Is the idea of evangelism a good one? It is true that many religious texts (and some non-religious documents) advise readers to go out and attempt to convert others to a given belief system. Obviously, it is possible to take evangelism too far and try converting people by coercion, but that is not the kind of evangelism I am referring to; that sort is clearly wrong, and I don't feel any need to elaborate upon it. What, though, of more day-to-day evangelism?
In some cases, I do not think that there is anything wrong with it. Sure, it can be annoying to have someone pushing a pamphlet on you describing their religion, but it does you no great harm, and may make them feel better about themself. However, in other situations it can cause harm. For example, a father telling his young daughter that she will go to Hell if she does not subscribe to his religion can cause emotional distress to the daughter. Even if she does as her father recommends and follows his religion, it will be out of fear rather than clear-headed voluntarism. In such cases, I think that even purely verbal evangelism is unacceptable.
On a related note:
ReplyDeleteIt is interesting to observe how emotions greatly effect the choices that people make. Of course Sartre stated that emotions are ultimately our choice, as in it is our decision to be sad or happy, so they are also our responsibility. Despite their source, there is no doubt that emotions can play a very strong role in our decisions and choices. For instance, as Avery describes, a daughter choosing to follow a religion out of fear of being condemned may forever regret her decision. Another example is a man choosing to hurt another being in a fit of rage and then having to live with any punishments that come as a result, as well as any guilt. In any situation emotions, humanity's great gift, such as rage, fear,sadness or even bliss can cloud our judgments. They can pull us away from reason and make our choices irrational.