Theory of
Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought
PEA
ODE JUSTUS
This theory was conceived by Ode Justus during a bipolar type 1 euphoria episode in September 1996.
All copyrights reserved to Oldemar Justus Fernandes Costa.
2025
Summary
1. Introduction
2. Concept of the Term Ecumenical
3. Concept of the Axiomatic Term
4. How to Validate an Axiom
5. The Theory of Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought – PEA
6. The Power of Axiomatic Ecumenical Thinking - PEA
7. The Drugs of Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought - PEA
8. The Promotion of Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought - PEA
9. Final Considerations
10. Glossary
11. About the Author
1. INTRODUCTION
We live in times of extremes. On the one hand, unprecedented scientific, technological and communicational advances. On the other, ideological conflicts, cultural intolerances and ethical crises that threaten our coexistence as a species. We have never had so many means of communicating — and, paradoxically, we have never been so divided.
In light of this scenario, an urgent need arises: to rebuild a positive common ground. A symbolic and ethical place where differences can coexist without canceling each other out, and where human diversity is celebrated as wealth, not as a threat. This search is what underpins the proposal of the Theory of Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought (PEA).
PEA is not a religion, nor an ideology. It is an invitation to positive universal thinking, based on ethical axioms — self-evident principles that do not depend on doctrine or faith to be recognized as valid. It is an attempt to establish a philosophical and existential ecumenism that goes beyond the boundaries of traditional religion and offers humanity a new basis for mutual understanding.
If dogma imposes, axiom proposes.
If dogma excludes, axiom embraces.
If dogma divides, axiom unites.
This theory is based on the principle that it is possible to think in an ecumenical way — that is, open, integrative and universal — and, at the same time, based on elementary ethical truths, which are imposed by reason and human conscience.
Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought was born, therefore, as a response to the fragmentation of the modern world, proposing a new path, based not on absolute beliefs, but on shareable ethical truths. It is, at the same time, a method of thought, a philosophy of coexistence and a proposal for peace.
This book presents this theory in layers. First, it defines the fundamental terms: “ecumenical” and “axiomatic.” Then, it explains the nature of Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought, its premises, and its relationship to infinity, time, truth, and power. Finally, it proposes ways to validate, apply, protect, and disseminate this new way of thinking.
It is not about imposing a new truth on the world. It is about recognizing those truths that were already here — scattered, fragmented — and bringing them together as the foundations of a new, positive collective consciousness.
If the world can be saved, it will be by what unites us, not by what separates us. And what truly unites us, perhaps, is already an axiom waiting to be recognized.
2. CONCEPT OF THE TERM ECUMENICAL
The term "ecumenical" comes from the ancient Greek oikoumenē , meaning "the inhabited earth," or more broadly, "the known world." Originally, it referred to the empire as a whole—the totality of civilizational space under a given order. Over time, especially in the Christian context, the term came to designate the attempt to unify the different Christian churches, aiming to restore communion between separate doctrines and traditions.
However, to limit ecumenism to the religious sphere—and more specifically, to Christianity—is to reduce its deeper potential. At the heart of the word “ecumenical” is the idea of universal inclusiveness. Ecumenism, in its fullest sense, is the human effort to recognize the other as a legitimate part of the same world we inhabit.
Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought proposes the recovery and expansion of this meaning. It goes beyond confessional ecumenism (between churches) and proposes a philosophical and ethical ecumenism that crosses religions, cultures, ideologies and worldviews. An ecumenism that does not require a common belief, but rather the recognition of fundamental, shareable values — the axioms of human coexistence.
From theological ecumenism to existential ecumenism
In recent history, ecumenism has been linked to interfaith forums, theological conferences, and inter-doctrinal dialogues. But the 21st century demands something more: an existential ecumenism that recognizes that all human beings—regardless of faith, color, language, orientation, or origin—share the same condition: we are fragile, temporal, and interdependent.
This new ecumenism does not arise from religious agreement, but from the awareness that we inhabit the same house — the planet, history, humanity. And that, therefore, we cannot continue building walls where we should be building bridges.
Ecumenism as an attitude, not as a doctrine
In this context, being ecumenical is more than accepting others: it is choosing to live with them in respect, even when there is disagreement. It is realizing that truth can have multiple expressions, without this meaning absolute relativism. Ecumenism, therefore, is not a new religion, but an ethic of encounter.
