I checked out the audio book on the “Seven Great Tipping Points that Saved the World,” not knowing what is was about. Coincidentally, I listened to it on the way to Moab (named after the Biblical mountainous region in Jordan).
This audio book provides an evangelistic view of critical points in human history. It sets forth some great (and I think, valid) relevant positions about democratic and Christianity’s influences in historical events and it tells seven, fascinating stories about "historical tipping points." However, like most such histories written with an agenda, it often overstates its case with broad generalizations and faulty reasoning. It's whole point seems to be that all things good in the world, including toasters and latex paint, are due to Christianity (which I do give some credit).
The book contained a section on American exceptionalism, which, along with God (the Christian God), the authors suggest should be believed and embraced by all who live in America.
What I don't “get” is it adds nothing to the conversation, nor debates, what U.S. actions and policies should be to premise any particular position as somehow being right because we are "exceptional."
In actuality, probably the most horrendous crimes against humanity are committed by people or groups that are under the mistaken belief that they are somehow "exceptional" and better than others.
So, American exceptionalists, what does it add to the conversation whether or not you, I, or others believe in American exceptionalism?
Loren M. Lambert © May 15, 2013
This audio book provides an evangelistic view of critical points in human history. It sets forth some great (and I think, valid) relevant positions about democratic and Christianity’s influences in historical events and it tells seven, fascinating stories about "historical tipping points." However, like most such histories written with an agenda, it often overstates its case with broad generalizations and faulty reasoning. It's whole point seems to be that all things good in the world, including toasters and latex paint, are due to Christianity (which I do give some credit).
The book contained a section on American exceptionalism, which, along with God (the Christian God), the authors suggest should be believed and embraced by all who live in America.
What I don't “get” is it adds nothing to the conversation, nor debates, what U.S. actions and policies should be to premise any particular position as somehow being right because we are "exceptional."
In actuality, probably the most horrendous crimes against humanity are committed by people or groups that are under the mistaken belief that they are somehow "exceptional" and better than others.
So, American exceptionalists, what does it add to the conversation whether or not you, I, or others believe in American exceptionalism?
Loren M. Lambert © May 15, 2013
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