Bishop Robert Barron engaged in a conversation with Tucker Carlson, covering faith, freedom, and technology. The discussion revolved around finding happiness, emphasizing the pursuit of 'the good' and the importance of letting go of ego. They touched upon the concept of freedom, with Barron highlighting the need for purposeful choices. The conversation also explored the impact of technology and its influence on the Church. Barron emphasized that unhappiness often stems from a loss of connection with God.
14 days ago
Bishop Robert Barron, founder of Word on Fire Catholic Ministries, engaged in a wide-ranging discussion with Tucker Carlson, an Episcopalian political commentator, on June 2, 2025 1 2. The interview, prompted by numerous requests to Carlson, delved into various topics concerning faith, culture, and modern challenges 1 2.
The conversation spanned finding happiness, the meaning of freedom, the importance of prayer, the reality of Christian persecution, the impact of technology, and the future direction of the Catholic Church 1 2. These themes provided a framework for Barron to articulate his theological and cultural perspectives.
Barron argued that happiness is found by losing oneself in a great value, specifically God, the "summum bonum" 1 2. He contrasted this with the self-centeredness of the ego, which he described as a "black hole" 1 2. Regarding freedom, Barron posited that it should be "ordered" towards an objective good, not treated as an end in itself 1 2. He suggested that the American founding fathers, while not fully Catholic in their imagination, understood the importance of this ordered freedom 1 2.
Barron emphasized prayer as a means to overcome ego and connect with God 1 2. He described it as a conscious effort to move beyond personal preoccupations and enter into the presence of the divine 1 2. He stressed the transcendent nature of God, noting that God cannot be found as a mere object within the world but is both beyond comprehension and intimately close 1 2. Barron clarified that God doesn't need sacrifices but desires the openness of heart they signify 1 2.
Barron highlighted that the 20th century was the worst in history for Christian martyrs and that Christians remain the most persecuted religious group globally 1 2. He referenced Pope Leo XIII's belief in the devil's influence during the 20th century 1 2. Countering the idea that religion is a primary cause of violence, Barron cited a study indicating that only a small percentage of wars are religiously motivated, emphasizing Christianity's message of forgiving love 1 2.
Barron expressed concern over the addictive nature of smartphones and the correlation between screen time and depression 1 2. While acknowledging that technology is not inherently bad, he cautioned against its use without a grounding moral vision, particularly in the context of artificial intelligence 1 2. He warned against trying to "become God" through technology, which he believes could lead to destructive consequences 1 2.
When asked about the new pontiff, Pope Leo XIV, Barron acknowledged uncertainty but noted the Pope's "interesting gestures" towards traditional Catholics, such as his use of Latin and appearance in the mozzetta 1 2.
The Church addresses freedom, technology, and human happiness.
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In summary, the Church teaches that true freedom is oriented towards goodness and God, technology must be guided by ethical and moral considerations to serve humanity, and ultimate happiness is found in union with God, as reflected in the Beatitudes.