Discussion Questions Chapter 5

V. Ethics and Personal Life

1) If marriages aren't made in heaven, where, when, and how are they made? (Refer to Nathanson's conditions of an "ethical" marriage--security, understanding, concern.)

2) Marriage is a continuously growing relationship. What kinds of growth would be included in this? Give illustrations.

3) Does this concept of marriage eliminate "romance"?

4) According to Frank, do the ideas of good and evil give way to ideas of healthy and unhealthy? What do you think?

5) What is meant by "social and cultural responsibility?"

6) Miller describes what must be a moral problem for many business men and women. Is this kind of problem found only in the business world? Illustrate.

7) Do you agree or disagree that "the assumption that what affects me is of greater value than what affects others is an assumption that cannot be reasonably justified"?

8) "A choice that is not responsible is not genuinely free." What does this mean? Do you agree or disagree?

9) Bridges speaks of making changes in ourselves, of being a "creator." How does this relate to Frank's description of the interdependence of man and society?

10) Martin says that "our comfort is . . . the Spirit of Truth." What does he mean? Is this a tenable description of consolation?

This document is part of a larger document, "Understanding Ethical Religion," edited by Howard B. Radest.