Thoughts on Philosophy, Theology, Politics, & Economics — Sometimes All at Once

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Politics

Politics

As a citizen of the United States and a resident of the Natural State — Arkansas! — Jay cares about our life together.

Civil Discourse Doesn’t Happen by Accident

Civil Discourse Doesn’t Happen by Accident

Having rules set out in advance is much better than being told that you cannot speak on a motion, just because someone says so. That’s too personal, understandably upsetting, and Robert’s Rules helps us avoid it.

Theories of Justice at Work and in Marriage

Theories of Justice at Work and in Marriage

The four theories of justice — conservative, socialist, libertarian, and progressive — approach basic questions of life, from work to love, very differently. We look at two examples: the opportunity for an apprenticeship and gay marriage.

Why I Vote, Even When I Don’t Know What I am Doing

Why I Vote, Even When I Don’t Know What I am Doing

I believe in voting, even though, most of the time, I know very little about the candidates and recognize that, except in very unlikely circumstances, my vote will not make a difference to any election, large or small.

Equality and Justice: The Flowchart

Equality and Justice: The Flowchart

We all want justice, but we have different ideas about what justice requires. I am convinced that thinking about justice’s relationship to equality can help, hence this flowchart.

Christian Beliefs that Narrow our Political Options

Christian Beliefs that Narrow our Political Options

Providence and free will, sin and salvation, and heaven and hell come into conflict with certain widespread beliefs about equality and justice.

Christianity and Equality: Why Bother?

Christianity and Equality: Why Bother?

What causes people to leave the church: evolution, the sexual revolution, or something else? Perhaps all of the above. But let me offer an additional reason why people abandon Christianity: equality. Not every kind of equality casts doubts on Christianity’s core doctrines, but some do.