We now have quite strong statistical evidence that conservative Republicans are way out of step with the rest of the country with regard to how they see empathy as a virtue.  Daily Kos commissioned two polls, with fascinating findings, here  and here.  Because the Republican base is disproportionately in the South, and committed to “Biblical” religion, I believe some interesting patterns emerge with strong spiritual implications relevant to us as Pagans, as well as to other people of good will. 

With respect to morality and openness of heart – values usually regarded as something to which religion contributes – a literal approach seems unable to foster one’s development as a moral human being.  I think this is because when the world is made up of rules and commands that take their force from Higher Authority, one never has to think deeply about the impact of what one does so long as the letter of the law is obeyed.  This is very sad.

On the other hand, when the rules are less certain, or are simply principles, they require that we think about the larger context of what we do, such as “An it harm none, do what you wilt.” The result is to push us to examine our own motives and the impact of what we do on others.

There is an interesting example of just how important this distinction between these approaches can be.  The battle against slavery in both Britain and the US was waged on both sides in terms of Christianity.  The pro-slavery forces quoted the Bible’s passages that appeared to suggest divine sanction for slavery.  There were many such passages, and they then argued anti-slave Christians were “heretical.”

The Quakers spearheaded the fight against slavery.  They argued that as the divine made Itself clear to them in Quaker meetings, they believed there was no justification at all for the institution.  They also referred to the Bible, but focused on the deepest meaning as Spirit had made clear to them.

When a person opens him or herself up to personal interaction with the spiritual in a context where they cannot be tempted to force their will on others, the most wonderful things can emerge.  It did so for the Quakers, and I imagine still does.  So also can it do so for many of us Pagans.