Authoritarianism and Fear As Components of Dysfunction in Contemporary Catholicism
Authoritarianism and fear as components of dysfunction in contemporary Catholicism JJ Bishop 25360647 BA, MEd, MA Thesis submitted for the degree Doctor Philosophiae in Church Polity at the Potchefstroom Campus of the North-West University Promoter: Prof Dr RB Grainger Co-Promoter: Prof Dr AIR du Plooy May 2016 ABSTRACT Authority is legitimate, constructive, and moral. “For there is no authority except from God” (Rom: 13.10). Authoritarianism, however, is illegitimate, destructive, and immoral, with fear being an insidious inherent component. Any organization which is controlled by a single person tends to become authoritarian. Through its laws and prohibitions an authoritarian regime inflicts psychological abuse on its followers in opposition to the words of Jesus: “Their rulers lord it over them . but whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant” (Mark: 10.42-43). To what extent, if any, does the Roman Catholic Church demonstrate authoritarianism? This thesis will explore this possibility by considering secrecy, infallibility, democracy, dissidence, sexuality, homophobia, misogyny, clericalism, the sensus fidelium, and pedophilia in the Catholic Church. Finally, this thesis will suggest, also, possible solutions to any observed defects. KEY WORDS Authoritarianism, fear, sexuality, misogyny, homophobia ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I wish to acknowledge first the invaluable assistance and advice offered me by my promoter, the Revd. Prof. Roger B. Grainger, whose untimely death was a great loss to the university community and to me personally. I wish to acknowledge, also, Prof Dries du Plooy, my co-promoter, who has attended tirelessly in assisting me in the development of this dissertation, and Dr. Stuart Rochester whose comprehensive analysis of my work has been a special help.
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