Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

Funandfondles comments on Jan 29, 2018:

No free will, but so random it might as well be free will. We will never know if we do or don’t have free will, I vote it does not matter, they have the same effect.

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 4, 2018:

@Funandfondles More than half the people here and in my experience well over 90% of the general population think they do. Anyone you've ever heard utter that awful phrase "pull yourself up by your own bootstraps" is part of that group, too.

PROSTITUTES and PORNSTARS So, I've had this conversation with several people, and I have yet to ...

AxeElf comments on Feb 3, 2018:

"The distinction is a very fine one and comes down to a string of cases finding that porn performances actually constitute acting subject to the artistic expression protections of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. Thus, the distinction is that, at least in theory, porn stars are...

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 4, 2018:

@AxeElf My bad. That may have sounded mean? It wasn't intended that way. I just know some people get really passionate about there being a distinction (not really sure why) so I was hoping some would be here to give me their personal take.

Has anyone realised that the half way point between Levels 7 and 8 is almost the same as the half ...

ChestRockfield comments on Feb 4, 2018:

Mathematically, that's impossible, but yeah, there's exponential growth.

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 4, 2018:

@Rugglesby The only bad part is that it's just as beneficial to be thought-provoking an inquisitive as it is to be a provocative racist shitbag. Luckily, admin weeds them out pretty effectively.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

birdingnut comments on Feb 3, 2018:

If you subscribe to "we create our own reality," then you must take responsibility for your life and outcomes. If you want something different, then think differently. If you just believe in free will, then you can only choose among the available choices presented, but you are otherwise helpless, ...

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 4, 2018:

@birdingnut Unfortunately, I disagree with that as well. There are some things people believe that we should collectively admonish them for in an effort to eradicate them. Your beliefs on free will do not fall into that category, but sadly, some beliefs do.

PROSTITUTES and PORNSTARS So, I've had this conversation with several people, and I have yet to ...

Leutrelle comments on Feb 3, 2018:

The government gets their cut from the legal porn industry. They should legalize prostitution and set guide lines and have health check ups. O ya then the government can get their cut. The religious will fight this one, but I wonder how the porn industry through. O ya people only watch;)

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 4, 2018:

@Leutrelle Fair enough. Like I said, I've argued this a lot. I was hoping a group of next level thinkers would have a better chance of making heads or tails of this sitch.

PROSTITUTES and PORNSTARS So, I've had this conversation with several people, and I have yet to ...

AxeElf comments on Feb 3, 2018:

"The distinction is a very fine one and comes down to a string of cases finding that porn performances actually constitute acting subject to the artistic expression protections of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. Thus, the distinction is that, at least in theory, porn stars are...

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 4, 2018:

@AxeElf Again, there is no contention that there's not a legal distinction. I was asking for a fundamental, functional distinction. I thought maybe this environment would be able to dig a little deeper... Was my intention in this endeavor unclear?

PROSTITUTES and PORNSTARS So, I've had this conversation with several people, and I have yet to ...

Leutrelle comments on Feb 3, 2018:

The government gets their cut from the legal porn industry. They should legalize prostitution and set guide lines and have health check ups. O ya then the government can get their cut. The religious will fight this one, but I wonder how the porn industry through. O ya people only watch;)

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 3, 2018:

@Dakoda2017 It's illegal to sell organs that you can give away for free. Do you think people should be allowed to sell their organs?

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

birdingnut comments on Feb 3, 2018:

If you subscribe to "we create our own reality," then you must take responsibility for your life and outcomes. If you want something different, then think differently. If you just believe in free will, then you can only choose among the available choices presented, but you are otherwise helpless, ...

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 3, 2018:

@birdingnut I don't believe any of those 3. You can try that...

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

jayneonacobb comments on Jan 29, 2018:

Nature vs. Nurture in sheep's clothing. It's a combination. I don't will myself to react to something on reflexes, but I can choose to hone them, or not. I can choose to post this, or I could not. It depends on what you're talking about, specifically.

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 3, 2018:

@jayneonacobb In no way is my argument claiming necessity of a divine power.

PROSTITUTES and PORNSTARS So, I've had this conversation with several people, and I have yet to ...

Leutrelle comments on Feb 3, 2018:

The government gets their cut from the legal porn industry. They should legalize prostitution and set guide lines and have health check ups. O ya then the government can get their cut. The religious will fight this one, but I wonder how the porn industry through. O ya people only watch;)

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 3, 2018:

Getting taxes doesn't show a fundamental difference. If they taxed prostitution or didn't tax porn the argument would be invalidated. I need a fundamental difference.

PROSTITUTES and PORNSTARS So, I've had this conversation with several people, and I have yet to ...

AxeElf comments on Feb 3, 2018:

"The distinction is a very fine one and comes down to a string of cases finding that porn performances actually constitute acting subject to the artistic expression protections of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. Thus, the distinction is that, at least in theory, porn stars are...

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 3, 2018:

None of that is a cogent counterargument. And I hate responding to nothing but quoted material, (as if I hadn't already tested my theories against generic Googleable information) but I'll present a scenario that completely invalidates all of that. An executive producer (pimp) contacts an associate producer ("the money" and "the John" ) about the production of a porn film. The associate producer wants to fund the project that will cost $300, but as an "aspiring actor" also wishes to star in the film. The executive producer agrees and states he's willing to pay the associate producer a fee of $50 for his role. He hires a pornstar (one of his prostitutes) to play opposite the associate producer in the film. Rehearsals begin for the film (the John and prostitute have sex) to assess chemistry and gauge whether or not the production of the film will produce an economically viable product. The executive producer decides that the film will not recoup losses of production and and halts production of the film.

