Article 5: "The Battle of Beliefs: Examining the Consequences of Woke Secularism and Dogma Theocracy"

 

February 6, 2023: Woke secularism and dogma theocracy are two opposing ideologies that have significant impact on society. Both ideologies are concerned with the restriction of certain books, opinions, and beliefs that are deemed harmful to society. However, the way in which they go about this restriction and the reasons behind it are significantly different. As philosopher Noam Chomsky states, "The idea of freedom of speech is that people should be able to engage in discussion and expression of ideas without fear of repression."

Dogma theocracy is based on religious principles and is characterized by a strict adherence to traditional religious beliefs and practices. Theocracy operates on the principle that certain religious beliefs should be followed without question, and those who do not adhere to these beliefs are considered to be in violation of the social and moral order. In this context, banning books and opinions is seen as necessary to preserve religious and moral values. This often leads to the suppression of dissenting voices and the restriction of intellectual freedom. As Pope Francis said, "When a culture claims to be neutral, impartial, and independent, but in reality it is colonized by such an ideology, this constitutes an enslavement which tramples upon human dignity, restricts the freedom of conscience and cult, and violates the right to education and the transmission of cultural values."

On the other hand, woke secularism operates on the principle of social justice and is characterized by a focus on issues related to inequality and discrimination. The ideology views traditional societal structures and beliefs as responsible for perpetuating these issues and seeks to challenge them. In this context, banning books and opinions that promote or perpetuate these issues is seen as necessary to promote equality and justice. As sociologist Peggy McIntosh states, "As a white person, I realized I had been taught about racism as something that puts others at a disadvantage, but had been taught not to see one of its corollary aspects, white privilege, which puts me at an advantage."

While both ideologies aim to promote the greater good, the approach taken by each is fundamentally different. Dogma theocracy relies on the suppression of dissenting voices and the restriction of intellectual freedom in order to preserve traditional values, while woke secularism seeks to challenge and change these values in order to promote equality and justice. As writer and activist Arundhati Roy states, "Another world is not only possible, she is on her way. On a quiet day, I can hear her breathing."

The domination of one ideology over the other has significant implications for society. A society dominated by dogma theocracy is likely to be conservative and resistant to change, with limited intellectual freedom and a strict adherence to traditional values. On the other hand, a society dominated by woke secularism is likely to be more progressive and open to change, with a greater focus on social justice and equality. As philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche states, "The individual has always had to struggle to keep from being overwhelmed by the tribe."

In conclusion, woke secularism and dogma theocracy are two opposing ideologies that have different approaches to promoting the greater good. While both ideologies restrict certain books, opinions, and beliefs, the reasons behind this restriction and the approach taken are significantly different. The domination of one ideology over the other has significant implications for society, and it is important to consider the impact that these ideologies have on intellectual freedom and social progress. Additionally, it is worth noting that woke secularism can be seen as a religion in its own right, as it operates on a set of beliefs and values that are used to shape and guide society. As philosopher Alain de Botton states, "Religion is not just about going to church or reading a holy book, it's about having a set of beliefs and values that shape your life."