It is this ecumenical spirit — broad, inclusive, dialogic — that the PEA adopts as one of its foundations. The theory does not require anyone to abandon their faith, philosophy or tradition. It simply proposes that all these ways of seeing the world be based on a common ground of ethical axioms, so that dialogue between them is possible, profound and transformative.
3. CONCEPT OF THE AXIOMATIC TERM
The term “axiomatic” comes from the ancient Greek axiōma (ἀξίωμα), meaning “that which is considered worthy,” “that which is self-evident.” In classical philosophy and mathematics, an axiom is a fundamental proposition that does not need to be proven—it is accepted as true on the basis of its clarity, universality, or self-evident character.
Greek philosophy, especially Aristotle, already worked with axioms as principles of logical thought. A classic example is the principle of non-contradiction: “a thing cannot be and not be at the same time under the same aspect” . This type of axiom is not only accepted — it is necessary for any logical reasoning to be possible.
In modern mathematics, axioms form the starting point of entire systems. They are not discussed as absolute truths in themselves, but as fundamental propositions from which the rest of the system is built.
However, Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought (AEP) proposes an expansion of this concept: from the logical axiom to the ethical and existential axiom.
The axiom as an ethical foundation
The central question of PEA is: what are the ethical principles that can be recognized as true without the need for dogmatic imposition?
These axioms are not religious, scientific or ideological truths — they are universal principles of human coexistence, such as:
- Every life is worthy of respect.
- The suffering of others matters.
- Freedom of thought is essential to dignity.
- Evil is overcome with good.
Such propositions do not require faith to be accepted, nor scientific proof. They impose themselves on the ethical conscience because they are, in themselves, self-evident to any spirit willing to dialogue and empathy.
The difference between axiom and dogma
It is essential to distinguish axiom from dogma:
AXIOM | DOGMA |
It arises from reason and ethics | It arises from authority and revelation |
It is proposed to dialogue | It is imposed on obedience |
Can be accepted by multiple traditions | You are stuck in a single doctrine |
It is the basis for building coexistence | It often serves to define boundaries |
The axiom, therefore, does not demand submission—it invites reflection. And when it is accepted, not out of fear or blind faith, but out of conscious recognition, it becomes a bridge between different worlds, a solid basis for ecumenical thought.
The role of axioms in PEA
In the Theory of Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought, axioms function as common foundations for the construction of a global ethic. They are what allow people from different cultures, beliefs or ideologies to find common ground on which to think, dialogue and act together.
Just as mathematics is built on invisible but fundamental axioms, PEA seeks to rebuild the human world on simple but essential principles—those that can still unite us, even when everything else seems to divide us.
4. HOW TO VALIDATE AN AXIOM
The strength of an axiomatic system lies in the quality of its foundations. If an axiom is weak, obscure or biased, everything built on it loses consistency. Therefore, in the context of Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought (AEP), validating an axiom is an exercise of extreme philosophical and ethical responsibility.
The PEA does not accept axioms by tradition, authority or revelation. An axiom, within this theory, needs to be recognized as universal and self-evident by human reason in dialogue with ethical conscience.
Validation Criteria for an Axiom in the PEA
For a proposition to be considered an ecumenical axiom, it must meet, at a minimum, the following criteria:
1. Ethical Universality
The principle must be able to be accepted as valid by any human being, regardless of culture, religion, nationality or political system.
Valid example: “All life has dignity.”
Invalid example: “My faith is the only truth.”
2. Rational self-evidence
The proposition must be clear, without the need for external proof or demonstration. When stated, it must resonate with reason and sensitivity as something true in itself.
Example: “The unjust suffering of another human being cannot be indifferent.”
3. Independence from dogmas
The axiom cannot depend on a specific doctrine, a religious authority or a closed worldview. It needs to be recognizable outside theological or ideological contexts.
An axiom should not require faith, but rather lucidity and empathy.
4. Ability to generate coexistence
The axiom must be fertile ground for dialogue, for justice, for building bridges. Its acceptance must contribute to the improvement of human relations and the reduction of tensions and violence.
An axiom is not used to win arguments, but to open paths to understanding.
5. Consistency with other axioms
Within the PEA, axioms must support each other without contradicting each other. A new axiom must harmonize with those already recognized, contributing to the whole of thought.
The axiomatic ecosystem must be logically consistent and ethically cohesive.
Validation is a rational and collective process
Unlike dogmas, which require individual submission, PEA axioms are validated in an environment of listening, dialogue and constructive criticism. No axiom is imposed — all must pass the test of shared reason.
