Be Intolerant

Stumbled across this book and just had to read it. “Be Intolerant Because Some Things Are Just Stupid” by Ryan Dobson is an older book (Multnomah, 2003) that can be read in one sitting, but the premise is worth a lifetime of consideration.

It’s up to you.

This is actually a simple definition of moral relativism, a worldview that, when taken to its logical conclusion, is actually quite illogical and self-defeating. Moral relativism mixes well with nothing. Many don’t like to use the term “moral relativism” but can be heard to refer to “tolerance,” which is “the virtue of those who believe nothing.” (p. 36).

The first chapter identifies the problem raging at epidemic proportions, making the point that “tolerance” is a TUMOR and should be addressed, even removed as if with radical surgery. The TUMOR looks like this: we live in a culture where good feelings rule, so do what you want as long as nobody gets hurt; however, whatever you do, be untraditional even if it means someone gets offended. You are the victim and you are not the problem nor are you part of the problem (just leave the smallest footprint on Mother Earth before you leave). Do what feels right and you will be rewarded.

The second chapter identifies five areas of the TUMOR, suggesting ways to remove the problem, starting by demonstrating how “moral relativism does not work. It’s a broken system, a bankrupt philosophy, a worldview at war with itself” (p. 35). Chapter 3 seeks to answer the question, “Why do people believe it?”

Chapters 4 and 5 present the logical alternative to the black, goopy, quivering gelatinous mass of moral relativism, now that is lies exposed. Dobson makes the case for Biblical Christianity starting from the viewpoint of tolerance practitioners then a brief discussion of three absolute truths. Chapter 5 lays out the singular strategy of the necessity of practicing the kind of  intolerance that takes people seriously.

This easy, quick read is excellent for followers of Christ about to enter College. Dobson’s book should also be required reading for anyone with the desire to impact culture or desiring to have more evangelism tools.