THOUGHT CRIME AND THE PROSECUTION OF ROBERT DUNCAN

Commentary
By Canon Gary L'Hommedieu
10/25/08

"When the wicked rise, people hide themselves." (Proverbs 28:28 ESV)

The prosecution of thought crime has become commonplace in formerly democratic societies.

That we are unwilling to acknowledge the assaults not only on speech but on the thought that gives rise to it is evidence that we live in dangerous times -- so dangerous that we don't dare think it.

The deposition of Bishop Robert Duncan was not a particularly dangerous or violent act. Given the travesties of truth and justice that are becoming common in our society, it smacked of a certain pathetic mediocrity. It was a very small act by a very unexceptional group huddling together to protect its interests.

It did, however, set an important precedent. And it was possible only because similar precedents have been set not only in the church but even more in the society at large.

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