In the process of adding Albert Camus’ final novel, The Fall, to the literature website, I was struck by the clarity of his perception of the universal sinfulness of man, and in particular his understanding that “all our righteousness is as filthy rags.” While most humanists view man as essentially good and argue that his problems are the fault of society or some other external influence, Camus discerned that even the most noble acts of man are motivated by a deeply-ingrained selfishness. Sadly, though, Camus saw the disease, but not the cure. He leaves the reader with no hope because he refuses to accept the Gospel. In my opinion, the book could provide a useful jumping-off point for a discussion of the human dilemma and its solution in Christ with a secularist.
