Rushdoony and Scott examine pragmatism, the American form of existentialism, which defines truth by what “works” rather than by God or eternal standards. Pragmatism dominates education, politics, business, law, and even religion, leading to consumer-oriented, self-centered thinking, situation ethics, and the erosion of merit, permanence, and moral restraint. It fosters a society focused on immediate gain, social conformity, and personal advantage, while undermining truth, craftsmanship, and enduring values in art, architecture, and culture.

They note how pragmatism corrodes Christianity, shifting emphasis from God-centered faith to man-centered self-help, and produces spiritual emptiness even in materially prosperous societies. Modern art, music, and literature often reflect this impermanence and superficiality, while historic standards of excellence and beauty are abandoned.

Despite the dominance of pragmatism, Rushdoony and Scott affirm that Christians, grounded in God’s truth and eternity, possess the wisdom, moral clarity, and resilience to endure and reshape culture. They stress that the world’s temporary values will pass, but what is rooted in God will endure, offering hope, purpose, and a secure future.

R.J. Rushdoony and Otto Scott examine Darwin and the cultural impact of evolution, highlighting Michael Denton’s Evolution: A Theory in Crisis, which critiques Darwinian theory from a molecular biology standpoint, concluding that evolution lacks conclusive evidence and serves as a foundational myth for 20th-century secularism. They trace Darwin’s influence as removing purpose and God from natural processes, creating a worldview in which humanity could see itself as self-directing, a concept embraced by Marx and Engels to justify materialistic and social theories.

They discuss the consequences of Darwinian thought on society, science, and morality: it fostered racism, eugenics, and anti-feminism, while elevating science to a quasi-religion that devalues human life and liberty. Language, according to scholars like Robert Keefe, was reinterpreted as merely a biological tool, diminishing its role as a divine gift and as a medium of moral and intellectual expression. This has contributed to the decline of literacy, critical reasoning, and meaningful communication across generations.

Rushdoony and Scott note that while Darwin catalyzed a cultural and intellectual shift, the decline of faith and the rise of secularism were already underway. Christian education and literacy movements now serve as counter-trends, seeking to restore meaning, moral grounding, and the mastery of language. They stress the importance of understanding and responding to the intellectual and moral consequences of Darwinism, arguing that the preservation of culture and truth depends on active Christian engagement.

R.J. Rushdoony and Otto Scott discuss persistent inflation in the U.S., explaining it as an increase in the money supply that benefits debtors at the expense of creditors. Citing Freeman Tilden, they note inflation succeeds when fueled by larceny in the hearts of participants. They trace inflation from Roosevelt’s era to the late 20th century, highlighting how excessive credit, foreign loans, and artificial currency distort the economy and erode trust in money.

They compare historical examples, such as Spain’s gold and John Law’s paper money in France, to show how unearned wealth and currency manipulation weaken societies. Modern banking, subsidies, and international loans perpetuate debt and economic instability.

Despite these challenges, Rushdoony and Scott emphasize the opportunity for Americans to restore stability through work, sound currency, and financial responsibility, noting that Christians must particularly guard against debt, which is a leading cause of personal and societal problems.