The Death of Western Civilization?
Posted by Orrin Woodward on May 26, 2013
Is Western Civilization Dying?
A man may live according to his father’s code even after abandoning the faith which gave the father his code. But the grandson will have neither faith nor code. – Edmund Opitz
Habits are so powerful that one can reject the end of a principle and yet still practice the means to that end. In fact, this is exactly what happened when the evolutionary world-view captured the imagination of the thought leaders just before the turn of the twentieth century. Due to the conflict between the origins of mankind described in the Bible and those described by evolutionary theory, most intellectuals, tossed God and the Bible overboard.
Interestingly, however, the intellectuals, for the most part, did not toss the moral ethics out which came from the Bible. In a word, they wanted to enjoy the fruits of a tree they had just cut down. Unbeknownst to them, believing they had cast God aside, they had actually cast themselves adrift into the ocean of relativism. Nonetheless, since nature abhors a vacuum, the intellectuals of this era at least attempted to find another foundation for absolutes and moral conduct to replace the Bible. Indeed, this quest was tackled in earnest by many of society’s brightest thinkers just before the first World War (WWI).
World War I
Not shockingly, no other firm foundation for moral absolutes was discovered and the fantasy of perpetual peace, prosperity, and progress was dashed on the reality of millions of WWI corpses. The scale of death, dismemberment, and destruction was by far the worst, up until that time, in mankind’s recorded history. At the end of the “War to End All Wars,” a new generation of leaders graced the world’s stage who followed their fathers in rejecting the Christian faith, but went even further by also rejecting any absolute code of moral conduct, duty and service. Surrendering the search for absolutes, modern man rejected their heritage from the Greeks, Romans, and Christians quest for natural law and moral absolutes.
Instead,the modern intellectuals pontificated upon the relativism of all morals and values across various societies, ignoring their underlying unity. This left Western Civilization vulnerable to Machiavellian tyrants whose love of power was no longer checked by any ethical norms accepted within society. Predictably, Hitler, Stalin, Mussolini, Franco, Tojo, to name just a few, rose to prominence through filling the ethical void in society with unadulterated power. Promising wealth, security, and salvation in the anthill mentality of society, any citizen rejecting the program was deported, imprisoned, or executed.
In history, as in science, every action has an equal and opposite reaction. In this instance, the power-hungry dictators were resisted in their plans for world conquest by the still free remnants of Western Christendom. In truth, these opposing forces could not maintain peace for long and it was only a matter of time before the ideological battles were replaced by physical ones. Not shockingly, World War II (WWII) made WWI look like a lover’s spat. Western Society’s best and brightest lost their lives on battlefields because, a few generations before, their grandfather’s had lost their faith in classrooms.
Simply stated, ideas have consequences. They have consequences from a personal, societal, and eternal perspective. Accordingly, it is wise to understand the reasons past generations built the fence lines before contemplating its removal. The twentieth century began in enthusiastic optimism, but ended in depressing despair as modernity was tossed overboard and post-modernity began. Curiously, having rejected faith in God, modern man now realized the futility of finding absolutes, apart from God. Thus, mankind, instead of turning back to God rejected God and His absolutes, leaving society without a firm moral foundation. Consequently, society is stumbling towards Gomorra in an orgy of materialism, hedonism, and escapism with no ultimate meaning.
Clearly, something has gone dreadfully wrong in post-modern society.Human nature is designed in such a way that it must worship something. If humanity will not worship God then the subsequent void will be filled by an all-powerful State. Egypt, Persia, and the late Roman empire all worshipped their kings as Gods who protected society’s order. Modern man, ironically, although claiming to be secular, is repeating the historical fallacy by worshipping the State. The State as an all-powerful entity does not end well for mankind. In fact, anyone familiar with the Five Laws of Decline (FLD) knows how this scenario ends historically – the FLD will continue to increase, reeking havoc as individual liberty dies and society economically and politically collapses.
Post-modern man has sold his birthright and is reaping the whirlwind, forced to suffer through the deluge of political propaganda, collectivist creations, and democratic demagogues. Liberty – a concept once held so precious that many willingly sacrificed their lives for it – is, in the post-modern age, glibly surrendered to the State for the hope for illusive security. Indeed, Western Civilization stands at the precipice, peering into the dark abyss. By rejecting God and his absolutes, modern man has lost his liberty. The modern States assume all power, meaning, and direction for the anthill society. Perhaps, before post-modern man takes another step, he should reevaluate grandpa’s decision to remove the fence line that started mankind on its downward descent.
Be sure, on this Memorial Day to thank military veterans for serving our country in defense of our freedoms. Also, be sure to play your part in the LeaderShift and restore Western Civilization to its historic freedoms.
Sincerely,
30 Responses to “The Death of Western Civilization?”
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Chad Waters said
Great article Orrin.
First God Bless to all Veterans every where here today and gone before. These are the real Freedom fighters of courage!
No matter what or who started are decline it is up to us to Us to stand up and make a change and make a difference. With no risk of loosing our lives for speaking out or teaching 100% should be out there creating a LeaderShift. Their not, so I challenge then the 10% to do more! You only have your personal respect to loose. No more comfort jump into the trenches!
