Posts Tagged ‘ mis ’

Wittgenstein and Unity


A Note on Judging

I am sure that there are many reasons why judging is not a good idea. Some theological reflection will probably prove to be extremely fruitful and insightful. However, I’d like to stay away from the theological reasons for now by making one observation. There will always be someone to the right of you and to [...]


Self-Reflection

One of the most honest things a person can do when interpreting texts is to set forth what theories or presuppositions he or she employs. The reason for this is simple; theories and presuppositions will invariably influence all interpretations. However, there are difficulties. People are either unaware of what they carry when interpreting texts, or [...]


A Slice of the Social Theory of Peter Berger

Peter Berger writes, “Men are congenitally compelled to create a meaningful order upon reality.” This statement is part of his broader thesis that people create culture. Below is a brief outline of his social theory. 1. Externalization is the innate or congenital impulse within humanity to create order in the world. Externalization can be considered [...]


Review of Politics of Immorality – Catherine Edwards

Catherine Edwards’ The Politics of Immorality in Ancient Rome concerns the theme of immorality in ancient texts. In particular, she examines how these texts on immorality functioned within Roman society. In this respect, one can say that her book is about what the Romans said, rather than what the Romans did. Her basic point is [...]


Review of Natural Symbols: Explorations in Cosmology – Mary Douglas

Mary Douglas’ Natural Symbols: Explorations in Cosmology offers a theory on how rituals and symbols reflect the structure of society. The book is divided into two main sections. The first half of the book lays out methodological concerns, and the second half offers examples and test cases of how the methodology can be used.


Continual Progress?

A version of Darwin’s theory of evolution has spread to almost every facet of modern society to the point that progress is assumed. There is this confident belief that there will always be progress. For the most part, this has been true, at least, in my lifetime in America. The advances in technology and medicine [...]