The Impact of Absolute Truth on Human Worldviews and Progress

Humanity has long grappled with the concept of absolute truths, a deeply ingrained belief in fundamental, immutable facts that shape our understanding of the world. From historical encounters like Hernán Cortés meeting with Aztec Emperor Montezuma to the modern quest for technological and scientific advancement, the perception of absolute truths has both driven and constrained our progress as a species.

The Role of Absolute Truth in Human Advancement

Scientific, technological, and material progress can be directly linked to the idea of absolute truths. For instance, the concept of absolute truth in ethics and morality has helped to reduce violence and chaos, allowing human beings to dedicate their energies to pursuits of broader progress. This notion is particularly evident in the institutionalization of Christianity, initiated by Emperor Constantine, which brought a measure of uniformity to an area, fostering a ‘peace dividend’ that spurred competition between states and laid the groundwork for the Scientific Revolution and the Industrial Revolution.

The Darker Side of Absolute Truth: Colonization and Violence

The zeal to spread religious beliefs, although driven by a desire for peace and uniformity, also led to the colonization of the world, which brought unprecedented wealth. While this wealth was instrumental in unlocking scientific and technological advancements, it also resulted in the infernal exploitation of indigenous peoples and vast human suffering. The enslave-and-exploit systems, such as the transatlantic slave trade, and the cultivation of large agricultural economies like tobacco, sugar, and cotton, not only caused immense suffering but also demonstrated how these pursuits of progress could have a catastrophic human cost.

Modern Challenges and the Ethical Scales We Weigh

Over the past six decades, the ramifications of this relentless pursuit of progress have become increasingly evident. Modernity has taken a heavy toll on the planet's biosphere, leading to a potential existential crisis for our species. The reckless exploitation of natural resources has led to a full-blown environmental crisis, contributing to the sixth extinction event, a phenomenon that threatens not only human survival but the survival of many other species as well.

While the advancements have undeniably brought benefits, the cost has been high. The pursuit of absolute truths, whether it be in religious or scientific terms, must be weighed against their ethical consequences. Our worldviews and the actions they entrench must evolve to ensure that progress does not come at the expense of the planet or its inhabitants.

The challenge before us is to find a balance between the pursuit of absolute truths and the ethical responsibilities that accompany them. It is a struggle to acquire or sustain a niche that supports our existence while minimizing harm to the global community and the natural world we share.