The PEA proposes that human beings, as thinking and ethical beings, have the capacity to recognize fundamental points common to existence, even in the face of the greatest cultural differences.
Validating an axiom, therefore, is an act of humility and wisdom. It is recognizing that some truths are not the property of anyone, because they belong to everyone.
5. THE THEORY OF AXIOMATIC ECUMENICAL THOUGHT – PEA
The Theory of Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought (AEP) arises from the urgent need to rethink human coexistence from a new starting point. In a world fragmented by dogmas, interests and polarizations, the AEP proposes a common, solid, rational and ethical basis: the universal axioms of dignity, peace and positive coexistence.
The PEA is a philosophy of reconciliation, which seeks possible union — not by imposing a single truth, but by discovering self-evident and ethical principles that all free human consciences can recognize. It starts from a double observation:
- The world is divided, but we all belong to it.
- Human reason, in dialogue with empathy, can recognize essential truths that are independent of religion, culture or ideology.
What is PEA?
Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought is:
- Thought : because it arises from the conscious use of reason, positive critical reflection and openness to positive dialogue;
- Ecumenical : because it transcends religious, cultural and ideological boundaries, seeking a broad and integrative vision of existence;
- Axiomatic : because it is based on universal ethical principles, which do not depend on faith or proof, but on the clarity with which they impose themselves on human conscience.
What does the PEA propose?
The PEA proposes that humanity adopt a new matrix of thought based on axioms that can be validated by ethical reason and the common good.
It replaces the confrontation between dogmas with the recognition of minimal and essential truths for life in society.
The PEA denies negativity, always seeking positivity in thinking. After all, for evolution to occur, something must be denied. In the case of the PEA, negativity is denied.
It is about establishing what is essential for us to live together — even in our differences.
Example of axioms in PEA
Some examples of ecumenical axioms that can serve as a basis for this theory:
- Human dignity is universal : All human beings have dignity and value, regardless of their origin, culture or beliefs.
- Compassion is fundamental : Compassion and empathy are essential to building healthy and harmonious relationships between people.
- Truth is multifaceted : Truth can be perceived in different ways, and it is important to consider multiple perspectives to better understand reality.
- Cooperation is essential : Cooperation and teamwork are essential to achieve common goals and overcome challenges.
- Diversity is enriching : The diversity of cultures, beliefs and perspectives is a source of wealth and learning for humanity.
- Justice is universal : Justice and equality are fundamental principles that must be respected in all cultures and societies.
- The search for wisdom is continuous : The search for wisdom and knowledge is an ongoing process that requires openness, curiosity and humility.
- Empathy is the basis of understanding : Understanding and sharing the feelings of others is fundamental to building healthy relationships.
- Humanity is interconnected : All human beings are connected and interdependent, and our actions impact each other.
- Freedom of thought is essential : Freedom of thought and expression is fundamental for individual and collective development.
- Gratitude is a universal virtue : Gratitude and appreciation for the good things in life are universal and can bring people together.
- Responsibility is shared : Everyone has responsibility for their actions and the well-being of others.
- The pursuit of peace is a common goal : Peace and harmony are common goals that can be achieved through dialogue and cooperation.
- Authenticity is key : Being authentic and true to yourself and others is key to building healthy relationships.
- Learning is an ongoing process : Learning and growth are ongoing processes that require openness and curiosity.
- Solidarity is a strength : Solidarity and mutual support are essential to overcome challenges and achieve common goals.
- Compassion is a universal language : Compassion and empathy can transcend cultural and linguistic barriers.
These axioms are not laws or commandments. They are ethical starting points that, once recognized, can guide political decisions, social relations, individual conduct and even religious or scientific thought.
A possible path for humanity
The PEA does not deny religious traditions, nor does it combat science, nor does it oppose philosophy. It engages in dialogue with all of this, offering a common ground where humans can recognize themselves in others, even when they think differently.
It is a proposal for reconstruction — not of absolute truth, but of the possibility of true coexistence. It is an invitation to rational action in a fraternal spirit.
The world does not need a new religion. It needs a new consciousness — and it can begin with the simple recognition that some truths are not imposed by force, but by lucidity.
This is the heart of the Theory of Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought.
6. THE POWER OF AXIOMATIC ECUMENICAL THOUGHT – PEA
Every theory that aims to touch the heart of humanity must go beyond the limits of abstract reflection and reach concrete life. The Theory of Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought (AEP) arises from a commitment: to make thought an ethical and unifying force, capable of transforming consciences, relationships and societies.
