This was an astounding read. I’m building toward a political-theological project and the many correspondences I detected while reading this article were. So many excellent points! An uncomfortable truth in a hypersubjectivized and globalized culture such as ours is the importance of the exact opposite qualities: homogeneity and localism. I think it makes sense why the Catholic tradition would inspire such values, since the notion of subsidiarity silences globalist concerns about “humanitarianism”: it is indeed virtuous to care for your mother before others, for your kinsmen before strangers, and to build up the hearth before setting sail across the horizon. A complaint “conservative” types often raise, especially in America, is “Why are we taking care of the whole world before our own people?” And this is an enormously insightful and appropriate sentiment, because we SHOULD be, otherwise we foment neglect and resentment, which, as you elaborated, results in discohesion of the essential communio. So, again, wonderful article! Definitely have to look into Maritain now (despite how we may differ in democracy ☺️).
The Mrs. And I were just talking tonight about how this 4th feels different than the last several. Now that we are on baby number three, we can tangibly feel some of our internalized anger with America (and all its problems) fading out. We want to actually celebrate it, instead of offering only a passing observance. Ended up having a lot of fun with the kids!
Very interesting and well written article. Happy Independence Day! God Bless
This was an astounding read. I’m building toward a political-theological project and the many correspondences I detected while reading this article were. So many excellent points! An uncomfortable truth in a hypersubjectivized and globalized culture such as ours is the importance of the exact opposite qualities: homogeneity and localism. I think it makes sense why the Catholic tradition would inspire such values, since the notion of subsidiarity silences globalist concerns about “humanitarianism”: it is indeed virtuous to care for your mother before others, for your kinsmen before strangers, and to build up the hearth before setting sail across the horizon. A complaint “conservative” types often raise, especially in America, is “Why are we taking care of the whole world before our own people?” And this is an enormously insightful and appropriate sentiment, because we SHOULD be, otherwise we foment neglect and resentment, which, as you elaborated, results in discohesion of the essential communio. So, again, wonderful article! Definitely have to look into Maritain now (despite how we may differ in democracy ☺️).
The Mrs. And I were just talking tonight about how this 4th feels different than the last several. Now that we are on baby number three, we can tangibly feel some of our internalized anger with America (and all its problems) fading out. We want to actually celebrate it, instead of offering only a passing observance. Ended up having a lot of fun with the kids!