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Who Am I to Judge?: Responding to Relativism with Logic and Love
"Don't be so judgmental!"
"Why are Christians so intolerant?"
"Why can't we just coexist?"
In an age in which preference has replaced morality, many people find it difficult to speak the truth, afraid of the reactions they will receive if they say something is right or wrong. Using engaging stories and personal experience, Edward Sri helps us understand the classical view of morality and equips us to engage relativism, appealing to both the head and the heart. Learn how Catholic morality is all about love, why making a judgment is not judging a person's soul, and why, in the words of Pope Francis, "relativism wounds people." Topics include:
• Real Freedom, Real Love
• Sharing truth with compassion
• Why "I disagree" doesn't mean "I hate you"
192 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 12, 2017
148 people are currently reading
724 people want to read
About the author
Edward Sri
58 books264 followersDr. Edward Sri is a nationally-known speaker on Scripture and Catholicism and the author of several best-selling books. Besides teaching at the Augustine Institute, Sri is a visiting professor at Benedictine College and a contributor to the popular apologetics series, Catholic for a Reason. Sri is also a founding leader with Curtis Martin of FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students).
He also is the creator and host of a new 18-part video series on the Catholic faith for parish adult faith formation called Symbolon (Augustine Institute), and he serves the general editor of a Opening the Word: Journey through the Sunday Readings (Augustine Institute).
Dr. Sri leads pilgrimages to Rome and the Holy Land for lay people each year.
He resides with his wife Elizabeth and their six children in Littleton, Colorado.
Education
STD, Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (Rome)
STL, Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (Rome)
MA, Franciscan University of Steubenville
He also is the creator and host of a new 18-part video series on the Catholic faith for parish adult faith formation called Symbolon (Augustine Institute), and he serves the general editor of a Opening the Word: Journey through the Sunday Readings (Augustine Institute).
Dr. Sri leads pilgrimages to Rome and the Holy Land for lay people each year.
He resides with his wife Elizabeth and their six children in Littleton, Colorado.
Education
STD, Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (Rome)
STL, Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (Rome)
MA, Franciscan University of Steubenville
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
March 1, 2017
This book is very much needed today. Fortunately it is also accessible and loving. Dr. Sri actually speaks to his readers in his writing. The language he uses is almost identical to that found in the 8 part study program. So if you have the opportunity to do the series with a group, of course you will gain even more from the interaction and conversation with different perspectives. But if you are pressed for time or don’t live near anywhere that offers these programs, the book includes all the same material.
It is easy enough that you don't need a degree in philosophy to understand. It explains the challenge we are up against, gives a quick lesson on traditional morality/ethics as opposed to the subverted one most people today have fallen for and then offers seven keys for responding to relativism: 1) Lead with Mercy; 2) “Relativism Wounds People”; 3) Law = Love; 4) Making Judgments vs. Judging Souls; 5) Relativism Is Not Neutral; 6) Relativism Is a Mask; and, 7) Taking on the Heart of Christ. The postscript offers some popular and erroneous relativist assertions and then masterfully refutes them.
We don’t have to just play along with the ridiculousness all around us when everything inside of us is screaming, “But that isn’t true!” Going along isn’t even the most loving response. When it comes to our relationships, we are called to something higher than what we give to any thing. Tolerance is far less than love and we are called to love.
This book is excellent! I have already ordered additional copies to give to my adult children as gifts and know I will be returning to this again and again...
It is easy enough that you don't need a degree in philosophy to understand. It explains the challenge we are up against, gives a quick lesson on traditional morality/ethics as opposed to the subverted one most people today have fallen for and then offers seven keys for responding to relativism: 1) Lead with Mercy; 2) “Relativism Wounds People”; 3) Law = Love; 4) Making Judgments vs. Judging Souls; 5) Relativism Is Not Neutral; 6) Relativism Is a Mask; and, 7) Taking on the Heart of Christ. The postscript offers some popular and erroneous relativist assertions and then masterfully refutes them.
We don’t have to just play along with the ridiculousness all around us when everything inside of us is screaming, “But that isn’t true!” Going along isn’t even the most loving response. When it comes to our relationships, we are called to something higher than what we give to any thing. Tolerance is far less than love and we are called to love.
This book is excellent! I have already ordered additional copies to give to my adult children as gifts and know I will be returning to this again and again...