The power of moral clarity
The first power of the PEA lies in its clarity of principles. By replacing dogmas with axioms, the PEA allows human beings to orient themselves without submission.
- Dogma demands blind belief.
- The axiom invites active lucidity.
This subtle change is a silent revolution: the individual ceases to be a follower and becomes a conscious moral agent. He does not act out of fear of punishment or the promise of reward, but because he recognizes the value of good as self-evident.
The power of unity without domination
The second power of the PEA lies in its radical ecumenical character. By seeking common ground between different cultures, philosophies and spiritualities, it does not impose uniformity, but recognizes the dignity of diversity.
Unity does not lie in the fusion of differences, but in the acceptance that there are values that cross all borders.
This makes the PEA a force for reconciliation between peoples, religions, ideologies and social classes. It points to a coexistence based not on what separates us, but on what is undeniable to all: the dignity of life, the search for justice, the right to exist.
The power to reorganize systems
The PEA is also a project for the reorganization of civilization. It proposes that politics, economics, education, science and spirituality must be subject to universal ethical axioms.
A policy that denies human dignity is not legitimate.
An economy that generates hunger is immoral.
A religion that separates is contradictory.
Thus, the PEA offers an ethical compass to review existing systems and propose new paths based on equity, peace and the sustainability of planetary life.
The power of ethical autonomy
On an individual level, PEA empowers human beings with a silent and profound power: to think freely and act consciously.
- He doesn't tell you what to think.
- It teaches how to think based on solid, ethical and universal principles.
The result is a human being who is less manipulable, more coherent, more empathetic and more willing to dialogue.
Not a blind believer, nor a paralyzed skeptic, but a thinker in motion.
The power to regenerate the human
Ultimately, the AEP has the power to regenerate our common humanity. In a world marked by conflict, polarization, fanaticism and dehumanization, this theory rescues the basis of what makes us truly human: the ability to understand others without needing to dominate them.
Thinking ecumenically based on axioms is a revolutionary act.
It is saying: "I recognize in you a worthy being, even if we do not think the same."
And this, today, is one of the greatest powers we can generate in the world.
The power of Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought lies in its lucid simplicity and its ethical radicality. It does not seek to dominate, but to illuminate. It does not seek to impose, but to propose.
And for that very reason, its impact can be immense.
A true, fair and shared idea has the power to move civilizations.
7. THE DRUGS OF AXIOMATIC ECUMENICAL THOUGHT – PEA
Every theory, even one based on the most solid principles, faces internal and external dangers that can corrupt its purpose. In the case of Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought (AEP), these threats are the so-called “drugs of thought” — addictions, dependencies, and illusions that divert thought from its true function: the search for truth, ethics, and unity.
1. Dogmatism
Even thought that claims to be free can fall into dogmatism when an axiom is transformed into a rigid, unquestionable and inflexible rule.
- This generates what the PEA calls “authoritarian axiomatism”.
- An axiom must be a foundation.
The cure lies in the practice of continuous self-criticism and openness to dialogue.
2. Extreme relativism
At the opposite extreme, thought can be poisoned by relativism, which denies any universal truth and turns everything into subjective opinion.
- This creates a “dead zone” where nothing can be asserted.
- The PEA rejects absolute relativism, as it paralyzes ethical action.
The challenge is to maintain a balance between plural openness and the firmness of axiomatically solid principles.
3. Fanaticism of tolerance
Tolerance, a central value in the PEA, can become a drug when it becomes blind tolerance, which accepts everything without criteria, including that which violates human dignity.
- This fanaticism of tolerance is a form of denial of the very axiom of universal dignity.
- The PEA advocates responsible and critical tolerance, which knows how to say “no” when necessary.
4. Intellectual authoritarianism
Another poison for the PEA is intellectual authoritarianism, when someone uses the discourse of reason to dominate and exclude.
- This destroys the ecumenical spirit and open dialogue.
- Axiomatically grounded ecumenical thought is humble and welcoming.
5. Inertia and conformism
Finally, thinking can be addicted to inertia, to passive conformism, which accepts the status quo out of fear or laziness.
- PEA requires courage to question unjust structures and to take action.
- Thought without action is empty, and ethics without courage is a mask.
“Thought drugs” are traps that threaten the transformative power of Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought. Recognizing them is the first step to keeping thought clean, free and strong.
