Some Thoughts on the Movement of the Earth and Other Heresies

“The authority of a thousand is not worth the humble reasoning of a single individual.”

— Galileo Galilei

Today is the anniversary of Galileo’s appearance before the Inquisition.

It took him years to research, formulate, and validate his theories . . . but it only took a few weeks to destroy everything he had accomplished.

Which makes me wonder: How many times has the Church officially condemned something based on ecclesiastical tradition, accepted scriptural interpretation, or even divine authority?

I ask the question — one, admittedly, that it’s difficult to answer — because, as it turns out, Galileo was right.

God gave us the ability to reason, to explore creation and discover Truth.

Historically, I’m not sure when the Church became the official watchdog of that exploration . . . but virtually every discipline can cite casualties like Galileo, honest and sincere individuals who were savagely attacked because their theories and discoveries crossed the boundaries.

Trespassers beware. A rabid pack of dogs waits on the other side.

I’m talking about Theology here.

I’m talking about Science, about Astronomy and Genetics and Evolution.

I’m talking about Morality, about Literature and the Arts.

I’m talking about Sociology, about Race and Justice and Marriage.

I’m talking about Psychology, about Sexuality and Identity.

And, in a country where self-determination, prosperity and Capitalism are touted as God-given rights, I’m probably talking about Politics and Economics as well.

But call off the dogs, okay?

I’m just talking…