The Enlightenment believed reason was its own authority. Heteronomous authority was anathema. Autonomy was the ideal. Thus, the Church's hierarchical structure was viewed as enslaving. In light of this critique, Newman offered an insightful defense of freedom and truth in the Catholic Church.

Topics Covered:

Consulting the faithful in matter of doctrine
Conscience
Reason and authority
Bishops and theologians

Links:

Article: Sensus Fidei in the Life of the Church
Video: John Henry Newman on the Laity
Read: On Consulting the Laity on Matters of Doctrine
Word on Fire Institute: https://institute.wordonfire.org/

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WOF 527: Reason and Authority (12 of 12)

The Word on Fire Show - Catholic Faith and Culture