What's a good romantic gift someone could give you?

AMGT comments on Feb 3, 2018:

A hand written love letter.. A single French tulip.. I can’t think of anything else

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 3, 2018:

A slice of cake from a bakery clear on the other side of the country?

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

atheist comments on Jan 29, 2018:

Chance, choice, circumstance interacting in a feedback loop! Call it free determinism! :)

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 3, 2018:

@atheist But you aren't free to choose anything, ever.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

Funandfondles comments on Jan 29, 2018:

No free will, but so random it might as well be free will. We will never know if we do or don’t have free will, I vote it does not matter, they have the same effect.

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 3, 2018:

@Funandfondles Do you think there would be a difference in how we treat said prisoner if we all recognized free will was an illusion? If you or a loved one was the prisoner for whom the severity and cruelty of sentence were being contemplated, would it make a difference then?

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

birdingnut comments on Feb 3, 2018:

If you subscribe to "we create our own reality," then you must take responsibility for your life and outcomes. If you want something different, then think differently. If you just believe in free will, then you can only choose among the available choices presented, but you are otherwise helpless, ...

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 3, 2018:

So where do you stand?

@BeeHappy posted a ten-minute video on the topic "The Bible Is Mostly Not Factual" in which a ...

Stella-Luna comments on Feb 1, 2018:

As long as you don't push your beliefs on me I'm fine. Believe what you want but don't infringe on the rights of others.

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 2, 2018:

@AxeElf I guess as long as you don't donate to any of the obvious sources like churches you can say that.

@BeeHappy posted a ten-minute video on the topic "The Bible Is Mostly Not Factual" in which a ...

Stella-Luna comments on Feb 1, 2018:

As long as you don't push your beliefs on me I'm fine. Believe what you want but don't infringe on the rights of others.

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 1, 2018:

@AxeElf You probably support political parties and candidates without even knowing it. It's almost impossible not to. But you can think what you like.

"The things you own end up owning you" - From Fight Club A rail against capitalism and for always...

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 27, 2018:

He said from his phone... I don't know, this kinda seems like a dilemma only well-off individuals would have. I mean, could you imagine saying this to a homeless person living in Cleveland in the middle of winter?

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 1, 2018:

@DreadlySmart I disagree that you can claim both sides of the arbitrary point of equilibrium are varying degrees of the same problem. They would, necessarily, be degrees of opposite problems. In your examples you didn't say one person lost a family member and the other person had too many living relatives, or that one man is bleeding to death and the other man's blood counts are higher than normal. See how your examples were not analogous?

@BeeHappy posted a ten-minute video on the topic "The Bible Is Mostly Not Factual" in which a ...

Stella-Luna comments on Feb 1, 2018:

As long as you don't push your beliefs on me I'm fine. Believe what you want but don't infringe on the rights of others.

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 1, 2018:

@AxeElf Everyone that votes or supports organizations that support candidates legislates indirectly.

@BeeHappy posted a ten-minute video on the topic "The Bible Is Mostly Not Factual" in which a ...

Leutrelle comments on Feb 1, 2018:

I have respect for what people believe or understand. I am not one of the angry ones. Rational is better, but not every one has been educated to be rational. I figure that many folks change and learn as they walk on life's path, so I don't demean, or judge people based on what they believe. If they ...

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 1, 2018:

@Leutrelle they may not have overturn Roe v Wade, but they have made it exceedingly difficult to get abortions in certain areas of the country. https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.washingtonpost.com/amphtml/news/the-fix/wp/2016/06/01/14-states-have-passed-laws-making-it-harder-to-get-an-abortion-already-this-year/#ampshare=https://washingtonpost.com/news/the-fix/wp/2016/06/01/14-states-have-passed-laws-making-it-harder-to-get-an-abortion-already-this-year/

@BeeHappy posted a ten-minute video on the topic "The Bible Is Mostly Not Factual" in which a ...

Leutrelle comments on Feb 1, 2018:

I have respect for what people believe or understand. I am not one of the angry ones. Rational is better, but not every one has been educated to be rational. I figure that many folks change and learn as they walk on life's path, so I don't demean, or judge people based on what they believe. If they ...

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 1, 2018:

@Leutrelle It'll be too late then. There are already religious based laws that suck. In my opinion, that's kinda like starting to use condoms after you already have an STI...

@BeeHappy posted a ten-minute video on the topic "The Bible Is Mostly Not Factual" in which a ...

Stella-Luna comments on Feb 1, 2018:

As long as you don't push your beliefs on me I'm fine. Believe what you want but don't infringe on the rights of others.

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 1, 2018:

They legislate their beliefs. How is this not pushing their beliefs on others?

Transgender and Bathrooms

Dwight comments on Jan 29, 2018:

Many restrooms up here are unisex because we don't have the space or money to make two or more restrooms. You are correct about the stalls. Transgenders are not anybody's problem except for religionist perverts who wish to belittle them. Woman have a point about the seats, but men could sit just as ...

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 1, 2018:

Women can just as easily put it down and then up as men could put it up and then down. Never understood why the moving of the seat is solely the man's responsibility. Technically if everyone was responsible for putting the seat in their own desired configuration, there would statistically be less total moves of the seat necessary. How has society not figured this out yet?

Am I too young?

Rudy1962 comments on Feb 1, 2018:

I don't have any advice on dating. However, it's interesting you get accused of being a Trump supporter for not being "a hard left liberal.". I suppose I could be classified as "a hard left liberal" and I have been accused of being a Trump supporter for complaining about the Democratic Party.. You ...

