In his insightful book 'Strange New World', Carl Trueman cautions Christians against the naive optimism that overlooks the dark and chaotic era of modern culture. He emphasizes that contemporary society often challenges individuals, especially those of faith, to remain grounded in their beliefs. Despite the darkness, Trueman also advocates for an 'informed optimism', suggesting that there is a rational basis for believing that Christianity may gain a more serious listening ear in the West in the years to come.

Trueman critiques the past sixty years marked by a tyranny of collective declarations promoting individual autonomy, encapsulated in the mantra 'I belong to myself and no one else'. This philosophy posits that individuals hold absolute authority over their bodily autonomy and life choices, fundamentally redefining social and moral structures. He argues that this rejection of the truth - that we do not belong solely to ourselves - can be assessed through the adverse fruits it has borne in society.

The assertion 'I belong to myself', which has been a rallying cry of the sexual revolution, has drastically changed, and in numerous respects, deteriorated the moral landscape. Trueman urges readers to reflect on the implications of individualism run amok and calls for a re-evaluation of the values that shape not only personal identity but also the broader cultural ethics. This call for introspection and return to Christian tenets is vital as society grapples with the aftermath of rampant individual autonomy.