November 12, 2009
Click here for a transcript of Dr. Berger’s talk!
Soon after the release of his latest book, In Praise of Doubt, world-renowned sociologist Peter Berger spoke at the Buxton Initiative about the appropriate response to “plurality,” which Berger defines as the intermingling of diverse peoples who espouse different worldviews.
In other words, we live in a world of plurality, where people of different faiths and worldviews live alongside one another; how then should we live? Given this diverse context, how do we continue to espouse a particular worldview? Moreover, how do we handle sensitive issues, such as abortion or homosexuality, when groups and individuals have strongly held but opposing viewpoints?
Berger began by outlining several ways people have responded to plurality, focusing on relativism and fundamentalism. He criticized the excessive passivity of relativism that claims no Truth (except that of relativism itself). He argued that some beliefs – such as the Aztec belief in human sacrifice – are simply unacceptable and should not be condoned in the name of relativism. He then argued that fundamentalism – claiming that one has complete ownership of the Truth – is equally problematic and should be avoided at all costs.
A healthy use of doubt, he poses, is the answer to the challenge of plurality.
Embracing doubt allows one to hold strong convictions without becoming a fanatic, he said. This approach, he added, establishes a “middle ground between fundamentalism and relativism.”
Buxton also hosted Rabbi Daniel Zemel to comment on the main presentation. Zemel spoke from his perspective as a religious leader who listens to peoples’ doubts on a daily basis. He noted the importance of incorporating doubt into one’s convictions yet noted that doubt “should be embedded on the platform of certainty.” He also asked Dr. Berger to comment on how different faith communities should go about establishing credible sources of authority in a plural world.
Discussion
The lively discussion after the primary talks engaged many points of view and questions from the audience. Several questions probed Dr. Berger on the practical implications of his arguments, especially when it comes to convincing fundamentalists to embrace a healthy use of doubt. Berger noted the near impossibility of arguing with fundamentalists; however, he stressed that doubt comes naturally to humans—we must simply encourage one another not to be troubled with it.
When asked about his ideas’ connection to contemporary debates—abortion, capital punishment, and gay marriage—Berger insisted on the importance of responsible compromise. For instance, he abhors capital punishment personally; but, given that its abolition is unlikely in America, he concedes that fighting for limitations on the practice are the first step.
The talks and discussion were at the Buxton Initiative’s monthly luncheon. To hear about upcoming events, email us at info@buxtoninitiative.org and ask to join our listserv.
Tags: Daniel Zemel, In Praise of Doubt, Peter Berger, Temple Micah
quite inspiring on how plurality can be embraced and how we still fall trapped in challenges that form walls in our inevitably plural world!
most of us still need a broader view to relate ourselves to plurality in the best possible way. A fact that encompasses all the factors necessary for a “good” human living!
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