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 1, 2018:

When the stakes are high enough, I agree with that line of thinking. The problem was that not enough people realized this. Abstaining from the vote because your being a pouty bitch is the same thing as a vote for Trump, and switching sides is essentially 2 votes, which is probably why he won.

Am I too young?

Rudy1962 comments on Feb 1, 2018:

I don't have any advice on dating. However, it's interesting you get accused of being a Trump supporter for not being "a hard left liberal.". I suppose I could be classified as "a hard left liberal" and I have been accused of being a Trump supporter for complaining about the Democratic Party.. You ...

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 1, 2018:

@WizardBill Bernie wasn't subjected to opposition research from the RNC like Clinton was. People tend to forget that in their assertion that he'd have won the general.

@BeeHappy posted a ten-minute video on the topic "The Bible Is Mostly Not Factual" in which a ...

Dee13 comments on Feb 1, 2018:

I think what we have forgotten is how to critical think objectively when it comes to religion and our response to it - which has been hard when we all have had "scripted" roles within society which gives the unawakened a sense of safety..and the awakened an injustice of being prosecuted for having a...

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 1, 2018:

@AxeElf Check the history of the edits, you'll see what she's talking about.

@BeeHappy posted a ten-minute video on the topic "The Bible Is Mostly Not Factual" in which a ...

Lisav1961 comments on Feb 1, 2018:

I am a firm believer in “Live and Let Live” . Everyone has the right to believe as they want to believe, but so do I.

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 1, 2018:

Does that include *all* beliefs?

@BeeHappy posted a ten-minute video on the topic "The Bible Is Mostly Not Factual" in which a ...

Hominid comments on Feb 1, 2018:

Rational faith is not rational... that's an oxymoron IMHO. The most placid believer still - by default - tacitly supports the *very* irrational aspects of their scriptures, even though they say otherwise. The reason is this: that class of believer provides safe harbour for the extremist zealots ...

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 1, 2018:

It appears as though we were both typing almost the exact same response at the same time...

@BeeHappy posted a ten-minute video on the topic "The Bible Is Mostly Not Factual" in which a ...

Rugglesby comments on Feb 1, 2018:

I wouldn't worry as much if those idiots didn't vote or run for office. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ih1EuMLspY

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 1, 2018:

@AxeElf Precisely my point. I think the position attracts assholes, not creates them.

@BeeHappy posted a ten-minute video on the topic "The Bible Is Mostly Not Factual" in which a ...

Heathen2 comments on Feb 1, 2018:

"1984" and many other novels are/were not factual, but contain a lot of "truth". The books of the bible were written over a long period of time by many people, with a different standard of "truth" than, say, mathematics or the scientific method. It would be remarkable if not a single bible story ...

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 1, 2018:

@AxeElf Are you pretending you don't notice the parallel to your argument, or did it actually not register? It's hard to tell in text.

@BeeHappy posted a ten-minute video on the topic "The Bible Is Mostly Not Factual" in which a ...

Heathen2 comments on Feb 1, 2018:

"1984" and many other novels are/were not factual, but contain a lot of "truth". The books of the bible were written over a long period of time by many people, with a different standard of "truth" than, say, mathematics or the scientific method. It would be remarkable if not a single bible story ...

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 1, 2018:

@AxeElf Hey, there's this new drug they're calling yellow death. It's incredibly addictive and it's already killed countless people. *But it has a practical application! In very small doses it relieves pain in terminal cancer patients.* Sure, I guess that's technically true, but studies have shown equivalent levels of pain relief from meds that are currently on the market that are far less deadly and addictive. *Well, we shouldn't worry about all the people that are misusing it and dying because of it. We should tolerate it because a few people may use it responsibly.*

@BeeHappy posted a ten-minute video on the topic "The Bible Is Mostly Not Factual" in which a ...

Rugglesby comments on Feb 1, 2018:

I wouldn't worry as much if those idiots didn't vote or run for office. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ih1EuMLspY

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 1, 2018:

@AxeElf Being a politician isn't what makes them awful. Trump wasn't a politician and he is one of the most vile piles of human garbage that has ever held public office.

@BeeHappy posted a ten-minute video on the topic "The Bible Is Mostly Not Factual" in which a ...

Leutrelle comments on Feb 1, 2018:

I have respect for what people believe or understand. I am not one of the angry ones. Rational is better, but not every one has been educated to be rational. I figure that many folks change and learn as they walk on life's path, so I don't demean, or judge people based on what they believe. If they ...

ChestRockfield replies on Feb 1, 2018:

Even if they don't argue with you verbally, don't you think that trying to enact laws based on their religion that can affect you in a way you don't like is a way of quarreling with you?

Do we really value free speech anymore?

GrantSmith comments on Jan 31, 2018:

Freedom of speech does not protect you from what other people do. It protects you from being the subject of punitive action on behalf of the government because of your speech. It does not give people protection from having what they say challenged, shouted down, cut off, or even banned from ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

@Lancer Again, it depends on the content.

Do we really value free speech anymore?

JackPedigo comments on Jan 30, 2018:

Freedom of speech is limited to exclude threats or promotion of violence. When someone promotes illegal or violent action one should be stopped. As far as the problem about speaking out to controversial topics go I have been there many times. Just because someone doesn't want to hear something ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

@JackPedigo Regardless of what your friend wants, he is either abiding the reduction in his freedoms, or all of his freedom will likely be taken away. If they have a governing body, (which is the way I stated it). But if you mean only two people, and no others to enforce any rules, basically all you have is a gentleman's agreement, which either person could technically break at any time.

