THEO104 Week 3 Discussion Thread- Moralistic Therapeutic Deism

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Sociology

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Feb 20, 2024

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THEO104 Week 3 Discussion Thread- Moralistic Therapeutic Deism Moralistic Therapeutic Deism (MTD), as coined by sociologist Christian Smith, describes a prevailing worldview in American culture that reflects a combination of moralism, therapeutic self-help, and a vague belief in a higher power that exists primarily to make people feel good about themselves (Cunningham, 2023, p. 30). The presentation on MTD sheds light on its core tenets, emphasizing its influence on contemporary attitudes toward spirituality and morality. In assessing the accuracy of MTD as a reflection of society today, one cannot help but recognize its resonance in various aspects of American culture. The first point of MTD suggests that "a god exists who created and orders the world but is not personally involved in one's life unless called upon" (Cunningham, 2023, p. 30). This resonates with the common perception of a distant and non-interventionist higher power. Many individuals today seem to embrace a belief in a higher being but only turn to it in times of crisis rather than maintaining an ongoing, personal relationship. Furthermore, the therapeutic nature of MTD is evident in the second and third points, emphasizing the importance of being a good person and feeling good about oneself (Cunningham, 2023, p. 30). The cultural emphasis on self-esteem and personal happiness often precedes traditional religious doctrines. The prevalence of self-help culture, motivational speakers, and the pursuit of individual well-being underscores society's inclination towards a therapeutic approach to spirituality.

However, the moralistic aspect of MTD, as mentioned in the fourth and fifth points, is diluted in today's society. Moral relativism and the subjective interpretation of right or wrong have become more prevalent, challenging the idea of a shared moral framework. Examples include shifting attitudes towards issues like premarital sex, same-sex marriages, birth control (Rezkalla, 2020), and ethical relativism in various aspects of public discourse. In conclusion, Moralistic Therapeutic Deism serves as a relevant framework for understanding the prevailing worldview in American culture today. The distant and interventionist deity, coupled with a therapeutic focus on personal well-being, aligns with societal attitudes toward spirituality. However, the moralistic element faces challenges in the face of increasing moral relativism and subjective interpretations of right and wrong in contemporary society. References Cunningham, M. W. (2023). Moralistic Therapeutic deism: a classical critique . Scholars Crossing. https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/eleu/vol7/iss1/4 Rezkalla, P. (2020). Relativism and subjectivism . Pressbooks. https://viva.pressbooks.pub/phi220ethics/chapter/arent-right-and-wrong-just- matters-of-opinion-on-moral-relativism-and-subjectivism-introduction-to-philosophy- ethics/

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