We can believe what we choose. We are answerable for what we choose to believe

We can believe what we choose. We are answerable for what we choose to believe

John Henry Newman, a prominent figure in the 19th century religious landscape, was a firm believer in the power of individual choice when it came to matters of faith. He famously stated, "We can believe what we choose. We are answerable for what we choose to believe." This statement encapsulates Newman's belief in the importance of personal responsibility in matters of faith and belief.

Newman was a theologian, philosopher, and cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church, known for his influential writings on religious belief and the nature of faith. He believed that each individual has the freedom to choose what they believe, and that this choice carries with it a moral responsibility. In other words, we are accountable for the beliefs we hold and the actions that result from those beliefs.

Newman's emphasis on personal responsibility in matters of faith was a radical departure from the prevailing attitudes of his time. In the 19th century, religious belief was often seen as a matter of tradition or social conformity, rather than a personal choice. Newman challenged this view, arguing that true faith must be freely chosen and embraced by each individual.

For Newman, belief was not simply a matter of intellectual assent or adherence to a set of doctrines. It was a deeply personal and transformative experience that required a conscious decision on the part of the believer. This decision carried with it a weight of moral responsibility, as the beliefs we hold shape our actions and ultimately define who we are as individuals.

In his writings, Newman explored the complex interplay between faith, reason, and conscience, arguing that true belief must be grounded in a deep inner conviction that is freely chosen and sincerely held. He believed that each individual has the capacity to discern truth and make informed choices about what to believe, and that this capacity is a fundamental aspect of human dignity.