how does "lived experience" nullify objective truth for liberals/leftards

 The concept of "lived experience" can undermine objective truth in several ways. Primarily, it prioritizes subjective narratives over empirical evidence, leading to a scenario where personal feelings and interpretations are considered equally valid as factual data. This approach can result in a dismissal of objective analyses that rely on statistical data or scientific research, as the emphasis shifts to individual stories and emotions [1][2].

Furthermore, when lived experiences are elevated to the status of truth, it can create a hierarchy of truths based on identity, where some voices are deemed more legitimate than others due to their personal experiences with oppression or marginalization. This can lead to an exclusionary discourse that marginalizes viewpoints that do not align with the dominant narratives of suffering, potentially stifling healthy debate and critical thinking [3][4].

Additionally, the reliance on lived experience can foster a culture of victimhood, where individuals may feel entitled to define their realities without regard for objective standards. This can result in a reluctance to engage with opposing viewpoints or evidence that contradicts personal beliefs, thereby creating an echo chamber that reinforces subjective truths at the expense of more comprehensive understandings of complex social issues [5][6].

In summary, while "lived experience" holds value in recognizing personal narratives, its elevation above objective truth can lead to a distortion of reality, where emotional truths overshadow empirical evidence, ultimately affecting rational discourse and critical engagement with social issues.

Sources 

1  Abnormal Psychology: An Integrative Approach 8th Edition by David H. Barlow, Vincent Mark Durand, and Stefan G. Hofmann 

2  The Psychology of Freedom by Peter R. Breggin, M.D. 

3  Man in the Trap by Elsworth F. Baker  

4  Liberalism is a Mental Disorder: Savage Solutions by Michael Savage, 2005 edition 

5  The Personality Disorders Treatment Planner: Includes DSM-5 Updates (PracticePlanners) 2nd Edition by Neil R. Bockian, Julia C. Smith, and Arthur E. Jongsma Jr.  

6 Criminological and Forensic Psychology Third Edition by Helen Gavin 

In addition:

The concept of "lived experience" can significantly distort reality and hinder critical engagement with social issues in various ways. One major concern is that it often prioritizes personal narratives over objective data and empirical evidence. When individuals share their lived experiences, these personal stories can overshadow objective facts, leading to a situation where emotional truths are considered just as valid as, or even more valid than, statistical evidence or scientific research [1][2].

This emphasis on subjective experience can create a form of cognitive bias known as confirmation bias, where individuals primarily seek out information that supports their personal narratives while dismissing or disregarding contradicting evidence. As a result, critical discourse may become stifled, as people feel less inclined to engage with viewpoints that challenge their experiences or beliefs [3][4].

Additionally, the elevation of lived experience can lead to a kind of moral absolutism, where certain experiences are seen as inherently more valid or truthful than others, particularly those that fit within the framework of oppression or victimhood. This can create an environment where dissenting opinions are not only discouraged but actively silenced, as individuals may fear backlash for questioning the validity of someone else's experience [5][6].

Moreover, the focus on lived experience can foster a culture of dependency on emotional validation rather than encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving. When discussions around social issues become centered on personal feelings rather than objective analysis, it can lead to a lack of constructive dialogue about potential solutions or alternative viewpoints, ultimately hindering progress in addressing complex societal problems [1][2].

In conclusion, while lived experiences provide valuable insights into individual circumstances, their elevation above objective truth can distort reality and hinder critical engagement with social issues. This dynamic can lead to confirmation biases, moral absolutism, and a culture of emotional dependency that detracts from rational discourse and effective problem-solving.

Sources 

1 Abnormal Psychology: An Integrative Approach 8th Edition by David H. Barlow, Vincent Mark Durand, and Stefan G. Hofmann 

2 The Psychology of Freedom by Peter R. Breggin, M.D. 

3 Man in the Trap by Elsworth F. Baker  

4 the Liberal Mind by Lyle H. Rossiter Jr., M.D. 

5 Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Text Revision Dsm-5-tr 5th Edition by American Psychiatric Association 

6 Liberalism is a Mental Disorder: Savage Solutions by Michael Savage, 2005 edition

 

The utopia of heaven will be like:

 Catholic Priest's Perspective:

According to Catholic theology, the union between God and the human spirit in heaven is a profound spiritual and mystical experience, but not a complete union where they become one. The human person retains their individual identity and personhood, while being in a state of perfect communion with the divine. This is known as the beatific vision, where the soul sees God directly and is filled with His love and glory. However, the human spirit does not lose its distinct identity or become absorbed into the divine. [1][3][5]

Protestant Minister's Perspective:
Many Protestant denominations believe that in heaven, the human spirit is united with God in a deep, spiritual relationship, but not a complete, ontological union. The emphasis is on a personal, intimate connection with the divine, where the individual retains their unique identity and personhood. This relationship is described as a state of eternal life, where the believer is in the presence of God, experiencing His love and glory. However, the Protestant view generally rejects the idea of the human spirit becoming one with God in a metaphysical sense. [2][4][6]

