  A Book of Quotations, James H. Huston, editor (Princeton:  2005), pg. 191.

2 comments:

Angie Van De Merwe said...

Law is to maintain order, which strutures society after values. The liberal would adhere to a more open understanding on interpretation of the Constitution, whereas, the conservative would want to be "true to the text". This is where we have the problems today between the globalists and the nationalists. What and how do we define ourselves? By our national identity, or by our humanity? I think both are necessary in today's globalized market, but when do we limit our identification with humanity? I think this is an important distinction, otherwise, we dissolve our borders and disregard criminal behavior.

I think it is important to understand that the Founders understood that men were prone to "disorder" and the shape of government was to prevent tyranny through an abuse of power. So, our government is supposed to limit both leaders and subjects to lawful actions.

The Christian religion has to do with how family is structured, and I do believe that society needs families to do "their duties". Many have totally abdicated that responsibility to the State. Where one decides what is "right" for their family in regards to education is left up to the parent for the most part.

Families are also important is teaching their children about society and values that would maintain such order.

Angie Van De Merwe said...

As a lawyer, do you deal with international business law? And how would you answer the question about criminality, business interests, and internationalism?
A book "The American Empire and An Economic Hit Man" was eye-opening when I read it several years ago...