Countless prominent philosophers have emphasised the importance of rational thinking in human life. However, we often abandon reason in favour of the most pernicious enemy of intellect and rationality – commonly known as dogma.
Countering dogma
The term ‘dogma’ refers to a set of principles or beliefs that have been accepted as being true, and one may not debate or challenge them. Authority figures and even common people ostracise and punish those who dare question the irrationality of such beliefs.
Generally, we use the word dogma to refer to religious fundamentalism, but dogmatic behaviour manifests in several facets of human life. From culture to politics, from education to science, dogma exists everywhere.
Types of dogma
Here are the most common types of dogma:
Religious dogma: Religious authorities and their ardent followers preach and propagate divine revelations, commandments, moral codes and metaphysical ‘truths’. Over the past two millennia, it seems to have caused more destruction, violence and stifling of the intellect than the other forms of dogma. It turns rational men into fanatics and sane men into bloodthirsty maniacs by means of totalitarian control of their lives.
Socio-cultural dogma: Another common form of dogma pervades our society and culture in the form of traditions and rituals. While many beliefs and traditions are reasonable, many unethical traditions and social ills persist, often despite laws meant to counter them. It seems that legal solutions are inadequate to end such corrupt practices. Active resistance is required.
Political dogma: This form of dogma is a comparatively new phenomenon compared to religious dogma and socio-cultural dogma. However, it’s no less dangerous in terms of the damage it has caused to human society. Some ideologies preach irrational class warfare to the detriment of everyone, while others propagate animosity on racial/ethnic lines. The prominent leaders of such ideologies pit common men against one another while engaging in unethical megalomania.
Scientific dogma: This type of dogma is less obvious than the others, but it is, in no way, less dangerous. One would expect the domain of science to be free from bias and dogmatic attitudes, but humans, being human, attach their emotions to their closely held beliefs, thereby hampering scientific progress.
Why does dogma exist?
The world is vast and full of uncertainty. The human mind is curious but seeks simple and definitive answers. This predicament forms the basis of dogma and the authority that it carries.
From the olden times, wise men and/or men with authority have provided answers to various questions about metaphysical ‘truths’, moral conduct, et cetera. Sages, prophets, and scholars have prescribed solutions based on contemporary understandings.
However, the fact that these answers and solutions can become outdated or later found incorrect and irrational usually does not sit well with their followers. Chaos ensues.
How to counter dogma?
Countering any dogma carries inherent risks. Millions have lost their livelihoods, their dignity, their social standing, and even their lives, challenging irrational, sheepish behaviour. However, their sacrifice has given birth to a better society.
There are several ways to resist and counter the influence of dogma, even without resorting to force. Just as print media gave a strong voice to the opponents of religious dogma, modern forms of communication have further democratised the expression of individual opinions.
It is crucial to note that dogma shall always exist in one form or another, for one form of dogma often succeeds another. The quest for rational thought and action has no end.