Atheists Are Brainwashed By The Scientific Method

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 30, 2018:

Well, I would have lost all my money... As I read that, I was SURE that was an Onion article; I would have bet my bottom dollar. Aside from content, it even reads like one. These people are comically stupid.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

@Douglas Phew! Given how sure I was it was a joke, I probably should have clicked the link, even though I despise clicking links.

RIGHT NOW ON AN EXTREMELY LO-CARB DIET AND REALLY CRAVING SOME FOOD PORN.

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 28, 2018:

Here's a few things I made for myself in the past several weeks.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

@melyanna The bread is vegan... The other pictures have lamb, pig, chicken, and cow products.

Do we really value free speech anymore?

JackPedigo comments on Jan 30, 2018:

Freedom of speech is limited to exclude threats or promotion of violence. When someone promotes illegal or violent action one should be stopped. As far as the problem about speaking out to controversial topics go I have been there many times. Just because someone doesn't want to hear something ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

@JackPedigo You're proving my point for me. Explain to me a system of governing for even the smallest population that wouldn't necessarily restrict freedoms. You can't do it. Even if there was only one family per square mile, any time they would meet there would need to be rules restricting freedom for the sake of harmony.

Should I expose a would be cheater?

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 30, 2018:

She's already cheating. The infidelity happens when the person decides to cheat, not when uglies get bumped. If you like the husband, it depends on how you think he'll take it whether or not you should tell him. If you don't, go get you some. Two guys who routinely called me a faggot had to find ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

@Atheistman You're not making any sense. Please let OP describe his own situation.

Do we really value free speech anymore?

Trajan61 comments on Jan 30, 2018:

We have freedom of speech even though often it might be best not to say exactly what you think as it could cost you, especially in situations where you have Christain business associates when it comes to your atheist beliefs. Unfortunately many Christain’s consider atheist to be immoral.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

@Lancer None of what you said makes any sense to me. He was a good guy but screaming about how gays should be put to death? But he was living with a gay couple? So he was just joking? But then they drew swastikas on his face in permanent marker? What?!? Also, immediately after saying it's wrong for people to get attacked for saying awful shit, and the sticks and stones adage, you claim you did the exact opposite and beat the shit out of 3 people for saying mean stuff? Then claim that's the way things work? I don't think you are qualified to use a keyboard. Anyway, you've clearly shown your colors siding with the self-described Nazis and downplaying their activities as "just want to preserve their history or go listen to a guest speaker speak."

Do we really value free speech anymore?

JackPedigo comments on Jan 30, 2018:

Freedom of speech is limited to exclude threats or promotion of violence. When someone promotes illegal or violent action one should be stopped. As far as the problem about speaking out to controversial topics go I have been there many times. Just because someone doesn't want to hear something ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

@JackPedigo Citing an example of a country that has more restrictive laws in no way invalidates the fact that a governing body, regardless of how permissive, necessarily places restrictions on freedoms. Our freedom of speech is restricted in the areas of speech that incites violence and danger. Our freedom of religion is restricted by our government's willingness to acknowledge your religion as real. Our freedom of assembly is restricted in cases of public safety. Our right to bear arms is restricted in the level of destructive capabilities of said arms. You can look at any single freedom/right we have and find limits to them.

If you ever attended church, did you ever pay tithe?

RandyWells comments on Jan 31, 2018:

I did briefly after I got custody of my kids to honor my ex wife's beliefs, it was a big church and I felt guilty not to s so, but I will say this church does put on HUGE FREE events for the community, even if your not a member of church, like easter egg hunt and a carnival with rides etc. I only ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

I won't go to church festivals or buy candy from people selling for their kids if they go to a religious school.

If you ever attended church, did you ever pay tithe?

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 30, 2018:

With my mom when I was little. The priest actually called her into to speak with her because she wasn't donating enough.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

@EmeraldJewel They used to mail out boxes of envelopes with your name printed on them. They even mail them to the kids so the parents feel obligated to donate for the kids on Sundays and Wednesday masses we had to go to during school.

If you are here for the community rather than the dating, share your significant other and make ...

VirginCotton comments on Jan 30, 2018:

Is beauty in the eye of the beholder? Wish I had said that first!! Nice, I used to tell my son when he was in middle school and talked about ugly girls, that there were none, everyone is loved by someone...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

@VirginCotton Some people are ugly as fuck inside and out.

If you are here for the community rather than the dating, share your significant other and make ...

NothinnXpreVails comments on Jan 30, 2018:

Hahaha, y’all know mine but that’s up to her, not me.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

@AxeElf I'm assuming very few, if any, actually know who it is...

What’s a petty reason you won’t date a man/woman?

LucifersPen comments on Jan 31, 2018:

They don't give me their name. That's a pretty good one, I think.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

Um, not to be mean, but that sounds like *them* not dating *you*, bro... *You know, I finally put my foot down and decided I won't get with Britney Spears, ever; she was being too aloof and never calling me and such.*

If you are here for the community rather than the dating, share your significant other and make ...

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 30, 2018:

Does this make the hopelessly single feel like shit?

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

@Lisav1961 You know how they say you can get sick of anything?

Why do some comments have a "yes" or "no" option on them before people can click that they like ...

Duke comments on Jan 30, 2018:

Comments need approval before you reach a certain level.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

@Admin What about posts? And is there a way to know how many comments one has that were flagged?

If you are here for the community rather than the dating, share your significant other and make ...

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 30, 2018:

Does this make the hopelessly single feel like shit?

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

@VirginCotton Sometimes I can't tell in text if people are trying to be funny...

Should I expose a would be cheater?

