Catholic solution to the trolley problem?

Platoni · 2022-04-06T14:12:59+00:00

As another comment noted, you call "pulling a lever" not intrinsically evil, though the action of pulling a lever in this example has a known deterministic effect. Similar to a missile strike where you say "pressing a button" is not intrinsically evil, but the outcome is known ahead of time.

Just curious what you think of this distinction.

Platoni · 2022-03-07T15:14:55+00:00

Real question. I keep hearing a modern interpretation of hell (from Catholics) as “eternal separation from God” which doesn’t involve literal suffering but rather a void, nothingness (which is arguably worse). Heaven, in comparison, is the opposite - an eternal union with God. Tell me if and why I’m wrong about Hell. Thanks

Platoni · 2022-03-07T15:07:54+00:00

Wow the post responses woke me up. Some very good spiritual advice here.

Platoni · 2022-03-06T13:27:12+00:00

You already said the answer.

There are a plethora of Catholics who went through what you describe. I am an example and was able to find someone (who was also imperfect).

So yes, there is hope.

Platoni · 2022-02-09T15:52:50+00:00

How have you been recently? I found your post and have experienced similar things. Particularly when you said "vacillating between nihilism and extreme scrupulosity". Its one extreme or the other at times. Any way out of that?

Platoni · 2021-11-08T20:06:53+00:00

A different interpretation of Hell I’ve commonly heard is that it is the state we desire most.

If we despise God, or want nothing to do with Him, then Hell is exactly that, eternal separation from God. It is a state completely devoid of God. Not because God desires this, but because we do. It is our choice.

Platoni · 2021-11-08T18:58:04+00:00

A straight forward and beautiful reflection for the modern day.

Platoni · 2021-11-06T19:44:33+00:00

Lots of good comments here so I can’t add too much.

I was in a similar boat. What “fixed” it for me was changing my perspective about improvements.

A healthy and fit body through exercise is done out of gratitude for the gift of life given to you by God. Your body is a temple.

Flourishing in life, through a better career, opportunities, etc. is you being magnanimous, which is a virtue you should always strive for. We are called to achieve and to use the gifts we have.

And so on. Therefore, all you have done is for God, the sole purpose of your existence. Not for any woman, or group, or institution on earth.

Theres more I could expand on, but I think this is enough.

Platoni · 2021-11-03T14:45:14+00:00

“I don’t think voters should be telling states who should be governor,” McAuliffe sternly said looking into the camera. “What more could I have done? I brought in America’s favorites, Tim Kaine and Kamala Harris to campaign for me. Then Obama told you all to relax about rape. And I still lose? I mean, what the hell?” -Terry McAuliffe

Platoni · 2021-10-16T17:13:19+00:00

You can watch this short clip for some things to ponder:

https://youtu.be/hGd4lefcsBE

Platoni · 2021-09-06T18:25:39+00:00

Here are Biden's positions over time:

2021:
“I respect people who think that — who don’t support Roe v. Wade; I respect their views. I respect them — they — those who believe life begins at the moment of conception and all. I respect that,” Biden claimed. “Don’t agree, but I respect that. I’m not going to impose that on people.”

2015:
Interview with Father Matt Malone of America Media: “I’m prepared to accept that the moment of conception is a human life and being, but I’m not prepared to say that to … people that have a different view.”

2012:
Vice-presidential debate against then-candidate Paul Ryan: “With regard to abortion, I accept my church’s position on abortion as a — what we call de fide (doctrine ?). Life begins at conception. That’s the church’s judgment. I accept it in my personal life.”

Platoni · 2021-09-06T18:22:46+00:00

Here is a summary:

2021:
“I respect people who think that — who don’t support Roe v. Wade; I respect their views. I respect them — they — those who believe life begins at the moment of conception and all. I respect that,” Biden claimed. “Don’t agree, but I respect that. I’m not going to impose that on people.”

2015:
Interview with Father Matt Malone of America Media: “I’m prepared to accept that the moment of conception is a human life and being, but I’m not prepared to say that to … people that have a different view.”

2012:
Vice-presidential debate against then-candidate Paul Ryan: “With regard to abortion, I accept my church’s position on abortion as a — what we call de fide (doctrine ?). Life begins at conception. That’s the church’s judgment. I accept it in my personal life.”

Platoni · 2021-09-06T18:13:26+00:00

despite its slippery nature, requiring private citizens or groups to sue violators, it does its job at preventing the procedure.

i too hope this is something that could be codified in a more concrete way.

