"There are those who would not let facts get in the way of theory, and
such was the English philosopher Herbert Spencer who promoted the 'survival of the fittest.' This 'Social Darwinism' theorized that the
weak and poor would gradually die out to make way for an inevitable
social progress. He was idolized by Andrew Carnegie, even though that
richest man in the world was generous in philanthropies that Spencer
disdained. Carnegie prevailed upon his mentor to visit Pittsburgh, whose
Bessemer mills were supposed to be a model of social progress. Spencer
confessed: 'Six months' residence here would justify suicide.'
"Spencer's theory that people are shaped by culture rather than
shaping it, opposed the 'great man' theory of the historian Thomas
Carlyle, for whom culture is shaped by individuals of 'Godly inspiration
and personality.' But Carlyle did acknowledge the influence of cultural
conditions and, moreover, warned that personal influence could be
benign or evil.
"The greatest figures in history have been the saints, for their
spiritual influence is more long-lasting than even their political
impact. Consider two saints that the Church celebrates this week."
In a recent commentary, Father George Rutler, pastor of the Church of St. Michael the Archangel, New York, NY, reflected on the lasting influence of Saints John of Capistrano and Pope John Paul II.
To access Mr. Stagnaro's complete post, please visit:
National Catholic Register: Blogs: Fr. George Rutler: Armies Collapse and Empires Crumble at the Feet of the Saints (25 OCT 18)
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