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What is Dogma?
Dogma is a set of rigid beliefs or doctrines we accept from authority figures with little questioning. These beliefs shape our worldview, often without our conscious awareness.
Dogma exists in many forms, including:
- Religious dogma – Prescribing who to follow and how to live. Many inherit religious beliefs without examining whether they align with their own experiences and truth.
- Political dogma – Declaring one party, ideology, or system (capitalism, socialism, communism) as the only right way, causing division and distrust of opposing views.
- Scientific dogma – Presenting theories as absolute truth, even when they have limitations. These “truths” often evolve or are overturned with new discoveries.
- Economic dogma – Blindly accepting one economic model while ignoring its flaws, preventing adaptation and better solutions for humanity.
- Cultural dogma – Imposing rigid values about what is good, bad, or acceptable, limiting individual expression and well-being.
- Corporate dogma – Expecting employees to conform without question, discouraging innovation, well-being, and ethical decision-making.
The problem with all forms of dogma is that they create mental rigidity, discouraging independent thought and personal growth. Dogma enforces tradition and punishes those who dare to challenge it.
Why Do We Follow Dogma?
Dogma serves a purpose—it provides structure, security, and a clear path to follow. When we are young or just beginning our journey, having a predefined system of beliefs can be comforting. But at some point, dogma no longer serves us.
When the rigid teachings we once followed begin to fail us, we face a choice:
- Blame ourselves – Believe we didn’t try hard enough, understand enough, or follow the rules well enough.
- Question everything – Recognize the limitations of all human-made belief systems and begin our own exploration.
The second path—the willingness to question—is the beginning of true awakening.
The Fear and Reward of Questioning
Questioning deeply ingrained beliefs can be frightening. It feels like stepping into the unknown, leaving behind the comfort of certainty. But for those willing to take this step, the rewards are profound.
Transformation is a natural part of life. A caterpillar doesn’t resist becoming a butterfly—it surrenders to the process. Humans, however, have a choice. Those who embrace transformation open the door to wisdom, freedom, and peace.
Discovering the Presence Within
If you are ready to move beyond dogma, the journey begins with self-inquiry. Spend time alone. Listen to the quiet voice within. There is an ancient force inside you—what I call the Presence.
This Presence is what led you to question dogma in the first place. It is the quiet wisdom that guides you toward truth, beyond rigid beliefs and societal expectations.
When you turn inward, the Presence will meet you there. It will show you the next steps on your path.
Final Thoughts
For Presence and Peace, this is David Lowry, encouraging you to keep questioning, to encounter the Presence within, and to allow it to guide you beyond the constraints of dogma.
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