A New Moral Contagion

Paul Tournier, Swiss Christian and psychologist, ends his little book on marriage this way:

Psychology may reveal problems and suggest wise measures to be taken. But the real solution of problems demands a more profound change, one of spiritual nature. It is this change in spirit which the Bible calls 'metanoia,' or 'repentance' . . . .

In view of the proportions which marriage conflicts have taken, we have multiplied courses on marriage preparation and the whole field of marriage counseling has developed. All this is to the good. Yet, it is quite clear that neither courses nor counseling will ever suffice in the face of our present widespread breakdown of marriage. We need more than good counsel. We need a new moral contagion, one which brings about a change in deep-seated attitudes.

--To Understand Each Other, 56