The PEA is an invitation to ethical vigilance, balance and the constant practice of positive critical reflection, so that the light of axioms is not extinguished in the face of the evil in the world.
8. PROMOTING AXIOMATIC ECUMENICAL THOUGHT – PEA
For Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought (AEP) to not be just an isolated idea, but a living force capable of transforming consciousness and realities, it is essential to understand how to foster it. Fostering is the process that creates favorable conditions for this theory to flourish, expand and consolidate itself in the social and cultural fabric.
Education as a primary basis
Education is the fertile soil where the PEA can grow.
- It must be inclusive and plural, capable of presenting axioms as universal ethical foundations, without imposing dogmas.
- Education must encourage critical thinking, empathy and the ability to dialogue.
- Promote intercultural and interreligious knowledge, so that the ecumenical idea becomes a concrete experience.
Continuous and open dialogue
The PEA is only strengthened through dialogue between different people, groups and cultures.
- Encourage spaces for debate without prejudice, where the axiom manifests itself as a meeting point, not a point of confrontation.
- Value active listening, intellectual humility and respect for differences.
Clear and accessible communication
To reach everyone, the PEA needs to be communicated in a clear, simple and accessible way, without excessive jargon or elitist language.
- Use multiple channels — from traditional media to social media — to disseminate your principles.
- Create educational materials, events, lectures, books and digital media that connect theory to everyday life.
Building networks and partnerships
Promoting the PEA requires the formation of collaborative networks between educational and religious institutions, NGOs, social movements and public bodies.
- These partnerships enhance collective action.
- They facilitate the integration of axioms into social, political and cultural practice.
Practice and example
No theory can be consolidated without practice. PEA needs to be lived in everyday life:
- In attitudes of respect and justice.
- In public policies based on ethical axioms.
- In social projects that promote inclusion and peace.
Personal and community example is the seed that generates real transformation.
Constant renewal and adaptation
Finally, fostering PEA requires that the theory be open to renewal and adaptation, responding to the challenges and changes in the world.
- Axiomatization must be dynamic, following new contexts.
- Ecumenical thought must engage in dialogue with scientific, cultural and social advances.
Promoting Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought is cultivating a new ethical culture, a new way of existing in community and on the planet.
9. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS
The Theory of Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought (PEA) is not just an intellectual construction. It is a call for a profound transformation of thought, ethics and human coexistence.
The challenge
It is not enough to know this theory; it is necessary to live its principles, apply them in everyday life and spread them with courage and clarity. Real change begins with a transformation of perspective, the practice of dialogue and the continuous search for universal ethics.
The hope
We live in times of profound crises — social, political, environmental and spiritual — that demand new and bold responses. Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought is a proposal to respond to these challenges, offering a path of reconciliation, rationality and respect.
The invitation
This is an invitation to you, reader and thinker, to join this journey.
To cultivate the axioms of universal ethics, to practice the ecumenism of understanding and respect, to be an active agent in the construction of a more just and supportive world.
“Truth is no one’s property, but everyone’s property. And in it lies the greatest power: the power to transform and unite us.”
10. GLOSSARY
Axiom
A fundamental principle considered self-evident, which serves as the basis for constructing a logical or ethical system. In the EAP, it is a universal value that guides thought and action.
Dogma
Proposition imposed as absolute and unquestionable truth, generally by religious or political institutions, which does not admit doubt or dispute.
Ecumenism
Movement or attitude that seeks unity and dialogue between different religions, cultures and beliefs, valuing respect for diversity.
Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought (AEP)
Theory created by Ode Justus that unites ecumenism with the axiomatization of ethics and thought, proposing universal principles for human union based on reason, respect and ethics.
Universal Ethical Principle
A value or rule that is recognized as valid and fair by all people, regardless of their cultural, religious or personal beliefs.
Relativism
Philosophical view that denies the existence of universal truths, arguing that truth depends on the point of view or context.
Responsible Tolerance
Attitude of respect and acceptance of differences, which recognizes ethical limits to preserve human dignity and justice.
Dialogicity
Ability and practice of engaging in open, respectful and constructive dialogue with different points of view.
Unity in Diversity
Concept that recognizes the harmonious coexistence of different cultures, beliefs and ideas, maintaining diversity without losing ethical and human communion.
11. ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Oldemar Justus Fernandes Costa, also known as Ode Justus, is the creator and idealizer of the Theory of Axiomatic Ecumenical Thought (PEA).
Contact the Author: oldemarjustus@gmail.com