Amen
Rick Satterstrom said
Wow, although I did serve in the military, I never knew about this fall of society just before “The war to end all wars”. Like so many others in Western Society, I never could get excited about history because the lessons to learn from it seemed so hard to figure out. Now that I’m in my forties and have begun reading, listening to good information, and associating with like minded people, it is finally making sense. Thank you for your insight Orrin. It makes me want to help the cause every time I read your blog or listen to you. To one million and beyond! God Bless You!
Heidi said
Orrin, What are your thoughts on America’s involvement in wars and in occupying space in other countries? In your research, is the U.S. Government altruistic in all these endeavors, or are there hidden agendas at times?
Orrin Woodward said
Heidi, Good question. Government, by definition, can never be altruistic because it has to take money from people to have any. Accordingly, no country can afford to be altruistic with government funds. If free people want to raise money and support an charitable organization in other countries then more power to them, but military in 150 plus countries is absurd, especially when you are broke, like our government is. 🙂 Sadly, military is used by Big Biz that has purchased it, to be its police force internationally, all paid for at working citizens expense. This is Bastiat’s Law at work. thanks, Orrin
Randy Robson said
Great reply. Plus, not one war has been constitutionally declared since WWII. If the executive office wants to send my 2 brothers off somewhere to die, and steal my money in order to pay for it, the least they can do is go through the proper channels and convince congress to declare it. Thanks Orrin!
Phil Wall said
Great answer!
SJ Barakony said
As always, thank you so very much, Orrin, for your wisdom, scholarship, and willingness to serve humanity by constantly sharing in the blogosphere.
This is timely, not only for the Memorial Day holiday/recognition, but also since my Pastor covered the topic of ‘Patriotic Service’ today in the message/sermon. He used the entirety of Micah 3 for the introduction, past condition, today/on the other hand, and he then led into application by citing 4 other O/T scripture verses ( Proverbs 14:34; Psalm 33: 13-22; 2 Chronicles 7:13-14; Esther 4:14 )
He drew the parallel b/w Isreal in the prophet Micah’s era to today, which I think dovetails neatly with your more modern parallel starting a few generations ago. Both are very instructive! I again committed myself to do whatever I can, as I grow on my leadership journey, to maintain the freedom & liberty which I was raised in from birth – it will not flame out while I’m still alive! 🙂
Orrin Woodward said
Amen SJ!
JeanetteP said
Wow Orrin! That was very well written. I believe what you said about “post-modern man selling its birthright” is right on, as sad and as it is. I’m thankful to have had my eyes opened to the FLD as it is easier to spot in almost every scenario. This knowledge has alerted me to look for ways to contribute more to my little corner of the earth. May the 10% find the courage and fortitude to rise up and do the right thing! Our family intends to do our part. God help us all and have mercy on America! Our gratitude goes out to our veterans, service/women and their families for their sacrifice to secure America’s freedom. Truly they have laid down their lives!
God bless and thanks for all you do!
Kristine Militello said
Orrin,
While it makes my heart sad and angry that we’ve made the state our new god, I’m very thankful for leaderShift! Lives are already changed and eyes are opening!
Orrin Woodward said
Kristine, I believe if a person really wants to solve the problem, he or she must first confront the reality and depth of the problem to “count the cost” before moving forward. Although much has gone wrong, the answers are in front of us. Now it is just a question of how many good men and women are left in Western Society and do they care enough to drive the LeaderShift! The next five years will tell us the answer. 🙂 God Bless, Orrin
J & P Harteis said
Well, Orrin, we find ourselves in quite a mess, but you’re so right, we CAN do something. Like our awesome Military, we can make a stand & fight, & because of this we lock hands with our armed men & women, & continue on. None of this surprises God ~ He knew where we’d be from the very beginning, & yet He chose to save & redeem the willing. May He continue to give you, to give us, the wisdom to make the right choices! Thanks for ALL you continue to do, the sacrifices you make for all of us!
Richard Kroll Jr. said
Orrin… thank you for CONTINOUSLY pointing out the CAUSES of our country’s problems and offering SOLUTIONS!
So many others are merely swatting at the “leaves and fruit”…while you are taking an ax to the “ROOT”!!
It’s time for a LeaderShift!!!
Elam Stoltzfus said
We can certainly learn from our forefathers.
Bob Rasmussen said
Hi Orrin, I can’t wait for LEADERSHIFT to occur! I think people will be happy to pick up their Bibles again as we start influencing our culture through education one family at a time. The right leadership in our government which is truly selfless, serving and limited is still possible thru education. I am thrilled to help people find their way back to God and look forward to our next LEADERSHIFT!! God bless you!
Scott Staley said
Thank you for the awesome article. I’m saddened and angry at the state in which we find our countries. However, I’m also greatly encouraged that a group of people are willing to stand up and begin affecting change on a personal, family, community – and yes – country wide basis. Thank you for being an agent of change for so many.
