Does the concept of worldview have a fatal flaw baked into the premise? Could the Christian worldview possibly be leading kids away from the faith?

David Richardson, author of Transparent: How to See Through the Powerful Assumptions That Control You, reveals the shocking origin of this term and challenges the way it is used by almost everyone in our culture. There is an inherent flaw in the term “worldview” that we need to be aware of, and we need to make sure our kids don’t fall for it.

Those of us who profess a Biblical worldview recognize the underlying concept of absolute truth. However, inherent in the term “worldview” is the idea that the way each individual person views the world is where truth is found. Reality is defined by what we perceive. It is defined by our senses. It is defined by the worldview glasses we choose to put on. So, in other words, reality is defined by our worldview and our worldview is what we choose for it to be. That makes truth subjective, even if our particular worldview maintains that truth is universal.

We have to realize that subjectivity is baked into how most people use the term worldview. We’re not on the same page. We’re not even in the same universe.

In this episode, Catherine and Dave dive into the origins of the term worldview, which was a concept coined by the German Philosopher Immanuel Kant. Then Dave encourages parents to adopt a more nuanced and effective approach based on assumptions rather than rigid and subjective worldviews. 

Looking ahead, the podcast promises to delve deeper into the three primary assumption types and their implications for navigating diverse beliefs and perspectives. By equipping parents with a fresh way to engage with differing worldviews, the upcoming episode aims to empower listeners to guide their children's faith journey with clarity and understanding.

Guest bio: David Richardson is the founder of the Assumptions Institute and its Chief Executive Officer. Prior to founding the Assumptions Institute, Richardson served for 30 years on the staff of Cru, formerly known as Campus Crusade for Christ, devoting most of his ministry to university professors. He holds a B.A. degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Portland, and an M.A. degree in Theological Studies from the International School of Theology. Richardson also holds an MTh. degree in Applied Theology from the University of Oxford. His dissertation,

“Accepting Christian Faith in the Academy” was an important exploratory study of the religious attitudes and beliefs of university professors and how to reach them for Christ. He understands education and educators very well. Richardson’s first book, Transparent: How to See Through the Powerful Assumptions That Control You released from Clovercroft Publishing.

Dave's Website: Learn to Discern

EPISODE RESOURCES & LINKS:

Barna Research: American Worldview Inventory 2024 (Release 3) - Explaining America’s 40-Year Drop in Biblical Worldview- And How to Reverse that Decline

Barna Research: American Worldview Inventory 2024 (Release 2) - Millions of Americans Embrace Common Unbiblical Perspectives, Survey Shows

Barna Research, American Worldview Inventory 2024 Release 1) - America Needs Spiritual Renewal More than a Political Majority

Barna Research: “Emerging Gen Z May Deliver Huge Blow to Religion in U.S.” (6/8/18)

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