January 1, 2020
How I live my life will deeply impact other people - for better or for worse. Other people are affected by the choices I make each day. My life matters. My choices matter.
Great way to truly explain relativism and the difference in making a judgement and judging souls.
Great way to truly explain relativism and the difference in making a judgement and judging souls.
October 1, 2022
This book is everything I hate about apologetics disguised as “I’m just concerned about you.”
March 5, 2017
Relativism is a topic that is of crucial importance to everyone today. It has become the overriding and tyrannical worldview that we face. It is challenging us and our children.
Edward Sri has done an outstanding job of providing a jumping in point for anyone who takes their faith seriously enough to want it to affect the way they live, the decisions that they make, and the way they respond to our culture, media, and the enactment and enforcement of our laws. Even if you are not actively following politics, media, or social media, it is likely that you have encountered someone making judgments or statements that just don’t quite make sense. People living freedom as freedom from restraint, rather than freedom for pursuing excellence.
In this thoroughly readable and succinct book, you will be introduced to the words to help you identify that worldview that seems so difficult to address. In part two of the book focused on a different vision, you may feel like the thread has been lost, however, part two provides the context that is needed in order to make use of the seven keys to combating relativism presented in part three.
If you are tired of hearing how intolerant you are being by holding to morals that lead to ultimate human happiness, but haven’t found a good way to respond. This is the book for you.
Outstanding content and delivery, a very practical resource. Highly recommended!
Edward Sri has done an outstanding job of providing a jumping in point for anyone who takes their faith seriously enough to want it to affect the way they live, the decisions that they make, and the way they respond to our culture, media, and the enactment and enforcement of our laws. Even if you are not actively following politics, media, or social media, it is likely that you have encountered someone making judgments or statements that just don’t quite make sense. People living freedom as freedom from restraint, rather than freedom for pursuing excellence.
In this thoroughly readable and succinct book, you will be introduced to the words to help you identify that worldview that seems so difficult to address. In part two of the book focused on a different vision, you may feel like the thread has been lost, however, part two provides the context that is needed in order to make use of the seven keys to combating relativism presented in part three.
If you are tired of hearing how intolerant you are being by holding to morals that lead to ultimate human happiness, but haven’t found a good way to respond. This is the book for you.
Outstanding content and delivery, a very practical resource. Highly recommended!
June 8, 2017
The older I become the more I believe that truth is absolute, not relative, and that we get into dangerous waters when we say that we are okay with how everyone else lives their lives as long as they aren't hurting anyone else. Sri convincingly argues for why that world view is dangerous and illogical but also tells us how to avoid arguments by responding with love and grace. Although written from a Catholic perspective, it deals with universal truths from all religions and traditions while dealing with specific issues that address concerns such as abortion and divorce. This was an extremely helpful book. I'm denying it 5 stars only because I wouldn't have liked to see his take on homosexuality, which is the hot button issue when it comes to morality.
October 19, 2017
This is an excellent, easy-to-read, and well-researched guide on how those who follow a "classical" moral code can better engage with those who believe relativism reigns supreme. As someone who finds evangelism to be a struggle between peaceful interactions and effective impressions, I love the "take this argument with you" advice this book offers. I also think this can be a very valuable read for someone who feels drawn to relativism, but recognizes its shortcomings, and wants to be educated on its merits (or lack thereof).
May 17, 2017
What an insightful, thought-provoking, and informative primer on reason, love, and relativism. Dr. Sri's focus is relativism and he touches on topics that have been intentionally ignored for far too long. The content is highly readable and the examples are relatable. The keys to responding to relativism are practical which is why I strongly recommend this book for everyone. Happy reading!
May 28, 2017
This was my first of what am sure will be many Edward Sri books. His writing is crisp and to the point. His book is loaded with useful apologetics for "every day" issues we run into. I also like that he stresses charity (love) overall. In my opinion, Mr. Sri nailed the important issue of gauging the right time and way in which to approach relativism with others.
July 14, 2017
Dr. Sri wrote this book so well. He makes it easy to understand what relativism is and how you can respond to it in your own life and when encountering others. He also provides examples that you could use in conversation with people to help them see the point you are trying to make. This book is definitely worth reading many times.
June 3, 2017
This is an easy read. Dr. Sri gives very good suggestions on how to respond to people on moral issues.
