Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Tom Thompson on May 18, 2010 at 9:52pm

In order for your argument to be true you would have to ignore instability in the market, the global economy, foreign relations, and a whole lot of other stuff, all of which creates fear and uncertainty which can be used to the advantage of the peddlers of ideology and to the detriment of the ignorant.

Permalink Reply by Rudy Ruddell on May 18, 2010 at 10:27pm

I added the quotation marks that I forgot. You are right about the uncertainty. The article said, that the more hard times there are, the more people turn to their imaginary friend to save them.

Permalink Reply by D.O.S on May 26, 2010 at 10:48am

It should also be taken into account that some people will continue to believe in Religion and/or God simply because they want to. Humans are very skilled at self-delusion. :)

Permalink Reply by Joan Denoo on May 18, 2010 at 10:29pm

For those who live with beliefs based on superstitions, fear of heaven or hell, or fear of a creator, they must acquiesce to something greater than themselves. Looking over one's shoulder is part of the role and asking for permission is another, or conforming to some idea of perfection, or asking for forgiveness is yet another.

For those who live with beliefs of being part of a grand existence, participation frees one from fear and empowers one to rise to one's potential. An atheist doesn't have to seek approval, or submit to dogma, or ask for permission, or according to Eric Stone's "Religion and the Asskiss Factor," make supplications. Atheists do not have to bow down to, make appeals to, or ask forgiveness of any one or thing.

The primary purpose of life is to live! Experience! Explore! Participate! When one's energy stops, life stops. No grand resurrection. No pearly gates. No welcome into a perfect world. No Grim Reaper to escort you there.

Each one of us is created to see, hear, smell, taste, feel, and participate in life to each's fullest capability.

Permalink Reply by Rudy Ruddell on May 18, 2010 at 11:47pm

Well said.

Permalink Reply by Jo Jerome on May 25, 2010 at 7:21pm

"The day I stop learning and growing is the day I die."
- Mom.

She maintained her Christianity until her dying day (Episcopal), but there were a lot of clues that she was at the very least doubtful about the literalness of it all, if not a closet Agnostic.