More on Root Causes

I've been on this theme lately of boiling problems down to their root causes. The mental exercise keeps expanding until I get to the root of all root causes. And the most obvious root causes for most of our modern problems can be found in our culture.

So much is evident from just simply reading the newspaper or watching television. Our society is now driven on a cultural phenomenon of narcissism.

Just a few examples.

The typical Obama supporter is drawn to the man's charisma. Some support him because of his race. But most support him because they think they'll get something for themselves out of his presidency. They hope it will be "free" healthcare, or higher wages, or debt forgiveness, or just simply the prospect he will slap rich people with high taxes to cut them down to size, then somehow give the money to those more deserving. Like the Obama supporters.

I read an article the other day about religion. It said most Americans still believe generally in the Judeo-Christian God, and consider themselves Christian. But an incredibly high percentage of Americans don't belong to a church. Many others have "shopped" churches until they find the one most palatable to their needs and desires. It seems to begin to explain the rise of the non-denominational megachurches, which don't adhere to any specific doctrine, but preach feel-good sermons about self-actualization.

Christians often call this massive and growing group "Cafeteria Christians". They like to choose just those elements of faith that make them feel good. Love and fellowship and forgiveness are embraced, but put aside uncomfortable things like sin and charity.

Then there's the occasional interview with some celebrity or another talking about their latest divorce. It fascinates me to hear them speak of ending a marriage as if they merely replaced an old pair of shoes.

A very apt observation I was given is that people used to pursue a profession to make a living. Now they pursue their professions to get rich.

It is an historical truth that when societies reach a high level of prosperity and peace, they tend to abandon the virtues that bought them that prosperity. Eventually the barbarians invade and the society is ruined.

It seems to me the question is not whether this will happen. In fact, the barbarians are already knocking at the gates. I find it fascinating that so many are either ignoring that fact or even campaigning to open the gates wide and let them all in. They actually desire the destruction of our country, but somehow think they can escape such destruction unscathed.

There are tough times ahead.