bbc.com
The Baton and the Cross: Church's Role in Ukraine War
An analysis of a new book detailing the Russian Orthodox Church's role in supporting Russian aggression in Ukraine, highlighting the historical relationship between the Church and the state.
- What is the main argument of Lucy Ash's book, "The Baton and the Cross?"
- Lucy Ash's book, "The Baton and the Cross," examines the historical relationship between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Russian state, highlighting the Church's role in supporting Russian aggression in Ukraine.
- How does the book describe the relationship between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Russian state?
- The book details how this relationship, described as a "marriage of convenience," has provided Putin with religious justification for his actions, while the Church has gained political patronage and wealth.
- What are the potential consequences of the Church's involvement in the conflict, as described in the book?
- Ash argues that this symbiotic relationship, spanning centuries, has created a "toxin" within Russian society, poisoning public consciousness and contributing to the conflict in Ukraine.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the conflict as a battle between good and evil, presenting the Ukrainian side as the victim and the Russian Orthodox Church and Putin as aggressors, which might oversimplify the situation and potentially omit the complexities of the reasons for the conflict.
Language Bias
While the language is generally neutral, terms like "toxin" and "marriage of convenience" may be loaded and subtly influence the reader's perception of the relationship between the Church and the state.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the negative aspects of the Russian Orthodox Church's role in the conflict, potentially omitting instances of dissent or internal critique within the Church itself.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified view of the relationship between the Church and state, potentially overlooking nuances and complexities within Russian society and religious beliefs.
Sustainable Development Goals
The book highlights how the Russian Orthodox Church's actions have contributed to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, undermining peace and justice. The Church's support for the war and its contribution to the spread of propaganda negatively affect efforts to build strong and peaceful institutions.