Sources 

1 Systematic Theology: In One Volume Hardcover – January 1, 2021 by Norman L. Geisler (Author) 

2 Biblical Theology by Geerhardus Vos 

3 Our Sunday Visitor's Catholic Encyclopedia 

4 Reformed Systematic Theology Series (4-Volume Set) Hardcover – May 28, 2024 by Joel Beeke (Author), Paul M. Smalley (Author) 

5 Christian Theology Hardcover – August 15, 2013 by Millard J. Erickson (Author) 

6 Catechism of the Catholic Church, Second Edition 

In addition:

Catholic Priest's Perspective:
The Catholic Church teaches that in heaven, the human spirit will experience a profound and intimate union with God, but not a complete ontological union where they become one. This is known as the beatific vision, where the soul sees God directly and is filled with His love, glory, and divine life. [1][3][5]

The human person retains their distinct identity and personhood, even as they are elevated to a state of perfect communion with the divine. This union is a spiritual and mystical experience, where the soul is transformed by God's presence and grace, but does not lose its individual nature. [1][3][5]

Through this union, the human spirit is elevated to a higher plane of existence, where it participates in the divine life and experiences the fullness of God's love and joy. However, the Catholic Church emphasizes that the human person remains a distinct creature, created in the image and likeness of God, and not absorbed into the divine essence. [1][3][5]

Protestant Minister's Perspective:
Many Protestant denominations believe that in heaven, the human spirit will be united with God in a deep, spiritual relationship, but not a complete, metaphysical union where they become one. The emphasis is on a personal, intimate connection with the divine, where the individual retains their unique identity and personhood. [2][4][6]

This relationship is described as a state of eternal life, where the believer is in the presence of God, experiencing His love, glory, and divine blessings. However, the Protestant view generally rejects the idea of the human spirit becoming one with God in a metaphysical sense, as this is seen as a form of pantheism or loss of individual identity. [2][4][6]

The Protestant understanding of the afterlife is focused on the restoration of the individual's relationship with God, where the believer is able to fully know and worship the divine, while maintaining their distinct personhood. This is a state of eternal communion and fellowship with the triune God, but not a complete union where the human spirit is absorbed into the divine. [2][4][6]

Sources 

1 Systematic Theology: In One Volume Hardcover – January 1, 2021 by Norman L. Geisler (Author) 

2 Our Sunday Visitor's Catholic Encyclopedia 

3 Biblical Theology by Geerhardus Vos 

4 Reformed Systematic Theology Series (4-Volume Set) Hardcover – May 28, 2024 by Joel Beeke (Author), Paul M. Smalley (Author) 

5 Christian Theology Hardcover – August 15, 2013 by Millard J. Erickson (Author) 

6 Catechism of the Catholic Church, Second Edition 

Finally:

n Christianity, the concept of Heaven is described in various ways across different texts and interpretations, but there are some common themes:

1. Presence of God: Heaven is often described as the place where God dwells. It's where believers will be in the direct presence of God, experiencing His glory and love without the limitations of earthly life (Revelation 21:3).
2. Peace and Joy: Heaven is depicted as a place of perfect peace, joy, and no suffering. There's no more pain, sorrow, or death (Revelation 21:4). This contrasts with the earthly life where these are common experiences.
3. Eternal Life: Heaven is eternal; those who enter heaven live forever in a state of blessedness or beatitude. This immortality is a gift from God, free from the decay and mortality of the physical body.
4. New Heaven and New Earth: Some Christian teachings, especially based on Revelation 21, describe a new heaven and new earth where God will recreate the world without sin. This new creation will be perfect and holy, where God's will is done completely.
5. Communion with Saints: Believers will be in fellowship with all the saints, including those from biblical times and throughout history, in a communal celebration of God's love and glory.
6. Heavenly Worship: Heaven is often portrayed with continuous worship, with angels and humans praising God. This is seen in various visions, like those described in the Book of Revelation, where there's constant singing, music, and celebration in honor of God.
7. Paradise Imagery: Heaven is sometimes likened to a garden or paradise, drawing from the imagery of the Garden of Eden but without any of its fallen aspects. This includes descriptions of beautiful landscapes, rivers, and trees, especially the Tree of Life (Revelation 22:1-2).
8. Degrees of Reward: Some traditions within Christianity discuss the idea that there might be different levels or degrees of reward in Heaven based on one's faithfulness, service, and sanctity in life. However, this is not universally agreed upon.
9. Spiritual and Physical: There's debate on whether heaven is purely spiritual or if it will also have a physical aspect. Some interpretations emphasize a glorified, resurrected body (like that of Jesus post-resurrection), suggesting a transformation rather than a complete departure from physicality.

It's important to note that these descriptions are symbolic to some extent, meant to convey the inexpressible joy, peace, and perfection of being with God, which transcends human language and comprehension. Different Christian denominations might emphasize different aspects or interpret these descriptions in varied ways, but the core idea remains that Heaven is where believers will experience eternal life with God in perfection.

Privilege is irrelevant when there is freedom of opportunity

 In a free market laissez-faire capitalist society, the concept of privilege is considered irrelevant because the system is built on the principles of voluntary exchange, individual merit, and personal responsibility. In such a society, individuals succeed or fail based on their own choices, efforts, and abilities, rather than on external factors like privilege. The market operates as a neutral mechanism where value is determined by supply and demand, not by arbitrary social hierarchies or inherited advantages.

