See the Prayer Breakfast Speech That’s Grabbing Headlines: Doctor Attacks Political Correctness, National Debt in Front of Obama

One of the more unique speeches delivered at this morning’s National Prayer Breakfast came from Dr. Benjamin S. Carson, a world-renowned pediatric neurosurgeon at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Taking the stage before President Barack Obama’s faith-filled address, Carson spoke for more than 25 minutes, tackling issues ranging from education to personal responsibility. His keynote, while predicated upon the theme of Jesus Christ as his ultimate role model, also took a starkly political tone, advocating against some of the very policies the president has implemented.

At the beginning of his speech, Carson shared an intense disdain for political correctness. Without getting too specific on the issue front, he said that Americans should stop being afraid to speak up and defend their beliefs; he also encouraged people to respect the individuals they disagree with. Carson held little back, condemning political correctness as “a horrible thing” that is “dangerous,” as it hampers freedom of thought and expression.

“We’ve reached a point where people are actually afraid to talk about what they want to say, because somebody might be offended,” Carson said, noting the example of people refraining from saying “Merry Christmas.” “We’ve got to get over this sensitivity and it keeps people from saying what they really believe.”

Carson encouraged discussion about societal issues, also pointing out education as an essential conundrum the country needs to confront. He highlighted his own path from poverty to success, sharing very personal details about his parents and early family life and subsequently described the importance of helping students seeking to advance academically through his Carson Scholars Fund.

The speech took an interesting turn when the doctor cautioned that moral decay and fiscal irresponsibility can have dire consequences — even for powerful countries like America. Here, he became even more pointed and impassioned.

“I think particularly about ancient Rome. Very powerful — nobody could even challenge them militarily…they destroyed themselves from within,” Carson continued. “Moral decay. Fiscal irresponsibility.”

While he said America’s issues are dire, he was positive that the nation can fix its ways, as there are bright and innovative people who simply need to come together to address the problems at hand.

“And one of our big problems right now…our deficit is a big problem,” he said, as Obama watched him intently. ”Think about it — and our national debt — $16 and a half trillion dollars.”

Read More: The Blaze

Dr. Benjamin Carson receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President George W. Bush in 2008 (Photo Credit AP)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The Blaze 7 Fascinating Facts About Dr. Carson — the Prayer Breakfast Speaker Whose Speech in Front of Obama Went Viral

Other video of Dr. Benjamin Carson:

C-SPAN VIDEO: DR CARSON ON HIS BOOK 'AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL' 
 
Ben Carson presented his thoughts on America’s current social and political landscape. 

He examined the similarities between empires that declined and the United States and posited what should be done to deter America from following the same path. 

Dr. Carson talked about his personal formula for success and the philosophy that helped him overcome his obstacles. 

The title of his talk was “Think Big,” which he used as a mnemonic device for his formula for a successful life based on those letters. He also responded to questions from members of the audience. 

This Frank A. Nix Lecture on Ethical Leadership was the keynote speech for the 18th Annual Blackburn Institute Winter Symposium, held at the Birmingham Sheraton Hotel.


The following information is from Dr. Carson's Facebook Page:

For questions related to the Carson Scholars Fund, please email 

 

communications@carsonscholars.org.
Please note that all of Dr. Carson’s speaking engagements are booked through the Washington Speakers Bureau, and all medically-oriented questions should be directed to Johns Hopkins Medicine. 

THINK BIG is Dr. Ben Carson’s philosophy which promotes outstanding academic achievement and dedication to helping others.

T is for Talent/time: Recognize them as gifts.

H Hope for good things and be honest.

I Insight from people and good books.

N Be nice to all people.

K Knowledge: Recognize it as the key to living.

B Books: Read them actively.

I In-depth learning skills: Develop them.

G Dr. Carson’s "G" is for God. Everyone has their own beliefs. When you THINK BIG, what does the "G" stand for in your life?

Contact Info

Phone	(410) 828-1005
Email	communications@carsonscholars.org
Website	http://www.carsonscholars.org