Publisher's Synopsis
In the 1960s, Professor Julius Sumner Miller asked television viewers, 'Why is it so?' Now, in 'The Most Avoided Questions', Jim Reay examines the historical and scientific evidence as to how we regularly make moral decisions about difficult issues such as: - Is survival of the species more important than human rights? - Are we all brainwashed and the notion of free will is a myth? - Should people have a right to say what they think - to express an opinion? - Who decided that all human life is sacred and must be protected? - Do only some belief systems have the answers for the future? - Is it right to accumulate as much wealth as you can? - Economic growth is the only way forward, even at the expense of using up natural resources. Is that right? - Does context affect human rights? - Fallacies or fact. Are media factoids being believed? - Is the definition of morality the prerogative of the self-righteous? Are some people naturally superior and others inferior? - Whose rules are right in a global society? For example, refugees - humanity or someone else's problem? - Should the next generation have life better than we have had? The litmus test for morality is based on a level of thinking that passes the scrutiny of logical reasoning and is testable. This book tests 'the questions' against the logic of their historical roots. It lays out evidence, exposes fallacies and encourages critical thinking. WARNING: 'The Most Avoided Questions' should not be read in one sitting; you will need time to absorb, discuss and ponder. Its challenging nature will make an excellent catalyst for discussion in the classroom, around the dinner table and on social media.
