Alexander Pruss tests Don Marquis’ argument concerning abortion under the notion of “future of value”.  The argument is becoming more standard and is rather powerful both in its logic and pragmatic ends.  Perhaps related are James’ McGrath’s discussion of moral absolutes and Ken Brown’s discussion of the same.

Atheism is Dead presents a case against the notion that we can infer on a purely naturalist basis a plausible foundation of value from which to make ethical decisions.  This is a clear weakness in the Dawkins argument which ignores the issue of value and reasonable value foundations altogether.

Mike Clawson draws our attention to a meeting that will be taking place between Soulforce and a group of pastors.  Such constructive conversations have to occur if we are going to work together despite a clear source of disruption and division in the church.  It is called the American Family Outing.  See also Queer Messages’ discussion of coming out which is also featured on their new podcast.  John Shuck reflects on a recent presentation and discussion of For the Bible Tells Me So.

Melissa Rogers brings us up to date on the issues surrounding the FLDS - the object cultic organization of Warren Jeffs.  The is a group in need of serious help as many will have to begin deprogramming to some extent soon.  See news about the raid and the compound also linked here.

Bob Cornwall discusses a really interesting interaction that occurred on a recent episode of Desperate Housewives between Lynette and Bree that deals with the issue of question faith.  “Faith shouldn’t be blind. You don’t threaten it by asking questions, you make it stronger.”  Lynette is a seeker and recent survivor of breast cancer and shows us what faith seeking understanding truly means in this episode.

John Stackhouse offers an argument contra complementarianism on any Trinitarian basis, much less any basis at all.

Chris Brady discusses recent issues surrounding a senior art project at Yale that graphically depicts the role of the female body in its relationship to abortion.  Is it art?  Is it academic freedom?  You decide.  Inside Higher Ed draws our attention to a project with four colleges to discuss secularism on college campuses.

Presbyterians Today presents some media picks and useful materials for incorporating these into education programs at churches.  Nice idea for summer programming I think.