Christianity

Dear Sir,—One or two things about Professor Coulson's talk should be pointed out; First, Christianity as such, is not trying to impose an ethical system on an unbelieving world. Christianity has a great deal to say to Christians about what they should do, but the only thing it says to non-Christians is "Put your entire trust in, and follow completely the teachings of Christ." Professor Coulson may be trying to impose on a generally non-Christian group of scientists the moral code of Christianity, but this is not what Christians should try to do.

Secondly, Christianity claims that it gives its followers the ability to keep its massive code of ethics, if they want to. It claims that man by nature is not capable of keeping this. It does not seem very sensible trying to force a system of laws or morals down people's throats unless they have the ability to keep them.

I would agree with D.P.W. that Christians in general do not always think or act as they should and would suggest this is no excuse for a blanket dismissal of the subject.

I would disagree that starting from his axiom one can obtain an "ought" of his kind infallibly. I suggest it would be nearly as easy to construct a purely egotistic materialism.

Christianity or any religion in general does not do this but just points to the teaching of its individual founder and suggests strongly that reliance should be placed on it and its ethical system should be followed.

N. E. Whitehead.