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 30, 2018:

She's already cheating. The infidelity happens when the person decides to cheat, not when uglies get bumped. If you like the husband, it depends on how you think he'll take it whether or not you should tell him. If you don't, go get you some. Two guys who routinely called me a faggot had to find ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

@wanderartist So I'm still unclear; *would* you be allowed to sleep with her? @Atheistman I don't see why he would have to lie if it's open. I didn't suggest that he should lie, or that lying wouldn't constitute cheating on his part.

Do we really value free speech anymore?

Trajan61 comments on Jan 30, 2018:

We have freedom of speech even though often it might be best not to say exactly what you think as it could cost you, especially in situations where you have Christain business associates when it comes to your atheist beliefs. Unfortunately many Christain’s consider atheist to be immoral.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

@Lancer Or taken exactly in the context and manner they were said if you say awful shit. Some of the people yelling, "Jews will not replace us" into television cameras found that out the hard way.

Do we really value free speech anymore?

JackPedigo comments on Jan 30, 2018:

Freedom of speech is limited to exclude threats or promotion of violence. When someone promotes illegal or violent action one should be stopped. As far as the problem about speaking out to controversial topics go I have been there many times. Just because someone doesn't want to hear something ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

@NothinnXpreVails 'Form of government' and 'just and free' are mutually exclusive. Having a governing body necessarily places restrictions on freedoms.

Do we really value free speech anymore?

JosephHarrison comments on Jan 30, 2018:

If you want to find out how free you are, find out who you're allowed to criticise. As soon as there's a group you're not allowed to criticise, or if you're frowned on for criticising a group, you're not completely free. The dead giveaway? Islam. "Islamophobia" is bandied around wherever you ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 31, 2018:

There are *plenty* of groups that you'd be straight demonized for criticizing. Can you imagine the kind of hell someone would catch for shit-talking the mentally handicapped? Do they have an imaginary knife to our collective metaphorical balls?

Do we really value free speech anymore?

stinkeye_a comments on Jan 30, 2018:

Legally, yes. Socially, no. I really don't understand why you'd want to shut down someone with whom you do not agree (a la cancelling speaking engagements, violent protests of lectures, etc.). Wouldn't it serve your purposes better to let them make their terrible arguments, so you can later ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

It doesn't work like that in America anymore. People are immune to facts, reason, and logic. Platform = followers. Trump brought a whole fuckin' Home Depot's worth of rope to that bitch and his followers just played Double Dutch with it.

Do we really value free speech anymore?

RoboGraham comments on Jan 30, 2018:

When a college decides not to host a political speech, that does not limit the speakers freedom of speech. They are under no obligation to provide a platform for anyone to speak from. It's not like the college is putting a gag order on the speaker. Colleges can freely choose which speakers they feel...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

That's a really good point.

If you are here for the community rather than the dating, share your significant other and make ...

andygee comments on Jan 30, 2018:

Cute... and of course I read your town as "Boner" Springs...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

@AxeElf It's the town that invented the hardware for the first gen. male enhancement surgery.

If you are here for the community rather than the dating, share your significant other and make ...

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 30, 2018:

Does this make the hopelessly single feel like shit?

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

@AxeElf I gave up my Facebook and all of the dating profiles I was on. My work friends signed me up for this site and I found the conversations significantly less aggravating than the ones I was having at work or on Facebook, so I'm still here, but I'm under no illusion that I'm going to find *her* here or anywhere else.

Should I expose a would be cheater?

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 30, 2018:

She's already cheating. The infidelity happens when the person decides to cheat, not when uglies get bumped. If you like the husband, it depends on how you think he'll take it whether or not you should tell him. If you don't, go get you some. Two guys who routinely called me a faggot had to find ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

@MrLizard I meant a promise to *her* spouse. I thought you were saying sleeping with a married woman made you a cheater, too. If you are in an open marriage, aren't you allowed to sleep with whomever you want? Perhaps I have misconceptions regarding what 'open marriage' means.

Who is most responsible for the supply of opioids in U.S.?

Tx76118 comments on Jan 30, 2018:

I'm going to take a guess at it.. Probably the drug companies, how else would they make so much money? They don't care who gets hurt as long as they make a dollar, they don't care if they get sued because they made so many dollars losing a few won't matter.. They still come out ahead. Then you have ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

@Varn Is it? I know a lot of people who would still support the people I think are awful candidates *because* of the reasons I think they are awful (e.g. someone whose only agenda is the complete banning of abortion.)

Why do some comments have a "yes" or "no" option on them before people can click that they like ...

Duke comments on Jan 30, 2018:

Comments need approval before you reach a certain level.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

@Duke I happened to see someone reply to another comment I made almost instantly after posting it. I don't think there's any lag, I think the code to make level 5 posts go live immediately is faulty.

Would You Be Ok With Your Child Choosing To Be a Believer?

richiegtt comments on Jan 30, 2018:

I feel uncomfortable asking my 29 year old daughter who still lives at home about her belief or non belief .She is aware of my non belief and I let her know my views on the subject . She knows that I go on this site and we discuss some of the posts

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

"She knows that I go on this site." You make it sound like you're hiding being a smoker. :-P

Get Ready to Cringe: Jehovah’s Witnesses Are Warning People Not to Masturbate – Friendly Atheist

Rudy1962 comments on Jan 29, 2018:

Sorry. I wanted to read the entire article but I have to go masturbate now.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

@Rudy1962 Hrmmmm, you sounded out of breath saying that. I need a shower now.

Why do some comments have a "yes" or "no" option on them before people can click that they like ...

Duke comments on Jan 30, 2018:

Comments need approval before you reach a certain level.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

@Duke I'm posting this comment at 2205EST. How fast did you see it?