Scott
Lowell "R" Cook said
Mr. Orrin Woodward, I would like to thank you for more than I can put into words. I just finished marching in the Memorial Day Parade and feel blessed to be able to still serve with my fellow Vets to pay respect to all that served, are serving, and the ones who will serve in the future. I am honored to be part of awesome group of people who are bettering themselves and doing what is right. I thank you for the opportunity to be part of the group of people that ARE going to shift to Leadership and shift our culture back towards a Freedom Shift.
Lowell
Orrin Woodward said
Lowell, thank you for your service to our country and its time to launch a LeaderShift for the next generation! God Bless, Orrin
Randy Robson said
Great article!
JB Thompson said
Thank you for this enlightening blog post Orrin.
CJ Calvert said
Orrin, another brilliant article. Relativism certainly opens the door for anyone to fill the void – they simply need the loudest voice, the biggest following, and their own home-baked ideology to sell. It’s literally a sprint to see who can fill colesiums first… those who offer bread and circuses, or those who promote a LEADERSHIFT. My money is on the PC, and I’m putting all my chips on the table.
Gary Severson said
Orrin, it’s not hard to see that your words are right on target. A person could look at the past 6 months at the events that have transpired in this country and around the world and clearly see we’re headed towards a trainwreck. I can remember just a few short years ago meeting your for the first time and seeing the concern along with the determination in your eyes, to do something about it and it’s inspired me, personally and so many others to take an active role and do their part to restore the foundation of this country and pass it on to the next generation so they can enjoy the freedoms we have been given. It would be so easy to take the easy way out and do nothing, but watching you and the many leaders that you inspire and the action that you take, there are no excuses to do nothing! Thank you for giving of yourself and doing what’s right!
Mitchell Maloney said
Thank you so much, Mr. Woodward, for this article. I just reread a short book written by Andy Andrews titled “How Do You Kill 11 Million People?”. This book and your article reinforce the fact that this country has a “herd mentality” that is allowing 311 million people to be held hostage by less than 600 people in government. It is sad but predictable that we are following history to a t.
J.J. said
This article really hits on the cruch of the problem, I have been studding Presuppositional apologetics, mainly Greg Bahnsen, he asurts that in order for an atheist to loglicly deduct any thing, conduct science experiments , or stand on moral ground they must steal from christen world view. They work and live with the laws of logic, the laws of nature, and moral law but can’t account for why they exist or where they come from. Now the post modern may admit that the laws are not intrinsic and may change in the future, there for nothing can be known for certan because its open to change, by this understanding nothing can be known at all, at any time, and by any person because it is all relitive and the quest for knowledge is obsolete. The post modern view is the child of the atheistic world view without the biblical Habits and will be the death of any society as it falls into chaos which leads to the Coercion of the state out of pure necessity
Thank for all that you do
J.J.
Elizabeth Sieracki said
It makes me so sad to see people not stand up for what is right. Our country is becoming Gomorra. It seems it has been a gradual enough deterioration that people don’t seem to recognize and/or are complacent in seeing how horrible things have gotten.
God’s special blessings to all the parents out there fighting to raise their children up right. Thank you Orrin for always raising the bar. This country needs a LeaderShift more than ever!!
Steve Leurquin said
Great article Orrin!
We had an emergency staff meeting after school once because we were having a high record number of fights between students. Everyone was coming up with their ideas as to why it was happening. The economy came up to be the unanimous reason as so many of the students parents were in financial hardship so the students were taking it out on each other.
With no courage, I sat there not saying anything, as I was thinking pretty close to what you wrote. If you keep telling the students they are animals, that is pretty much how they will start acting.
Thanks for your insight!
Sonya Beeler said
Thanks, Orrin. Plenty to chew on; lots to pray about; much to do.
“Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourself fully to the work of The Lord, because you know that your labour (not a spelling error… I’m Canadian, eh) in The Lord is not in vain”-1Cor 15:58
Michael Hartmann said
Excellent article Orrin! I never once considered the impact of Darwinism to the overall decay of the fabric of our society, but your article presents that case clearly. I initially read the quote from Edmund Opitz once and then immediately reread it. The thought that literally ran across my mind was, “Well, that’s nice. Whatever.” I didn’t get it. However, as I read through your article I was captivated by the truth of the past 100 years of history and the Aha Moment when I instantly realized what Reverend Opitz meant. Thanks for the great lesson. The very fabric of our founding fathers’ society was stitched together with the of thread faith. As that thread decays, the individual pieces that once made up an incredible institution will ultimately separate and fall. May we play our roles well and stand up to this decay as the future of our nation depends on it.
Kim Decker said
Orrin,
This is a story that really hits home as i do see people on this day talk very highly about those who gave their life for our freedoms, but as soon as the day is over society goes right back to where it was. If we could only get people to feel the same way the next day then we truely know we have made a difference. I will never stop giving till death due me part..
Zach Frey said
Thank you, Orrin, for once again simplifying what so many try to complicate. If abandoning God and moral ethics has brought us to where we are, I know many in my generation are just aching to know how to be on the side that brings truth back into the foundation of our society. Thank you for LeaderShift and for intentionally helping provide the education, community and opportunities needed to make those connections.