Saturday, December 22, 2007

Blair and his Religion

Some political oriented news today.

Blair has today been openly converted to catholism - yet another sign of the increasing "religiousation" of modern politics. Even after his step-down, Blair is still a leading figure in the worldwide political scene, something which is reaffirmed by the fact that his speeches are better attended (and bring more money in) than those of Clinton's. Moreover, former politicians play an important in institutions (think tanks, advising agencies, informal relations etc) that have a direct impact on the political decision making apparatus. Finally, who knows what Blair will do professionally in a couple of years (eg. World Bank, IMF or even the UN).

The fact that he joined the catholic club (cause that is was all religions are, clubs), brings him in an awkward position towards topics such as abortion, homosexuality, aids and yes also the Islam. I can't understand how it is possible to one the hand follow the rules of the Vatican (or the Bible) and on the other of the electorate. This seems to be paradoxical and in conflict with all that the Enlightenment has given us. I believe that if you are to become a public and political figure (especially as a PM) internationally or nationally, you should be forced to choose between either the Divine or the humanistic path - not both (during and after your carreer). Who knows, what Blair's God (no not Bush, the other one) has whispered to him in his "war against terror" (a war that is from both sides religiously driven).



0 Comments: