Lesser of two evils

The BBC has reported that Pope Francis has called both major US presidential candidates "against life" and advised Catholic voters to choose the "lesser evil" when casting their ballots in the November election. This news conference, as he wrapped up a 12-day tour through southeast Asia, has been covered by many world news outlets. Five themes have come to mind in reflection about the Pontiff's advice.

Views and the Vatican

1. Forgive them, they know not what they do.(Luke 23:34).

Christians are familiar with this admonition of Jesus from the cross that originally referred to the people responsible for His crucifixion. Many of the followers of the political scenarios identified by Francis would do well to understand the grief and suffering that has moved people to the paths “against life” that they polarize for political advantage. An extension of political rhetoric to include “walking in the shoes” of the people concerned about the consequences of political policy is required. 

2. Misinformation and disinformation disguises the full story.

The loss of truth that accompanies misinformation and disinformation about the actions and consequences of the alternate political policy is extremely dangerous to the operation of a democracy which can only operate at its best motivated by truth, goodness, and beauty as aspirations for all.

3. Real needs for support and care are present in the cause.

The political effort to achieve policy objectives needs to recognize that people have real needs for support and care that may be denied or reduced by polarized persecution of groups with differing desires.

4. Demonizing others is a path to destruction. 

There seems to be more than enough evil done against groups that have been demonized in political rhetoric. Death and destruction have too often been the response advocated and actioned by misinformed zealots to the perception intentionally created that the opposition are demons.

5. Acting in conscience requires freedom to choose. 

Much political rhetoric lauds “freedom”. The conscientious choices that are required to be our best people and create our best society cannot be coerced. We move toward the justice we seek through our freedom to act according to our conscience.

There are tragic results when political polarization leans toward policy that casts the opposing side as “evil” and fails to address the suffering and pain that they may encounter as a consequence.