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The Coercive Freedom of Choice

We are becoming a society in which “choice” and self-defined identities trump once-common values and traditional beliefs. But contrary to the rhetoric of its defenders, this shift is not a simple advance for freedom. The privileging of “choice” above all else in fact requires re-engineering the human person and society as a whole, and this will inevitably involve a great deal of coercion… . Continue Reading »

For Republicans, Things Can Get Worse

Thirty-four. That is the percentage of 2012 voters who, according to exit polls, believed Mitt Romney’s policies would primarily benefit the middle class. Fifty-three percent responded that Romney’s policies would primarily favor the wealthy. Things, though, are in danger of getting worse for Republicans. … Continue Reading »

Facebook Rhetoric

There are only a few lingering pink and red “marriage equality” profile pictures in my Facebook newsfeed. The magnitude of that campaign, however, was enormous. Approximately 2.7 million more Facebook users updated their profile pictures on Tuesday, March 26, than on the previous Tuesday… . Continue Reading »

The Bishop of Rome as Christian Radical

It was a brief greeting to former colleagues. But if you read Pope Francis’ recent letter to the Argentine bishops’ conference closely, you get a glimpse of the man, his convictions, and his vision. First, the man: Jorge Mario Bergoglio has remained very much himself … Continue Reading »

Law, Self-Government, and Gay Marriage

Like many countries, the United States of America is thick with laws supporting marriage. These laws compel citizens and governments to support marriage financially and respect a whole range of related rights and privileges. What justifies these measures? The answer is obvious: children… . Continue Reading »

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