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 29, 2018:

In light of the results coming out evenly spilt, it begs the question... Considering we are a community of individuals that are likely more logical, contemplative, and discerning than other groups (like those that contain believers), and considering that at one time all of us believed in free will,...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

@Funandfondles You're describing Fanburger. He said 'checkmate' to me several times after I dismantled his arguments. He thinks I'm proving his points he's so confused.

Who is most responsible for the supply of opioids in U.S.?

Tx76118 comments on Jan 30, 2018:

I'm going to take a guess at it.. Probably the drug companies, how else would they make so much money? They don't care who gets hurt as long as they make a dollar, they don't care if they get sued because they made so many dollars losing a few won't matter.. They still come out ahead. Then you have ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

@Varn They get funded because they follow orders... Not a mystery to me.

Should I expose a would be cheater?

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 30, 2018:

She's already cheating. The infidelity happens when the person decides to cheat, not when uglies get bumped. If you like the husband, it depends on how you think he'll take it whether or not you should tell him. If you don't, go get you some. Two guys who routinely called me a faggot had to find ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

@MrLizard 1. Not having made a promise means you wouldn't be breaking a promise, therefore, *you* wouldn't be cheating. 2. Wanting to and deciding to are two different things. I've *wanted* to bang Britney Spears every day since the first day I saw "...Baby One More Time", but that didn't make me a cheater.

Get Ready to Cringe: Jehovah’s Witnesses Are Warning People Not to Masturbate – Friendly Atheist

Rudy1962 comments on Jan 29, 2018:

Sorry. I wanted to read the entire article but I have to go masturbate now.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

*Go* masturbate? Wait, you guys don't rub one out to agnostic.com?

Why do some comments have a "yes" or "no" option on them before people can click that they like ...

Duke comments on Jan 30, 2018:

Comments need approval before you reach a certain level.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

Posts always need approval even though it says they go live from level five. Mine take HOURS for people to be able to see them. WTF?

Is it wrong to use child soldiers?

shockwaverider comments on Jan 30, 2018:

In general yes. In the situation you described it might not be depending on the age and capabilities of the child and the real danger involved.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

This reminds me of The Patriot with Mel Gibson.

I have a friend.

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 28, 2018:

Yeah, that's not weaponizing sex in my opinion, and I'm a pretty big opponent of sex weapons. I would prefer to only "do sex" with someone who meets my minimum requirements for a relationship. That is not to say that if Britney Spears came up to me and said she, just once, "wanted my body now" ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

@Alicia_J We are a rare breed.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 29, 2018:

In light of the results coming out evenly spilt, it begs the question... Considering we are a community of individuals that are likely more logical, contemplative, and discerning than other groups (like those that contain believers), and considering that at one time all of us believed in free will,...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

@Funandfondles Oh, I tagged you in this comment because I thought from your previous replies that you were one that does believe in free will. I think the reason it matters is that it softens opinions on others' stations in life when they realize it's all a consequence of things outside of their control.

I have a friend.

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 28, 2018:

Yeah, that's not weaponizing sex in my opinion, and I'm a pretty big opponent of sex weapons. I would prefer to only "do sex" with someone who meets my minimum requirements for a relationship. That is not to say that if Britney Spears came up to me and said she, just once, "wanted my body now" ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

@Alicia_J Legit, I almost want to risk my next opportunity to get laid by asking the lady is she wants to do some sex because I think it's hilarious. Reminds me of my other favorite saying. My ex and I were at a resort bar in Jamaica when a guy walked up and started hitting on her right next to me. He was the kind of guy that was so dumb that all you wanted to do was stop listening to him, but I couldn't just ignore a guy that was actively hitting on my girl; man did this kid have a pair on him. Thankfully, I got that opportunity as soon as he said the phrase, "I'm really smart at poetry." I was dying. Since that moment, 'I'm smart at' has completely replaced 'I'm good' in my vocabulary. I do have to tell that story a lot though so people know what the fuck I'm talking about.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

jayneonacobb comments on Jan 29, 2018:

Nature vs. Nurture in sheep's clothing. It's a combination. I don't will myself to react to something on reflexes, but I can choose to hone them, or not. I can choose to post this, or I could not. It depends on what you're talking about, specifically.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

@jayneonacobb Nothing wrong with the definition of fate that doesn't include the supernatural (the verb) as in things are destined to happen in a particular way... *via cause and effect*. Regardless, there *is* science to back it up. What doesn't have science to back it up? The idea of free will.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

Stevil comments on Jan 29, 2018:

It's a weekly requirement that we have a free will poll now???

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

@Stevil I looked on the first few pages and didn't see one. Link?

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 29, 2018:

In light of the results coming out evenly spilt, it begs the question... Considering we are a community of individuals that are likely more logical, contemplative, and discerning than other groups (like those that contain believers), and considering that at one time all of us believed in free will,...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

@Stevil The poll result isn't a reason to believe. It should be a reason to investigate. Those are not the same thing.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 29, 2018:

In light of the results coming out evenly spilt, it begs the question... Considering we are a community of individuals that are likely more logical, contemplative, and discerning than other groups (like those that contain believers), and considering that at one time all of us believed in free will,...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

@Stevil Just like atheists don't require a group aspect, neither do people who realize free will is an illusion. I don't understand where this line of thinking is coming from.

What are your opinions on prostitution?

