Nierygorystyczny konserwatyzm

Abstract

The issue of transformations in the mentality of the contemporary man has been the focus of interests for moral theology. It tends to be effective in its preaching the moral message of the Gospel, so it should recognise the current situation of the world. A reflection on the present moral condition of humankind should draw on the experience of the past. Thus perceiving some regularities in the ongoing transformations, one interpret them properly. It was the author’s intention to pinpoint the regularities that affect the process of accepting some beliefs by people living in various periods. Now the transition from rigourism to laxity and the other way round is a tendency that is reflected in the handbooks of moral theology and mass culture. The interpenetration of the two realities of social life can be seen also today. In particular, one can see the increasing tendencies of fundamentalism and conservatism. After the period of a cultural turmoil they become a palatable proposal for millions of people who expect order in the way societies function. This conservatism is not associated with posing demands for oneself, but the expectations of changes are addressed to others. The quest for miraculous recipes to heal the situation of societies is on the increase. This in turn leads to accepting demagogical solutions and falls victim to extreme views, such that seek solutions in the potent external power. The increasing fear causes further rigidity of views which become an easy fuel for various kinds of demagogues. Therefore one needs to de-ideologise the understanding of fear to overcome it with the Christian virtue of valour.