The Passages of Coady’s on the Accusation of Playing God
1. Introduction
In "The Passages of Coady's on the Accusation of Playing God," Coady argues that the Church should not be too quick to accuse others of playing God. He believes that the Church itself has been guilty of this charge in its own actions and policies.
2. The accusation of playing God in the secular world
2.1. Scientific activities
Coady believes that many of the activities of the secular world can be seen as an accusation of playing God. He cites examples such as scientific research and experimentation, which can be seen as an attempt to understand and control the natural world. This is seen as a challenge to the power of God and an attempt to take His place.
2. 2. Reproduction
Another example is reproduction. Coady argues that when people use artificial means to conceive children, they are trying to take on the role of God in creating life. This is seen as an affront to His power and a challenge to His role as the ultimate creator.
2. 3. Human genetic engineering
A third example is human genetic engineering. Coady believes that by manipulating the genes of humans, we are taking on the role of God in determining how our species will evolve. This is seen as a dangerous and arrogant act that could have disastrous consequences for humanity.
3. The accusation of playing God in the Church’s doctrine
3.1 Abortion
One example of this is abortion. The Church has traditionally opposed abortion, viewing it as a form of murder. However, Coady argues that this position is hypocritical, as the Church itself has condoned other forms of killing, such as capital punishment and war. He believes that the Church should not be so quick to judge those who choices to abort their pregnancies, as they are only exercising their right to control their own bodies.
3. 2 Cloning
Another example is cloning. The Church has condemned cloning, viewing it as a form of playing God by creating life artificially. Coady argues that this position is also hypocritical, as the Church has condoned other forms of artificial reproduction, such as in vitro fertilization. He believes that cloning should be respected as a legitimate form of reproduction, and that those who choose to clone themselves should not be judged by the Church.
3. 3 Death
A third example is death. The Church has traditionally opposed euthanasia, or mercy killing, viewing it as a form of murder. However, Coady argues that this position is hypocritical, as the Church itself has condoned other forms of killing, such as capital punishment and war. He believes that those who choose to end their lives should not be judged by the Church, as they are only exercising their right to control their own bodies.
3. 4 Inquisitions
The final example is inquisitions. The Church has been accused of conducting inquisitions in order to persecute those who disagreed with its doctrines. Coady argues that this was not always the case, and that many inquisitions were actually conducted for legitimate reasons. He believes that those who were killed during inquisitions should not be automatically seen as martyrs, as their deaths may have served a greater purpose.
4. Conclusion
In conclusion, Coady believes that the Church should not be too quick to accuse others of playing God. He believes that the Church itself has been guilty of this charge in its own actions and policies.