At the core of the discussion is the distinction between the inner, personal strength of faith and the social foundation—consensus, meaning mutual trust and understanding among people.

Faith and Consensus: The Pillars of Spiritual and Social Stability

At the core of the discussion is the distinction between the inner, personal strength of faith and the social foundation—consensus, meaning mutual trust and understanding among people. Research into these concepts shows that faith, as a free act of will, is crucial for personal spiritual development. For example, one cited passage states:
"Faith is a free act of will; however, at the same time no human will, without the assistance of the Higher's will, can introduce faith into the soul, no matter how much the soul desires it." (source: link txt)

This perspective emphasizes that faith is a deeply personal experience through which one perceives revelation and finds meaning in life. However, personal faith alone cannot provide the foundation for stability and interaction within society.

On the other hand, consensus among people, expressed through mutual trust and shared moral concepts, is the cornerstone of social life. As noted in one of the sources:
"All theories that deduce any forms of communication from the combination of individual selfish wills are false: even typically utilitarian communication based on economic exchange presupposes elementary solidarity, mutual trust between people, otherwise it is either entirely impossible or perishes, manifesting in attempts at mutual robbery." (source: link txt)

And also:
"Every communication presupposes some unity of existence, moral concepts—in short, some mutual 'understanding', the presence of a 'common language'—... Without this commonality there is neither family, nor economic cooperation, nor a state." (source: link txt)

These quotes underline that for society to function normally, a consensus is necessary. This consensus ensures not only collective cooperation but also provides a moral framework that shapes interpersonal relationships. Without mutual trust and shared moral points of reference, any social institution—whether it be family, economic cooperation, or the state—would be at risk of collapse.

Thus, while faith is crucial for the inner life of the individual and can serve as a powerful source of spiritual motivation, it is consensus, manifested through mutual trust and common values, that forms the primary foundation of society. Without this foundation, any attempt to organize stable and just social relations would be doomed to fail.