The Modern Heresy: A Secular Rebirth

This essay explores the resurgence of the concept of heresy in contemporary society, arguing that it has taken on a secular form, manifesting in the suppression of certain opinions and ideas deemed unacceptable. The author suggests that this new wave of intolerance is fueled by a combination of intolerant individuals and a unifying ideology.

The Essence of Heresy: Beyond Truth and Falsity

The essay delves into the defining characteristics of heresy, highlighting its distinct nature from ordinary opinions. Heresy, according to the author, goes beyond the question of truth or falsity; it signifies a transgression that takes precedence over all other considerations. It implies that the mere expression of a heretical view is deemed unacceptable, often leading to condemnation and punishment.

• The expression of a heretical opinion is considered a transgression, regardless of its truth or falsity.
• It triggers a reaction that focuses on punishment rather than seeking understanding or engaging in dialogue.
• The weight of a heretical opinion outweighs all other aspects of the speaker's character and actions.

The Role of Intolerance: A Constant Presence

The author posits that intolerant individuals are ever-present within any sufficiently large society. They are the enforcers of orthodoxy, readily seeking out and punishing those who deviate from the prevailing norms.

• Intolerant individuals are a constant feature of society, waiting for an ideology to unite them.
• They are the enforcers of orthodoxy, readily seeking out and punishing those who deviate from the prevailing norms.
• These individuals are often characterized as aggressively conventional-minded, demanding conformity to established rules and beliefs.

The Unifying Ideology: Shaping Intolerance

The essay emphasizes the importance of an ideology in fueling a wave of intolerance. The author argues that such an ideology must possess certain features, including: strict and arbitrary rules, a strong emphasis on moral purity, and a belief that adherence to these rules signifies moral superiority. The author claims that a new ideology emerged in US universities in the late 1980s, fulfilling these criteria and leading to a surge in intolerance.

• A unifying ideology with strict rules, an emphasis on moral purity, and a belief in the moral superiority of its adherents is essential for mobilizing intolerant individuals.
• This ideology must create a sense of righteousness and provide a justification for suppressing opposing views.
• The author suggests that a new ideology emerged in US universities in the late 1980s, leading to a surge in intolerance.

The Suppression of Ideas: A Shrinking Window of Expression

The essay contends that the resurgence of heresy has led to a shrinking window of permissible expression. While there are still more freedoms than in the past, the author expresses concern over the recent trend of restricting free speech and suppressing certain ideas. He highlights the concerning shift from expanding freedom of expression to its contraction.

• The resurgence of heresy has resulted in a shrinking window of permissible expression.
• The author observes a concerning shift from expanding freedom of expression to its contraction.
• He argues that this trend is dangerous and requires concerted efforts to resist it.

Pushing Back Against Heresy: Preserving Free Speech

The author concludes by urging a pushback against the resurgence of heresy and its suppression of ideas. He emphasizes the importance of defending the principles of free speech and critical thinking. He argues that the current wave of intolerance can be countered by promoting open dialogue, challenging arbitrary rules, and fostering an environment where diverse viewpoints are welcomed.

• The author advocates for a pushback against the resurgence of heresy and its suppression of ideas.
• He emphasizes the importance of defending the principles of free speech and critical thinking.
• He believes that this wave of intolerance can be countered by promoting open dialogue, challenging arbitrary rules, and fostering an environment where diverse viewpoints are welcomed.

The Battle for Free Speech: A Continuous Struggle

The author stresses that the struggle against heresy and the defense of free speech is an ongoing battle. He acknowledges that there will always be individuals who seek to impose their views on others and suppress dissenting opinions. The key, he argues, is to remain vigilant, resist attempts to silence dissent, and continue to defend the fundamental right to express diverse perspectives.

• The author acknowledges that the struggle against heresy and the defense of free speech is an ongoing battle.
• He warns that there will always be individuals who seek to impose their views on others and suppress dissenting opinions.
• The key is to remain vigilant, resist attempts to silence dissent, and continue to defend the fundamental right to express diverse perspectives.