Well, I had the opportunity to see Dr. Willard for myself yesterday. He gave a lecture at UT's C.S. Lewis Ethics Conference entitled "Beauty and the Nature above Nature in Lewis'
Abolition of Man." Very philosophical and very intellectual (surprise). We would have had some interesting conversation, I think, had we all been there. I'm sure some of the content will seep into forthcoming bloggings. Until then, here's some quick notes:
Chapter One of Abolition "debunks" the current mode of academic teaching (esp. Literature), in which everything becomes a human construction. Reality is "in here," not "out there" - so language is merely a failed attempt to describe one's feelings about something. Therefore, it's only natural to see everything (including God, Scripture, Constitution, etc.) as a
human construction - in need of de-construction and continual reworking. [Was Lewis a prophet?]
Truth is rooted in nature; it doesn't yield to constructions. Nature is impervious to how you feel about it.
Beauty is "good made sensibly present." (self-described Incarnational definition)
"It is difficult to complain in the presence of beauty. Pick a daisy and stare at it - you will find it hard to be grumpy!"
Values require a growth of experience, which is primarily SOCIAL (in community). [Yes, he said the magic word.]
5 Practical Points of Conclusion:
1. Knowledge is too important to be left to universities or churches.
2. Institutions suppress the Truth.
3. Nevertheless, be present within the institutions.
4. Learn and practice logic.
5. Know that the Kingdom of God is here. We don't stand alone.
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