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 28, 2018:

Wow, good topic. There are plenty of good reasons to be against the legalization of prostitution. 1. I believe there is a very clear disparity in the "control of sex" in our culture. It permeates every facet of our lives from our personal relationships to our movies and televisions shows. The ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 30, 2018:

@Timharding 1. Point taken, however, you and I both know that women paying men is hardly representative of the reality of the situation. Obviously, this is just conjecture, but the thought of a brothel full on men as a business idea is hilarious to me. 2. One need only look at places where is has be legalized to see this is not true. I defer to an article about Germany's legalized prostitution. *But do you really think there wouldn't be shady recruitment just because it was legal?* https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.lifesitenews.com/mobile/blogs/legalizing-prostitution-doesnt-protect-women-it-turns-sex-into-big-business#ampshare=https://www.lifesitenews.com/blogs/legalizing-prostitution-doesnt-protect-women-it-turns-sex-into-big-business 3. The issues with prostitution as a trade are far more serious than a pill can fix. A trade is something for which you can increase prowess through practice and education. For sex work, more often than not, it's based on age, looks, and let's call it the level of depravity that's on the menu (forced or otherwise). I think it likens it more to selling parts of your body than it does to work you do with your body or mind. That's subjective though, I guess.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 29, 2018:

In light of the results coming out evenly spilt, it begs the question... Considering we are a community of individuals that are likely more logical, contemplative, and discerning than other groups (like those that contain believers), and considering that at one time all of us believed in free will,...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@Stevil In not saying it's the reason to believe, I'm asking if half a room of people who are likely above average in intelligence, logic, and reasoning rejected a belief that you still believed, would it give you pause. Maybe get you to investigate? As for it being your illusion, I know some Christians, my mother included, who have made almost identical statements about their religious beliefs.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

ChestRockfield comments on Jan 29, 2018:

In light of the results coming out evenly spilt, it begs the question... Considering we are a community of individuals that are likely more logical, contemplative, and discerning than other groups (like those that contain believers), and considering that at one time all of us believed in free will,...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@jayneonacobb Again, we used to believe in free will. Just as we shed our belief in god that was ingrained in us, so too did we shed the belief in free will that was ingrained in us. (Your belief that you changed your mind is all part of there illusion of free will.) Consequently, @Fanburger, that is why you would be the believer that is offering no proof, not us.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

Pooska comments on Jan 29, 2018:

I like to think I'm the master of my own life.... unless it's something I don't want to do then I like to blame the universe or my DNA. It honestly makes me a bit depressed to think we are just slaves to DNA instincts and environment so I just choose to think I'm above it all without any proof or ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@Pooska The only think I can't understand is partially having free will. :-P Discounted will?

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

Pooska comments on Jan 29, 2018:

I like to think I'm the master of my own life.... unless it's something I don't want to do then I like to blame the universe or my DNA. It honestly makes me a bit depressed to think we are just slaves to DNA instincts and environment so I just choose to think I'm above it all without any proof or ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@Pooska You undecided?

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

jayneonacobb comments on Jan 29, 2018:

Nature vs. Nurture in sheep's clothing. It's a combination. I don't will myself to react to something on reflexes, but I can choose to hone them, or not. I can choose to post this, or I could not. It depends on what you're talking about, specifically.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@jayneonacobb Seemingly, you missed the entirety of my reply. First of all, I didn't say I would name them I said maybe you would name them. Regardless, even if it was me who named them that would be totally based on my subconscious mind making the decision to name them, of which I had no control. Secondly, you also missed the part where I said maybe I wouldn't choose one at all because of how dumb I thought the exercise was (like if you refused to distinguish them). Finally, the whole point of my reply was to state that I would have no idea how I would respond and that it would be completely outside of my control.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

Dwight comments on Jan 29, 2018:

There is no supernatural force directing our fate. We are free to chose, do and fail or succeed on our own.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@Dwight Identifying the drivers has nothing to do with it. The choice is made in your subconscious regardless, and you *may* be able to venture guesses as to *why* that was the decision that was made, but even if you can that doesn't mean those were actually the factors that carried all or even most of the weight.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

MissingLink16 comments on Jan 29, 2018:

I do believe that humans have free will. We choose the things we say and do. But I do have to add that there are those who suffer from mental diseases that cause them to not have control over their actions and words. I just don't believe that there is a "higher power" that dictates our lives. ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@Lincoln16 A. Chemical imbalances, deformities, injuries, tumors, and the entirety of each person's human experiences (e.g. someone who got beat as a child, someone who was spoiled, etc.) Pretty much anything that can affect the machine or the input to the machine. B. As it stands there are 22 people here who have come to realize that free will is an illusion. It seemed as though you claimed that we'd need to believe in a higher power as a result. I was simply stating that was inaccurate.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

jayneonacobb comments on Jan 29, 2018:

Nature vs. Nurture in sheep's clothing. It's a combination. I don't will myself to react to something on reflexes, but I can choose to hone them, or not. I can choose to post this, or I could not. It depends on what you're talking about, specifically.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@jayneonacobb I don't really understand the intent of the question, but with or without a discernable rationalization for why I chose one, my subconscious mind would pick one based on some inscrutable criteria, then spit out that answer to my conscious mind. Maybe you would label them A & B or 1 & 2 and my subconscious mind would pick between those for some reason. Maybe if you didn't offer any distinguishing characteristics I'd just point (at both because they occupy the same space) and sarcastically say, "That one." Or maybe I wouldn't answer at all citing what a ridiculous proposition it was to pick between two things that are in essence actually only one thing. So what exactly does this thought experiment accomplish?

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

Pooska comments on Jan 29, 2018:

I like to think I'm the master of my own life.... unless it's something I don't want to do then I like to blame the universe or my DNA. It honestly makes me a bit depressed to think we are just slaves to DNA instincts and environment so I just choose to think I'm above it all without any proof or ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@Pooska You kill me. So how did you vote then?

