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In the mid to late 20th century, many predominantly Catholic regions like Ireland and Quebec experienced rapid secularization, shifting from strong Catholic influence to more secular societies.
There is a debate over the role of religion in government policy, particularly regarding the regulation of pornography and abortion, with a focus on pragmatic approaches.
Religion has been turned into an insult in public life, whereas historically, being a person of faith was seen as a positive attribute.
Chris Dawson explains that the distinct legal identities of medieval European cities developed to uphold Christian morality in densely populated areas, contrasting with the rural parishes. This led to the creation of Republican institutions to maintain moral codes.
Western civilization, built on biblical principles, is characterized by freedom and prosperity, countering claims that religion causes human suffering.
Western civilization, built on biblical principles, is seen as the most free and prosperous, countering claims that religion causes suffering.
Napoleon, who rose to military dictator, made a deal with the Pope to bring Catholicism back because he thought religion was necessary to social functioning. This was after the French Revolution, which was atheist and persecuted Catholicism in France, the most populous Catholic nation in the world.
Atheism became dominant in 18th century France due to resentment towards the Catholic Church's rigidity and the lack of religious freedom. This secular tradition developed in response to a strong centralized government and the Church's resistance to change.
In France, the Catholic Church supported freedom and education, collaborating with scientists like Descartes. However, the government maintained a Catholic theocracy, which the Church didn't oppose until the French Revolution. This led to France becoming the most educated country, but also fostered a secular intellectual tradition due to restrictions on religious free thinking.
Western civilization, built on biblical principles, is where the freest and most prosperous people live, countering the argument that religion causes human suffering.