Sin and Society

By Cam

Concepts of guilt and sin are informed by society. Where one aspect may view gender and sexuality as "perversions" and "diversions" as "sins" that people should be ashamed of (guilt), and another aspect of society that may view gender and sexuality as natural and intrinsic aspects of human identity. In these perspectives, being true to one's gender identity or sexuality is seen as an expression of authenticity rather than something to be ashamed of, the difference is the inclusion of queer identities within that definition of expression of authenticity. This shift in understanding often stems from a more inclusive and accepting view of human diversity (or lack thereof), informed by evolving social norms, scientific research(that tends to still discriminate against queer identities), and advocacy for human rights (may be subjective).

For instance, in some cultures or religious traditions, gender and sexuality that deviate from traditional norms might be labeled as sinful or immoral, leading to feelings of guilt or shame for those who fit within that nontraditional identification like being queer. However, other cultures, communities, and religious interpretations might embrace a more affirming stance, viewing diversity in gender and sexuality as a natural part of human variation that deserves respect and celebration. These contrasting views illustrate how societal attitudes toward guilt and sin can vary widely depending on cultural, religious, and philosophical contexts. The shift towards more inclusive perspectives often involves a broader understanding of human dignity, empathy, and the recognition that personal identity and experiences are deeply individual and complex. But this should come with an understanding that if you possess beliefs that are discriminatory towards someone's identity(i.e., being of the LGBT+ community, immigrant status, low economic status, POC, disability), then there should be no expectation of your perceived deserved rights to be respected.

With this shift in ideology of a wide variety, there is an understanding that a certain segment of society will be thrown under the bus in this collective distaste and dismantling of perceived oppressive systems. So how do we find, know, and understand the "true" concept and/or existence, that needs to be addressed? We could start by examining the historical context of the beliefs and systems in question. This involves looking at their origins, evolution, and the systemic impacts they have on various segments of society. Engaging directly with affected communities is crucial, as their experiences often reveal the core issues that need attention. Furthermore, balancing different ideological perspectives and prioritizing empirical evidence and ethical considerations can help clarify which aspects of these systems are genuinely problematic. Keeping an open dialogue among diverse groups fosters a deeper understanding and collaborative solutions.

Some examples of concepts of sin and guilt are enslaved people of African descent and the guilt they felt that they must have committed a sin against God and their treatment is punishment. Such evil perpetuated misconceptions and normalized the dehumanization of marginalized bodies, shaping and reinforcing harmful perceptions of guilt and sin. Such distortions not only justified their mistreatment but also diminished their will, and persistence, community, illustrating the profound impact of systemic oppression on individual and collective identities; the condemnation of black bodies and our right to dignity and equality, as the majority group stuff their nose up to the advocacy of black success in normative spaces and creating our own non-normative space that considers humanity. Another aspect to consider is how some majority groups might feel threatened or under attack by minority groups advocating for their rights. This sense of threat often arises when entrenched privileges are challenged or when systemic inequalities are brought to light. Such reactions can stem from fears of losing social, economic, or cultural dominance, leading to resistance against necessary changes. But what are these entitlements that are inherent to the majority groups? Entitlements stripped from minorities: Native and Indigenous populations, Africans and descendants, Latinx community's right to exist and live in America, a land stolen, a land of evil bloodshed. 

This is a mass dispossession, relocation, and forced dissociation from cultural and ancestral roots. It is important to avoid this junction. But in articulating this form of sin and eventual guilt that lies at America's feet pressed by colonialism and abhorrent disregard for marginalized existence, there is a possibility of obscuring systemic change and displacement of guilt, shame, and condemnation. So this brings me to a question: If concepts of sin and guilt are informed by society, then how do we address the historical and ongoing impacts of systemic injustices without merely shifting or displacing the burden of guilt, shame, or condemnation? In terms of guilt, which is religion-informed, would there be the possible issue of shedding guilt that undermines marginalized voices, like "white tears", "false solidarity", a fabrication of guilt that aims to exaggerate a sense of responsibility but doesn't lead to substantive action and change? How do we make sure it doesn't go unnoticed? How do we prevent in the future?

Where there is guilt, there should also be action in the form of marginalized liberation. To relieve Earthly suffering is damned to be based upon a personal choice to aid or not to aid in systemic injustices and funding genocides. This goes for Presidential elects and people in power. Of course, there are practical and psychological limits to possessing the moral responsibility to reduce and prevent suffering, and often it is guilt that underpins effective actions and ethicality. But because of greed those in power frequently prioritize self-interest and profit over justice and liberation, perpetuating systems of oppression rather than dismantling them.

There is a lot more to be said, reworked, studied, and written regarding sin and society. This is only a minuscule point of view of the beginning. Also, for the next blog I want to go over more about religion-informed guilt. Anyhooters, thank you for reading if you made it this far, I wish the least nerve-wrecking presidential select.

Bye Beep.

Song(s) rec: "Bad Man" and "Tumbleweed" by FIGHTMASTER