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

Heathen2 comments on Jan 29, 2018:

I can't vote if you don't define your terms. Do you mean: 1. I-chose-to-view-and/or-participate-in-this-poll-when-I-might-have-abstained kind of free will? 2. Neurological findings that part of my brain activates before my conscious mind is aware that I chose to push button A and the naive ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@Heathen2 If you think you have free will, and you voted that you think you have free will, that is what I wanted and don't know why you'd think that would skew the results.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

Dwight comments on Jan 29, 2018:

There is no supernatural force directing our fate. We are free to chose, do and fail or succeed on our own.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@Dwight Ideas just enter the consciousness from the subconscious without any agency. Do you believe you can choose the next thought that comes into your head? If so, why didn't the author choose to think of the idea for The Matrix earlier when it would have been even more futuristic and influential? Hell, for that matter, why didn't *you* think of the idea for it first and become a millionaire? So you missed the boat on that one, but why don't you just choose to think up the next million dollar idea? But just because there isn't free will doesn't mean the forces are "cosmic" or beyond our understanding. That is the line of thinking of the religious. How did life start? We don't know so it must have been that god did it. What causes the tides? Must be god. It's all cause and effect, nothing supernatural. Why did an astronomer search for a galaxy? Because that's his job. Why is it his job? Because that field interested him? Why? Because he had mentors that introduced it to him in a positive way. If you ask why enough, sooner or later you will arrive at something outside of that person's control.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

Dwight comments on Jan 29, 2018:

There is no supernatural force directing our fate. We are free to chose, do and fail or succeed on our own.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@Dwight "You obviously feel free to believe what you say is true. That could be free will." This couldn't be more inaccurate. When I was reading about free will, I literally said, aloud, to myself, "This is such bullshit." I actively did not want to believe I didn't have free will. The evidence was beyond that which I could reject and I became a nonbeliever in free will against all desire. That, in itself, was even further proof of the concept. I was forced to believe without any choice in the matter. Why, do you think you can choose to believe anything you want?

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

Pooska comments on Jan 29, 2018:

I like to think I'm the master of my own life.... unless it's something I don't want to do then I like to blame the universe or my DNA. It honestly makes me a bit depressed to think we are just slaves to DNA instincts and environment so I just choose to think I'm above it all without any proof or ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

Isn't that the exact same thing religious people do?

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

MissingLink16 comments on Jan 29, 2018:

I do believe that humans have free will. We choose the things we say and do. But I do have to add that there are those who suffer from mental diseases that cause them to not have control over their actions and words. I just don't believe that there is a "higher power" that dictates our lives. ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

A. Why do you distinguish between the things done to the brain by mental illness and things done to the brain by other influencing forces? B. None of us that realize free will is illusory think that there is any kind of higher power that dictates thoughts, beliefs, or actions either.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

Heathen2 comments on Jan 29, 2018:

I can't vote if you don't define your terms. Do you mean: 1. I-chose-to-view-and/or-participate-in-this-poll-when-I-might-have-abstained kind of free will? 2. Neurological findings that part of my brain activates before my conscious mind is aware that I chose to push button A and the naive ...

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@Heathen2 Are you saying you don't believe in free will? Otherwise it won't skew anything.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

GipsyOfNewSpain comments on Jan 29, 2018:

Next they are going to say that scientists agree they know aliens are the only ones with free will because numbers back up the data even if never seen one. numbers say so.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@TommyMeador Dude, I *never* know what he's talking about. Not sure *he* even knows.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

Dwight comments on Jan 29, 2018:

There is no supernatural force directing our fate. We are free to chose, do and fail or succeed on our own.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@Dwight Guess what, those cosmic rays and what/how much they alter you are also not your choice. None of it is. Then you claim that even if we're not free, feeling free means we're free. You are essentially describing 'The Matrix'. Were the bodies in the pods free because the brains were told they were free?

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

Stevil comments on Jan 29, 2018:

It's a weekly requirement that we have a free will poll now???

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@Stevil Can you link it?

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

jayneonacobb comments on Jan 29, 2018:

Nature vs. Nurture in sheep's clothing. It's a combination. I don't will myself to react to something on reflexes, but I can choose to hone them, or not. I can choose to post this, or I could not. It depends on what you're talking about, specifically.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@jayneonacobb Not so much. You did what you did, and saying you could have done otherwise is meaningless.

How much do brand names matter?

VictoriaNotes comments on Jan 26, 2018:

Definitely depends on the quality. *Bring out the Hellman's and bring out the best.* I agree. ;)

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@Lauren Oh, the 'Best Foods' jingle, not the 'Hellman's' jingle, is the pun.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

jayneonacobb comments on Jan 29, 2018:

Nature vs. Nurture in sheep's clothing. It's a combination. I don't will myself to react to something on reflexes, but I can choose to hone them, or not. I can choose to post this, or I could not. It depends on what you're talking about, specifically.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

Saying you could have refrained from posting that is another way to say that you didn't.

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

Stevil comments on Jan 29, 2018:

It's a weekly requirement that we have a free will poll now???

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

Had there been another free will poll? It wasn't tagged with #freewill if there was...

Want to know what percentage of the community believes in free will?

Dwight comments on Jan 29, 2018:

There is no supernatural force directing our fate. We are free to chose, do and fail or succeed on our own.

ChestRockfield replies on Jan 29, 2018:

@Dwight That's because that's not [the limit of] what I'm talking about. All sensory input and history of our human experience coupled with our biochemistry completely shapes everything you do and think.