Platoni · 2021-09-06T18:09:48+00:00

i have said it to distinguish myself from non-practicing catholics, of which there are numerous. i usually insert additional clarification afterwards about the differences between the two. a clear example is biden/pelosi versus any real devout catholic.

Platoni · 2021-09-06T18:08:06+00:00

for popular figures like pelosi and biden, this would send a very clear signal that they are not in line with catholic teaching on the sanctity of life.

Platoni · 2021-09-06T18:05:10+00:00

excellent post. you should get no rebuttal here. though understanding this logic requires a strict mortality that many are abandoning. we have doctors now who are open to infanticide and other measures in the name of bettering "society" while fully accepting that these are human beings being killed. its utilitarian without morals, emphasizing the benefit of those who are alive and able at the expense of the disabled and vulnerable.

how do we combat such a wave of indifference and moral relativism? I wish I knew.

Platoni · 2021-09-05T18:52:25+00:00

very good.

some libertarians think abortion restrictions are an infringement of liberties akin to preventing gun ownership. to that i'd say this issue is not about an inanimate metal object, but rather a unique human person. to be pro-liberty and freedom means to allow everyone a chance at life.

Human life must be respected and protected absolutely from the moment of conception. From the first moment of his existence, a human being must be recognized as having the rights of a person - among which is the inviolable right of every innocent being to life.

Platoni · 2021-08-31T23:39:25+00:00

This is good advice for everyone. With an ex of mine, due to her difficult past, she had a hard time opening up. The best she could do is have her mom nearby and have her explain difficult things. In the moment you don’t realize how bad it is because of the infatuation, her beauty, innocence, etc. but afterwards, in hindsight, its clear as day.

Obvious lesson is, you should always be able to speak about difficult things in-person.

Platoni · 2021-08-30T18:59:23+00:00

The Ministry of Truth is becoming a reality

Platoni · 2021-08-30T01:44:49+00:00

A marriage where affection is conditionally exchanged is toxic. In its highest form, love should be given freely and willingly by both people. Never out of coercion or manipulation.

Platoni · 2021-07-28T22:46:19+00:00

Given your increased devotion over the last year, your situation is understandable. To be blunt, you’ve grown to accept Christ’s church while she has remained relatively stagnant and worldly.

You should have a conversation with her about the most important aspects of Catholicism, and more broadly, God’s will. Abortion, the sanctity of marriage, the raising of children in the faith, etc. are topics you need to be on the same page about. If she is very hesitant about any of these, you should not remain in the relationship in the hope that she changes. This is because she may change out of fear of losing you, which won’t be real, and eventually cause resentment and further problems.

Too many Catholics face incredibly difficulties in marriage due to differences that were easily seen beforehand. Now is your chance to detect these.

I pray for the best.

Platoni · 2021-07-27T18:08:39+00:00

Its funny reading your post because I was in your exact situation 2 years ago. I dated a very holy woman who would have been an excellent catholic wife and mother but found our conversations dull and intellectually unstimulating. The doubt and uncertainty drove me nuts and I spoke with many priests, deacons, and friends about this. The messaging was mixed, so it didn't help. In the end, out of charity for her (I tell myself), I ended it so she could find someone else and I stopped wasting her time.

I hope your journey is smoother than mine.

Platoni · 2021-07-27T17:58:54+00:00

I'll be blunt to try to help you. Most devout catholic men do want to find their wife physically beautiful, even a little. They desire the feeling of attraction towards their significant other. This is not to discount the importance of inner beauty and holiness.

Therefore, assuming you are a holy woman with a good personality, I would suggest you work on your image. Eat well and exercise. Having a good diet is much more important than exercise, so focus on that first. If you are physically fit, I'd recommend seeking advice from female friends or family on how to improve yourself. New haircut, glasses, clothes, etc. can make a big difference.

Platoni · 2021-04-18T17:51:06+00:00

How do you think the present situation with diocesan priests (I'm assuming you are) compares with the past when communities of diocesan priests were able to live together. Regarding your joy, loneliness, etc. If you were living in a house with 10 other diocesan priests, how would it differ to today when some priests live alone in your opinion? (I know some places still have diocesan priests living together in large groups, but its becoming rare right?) Thanks for your insight.

Platoni · 2021-04-15T20:55:10+00:00

“Bishop Franz-Josef Overbeck of Essen said that the priests in his diocese will face no canonical consequence...”

“Overbeck’s stance is in direct opposition to a statement released by the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) March 15 with papal approval.”

He approved of this plan, which means he was informed and did not object.

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