WHAT IS ETHICS OF READING

Ethics of reading is basically an understanding that we must be aware and obligated to know how our thinking is shaped by what we read, how our actions maybe influenced by what we read, and the possible consquences to others in terms of how our thinking may attempt to influence others. It is inferred that ethical reading is strengthened by an informed understanding of the world we live, and being part of the real world where situations exists and changes constantly. We have an obligation to be aware of what is at stake, e.g the Bible can be used as a tool, when it is the source of comfort to someone grieving, or it can be used as a weapon to subjugate other people. We must read the Bible according to the author, as if lives depend on it, and this points to the fact that there is an obligation that exists to be mindful of how what we read, may adversely influence us and subsequently impact others. Ethical reading involves not only exposing what maybe said, but what is unsaid; understanding the period of time, the culture, the society that exists that influences how things are written. It involves understanding who was being addressed, who the target reader is and what inspired the story, such as the Jewish anxiety because of their homelessness and exile. It involves being aware of our own limitations ,our own background, our own expectations, to insure we read as if other lives are at stake.