Fundamentalists (Press, 17 September 1985)

In letters published on 17 September 1985, various writers express their views on the intersection of Christianity, morality, and societal standards in New Zealand. H.G. Oram defends Christian fundamentalism, which he defines as adherence to key doctrines of Christianity like the authority of Scripture and the significance of Christ's death and resurrection. He asserts that fundamentalist Christians oppose the legalisation of sodomy not only because of their beliefs but also because they aim to maintain high moral standards in society. Oram counters Alastair Gardner’s claim that fundamentalists deny individuals' rights to live as they choose, arguing instead that they believe in personal responsibility and the consequences of moral actions as outlined in the Bible. In response, Arthur May challenges the notion that New Zealand is a truly Christian country. He suggests that while Christianity dominates, there is no official religion, leading to an imbalanced representation in media and public discourse. May argues that Christians have disproportionate access to resources and platforms while other belief systems, such as humanism and atheism, face exclusion. He criticises the Christian community for prioritising its own supremacy over equal rights for all, effectively undermining the idea of a free and equal society. W.R. Sykes enters the debate by questioning traditional perceptions of the family, implying that such views are restrictive and alienating for those who do not conform to them. He suggests that intolerance and rigid standards contribute to the issues in jails and mental hospitals, implying that more empathy and acceptance is needed. Sykes argues that while all societies have family structures, this should not grant the “moral majority” the authority to impose their values on others who may think or behave differently. Together, these letters reflect a broader conversation on morality, individual rights, and the influence of religious beliefs in New Zealand society, highlighting tensions between traditional values and calls for inclusivity and understanding of diverse perspectives.

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