Viewpoints
Ethical principles
By +Oscar V. Cruz D. D.
Reason alone when sound and wherefore rational, knows what is right or wrong, what is good or bad. This is true for people, irrespective of race, color and creed. While schooling might help them to make the distinction easier and better, the same could even make them disregard the difference and thus behave callously and merrily with a pre-conditioned mind, with a dysfunctional conscience. It is wherefore among such individuals that the worst citizens are numbered, the most corrupt are found, the biggest criminals are counted.
No, this is not against education but simply in favor of reliable reason function and consequent rational behavior. No, this is not in promotion of ignorance but merely in affirmation of capable rational faculty that moves the human will accordingly and thereby makes the subject agent act with propriety. Yes, this is in confirmation that the discernment between what is a truth or a lie, what is justice or inequity, are known and felt among men and women of good will and rational thinking.
The truth of the matter is that even Christianity with its sublime moral theology is squarely premised on the rule of reason which is in turn is the basis of ethical principles. It is good to note that even the renown “Summa Theologica” of the illustrious St. Thomas of Aquinas has the sound and solid philosophy of the famous “pagan” Aristotle as its jumpstart. In other words, while Christianity certainly has teachings which is above the reach of reason – the same primarily Christian doctrinal posits may not/cannot be thereto really contradictory.
Ethical Principles: These may be rightfully understood as the dictates of reason in the order of nature, yet well supported by the actuation and behavior promoted by Christian thoughts and actions. The distinct as well as impressive ethical principles cited below are not enunciated by any Saint, neither by a Priest nor a Nun. Their much esteemed author and teacher is Gandhi. In effect, the principles justly counter the detestable value system and damaging behavioral pattern of many so called “Christians”, inclusive of some known “Christian “ leaders. This is the reality , significance and relevance of the following “pagan” teaching as some kind of seven “back to the basic” deadly sins:
1. Wealth without work.
2. Pleasure without conscience.
3. Science without humanity.
4. Knowledge without character.
5. Politics without principles.
6. Commerce without morality.
7. Worship without sacrifice.
Ouch!
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