Re: [asa] Dawkins new book

I agree with the premise (i.e. the subject matter determines whether reference to "subjectivity" or "objectivity" is more appropriate) but I think when the subject turns to relationships then neither "subjective" nor "objective" are adequate concepts of themselves.

This is because relationships have both subjective and objective elements and to omit either concept seems diminishing when talking about that which is objectively real, and subjectively substantial.

I prefer, then, to speak of the "personal" rather than the "subjective" in the context of faith - we can say that "salvation by faith in Christ" is objective truth, but it doesn't help me much unless I appropriate it personally. We can say that my believing in Jesus is a subjective truth, but it doesn't help much if that is ALL it is, i.e. if it is not objectively true that Christ exists as Lord and Saviour.

So, then, I think the better term is "personal" rather than "subjective" - although I allow that this might, for most of us, just be a semantic distinction.

Blessings,
Murray

Alexanian, Moorad wrote:
> Does is not depend on what subject matter one is dealing with whether objectivity is relevant or important or not? Surely, in science objectivity is quite desirable. However, in human matters, the subjective is all-important. For instance, isn’t one’s salvation an essentially subjective matter?
>
> Moorad

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Received on Sat Oct 24 18:18:11 2009