Fear-mongers harm our society
Vernon Meigs
Issue date: 4/24/09 Section: Opinions
Fear-mongers, doomsayers, and eschatologists: they are charismatic prophets and gurus telling the dumbfounded masses what to believe or how to think. They present stories about the end of time or some omniscient evil upon us in order to shock people. Those who buy into their story curse, cry, and generally fear for their souls. Then, they seek out futile attempts to correct the supposed problems, making them more miserable in the process, often without knowing it themselves. Unworthy, self-proclaimed saviors deserve neither the attention nor the profits they receive from gullible folks throwing money at their scams. Will anybody ever learn?
Eschatologists are a prime example of fear-mongers in my opinion, whether they have misanthropic or different intentions. For those that are unfamiliar with the term, eschatology deals with the end of the world and the destiny of humanity, frequently from a religious standpoint. Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins sparked both a large following and a large controversy due to their novel Left Behind which then sparked the Left Behind series. It was a portrayal of the end of times from a Christian standpoint and basically sent its main members, those left behind after a rapture of believers from the Earth, on a crusade to convert others so they would be saved. This irked not only other religious groups, but other Christians as well.
Let us not forget the "Satanic Panic" of the 1980's, during which there were allegations of Satanic cults nationwide bent on harming people or taking over the government, and hysteria over the possible existence of snuff films.
Despite people still believing in the existence of secret devil-worshipping covens, "Satanic" governmental conspiracies, and emotionalism about ritualized human sacrifice, the FBI had reported that there was no evidence of any such sacrifices occurring. One source even stated that the FBI is putting out a million-dollar reward for anyone who is able to confirm the existence of one authentic snuff film. Inconsiderate fear-mongers and prophets of doom are raking up the big bucks by satiating the fears of people, for they seem to constantly want something to blame and of which to become victims. They want some dangerous force at which to point their fingers.
Eschatologists are a prime example of fear-mongers in my opinion, whether they have misanthropic or different intentions. For those that are unfamiliar with the term, eschatology deals with the end of the world and the destiny of humanity, frequently from a religious standpoint. Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins sparked both a large following and a large controversy due to their novel Left Behind which then sparked the Left Behind series. It was a portrayal of the end of times from a Christian standpoint and basically sent its main members, those left behind after a rapture of believers from the Earth, on a crusade to convert others so they would be saved. This irked not only other religious groups, but other Christians as well.
Let us not forget the "Satanic Panic" of the 1980's, during which there were allegations of Satanic cults nationwide bent on harming people or taking over the government, and hysteria over the possible existence of snuff films.
Despite people still believing in the existence of secret devil-worshipping covens, "Satanic" governmental conspiracies, and emotionalism about ritualized human sacrifice, the FBI had reported that there was no evidence of any such sacrifices occurring. One source even stated that the FBI is putting out a million-dollar reward for anyone who is able to confirm the existence of one authentic snuff film. Inconsiderate fear-mongers and prophets of doom are raking up the big bucks by satiating the fears of people, for they seem to constantly want something to blame and of which to become victims. They want some dangerous force at which to point their fingers.
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 1
yantski
Grant
posted 7/10/09 @ 8:22 PM EST
As a Christian, I am aware of the biblical views mentioned. I feel the end of the age is near due to what I see relating to scripture. But more importantly, as one who seeks the wisdom and peace of Jesus, I am compelled to remind all fellow Christians that the most important thing we are to do is trust in God and follow his will. (Continued…)
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