Okay, here's a breakdown of how Naturalistic Secular Humanistic and Atheistic Existentialistic worldviews differ from a Christian worldview regarding the family.
Core Differences & Foundational Beliefs
* Source of Morality & Values:
* Christian: Morality and values, including those related to family, are divinely ordained by God and revealed through the Bible and Christian tradition. There is an objective standard of right and wrong rooted in God's character.
* Naturalistic Secular Humanistic: Morality and values are derived from human reason, experience, and scientific understanding. There is no supernatural source. Ethics are developed through consensus and the pursuit of human flourishing and well-being.
* Atheistic Existentialistic: There is no inherent meaning or purpose in the universe, and no pre-existing moral code. Individuals are radically free to create their own values and meanings. Morality is subjective and based on individual choice and responsibility.
* Purpose of Life:
* Christian: To glorify God, to live in relationship with Him, and to fulfill His purposes for humanity.
* Naturalistic Secular Humanistic: To live a fulfilling and meaningful life in this world, to promote human flourishing, and to contribute to the betterment of society.
* Atheistic Existentialistic: To create meaning and purpose for oneself in a meaningless universe. To embrace freedom and responsibility.
* Nature of Humanity:
* Christian: Humans are created in God's image, with inherent dignity and value, but are also fallen and prone to sin.
* Naturalistic Secular Humanistic: Humans are products of evolution, capable of reason and compassion, but also susceptible to flaws and biases.
* Atheistic Existentialistic: Humans are fundamentally free and responsible for their own choices, but also exist in a state of anxiety and alienation in a meaningless world.
Specific Differences Regarding Family
Here's how these foundational differences manifest in views on the family:
1. Definition of Family:
* Christian: Traditionally, the family is seen as a divinely ordained institution, typically defined as a man and a woman united in marriage with their children. Marriage is considered a sacred covenant. However, many Christians also embrace and support diverse family structures while upholding core values.
* Naturalistic Secular Humanistic: Family is defined more broadly and inclusively, based on relationships of love, commitment, and care. There is no inherent preference for traditional marriage or biological ties. Family can include same-sex couples, single-parent families, blended families, and chosen families.
* Atheistic Existentialistic: Family is a matter of individual choice and creation. There are no prescribed family structures. Individuals are free to define their relationships and create families that align with their values and preferences.
2. Purpose of Marriage:
* Christian: Marriage is a union ordained by God for procreation, companionship, mutual support, and spiritual growth. It is intended to be a lifelong commitment.
* Naturalistic Secular Humanistic: Marriage is a legal and social contract between two individuals who choose to commit to each other. It is valued for the emotional support, companionship, and stability it provides. The focus is on the well-being and happiness of the individuals involved.
* Atheistic Existentialistic: Marriage is a choice that individuals make to create a meaningful relationship. It is not inherently more valuable than other forms of committed relationships. The purpose of marriage is defined by the individuals involved.
3. Roles within the Family:
* Christian: Traditional views often emphasize distinct roles for men and women within the family, based on biblical interpretations. However, many contemporary Christians embrace more egalitarian roles and shared responsibilities. Emphasis on mutual submission and love.
* Naturalistic Secular Humanistic: Roles within the family should be based on individual skills, preferences, and mutual agreement, rather than on gender or tradition. Equality and fairness are emphasized.
* Atheistic Existentialistic: Individuals are free to define their own roles within the family, based on their individual choices and values. There are no prescribed roles or expectations.
4. Raising Children:
* Christian: Parents have a responsibility to raise their children in accordance with Christian values and beliefs, to teach them about God, and to guide them toward a life of faith. Discipline is seen as an act of love and guidance.
* Naturalistic Secular Humanistic: Parents have a responsibility to raise their children to be rational, compassionate, and responsible individuals. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, empathy, and ethical development. Children should be encouraged to explore their own values and beliefs.
* Atheistic Existentialistic: Parents have a responsibility to raise their children to be free-thinking and independent individuals, who are capable of creating their own meaning and purpose in life. Children should be encouraged to question and challenge existing norms and values.
5. Divorce:
* Christian: Divorce is generally discouraged, but may be permitted in certain circumstances (e.g., adultery, abuse), depending on denominational views. Emphasis is placed on reconciliation and forgiveness.
* Naturalistic Secular Humanistic: Divorce is seen as an option when a marriage is no longer fulfilling or healthy for the individuals involved. Emphasis is placed on minimizing harm to all parties, especially children.
* Atheistic Existentialistic: Divorce is a personal choice that individuals are free to make. There is no inherent stigma attached to divorce. The focus is on individual freedom and well-being.
6. Sexuality and Reproduction:
* Christian: Sexuality is generally viewed as a gift from God to be expressed within the context of marriage between a man and a woman. Views on contraception and reproductive technologies vary among denominations.
* Naturalistic Secular Humanistic: Sexuality is seen as a natural and healthy part of human life. Individuals have the right to make their own choices about sexual expression and reproduction. Contraception and reproductive technologies are generally supported.
* Atheistic Existentialistic: Sexuality is a matter of individual choice and expression. There are no inherent restrictions or prohibitions. Individuals are free to define their own sexual identities and relationships.
In Summary:
The fundamental difference lies in the source of authority and the purpose of life. Christians look to God and the Bible for guidance on family matters, while Naturalistic Secular Humanists and Atheistic Existentialists rely on human reason, experience, and individual choice. This leads to differing views on the definition of family, the purpose of marriage, the roles within the family, and other related issues. These other worldviews prioritize individual autonomy and well-being, while the Christian worldview emphasizes submission to God's will and the importance of traditional values (though interpretations of these vary).