Changing the Hearts and Minds of Those Embracing the Culture of Death: A Suggested Strategy

Abstract

<p>It is important to understand why excellent arguments developed by those who propose the "culture of life" are not able to persuade advocates of the "culture of death" to change their minds. Our freely chosen deeds "do not produce a change merely in the state of affairs outside of man but, to the extent that they are deliberate choices, they give moral definition to the very person who performs them, determining his profound spiritual traits." Those who embrace the culture of death will not accept pro-life arguments because they have freely committed themselves to a way of life that closes their eyes and ears to the truth. They do not want to hear arguments incompatible with their basic commitments. Arguments are presented from Patrick Lee, Mortimer Adler, John Macquarrie, Pope John Paul II, and Pope Benedict XVI that can be used as a conceptual basis for reaching those imbued in the culture of death. This includes pointing out the intrinsic value of human life, the consequences of instituting a hierarchy of individuals based on their "worth" to society, and the yearning of all for the good and the true. These considerations can help persons think more deeply about who they are and their identity as persons, and evoke an "anamnesis" in the minds of some of our contemporaries who disagree with us so greatly on issues regarding the rights of all human beings, born or unborn.</p>