The above title may seem like a truism, but it contains a powerful analytical tool to help us grapple with post-modern analyses, including that of "elite theory."
Very essential point here. Despite Pareto, you'll notice that those who understand Elite Theory overwhelmingly believe in the metaphysical and spiritual.
As you say, there is an underlying truth in the process itself. Pareto is wrong insofar as he says the content of the religion doesn't matter. A metaphysic capable of serving the purposes he details depends deeply on the people and context in which it works. That it depends on those things and that its application changes with them does not make it some sort of contrivance. Rather, it would be a contrivance if it were any other way. The nations of the earth will never be equal and at any given time each has a different standing with God and a distinct relationship with Him. That is what too many churches neglect in this day: that God has a relationship with us both as individuals and as collectives. Insofar as we neglect to live historically as part of our people, we neglect Him.
Morality and belief are downstream from power, but this does not preclude power's alignment with God. Power which is not aligned with God is not long for this world. For example, especially in these times, power which can't act knowing that those who call themselves Jews reject Christ--to the point that they would murder Him--is plainly doomed. That is so obvious it shouldn't need to be stated.
Very essential point here. Despite Pareto, you'll notice that those who understand Elite Theory overwhelmingly believe in the metaphysical and spiritual.
As you say, there is an underlying truth in the process itself. Pareto is wrong insofar as he says the content of the religion doesn't matter. A metaphysic capable of serving the purposes he details depends deeply on the people and context in which it works. That it depends on those things and that its application changes with them does not make it some sort of contrivance. Rather, it would be a contrivance if it were any other way. The nations of the earth will never be equal and at any given time each has a different standing with God and a distinct relationship with Him. That is what too many churches neglect in this day: that God has a relationship with us both as individuals and as collectives. Insofar as we neglect to live historically as part of our people, we neglect Him.
Morality and belief are downstream from power, but this does not preclude power's alignment with God. Power which is not aligned with God is not long for this world. For example, especially in these times, power which can't act knowing that those who call themselves Jews reject Christ--to the point that they would murder Him--is plainly doomed. That is so obvious it shouldn't need to be stated.