Being a Catholic is deeply rooted in one's perception of the world. It is our choice whether we wish to view the world optimistically, realistically, or even pessimistically. However, an essential part of being Catholic is viewing the world in a realistic manner regardless of its imperfections. A Catholic's outlook on the world is demonstrated in Lawrence S. Cunningham's "Catholicism as a Worldview". Despite its ignorance of a few societal realities, Cunningham's portrayal of the Catholic worldview makes sense as it helps us understand that although the world is not perfect, its history and community is truly a good gift from God for us to enjoy. .
In "Catholicism as a Worldview", the world is viewed as imperfect and sinful. Humans are naturally inclined to act in an evil way therefore the created world is not perfect. Do to this nature; we have a desire to achieve "absolute autonomy" (Cunningham 116) and do whatever we please regardless of the consequences for God and others. However, Cunningham states that we have conflicting desires for autonomy and ones loyalty to God that cannot be healed without Christ. I disagree with this point of view as I feel that it is not solely love of God that prevents people from sinning. For example, even those who are atheists have a basic sense of morality. It is discriminatory of Catholics to say that it is only God that shapes people's sense of right and wrong. Although Christ's redemption is a reminder to not surrender to our autonomous desires and is symbolized by the cross, it cannot necessarily prevent us from sinning. This interpretation does however make sense to an extent as one's religion or morality is greatly influential upon one's actions. I would not steal because I know it is wrong, regardless of my religion, as it is part of my personal morality. He also states that people can become alienated from society and "turn into monsters of depravity" (118) when they lose sight of their morality.
