Abstract
This article explains and defends reverence as a cardinal
ethical value in the Western philosophical tradition, which was
considered an underpinning value in ancient society, and it then
gradually declined over time. Many contemporary Western
philosophers embark on respect rather than reverence. Reverence and
respect are not the same. Reverence is all-inclusive, while respect is
limited. Reverence values the genuine person, while respect may
flatter a powerful arrogant person. Reverence is a cardinal moral and
political value necessary for decent politics, education, law,
economics, and religion. Reverence is not only essential for becoming
a perfect human person but also for instituting a good society. To
expound the notion of reverence in the Western tradition, I select four
significant Western intellectuals: Johann Wolfgang von Goethe,
Bertrand Russell, Albert Schweitzer, and Paul Woodruff. Goethe
posits a tripartite account of reverence: reverence for God, Earth, and
human beings. Russell argues for reverence in politics and education.
Schweitzer not only developed his account of reverence but also lived
his life according to it. Schweitzer declares that his life is his
argument, which is reverence for life, life in all its forms. Woodruff
intends to revive the notion of reverence in global politics and ethics.
So, the article examines the accounts of reverence posited by Goethe,
Russell, Schweitzer, and Woodruff and defends its role as a cardinal
moral and political value vital for politics, education, and religion for
acquiring the common good in the world.