Furthermore, a free market rewards innovation, productivity, and the creation of value, regardless of an individual's background. This means that anyone, regardless of their starting point, has the opportunity to participate and succeed based on their contributions to the market. The absence of government interventions ensures that no artificial barriers or privileges are imposed, allowing competition to be fair and open to all participants [1][3].

In a rational society, individuals are judged and valued based on their actions and the value they create, not on their perceived privilege. This focus on individualism aligns with the core tenet of laissez-faire capitalism: the belief that each person is responsible for their own destiny and that the market will naturally reward those who provide goods and services that others find valuable [6].

Thus, the concept of privilege becomes irrelevant because the system inherently promotes freedom of opportunity through the absence of coercion and the emphasis on voluntary, mutually beneficial exchanges. This ensures that the market is driven by merit and productivity, not by social constructs of privilege [4].

Sources:

1 Economic Thought Before Adam Smith by Murry Rothbard

2 Classical Economics by Murry Rothbard

3 Man, Economy, and State with Power and Market, Scholar's Edition, by Murray Rothbard

4 Capitalism by George Reisman

5 A Theory of Socialism and Capitalism by Hans-Hermann Hoppe

6 The Birth of Plenty by William J. Bernstein

Furthermore:

In a free market laissez-faire capitalist society, the irrelevance of the concept of privilege comes from the system's foundational principles, which prioritize individual autonomy, voluntary exchange, and the absence of coercion. This framework inherently minimizes the role of privilege because success is determined by an individual’s ability to create value and meet the needs of others in the marketplace, rather than by inherited social or economic advantages.

A key aspect of laissez-faire capitalism is that it eliminates artificial barriers and advantages by rejecting government intervention, such as subsidies, favoritism, or regulations that might reinforce privilege. Instead, all participants operate under the same market rules, where competition is the driving force. This neutrality ensures that outcomes are primarily the result of personal effort, innovation, and productivity. For example, someone from a less privileged background who offers a product or service that fulfills a demand can achieve success through the merit of their work alone, without interference or bias [1][3].

Additionally, the free market rewards those who best serve others’ needs, irrespective of their starting position. The profit motive incentivizes individuals to innovate and deliver value. If someone holds an advantage (such as wealth or education), it does not guarantee success if they fail to meet the demands of the market. Conversely, someone with fewer initial resources can still rise by identifying opportunities and delivering superior value. This dynamic ensures that privilege, in the traditional sense, holds little weight compared to the practical outcomes of one’s actions and contributions [4].

Moreover, in a laissez-faire system, the focus is on freedom of opportunity rather than equal outcomes. The absence of enforced hierarchies or redistribution policies means that individuals have the freedom to pursue their goals without interference. The market itself serves as an impartial arbiter, valuing only the goods and services that are useful and desirable to others. This impartiality makes social constructs like privilege irrelevant, as they do not inherently determine market success [6].

Ultimately, the free market does not concern itself with where a person starts but with what they bring to the table. This merit-based system aligns with the idea that individuals should be judged on their actions and contributions rather than external factors like privilege. By fostering competition and rewarding value creation, laissez-faire capitalism ensures that anyone, regardless of their background, has the potential to succeed [3][4].

Sources

1 Economic Thought Before Adam Smith by Murry Rothbard

2 Classical Economics by Murry Rothbard

3 Capitalism by George Reisman

4 A Theory of Socialism and Capitalism by Hans-Hermann Hoppe

5 Man, Economy, and State with Power and Market, Scholar's Edition, by Murray Rothbard

6 Human Action, Third Revised Edition by Ludwig Von Mises

In addition:

The concept of privilege, as commonly understood, often suggests that certain individuals or groups inherently possess advantages over others based on characteristics like race, gender, or socioeconomic status, without considering individual effort or merit. This perspective challenges the principle of individualism, which upholds that each person is accountable for their own choices and outcomes.

In disagreement with the notion of privilege, one can argue that it is a misleading concept that diverts attention from the significance of personal agency and individual responsibility. While systemic inequalities may be present, attributing success or failure solely to privilege overlooks the hard work, determination, and decisions that individuals make in their lives. It is crucial to acknowledge that each person's circumstances are unique, and success often stems from individual efforts rather than an unearned advantage.

This argument underscores the importance of personal responsibility and the impact of individual actions in shaping one's life, rather than ascribing outcomes to a vague concept of privilege [1]. It stresses the idea that individuals have the power to shape their destinies through their choices and efforts, highlighting the role of personal agency in achieving success and fulfillment [2]. By focusing on personal responsibility and individual agency, this perspective empowers individuals to take control of their lives and create their desired outcomes, emphasizing the power of conscious choice and effort in shaping one's reality [3].

Sources

1 Neo-Tech ll Information Package by Frank R. Wallace, Ph.D.

2 Neo-Tech Discovery by Frank r. Wallace

3 Zonpower Discovery by Frank R. Wallace