On Friday, I wrote about how did I get here? One important answer? Autonomy.
What is Autonomy? Autonomy is the ability to self-govern. Independence and self-control.
I made a choice. Lots of choices. In many cases, Choices to change.
Depending on the purpose of this quote, it could be misleading.
“The idea that men are created free and equal is both true and misleading: Men are created different; they lose their social freedom and their individual autonomy in seeking to become like each other.” David Reisman
Our quoted author is the writer of a book called The Lonely Crowd. The summary concept of the book is a take on American character and the influential effect people have on other people. Science. Primarily, one’s autonomy can be taken by influence, to abandon their “inner-direction” of their lives which causes them to make goals, and personal preferences based on their community.
Science & Jesus
Since we talk about Jesus so much around here, I thought I would take the quote and come up with my own quote that looks like Science & Jesus:
“Men and Women are created free and equal. The idea that men and women were not created free and equal does align with our biology. That idea also does not align with correct theology. Men and women lose their social freedom and individual autonomy in seeking to look like one another, when they seek to embellish one another.” Phil Messinger
For fun, I plugged my quote into Chat GPT (Science) and asked for a summary of its meaning:
Chat GPT summary
This statement asserts that men and women are fundamentally equal and free by nature. It challenges the view that biological differences justify any form of inequality, suggesting that such a perspective contradicts both ethical beliefs and religious teachings.
The second part highlights a concern that when men and women try to conform to each other’s expectations or ideals—essentially trying to “embellish” one another—they compromise their own individuality and freedom. In seeking to fit a certain image or role, they risk losing their unique identities and the autonomy that comes with being true to themselves. Overall, the statement promotes the idea of embracing gender equality and individuality without succumbing to societal pressures to conform.
For serious, I plugged in the Bible:
In John 13 Jesus knows the hour has come that he must leave this World. This, the story where Jesus washes his disciples’ feet. The disciples question Jesus. 6He came to Simon Peter who said to him, “Lord you are going to wash my feet?”
John 13:12-17 CSB
The Meaning of Foot Washing
12 When Jesus had washed their feet and put on his outer clothing, he reclined again and said to them, “Do you know what I have done for you? 13 You call me Teacher and Lord—and you are speaking rightly, since that is what I am. 14 So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done for you.
16 “Truly I tell you, a servant is not greater than his master,[a] and a messenger is not greater than the one who sent him. 17 If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.
Jesus & Science