Stepping Outside the Moral Matrix

While I don't agree with everything Jonathan Haidt has to say, I must admit that he introduces some compelling ideas in this video. While this may be counter intuitive to some people, I find that the ideas I disagree with most are some of the most compelling and are incredibly important to wrestle with. For example, the explanation of religion at minute 13 in his talk is extremely important for any person of faith although they may find it offensive. However, if you step out of the "moral matrix" for a minute, as Haidt suggests, you can engage the idea and learn from it without adopting the idea as your own. I think it is important to note that Haidt is not asking anyone to give up their convictions or beliefs. Instead, he gives an invitation to step out of our "Us verses Them" mentality which is often so counterproductive in a Christian's attempt to portray Christ to those around us.

Haidt also gives his listeners some material to start asking yourself where you stand on his five moral foundations. Are you liberal or conservative? Should you move yourself more to the center? Perhaps there is a moral foundation that you do not hold as important as you should or vice versa. If you are a person of the Christian faith, which of these five moral principles do you think Christ holds as most important? Are you in like mind with Christ? For more captivating ideas go the TED Website by clicking here.