We are experiencing the results of moral decline in South Africa and on the continent at large daily. Academics are also worried by this “moral vacuum”. It seems as if something important has disappeared and nothing good has replaced it. This article will, by way of introduction, mention some of the moral virtues of traditional Africa. They reveal a stark contrast with contemporary “morality”. The main emphasis will be on the possible reasons for the present moral decline, because knowledge about the causes may assist us in our search for solutions. By quoting extensively from African authors on the topic the article provides an in-depth look at the following reasons for the moral crisis: (1) some general characteristics of traditional morality, (2) inherent weaknesses in traditional morality and (3) different external influences. The article concludes with a few ideas of how the challenge of the moral crisis can be met from a Christian perspective
Problems with the Bible in reformed theology: reflections from a Christian philosophical perspective
The Institute for Reformational Studies (1962-1999) as a Christian organisation-its relevance for future Christian actions During a period of 37 years the Institute for Reformational Studies (IRS) fulfilled a unique role at the former Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education. In spite of this, the IRS was closed down at the end of 1999. This happened while, in an increasingly secularised South Africa, there clearly is a growing need to provide direction in all domains of life. This article, therefore, asks the question about possible reasons for the termination of this Institute. The answer to the problem is given from a worldview perspective. The aim of the investigation is to provide, derived from the history of the IRS, some practical guidelines to future Christian actions. Opsomming Die Instituut vir Reformatoriese Studie (1962-1999) as Christelike organisasie-die betekenis daarvan vir toekomstige Christelike aksies Vir 37 jaar het die Instituut vir Reformatoriese Studie (IRS) 'n besondere plek aan die destydse Potchefstroomse Universiteit vir Christelike Hoër Onderwys gehad. Ten spyte daarvan is die IRS einde 1999 gesluit. Dit het gebeur terwyl daar in 'n toenemende gesekulariseerde Suid-Afrika 'n steeds groter
The historical background of the postmodern view on normativity and on a Christian worldview Usually the criticism of Christian thinkers on postmodernism includes the notion that its representatives are normative relativists and that they furthermore do not apply relativism to their own viewpoint. Postmodernists in turn regard a Christian worldview as absolutist-a legalistic, exclusivist, marginalising and oppressive ideology. This article intends to make a small contribution to this debate. As an introduction a brief characteristic of the contemporary postmodern spirit is provided. It is indicated that the spirit of a period is determined by its conception of normativity or its idea of lawfulness. This is followed by a historical survey to trace the road which subjectivist Western thought about normativity had travelled until it reached radical relativism in postmodernism. The question is then asked whether postmodernism can really maintain its historistic relativism. As an alternative to such a viewpoint a Reformational worldview suggests the stability of God's creational ordinances. At the same time the postmodern warning that worldviews can be or become legalistic, oppressive ideologies should be taken seriously. Specific trends that may endanger a Christian worldview are therefore identified. In conclusion it is indicated how, through a careful listening to God's Word, these threads can be counteracted.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
hi@scite.ai
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
Copyright © 2024 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.