David Gushee Sacredness Paradigm, Session 3

Summary

In this video, Professor David Gushy explores the concept of sacredness, particularly the sacredness of human life, as presented in his book 'The Sacredness of Human Life'. He contrasts the theological idea of sacredness with the secular notion of dignity, emphasizing the importance of recognizing every human being as of elevated status and deserving of respect and protection. Gushy highlights the universal nature of this sacredness, advocating for a consistent application of these principles across all social and political issues, while also aligning his views with the modern Human Rights Movement and its focus on the intrinsic value of human life.

Takeaways

• 😀 Dr. David Gushy explores the concept of the sacredness of human life in his book *The Sacredness of Human Life*, arguing that human dignity is a secular version of a deeper theological concept.
• 😀 Sacredness, according to Gushy, is the belief that human life is set apart and endowed with elevated status by divine authority, contrasting with moral or earned sanctity.
• 😀 Gushy defines sacredness as something that has been consecrated, venerated, or hallowed, with human life being granted worth by God.
• 😀 He emphasizes that sacredness calls for humans to treat one another with reverence, respect, and special care, preventing any desecration or violation of human life.
• 😀 Gushy argues that the concept of sacredness, unlike dignity, is universal and applies to all human beings, without exception or condition.
• 😀 Gushy stresses that sacredness is not only about moral recognition but about divine designation, elevating human worth beyond human action or achievement.
• 😀 Gushy critiques the common use of the term dignity in secular human rights movements, suggesting it lacks the theological depth that sacredness encompasses.
• 😀 He draws attention to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, acknowledging its alignment with his sacredness paradigm, highlighting the importance of human dignity in international law.
• 😀 Gushy advocates for a consistent application of the sacredness paradigm in all areas of social, political, and ethical issues, from birth to end-of-life decisions.
• 😀 He seeks to bridge political divides by urging that the sacredness of human life should inform and guide political discourse on a range of societal issues impacting human survival and flourishing.

Q & A

What is the main focus of Professor David Gushy's book *The Sacredness of Human Life*?

The main focus of Professor Gushy's book is the concept of the sacredness of human life, which he argues is grounded in a theological understanding of human dignity. He explores how this deeper concept of sacredness is essential for understanding human rights and social responsibility.

How does Gushy distinguish between dignity and sacredness?

Gushy distinguishes dignity from sacredness by arguing that dignity is a secular concept that often refers to human worth, while sacredness is a theological term that signifies divine consecration. He believes sacredness, as a divinely conferred status, more accurately reflects human value.

Why does Gushy prefer the term 'sacredness' over 'sanctity'?

Gushy prefers 'sacredness' over 'sanctity' because sanctity implies a moral achievement earned through piety, whereas sacredness is an inherent quality bestowed by God. Sacredness is about a divine designation, not something earned or attained.

What is the significance of God in Gushy's understanding of human life?

In Gushy's understanding, God is the ultimate source of the sacredness of human life. God consecrates each human being, imbuing them with an elevated status and dignity that calls for reverence, respect, and protection.

What is the key ethical implication of Gushy's Paradigm?

The key ethical implication of Gushy's Paradigm is that because human life is sacred, it must be treated with respect and care, with special attention to preventing desecration. This paradigm leads to moral obligations to protect human life and promote its flourishing.

How does Gushy’s concept of sacredness challenge modern human rights discourse?

Gushy’s concept of sacredness challenges modern human rights discourse by integrating theological principles into the understanding of human dignity and rights. Rather than viewing human rights as purely secular, Gushy grounds them in a divine and universal sanctity of life, transcending political and cultural divisions.

What does Gushy mean when he says that human life is sacred 'without exception and in all circumstances'?

When Gushy says human life is sacred 'without exception and in all circumstances', he emphasizes that every human being, regardless of condition or context, is consecrated and worthy of dignity. This universality of sacredness rejects any selective or conditional application of human rights.

How does Gushy address concerns about the potential misuse of a religious foundation for human rights?

Gushy addresses concerns about the misuse of a religious foundation by stressing that the sacredness of human life is universal and unconditional. He emphasizes that all human beings, regardless of their circumstances, share an equal sacredness, countering any tendency to favor some over others.

What does Gushy argue regarding the application of his sacredness paradigm to contemporary social and political issues?

Gushy argues that the sacredness of life paradigm should be applied consistently across all social and political issues, including topics like abortion, end-of-life decisions, and broader social justice issues. He calls for a unified framework of respect for life that transcends political polarization.

What role does scripture and the Incarnation play in Gushy’s Paradigm?

Scripture and the Incarnation are central to Gushy’s Paradigm, as he sees them as the sources through which the sacredness of human life is communicated and bestowed. These theological elements highlight the divine nature of human dignity and reinforce the moral responsibility to treat human life with reverence.