August 30, 2017
A very good book. It gives reasonable answers to explain why relativism is not a good thing.
July 28, 2025
Safe to say I ate this one up. It was like a good ol’ Beth Ferraro conversation but with 90% less aggression. That woman is like a grandma to me. (Since she’s close friends with my grandma) so it was, in an odd way, a comfort read. It was very nice to read, especially after having taken a Christian morality class. I’ve been passionate about this topic for a little while now, but I’ve never had the right things to say. I really learned a lot.
May 23, 2022
Amazing! This was such a profound book with practical examples on how to will the best for others (love) without succumbing to the modern moral relativism that silences many faithful witnesses. Siri is one of the great authors of the faith. What a gift!
August 24, 2019
The book follows a logical progression of explaining why morality cannot be relative and then building on that understanding to methods for explaining that truth to others. While it succeeds in the first step, it unfortunately falls short on the second. The methods Sri recommends are valuable starting points and there are some very touching examples, but the theoretical antagonist he uses in most of his hypothetical situations is seriously uneducated and not a good representation of how real conversations would turn out. These examples left a lot to be desired and will have to be filed in with my own attempts (and probably failures) at conversations with those closest to me.
August 20, 2019
This was a very light read, digestible by your average layman (Catholic, Protestant, or otherwise) on the problems with moral relativism, and rational approaches to discussing these problems and embracing classical moral tradition. It offers nothing that many minds haven't in the past, and definitely trends toward "The New Evangelization" of modern Catholicism, but there's a decent amount of common sense, presented in an understandable format for college freshmen (which I take to be the original target audience for Dr. Sri).
November 25, 2023
This book is very readable. It gives practical advice and solid foundation on how we go about having effective conversations with people who may have been living out a relativistic lifestyle and perspective. That’s starts with leading with mercy. I like that part because having those conversations is not about proving someone wrong and we are right, but because we want them to know ultimately what the truth of God’s love is for everyone which is for our own happiness, joy and authentic fulfilment. Yes, God gave us laws not just to prohibit certain things, but ultimately for our own happiness.
I also like the part where prudence was discussed because there are better opportunities and situations when to tell the truth to someone we know is living a life apart from what God and the moral law teach. Everything has its own time. That is different from being reticent out of fear of being rejected and so we keep the peace and not rock the boat. But in due time, we trust God that we can have the level of trust and right opportunity to tell someone we love and care for what the moral law teaches us to do and avoid.
This book does not address a specific topic or hot button issue directly, although it gave certain examples from those issues on how we may discuss those issues with the people in our lives we care for. This book teaches the “how” we can approach and deal with the issues that the relativistic philosophy made “reasonable�� and then acceptable in our society, which is going back to a classical worldview of morality. It then teaches how we approach people and have those tough conversations with them when we know that we need to share the truth of God’s love and mercy and what the moral law teaches. This book is highly recommended because we are indeed living in a relativistic society where everything seems to be rationalised to fit certain lifestyles that people like to live according to his or her own preference. It also encouraged me to not be afraid to have those tough conversations as well because I know I can do so out of love, kindness, compassion and mercy without compromising what is true.
I also like the part where prudence was discussed because there are better opportunities and situations when to tell the truth to someone we know is living a life apart from what God and the moral law teach. Everything has its own time. That is different from being reticent out of fear of being rejected and so we keep the peace and not rock the boat. But in due time, we trust God that we can have the level of trust and right opportunity to tell someone we love and care for what the moral law teaches us to do and avoid.
This book does not address a specific topic or hot button issue directly, although it gave certain examples from those issues on how we may discuss those issues with the people in our lives we care for. This book teaches the “how” we can approach and deal with the issues that the relativistic philosophy made “reasonable�� and then acceptable in our society, which is going back to a classical worldview of morality. It then teaches how we approach people and have those tough conversations with them when we know that we need to share the truth of God’s love and mercy and what the moral law teaches. This book is highly recommended because we are indeed living in a relativistic society where everything seems to be rationalised to fit certain lifestyles that people like to live according to his or her own preference. It also encouraged me to not be afraid to have those tough conversations as well because I know I can do so out of love, kindness, compassion and mercy without compromising what is true.
January 22, 2018
Well, I had high hopes for this book and I am attempting to review it for what it is, and not what I thought it might be.
I thought the second half of the book was excellent: the key concepts to use and keep in mind when having a discussion with someone of a relativistic mindset if you are from a more classical worldview. In truth, most of this content could be utilized to have more productive discussions on any topic when there is disagreement between two people: skills and virtues sorely missing in our culture today. Dr. Sri reminds you over and over in these many ways to focus on the person in front of you, not just the issue at hand, and to love first.
However, while I agree wholeheartedly with the first half of the book, making the case for the existence of moral truth, I found the philosophical arguments a little unsatisfying, and I am guessing this is just because the point was not to write a dissertation on the subject, but rather a short guidebook. His logic seemed to me to hinge on the fact that relationships are what are important to us and what make us happy, and that (here is where I think more is needed) this fact would be self-evident to someone by asking them what they would like to be remembered for at their funeral. So I don't think the author's logic for moral truth would be convincing (or complete, perhaps) for all skeptics.
What I was disappointed not to find at all in this book was some discussion (ideally from a philosophical, not a theological background) of how to decide if some issue is one of universal moral truth (wrong for everyone all the time) or not, because it seems to me that most of us agree that some things were/are definitely wrong (i.e. the Holocaust, violence to children, etc.) but we start to disagree about what other topics to include. A lot of us, I think, disagree about what constitutes a moral truth (or are unfamiliar with any framework to logic through it besides the tenants of a particular faith), and I was hoping for some discussion on this.
Altogether, however, a very accessible and helpful, easy read.
I thought the second half of the book was excellent: the key concepts to use and keep in mind when having a discussion with someone of a relativistic mindset if you are from a more classical worldview. In truth, most of this content could be utilized to have more productive discussions on any topic when there is disagreement between two people: skills and virtues sorely missing in our culture today. Dr. Sri reminds you over and over in these many ways to focus on the person in front of you, not just the issue at hand, and to love first.
However, while I agree wholeheartedly with the first half of the book, making the case for the existence of moral truth, I found the philosophical arguments a little unsatisfying, and I am guessing this is just because the point was not to write a dissertation on the subject, but rather a short guidebook. His logic seemed to me to hinge on the fact that relationships are what are important to us and what make us happy, and that (here is where I think more is needed) this fact would be self-evident to someone by asking them what they would like to be remembered for at their funeral. So I don't think the author's logic for moral truth would be convincing (or complete, perhaps) for all skeptics.
What I was disappointed not to find at all in this book was some discussion (ideally from a philosophical, not a theological background) of how to decide if some issue is one of universal moral truth (wrong for everyone all the time) or not, because it seems to me that most of us agree that some things were/are definitely wrong (i.e. the Holocaust, violence to children, etc.) but we start to disagree about what other topics to include. A lot of us, I think, disagree about what constitutes a moral truth (or are unfamiliar with any framework to logic through it besides the tenants of a particular faith), and I was hoping for some discussion on this.
Altogether, however, a very accessible and helpful, easy read.
August 27, 2018
The title is enough to grab you, especially considering the controversy around the pope's using the phrase. A proper understanding of judgment of others (actions) is treated in the book. The meat of the book more directly deals with the subtitle, though, "Responding to Relativism with Logic and Love."
The author does a superb job in dealing with all aspects of relativism in this relatively short but eminently readable (and shareable) book. It could be read in an afternoon or pondered chapter by bite-sized chapter (including discussion/reflection questions). A book that one will want to take notes on to help in one's own challenges in understanding and responding appropriately to (that's the "logic and love" part) an increasingly relativistic (and becoming hostilely so) society. Also, a book to give to others who might (or, more effectively, might not) appreciate the insights offered but is at least willing to listen (just be sure to read it yourself first -- you will have interesting discussions).
I plan to offer this in my work parish as an eight part series (DVD, Leader's Guide, and Study Guide are available). A wonderful antidote to the modern culture.
The author does a superb job in dealing with all aspects of relativism in this relatively short but eminently readable (and shareable) book. It could be read in an afternoon or pondered chapter by bite-sized chapter (including discussion/reflection questions). A book that one will want to take notes on to help in one's own challenges in understanding and responding appropriately to (that's the "logic and love" part) an increasingly relativistic (and becoming hostilely so) society. Also, a book to give to others who might (or, more effectively, might not) appreciate the insights offered but is at least willing to listen (just be sure to read it yourself first -- you will have interesting discussions).
I plan to offer this in my work parish as an eight part series (DVD, Leader's Guide, and Study Guide are available). A wonderful antidote to the modern culture.
June 24, 2018
I started a committee at our Catholic church that plans various parish events, including Lenten programs. I found this on an internet search, read it and immediately recommended it for our 2019 program as it has a DVD set with a leader and participant guide as well. The book is wonderful. The author addresses one of the biggest issues of our time: relativism on morality. He gives many great examples illustrating the many adverse effects of relativism and how to identify it, address it and defend Catholic dogmatic beliefs against relativism. The older I get, the more conservative I become. Not close-minded but open to the truths of my faith and how much I have benefitted by them. This book is a great read and I highly recommend it, especially for the young who are about to enter college, particularly with higher education in this country being overrun by academics who suppress free speech and quash opposing views if they are Christian and/or conservative.
November 28, 2018
Great answer to many of our unspoken questions/doubts about the worldview today. Made me realize that relativism made people to live without purpose. In turn, living without purpose actually wounds people, including ourselves.
Mr. Sri provides pointers and reminders on how to approach people with relativist worldview. He reminded us that many people have relativist worldview due to past wounds. Therefore, the most important point/tool when we approach relativists is sincere love, not religious moralism, not even our zeal to "convert"!
Mr. Sri provides pointers and reminders on how to approach people with relativist worldview. He reminded us that many people have relativist worldview due to past wounds. Therefore, the most important point/tool when we approach relativists is sincere love, not religious moralism, not even our zeal to "convert"!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2017
Great book. I read Pope Benedict's book as well on relativism. It was great too. This book does bring a little Pope Francis's love and mercy to a more palatable place for me
Great book. I read Pope Benedict's book as well on relativism. It was great too. This book does bring a little Pope Francis's love and mercy to a more palatable place for me.
Great book. I read Pope Benedict's book as well on relativism. It was great too. This book does bring a little Pope Francis's love and mercy to a more palatable place for me.
July 14, 2018
This book gave me a way to open and have conversations with people who seem to value very different things than I do. I’m not afraid to disagree but gained perspective on how to respect their opinion without one of us having to “win” the conversation. The videos on formed.org added a lot to our group discussion of the book.
August 23, 2018
Respond Confidently
This book is written for people who want to better understand why certain moral issues of today are wrong. In addition to explaining a classical and Christian point of view for healthy living, this book also gives reasons To help those you love see destructive behaviors for what they are. This book is easy to read while being both timely and profound.
This book is written for people who want to better understand why certain moral issues of today are wrong. In addition to explaining a classical and Christian point of view for healthy living, this book also gives reasons To help those you love see destructive behaviors for what they are. This book is easy to read while being both timely and profound.
March 6, 2017
Best book about Relativism
Best book that describes what the biggest problem our world is facing right now: relativism. This book help how we stand up on morality issues that often we just mum about just to fit in.
Best book that describes what the biggest problem our world is facing right now: relativism. This book help how we stand up on morality issues that often we just mum about just to fit in.
February 1, 2018
Well written, well organized content
I would recommend this book especially to teenagers, young adults, and those on the way back to the Church.
I will definitely read more books authored by
Mr. Sri.
I would recommend this book especially to teenagers, young adults, and those on the way back to the Church.
I will definitely read more books authored by
Mr. Sri.
December 5, 2018
One of the best bible studies I have ever read and participated in. Unfortunately, the book synopsis in my opinion is ill-conceived. Between the synopsis and the title it fails at delivering how remarkable and thought-provoking this topic. It delivers so much more. Definitely a worthy read.
May 19, 2022
My Bstud leader gave this to me because I don’t get why the Catholic Church won’t allow gay marriage. Not convincing and also equated gay marriage to cheating on your wife or like murder? It was basically just the slippery slope fallacy.
February 9, 2017
An excellent read. One of his best books to date.
March 5, 2017
Super easy to read with good suggestions and presented in a way that builds on the previous material. A great resource and one I'm sure I'm reference in the future.
March 22, 2017
Another great book by Edward Sri
This book is an easy read, yet it challenges you on not being ok with relativism. I would recommend it.
This book is an easy read, yet it challenges you on not being ok with relativism. I would recommend it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews