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Are atheist/agnostic people more susceptible to depression?
IntellectualRN comments on Dec 31, 2017:
There are studies that correlate higher intelligence and more mental illness and there are studies that correlate higher intelligence and lower religiosity. So... not inconceivable. The more you know about how the world really works, the more there is to be depressed about. It's especially ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 31, 2017:
Well it certainly doesn't bode well for me because I've always been really happy as a general statement. I've dealt with depression in other people around me the best I could without really being able to connect to the reasons why they were depressed. I try to understand, but unless you've lived with it in yourself it's hard to be sympathetic for a condition I don't understand. I want to say things like move past what you can't change and deal with those things you can change. I know from experience that meaningless to someone suffering in depression.
IntellectualRN comments on Dec 31, 2017:
There are studies that correlate higher intelligence and more mental illness and there are studies that correlate higher intelligence and lower religiosity. So... not inconceivable. The more you know about how the world really works, the more there is to be depressed about. It's especially ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 31, 2017:
Well it certainly doesn't bode well for me because I've always been really happy as a general statement. I've dealt with depression in other people around me the best I could without really being able to connect to the reasons why they were depressed. I try to understand, but unless you've lived with it in yourself it's hard to be sympathetic for a condition I don't understand. I want to say things like move past what you can't change and deal with those things you can change. I know from experience that meaningless to someone suffering in depression.
Would you want a Christian God to be real?
Diarmaede comments on Dec 28, 2017:
What a scary concept, a God that gave you all your senses and rational ability, and then tells you he will send you to burn in Hell unless you reject everything your brain and senses tell you.
paul1967 replies on Dec 31, 2017:
The obviousness of your statement is lost on a believer, and for the life of me, I can't understand why.
Diarmaede comments on Dec 28, 2017:
What a scary concept, a God that gave you all your senses and rational ability, and then tells you he will send you to burn in Hell unless you reject everything your brain and senses tell you.
paul1967 replies on Dec 31, 2017:
The obviousness of your statement is lost on a believer, and for the life of me, I can't understand why.
I'm here on my 4 day family vacation in South Carolina.
paul1967 comments on Dec 30, 2017:
To your overall question, the answer is because the concept of a personal God is, as you know a bunch of crap that just not the way life works. To a Christian or almost any theist, it is Gods will, and to that, I say f___ you to that God.
paul1967 replies on Dec 31, 2017:
@SilverDollarJedi That breaks my heart to hear about his fiance and all of his friends dealing with his loss. The loss of this man is a terrible fact, but the memories of this man are his legacy, and it sounds to me that he left with a great legacy. I'll have a shot of whiskey in Stefan's name from here in Kansas City.
paul1967 comments on Dec 30, 2017:
To your overall question, the answer is because the concept of a personal God is, as you know a bunch of crap that just not the way life works. To a Christian or almost any theist, it is Gods will, and to that, I say f___ you to that God.
paul1967 replies on Dec 31, 2017:
@SilverDollarJedi That breaks my heart to hear about his fiance and all of his friends dealing with his loss. The loss of this man is a terrible fact, but the memories of this man are his legacy, and it sounds to me that he left with a great legacy. I'll have a shot of whiskey in Stefan's name from here in Kansas City.
Does all life have inherent value?
PeppermintDreads comments on Dec 30, 2017:
I feel like a tool thinking that if he’s not contributing to society, then his life is of lesser value. But in the end, if he’s going to be a burden on resources, buh-bye.
paul1967 replies on Dec 31, 2017:
@DreadZipperhead I'm also very supportive of abortion rights, but this isn't about aborting a fetus. The topic here is about making it legal to kill a child based on his/her level of intelligence. The diagnoses given to me in infancy was severely autistic. I didn't start walking until I was almost two and I was nearly three before I began to speak. I failed to keep up with kids in my age group until I learned how to educate myself. I know that according to the criteria proposed here I never met @ssjin criteria but, that slope is slippery and I don't want to legalize the termination of life, based on one's ability to learn or contribute to society. A parent always has the right to give their child up for adoption.
The question I find more interesting, is a child this severely mentally disabled better off a ward of the state or dead? My answer is no; life is preferable to death.
PeppermintDreads comments on Dec 30, 2017:
I feel like a tool thinking that if he’s not contributing to society, then his life is of lesser value. But in the end, if he’s going to be a burden on resources, buh-bye.
paul1967 replies on Dec 31, 2017:
@DreadZipperhead I'm also very supportive of abortion rights, but this isn't about aborting a fetus. The topic here is about making it legal to kill a child based on his/her level of intelligence. The diagnoses given to me in infancy was severely autistic. I didn't start walking until I was almost two and I was nearly three before I began to speak. I failed to keep up with kids in my age group until I learned how to educate myself. I know that according to the criteria proposed here I never met @ssjin criteria but, that slope is slippery and I don't want to legalize the termination of life, based on one's ability to learn or contribute to society. A parent always has the right to give their child up for adoption.
The question I find more interesting, is a child this severely mentally disabled better off a ward of the state or dead? My answer is no; life is preferable to death.
Does all life have inherent value?
PeppermintDreads comments on Dec 30, 2017:
I feel like a tool thinking that if he’s not contributing to society, then his life is of lesser value. But in the end, if he’s going to be a burden on resources, buh-bye.
paul1967 replies on Dec 30, 2017:
I honestly don't mean this as an attack on what you said although I expect it will come across as one. Every child is a burden on resources, yet we don't allow parents to kill their children based on that criteria. Is the difference in your mind that this person will never effectively grow out of being a burden where a child would and therefore we have a right to end his life?
PeppermintDreads comments on Dec 30, 2017:
I feel like a tool thinking that if he’s not contributing to society, then his life is of lesser value. But in the end, if he’s going to be a burden on resources, buh-bye.
paul1967 replies on Dec 30, 2017:
I honestly don't mean this as an attack on what you said although I expect it will come across as one. Every child is a burden on resources, yet we don't allow parents to kill their children based on that criteria. Is the difference in your mind that this person will never effectively grow out of being a burden where a child would and therefore we have a right to end his life?
Would you want a Christian God to be real?
starmama114 comments on Dec 29, 2017:
No, because I think he's an asshole.
paul1967 replies on Dec 30, 2017:
God is an asshole, or the concept of God is that of an asshole?
starmama114 comments on Dec 29, 2017:
No, because I think he's an asshole.
paul1967 replies on Dec 30, 2017:
God is an asshole, or the concept of God is that of an asshole?
Does the lack of beleif in an afterlife bring you fear or comfort?
jwm03h comments on Dec 30, 2017:
You are assuming there is no after life. Which is an unknown for me, certainly there isn't a heaven or hell, but I have no idea how I got here , and before I was born I didn't exist, so if I got here when I didn't exist before, how do we know it can't happen again?
paul1967 replies on Dec 30, 2017:
If I came back into being after not being and I had no recollection of ever having been, then the person I am today is gone forever no matter how anyone tries to spin it.
jwm03h comments on Dec 30, 2017:
You are assuming there is no after life. Which is an unknown for me, certainly there isn't a heaven or hell, but I have no idea how I got here , and before I was born I didn't exist, so if I got here when I didn't exist before, how do we know it can't happen again?
paul1967 replies on Dec 30, 2017:
If I came back into being after not being and I had no recollection of ever having been, then the person I am today is gone forever no matter how anyone tries to spin it.
Incest: Immoral or Moral?
Benmonk comments on Dec 28, 2017:
I am a little disappointed in the answers. They all seem to be addressing child molesting or genetic dangers. The question was phrased in a way to make it if two grown, consenting relatives want to have sex, is that immoral. Not have children, not prey on children. The hypothetical question is about...
paul1967 replies on Dec 28, 2017:
Thank you!
Benmonk comments on Dec 28, 2017:
I am a little disappointed in the answers. They all seem to be addressing child molesting or genetic dangers. The question was phrased in a way to make it if two grown, consenting relatives want to have sex, is that immoral. Not have children, not prey on children. The hypothetical question is about...
paul1967 replies on Dec 28, 2017:
Thank you!
Is it weird that I find it hard to get to know agnostic people?
AMGT comments on Dec 17, 2017:
I’ve had the opposite experience..
Atheists (in my experience) are social, good thinkers and communicators, especially once they learn I’m atheist as well.
I know that I can come off as reserved in the company of strangers, even though I’m a good communicator.
I suppose I don’t want to ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 27, 2017:
@AMGT It lacked any romantic desire on either side. We just didn't connect on any romantic level or any level other than our disbelief in God. I find myself now back in love with a person who doesn't believe in evolution, thinks the Earth is around 6000 years old, and the only common ground is that she finds much of the Bible is fiction. However, she still believes that the backbone of the Bible is accurate.
@irascible I do get that OMG feeling, and maybe it's different than for other people, but I'm definitely feeling it now for someone. The story between us is complicated, I knew her 34 years ago, and she was my first OMG!!!! Person back then. Her family moved away, and we tried the long distance relationship for two years. At the age of 16, it was never going to work, but we gave it a real shot. We eventually lost track of each other over the years. I've never been a Facebook guy but someone said it could be useful for dating, so I made an account. We reconnected on Facebook, and we both seemed to fall back in love with each other instantly. She's become a Christian, and she knows I'm an Atheist, but right now none of that seems to matter. We'll see how things go, but right now I feel like I'm walking into the arms of the best person for me. I've been here before though, and it took 14 years of my life away.
AMGT comments on Dec 17, 2017:
I’ve had the opposite experience..
Atheists (in my experience) are social, good thinkers and communicators, especially once they learn I’m atheist as well.
I know that I can come off as reserved in the company of strangers, even though I’m a good communicator.
I suppose I don’t want to ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 27, 2017:
@AMGT It lacked any romantic desire on either side. We just didn't connect on any romantic level or any level other than our disbelief in God. I find myself now back in love with a person who doesn't believe in evolution, thinks the Earth is around 6000 years old, and the only common ground is that she finds much of the Bible is fiction. However, she still believes that the backbone of the Bible is accurate.
@irascible I do get that OMG feeling, and maybe it's different than for other people, but I'm definitely feeling it now for someone. The story between us is complicated, I knew her 34 years ago, and she was my first OMG!!!! Person back then. Her family moved away, and we tried the long distance relationship for two years. At the age of 16, it was never going to work, but we gave it a real shot. We eventually lost track of each other over the years. I've never been a Facebook guy but someone said it could be useful for dating, so I made an account. We reconnected on Facebook, and we both seemed to fall back in love with each other instantly. She's become a Christian, and she knows I'm an Atheist, but right now none of that seems to matter. We'll see how things go, but right now I feel like I'm walking into the arms of the best person for me. I've been here before though, and it took 14 years of my life away.
Incest: Immoral or Moral?
DominickMcKeon comments on Dec 20, 2017:
No point in safe sex with a relative. Stupid question. Only reason to have sex is breeding. Unless every other woman on earth is dead there’s no moral or any reason to breed with a relative. Only to repopulate. Seriously, this is a disturbing question. I argue, should I let you all die since ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 25, 2017:
You are within your right to be critical of the question. I don't judge you for your response, but I don't agree with it. I don't have sex for reproduction; I have sex for the enjoyment of having that bond with my partner. I hope that statement was you being hyperbolic. Otherwise, I feel as if you are missing an extraordinary aspect of life.
DominickMcKeon comments on Dec 20, 2017:
No point in safe sex with a relative. Stupid question. Only reason to have sex is breeding. Unless every other woman on earth is dead there’s no moral or any reason to breed with a relative. Only to repopulate. Seriously, this is a disturbing question. I argue, should I let you all die since ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 25, 2017:
You are within your right to be critical of the question. I don't judge you for your response, but I don't agree with it. I don't have sex for reproduction; I have sex for the enjoyment of having that bond with my partner. I hope that statement was you being hyperbolic. Otherwise, I feel as if you are missing an extraordinary aspect of life.
Incest: Immoral or Moral?
richiegtt comments on Dec 19, 2017:
I find this gross because i was raised to believe it is gross. People are taught from birth what is moral or immoral . There is no answer to this question because morals are derived from cultural and society upbringing. Incest occurs in the animal kingdom
paul1967 replies on Dec 21, 2017:
I agree.
richiegtt comments on Dec 19, 2017:
I find this gross because i was raised to believe it is gross. People are taught from birth what is moral or immoral . There is no answer to this question because morals are derived from cultural and society upbringing. Incest occurs in the animal kingdom
paul1967 replies on Dec 21, 2017:
I agree.
Why do so many Atheist believe in Ghosts?
Alicia_J comments on Dec 19, 2017:
I do not believe there is a man in the clouds. I do believe in "ghosts".
By ghosts I mean another form of energy that we have not begun to understand yet but some are more sensitive to. I believe time and space operate in ways we have no grasp of and there are places and people where it pulls ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 19, 2017:
Hi @Alicia_J's I want to be clear that I am not insinuating that you're silly or that you're wrong. You described clearly what you believe ghost to be, but what evidence do you have that this thing you describe is real? If you have no data, why is your default position one of acceptance instead of one of doubt or skepticism?
Alicia_J comments on Dec 19, 2017:
I do not believe there is a man in the clouds. I do believe in "ghosts".
By ghosts I mean another form of energy that we have not begun to understand yet but some are more sensitive to. I believe time and space operate in ways we have no grasp of and there are places and people where it pulls ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 19, 2017:
Hi @Alicia_J's I want to be clear that I am not insinuating that you're silly or that you're wrong. You described clearly what you believe ghost to be, but what evidence do you have that this thing you describe is real? If you have no data, why is your default position one of acceptance instead of one of doubt or skepticism?
Incest: Immoral or Moral?
Maya405 comments on Nov 7, 2017:
It's hard for me to respond to the poll because it says 'Incest: immoral or moral', but then it limits it with one particular example- that actually does not define 'incest'. The most common form of incest worldwide occurs between girl children and their male parents characterizing a drastic ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 18, 2017:
I agree, and I think everyone would agree that is obviously immoral. The word immoral doesn't do it justice, and I can't imagine a word that would adequately describe how horrible that crime is, and that's precisely why I phrased it the way I did. I would never have wasted your time or mine asking the question, is rapping your daughter moral or immoral? The question itself is utterly terrifying. The question, is about consensual sex between two consenting people who happen to be a bother and sister, is that immoral or moral?
Maya405 comments on Nov 7, 2017:
It's hard for me to respond to the poll because it says 'Incest: immoral or moral', but then it limits it with one particular example- that actually does not define 'incest'. The most common form of incest worldwide occurs between girl children and their male parents characterizing a drastic ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 18, 2017:
I agree, and I think everyone would agree that is obviously immoral. The word immoral doesn't do it justice, and I can't imagine a word that would adequately describe how horrible that crime is, and that's precisely why I phrased it the way I did. I would never have wasted your time or mine asking the question, is rapping your daughter moral or immoral? The question itself is utterly terrifying. The question, is about consensual sex between two consenting people who happen to be a bother and sister, is that immoral or moral?
What type of death do you most fear?
Reaver85 comments on Dec 18, 2017:
I fear no death it is a path we must all take it's the one thing that is guaranteed
paul1967 replies on Dec 18, 2017:
You say that, but there must be a path to death that would be less desirable than another. For example, dying after making love is better than being devoured by an army of Australian's jack jumper ants. Or tied upside down on a tree while a wild boar eats your face away. There are many ways that should cause you to fear death and the ones I just listed are insignificant compared to some other terrifying scenarios out there, from people with a far more warped mind than my own.
Reaver85 comments on Dec 18, 2017:
I fear no death it is a path we must all take it's the one thing that is guaranteed
paul1967 replies on Dec 18, 2017:
You say that, but there must be a path to death that would be less desirable than another. For example, dying after making love is better than being devoured by an army of Australian's jack jumper ants. Or tied upside down on a tree while a wild boar eats your face away. There are many ways that should cause you to fear death and the ones I just listed are insignificant compared to some other terrifying scenarios out there, from people with a far more warped mind than my own.
What type of arrangements have you made or instructions have you left for your funeral and disposal ...
zanyfish comments on Dec 17, 2017:
I've been very very specific. I want to be cremated, and for my ashes to be scattered in a specific area of a nature reserve where I spend a LOT of time, knowing that the ashes will enrich the soil and promote the growth of plants that will be used by all manner of creature. That's my route to ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
The only problem in doing that is when your body is turned Ash all of the chemistry that made you you is gone. Your ashes won't provide any nutrients back into the Earth.
zanyfish comments on Dec 17, 2017:
I've been very very specific. I want to be cremated, and for my ashes to be scattered in a specific area of a nature reserve where I spend a LOT of time, knowing that the ashes will enrich the soil and promote the growth of plants that will be used by all manner of creature. That's my route to ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
The only problem in doing that is when your body is turned Ash all of the chemistry that made you you is gone. Your ashes won't provide any nutrients back into the Earth.
Is faith in anything ever good?
JLFowler comments on Dec 17, 2017:
I say faith is delusion on purpose.
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
I use almost the same verbiage but I call it self inflicted ignorance. Which is the same thing.
JLFowler comments on Dec 17, 2017:
I say faith is delusion on purpose.
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
I use almost the same verbiage but I call it self inflicted ignorance. Which is the same thing.
Is faith in anything ever good?
Lucas20520 comments on Dec 17, 2017:
I agree with Matt Dillahunty's definition. Faith is the excuse people give for believing something when they don't have a good reason. Because if someone has a good reason for believing something they never say it's based on faith, they just give their reasons.
One of the things I love about no ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
Yes, and I like the people who host when he's not there as people but I get so bored listening to them say the same boring crap over and over.
Lucas20520 comments on Dec 17, 2017:
I agree with Matt Dillahunty's definition. Faith is the excuse people give for believing something when they don't have a good reason. Because if someone has a good reason for believing something they never say it's based on faith, they just give their reasons.
One of the things I love about no ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
Yes, and I like the people who host when he's not there as people but I get so bored listening to them say the same boring crap over and over.
Is faith in anything ever good?
Sarahroo29 comments on Dec 17, 2017:
That is the F-word I never use.
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
That is funny because it's true
Sarahroo29 comments on Dec 17, 2017:
That is the F-word I never use.
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
That is funny because it's true
Is faith in anything ever good?
HarrySlick comments on Dec 17, 2017:
A lack of faith is a lack of trust, belief ,confidence, optimism or conviction.If we completely lacked faith ,nobody would trust anybody . For instance do you have faith in your child , Do you have faith in a person that you may hire .You should have stated ( is faith in religious belief or a god ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
I really didn't want to just talk about religion. I don't view those things you mentioned as acts of faith. I don't have kids but I wouldn't think I would need faith in my child, I would call that experience or trust. With people I don't know I have instinct and trust until they provide evidence that they're different than I assumed. I'm not saying you're wrong, we just might define Faith differently
HarrySlick comments on Dec 17, 2017:
A lack of faith is a lack of trust, belief ,confidence, optimism or conviction.If we completely lacked faith ,nobody would trust anybody . For instance do you have faith in your child , Do you have faith in a person that you may hire .You should have stated ( is faith in religious belief or a god ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
I really didn't want to just talk about religion. I don't view those things you mentioned as acts of faith. I don't have kids but I wouldn't think I would need faith in my child, I would call that experience or trust. With people I don't know I have instinct and trust until they provide evidence that they're different than I assumed. I'm not saying you're wrong, we just might define Faith differently
Is it weird that I find it hard to get to know agnostic people?
silvereyes comments on Dec 17, 2017:
Probably because it's a shallower pool.
There are always people you connect with better.
You've just added a different criteria in the mix.
For instance, I haven't connected much with natural redheads in my life.
Not that I don't like them. Just that I haven't known more than a handful ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
I think you're right about the shallow pool and the fact that I haven't been on too many dates in the last 14 years.
silvereyes comments on Dec 17, 2017:
Probably because it's a shallower pool.
There are always people you connect with better.
You've just added a different criteria in the mix.
For instance, I haven't connected much with natural redheads in my life.
Not that I don't like them. Just that I haven't known more than a handful ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
I think you're right about the shallow pool and the fact that I haven't been on too many dates in the last 14 years.
Is it weird that I find it hard to get to know agnostic people?
sassygirl3869 comments on Dec 17, 2017:
Have you tried Meetups.com-they have groups for agnostics.
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
No but I'm willing to
sassygirl3869 comments on Dec 17, 2017:
Have you tried Meetups.com-they have groups for agnostics.
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
No but I'm willing to
Is it weird that I find it hard to get to know agnostic people?
AMGT comments on Dec 17, 2017:
I’ve had the opposite experience..
Atheists (in my experience) are social, good thinkers and communicators, especially once they learn I’m atheist as well.
I know that I can come off as reserved in the company of strangers, even though I’m a good communicator.
I suppose I don’t want to ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
I might have given a false impression that these people weren't genuine and kind people and that wasn't it at all. I just didn't romantically connect with them. I thought they were attractive, but I just didn't feel that OMG! Feeling.
AMGT comments on Dec 17, 2017:
I’ve had the opposite experience..
Atheists (in my experience) are social, good thinkers and communicators, especially once they learn I’m atheist as well.
I know that I can come off as reserved in the company of strangers, even though I’m a good communicator.
I suppose I don’t want to ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
I might have given a false impression that these people weren't genuine and kind people and that wasn't it at all. I just didn't romantically connect with them. I thought they were attractive, but I just didn't feel that OMG! Feeling.
Is it weird that I find it hard to get to know agnostic people?
davtim68 comments on Dec 17, 2017:
Sounds like you have a bias for the agnostic demographics
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
I'm not sure if I would call it a bias as much as a preference. I've dated theist I got married to one, and I just want to find someone that shares my lack of belief
davtim68 comments on Dec 17, 2017:
Sounds like you have a bias for the agnostic demographics
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
I'm not sure if I would call it a bias as much as a preference. I've dated theist I got married to one, and I just want to find someone that shares my lack of belief
Is it weird that I find it hard to get to know agnostic people?
JohnGlass comments on Dec 17, 2017:
I wish I could meet lots of them to judge!!!!
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
Did I come off as judgemental? I hope not because they were friendly people I just didn't get that feeling of fireworks.
JohnGlass comments on Dec 17, 2017:
I wish I could meet lots of them to judge!!!!
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
Did I come off as judgemental? I hope not because they were friendly people I just didn't get that feeling of fireworks.
Is faith in anything ever good?
Lucas20520 comments on Dec 17, 2017:
I agree with Matt Dillahunty's definition. Faith is the excuse people give for believing something when they don't have a good reason. Because if someone has a good reason for believing something they never say it's based on faith, they just give their reasons.
One of the things I love about no ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
I'm a big Dillahunty fan too. I can't wait for him to get back on the show.
Lucas20520 comments on Dec 17, 2017:
I agree with Matt Dillahunty's definition. Faith is the excuse people give for believing something when they don't have a good reason. Because if someone has a good reason for believing something they never say it's based on faith, they just give their reasons.
One of the things I love about no ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
I'm a big Dillahunty fan too. I can't wait for him to get back on the show.
What would make you believe in a God?
aTina comments on Dec 17, 2017:
When there is peace and love and unselfish cooperation reigning supreme throughout the world. There is no hate, nor controlling people. Only then would I say, "Thank you, god, praise be!"
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
Best response of the day.
aTina comments on Dec 17, 2017:
When there is peace and love and unselfish cooperation reigning supreme throughout the world. There is no hate, nor controlling people. Only then would I say, "Thank you, god, praise be!"
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
Best response of the day.
Share your thoughts about NFL players kneeling during pre-game playing of national anthem.
Eazyduzzit comments on Dec 17, 2017:
If it were white people taking a knee to protest abortion, do you think there would be all the "disrespect" shouting? I'd say Fox News would be talking about how brave they were for protesting.
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
You're absolutely correct @Eazyduzzit and to @BucketlistBob our anthem is all about our freedom to do this very thing. Be a proud American and kneel down beside your brown fellow Americans if you support fair treatment of all Americans. We have shed so much blood to protect these privileges, don't be in the camp of people who would tarnish this grand achievement.
Eazyduzzit comments on Dec 17, 2017:
If it were white people taking a knee to protest abortion, do you think there would be all the "disrespect" shouting? I'd say Fox News would be talking about how brave they were for protesting.
paul1967 replies on Dec 17, 2017:
You're absolutely correct @Eazyduzzit and to @BucketlistBob our anthem is all about our freedom to do this very thing. Be a proud American and kneel down beside your brown fellow Americans if you support fair treatment of all Americans. We have shed so much blood to protect these privileges, don't be in the camp of people who would tarnish this grand achievement.
Would you want a Christian God to be real?
Squirrel2769 comments on Dec 16, 2017:
Existence is pain, and I simply want it all to end, but eventually lol.
paul1967 replies on Dec 16, 2017:
Are you being hyperbolic or do you really view existence as pain?
Squirrel2769 comments on Dec 16, 2017:
Existence is pain, and I simply want it all to end, but eventually lol.
paul1967 replies on Dec 16, 2017:
Are you being hyperbolic or do you really view existence as pain?
Would you move into a clothing optional community?
atheist comments on Dec 13, 2017:
The question is; would you? Let's start by you putting your naked body on this site! Just as I thought!
paul1967 replies on Dec 13, 2017:
I don't think it's appropriate since this site isn't designed to be clothing optional. I believe @silvereyes is asking you your opinion and not suggesting that she has any interest in exposing herself to you or anyone else on here.
atheist comments on Dec 13, 2017:
The question is; would you? Let's start by you putting your naked body on this site! Just as I thought!
paul1967 replies on Dec 13, 2017:
I don't think it's appropriate since this site isn't designed to be clothing optional. I believe @silvereyes is asking you your opinion and not suggesting that she has any interest in exposing herself to you or anyone else on here.
Incest: Immoral or Moral?
heathen77 comments on Dec 13, 2017:
I wasn't sure just how to answer this question, but after serious consideration, I can find no scientific reason why 2 consenting adults should not have safe sex.
paul1967 replies on Dec 13, 2017:
I appreciate the fact that you took time to think about it.
heathen77 comments on Dec 13, 2017:
I wasn't sure just how to answer this question, but after serious consideration, I can find no scientific reason why 2 consenting adults should not have safe sex.
paul1967 replies on Dec 13, 2017:
I appreciate the fact that you took time to think about it.
Why do religious organizations get away with not paying taxes or even need to open their books?
MichaelSpinler comments on Dec 13, 2017:
because they have bullied or bought the government and people in it. like everything else it boils down to the corruption in washington.. especially with a trump jackass for pres. kissing the asses of the evangelics.
paul1967 replies on Dec 13, 2017:
I agree with @Harleyman Trump doesn't believe in God. I will add my thoughts on that because I also think Trump views himself to be God-like.
MichaelSpinler comments on Dec 13, 2017:
because they have bullied or bought the government and people in it. like everything else it boils down to the corruption in washington.. especially with a trump jackass for pres. kissing the asses of the evangelics.
paul1967 replies on Dec 13, 2017:
I agree with @Harleyman Trump doesn't believe in God. I will add my thoughts on that because I also think Trump views himself to be God-like.
A question for agnostics
paul1967 comments on Dec 13, 2017:
Technically, an agnostic is an atheist. These two words respond to slightly different questions. Knowledge vs. belief. An agnostic is an individual who claims, the knowledge of the subject of God is unanswerable, but they lack any confidence in the claim. An Atheist is someone who doesn't believe in...
paul1967 replies on Dec 13, 2017:
@Hominid I agree that Atheist sometimes claims knowledge, but the fact is that the word Atheist used in that way is technically improperly applied. @AMGT is entirely correct in her response. That would mean that person is a Gnostic Atheist which unfortunatly is an unsupportable position to take and it switches the burden of proof onto the Gnostic Atheist.
paul1967 comments on Dec 13, 2017:
Technically, an agnostic is an atheist. These two words respond to slightly different questions. Knowledge vs. belief. An agnostic is an individual who claims, the knowledge of the subject of God is unanswerable, but they lack any confidence in the claim. An Atheist is someone who doesn't believe in...
paul1967 replies on Dec 13, 2017:
@Hominid I agree that Atheist sometimes claims knowledge, but the fact is that the word Atheist used in that way is technically improperly applied. @AMGT is entirely correct in her response. That would mean that person is a Gnostic Atheist which unfortunatly is an unsupportable position to take and it switches the burden of proof onto the Gnostic Atheist.
A question for agnostics
Noobody comments on Dec 13, 2017:
why do people have to justify themselves to you? we are all free to think what we want, believe what we want and chose a label for ourswlves that we want. if in time we will come to realize that what we believe is wrong, we will change. isn't this the whole point of a free-thinker with an open mind?...
paul1967 replies on Dec 13, 2017:
I don't think that's what he's doing. It sounds more like he's giving us his take on things, but I'm willing to be convinced that I'm wrong. Show me how he is asking you to "Justify" your views as opposed to asking you for your opinion.
Noobody comments on Dec 13, 2017:
why do people have to justify themselves to you? we are all free to think what we want, believe what we want and chose a label for ourswlves that we want. if in time we will come to realize that what we believe is wrong, we will change. isn't this the whole point of a free-thinker with an open mind?...
paul1967 replies on Dec 13, 2017:
I don't think that's what he's doing. It sounds more like he's giving us his take on things, but I'm willing to be convinced that I'm wrong. Show me how he is asking you to "Justify" your views as opposed to asking you for your opinion.
Is mankind inherently good, or born evil?
VictoriaNotes comments on Dec 13, 2017:
Here's what you are actually asking. Is mankind inherently prosocial or born antisocial?
Maybe this will help answer your question:
https://www.ted.com/talks/robert_sapolsky_the_biology_of_our_best_and_worst_selves
paul1967 replies on Dec 13, 2017:
Robert Sapolsky is far more eloquent, but he is saying what I said using a more scientific approach.
VictoriaNotes comments on Dec 13, 2017:
Here's what you are actually asking. Is mankind inherently prosocial or born antisocial?
Maybe this will help answer your question:
https://www.ted.com/talks/robert_sapolsky_the_biology_of_our_best_and_worst_selves
paul1967 replies on Dec 13, 2017:
Robert Sapolsky is far more eloquent, but he is saying what I said using a more scientific approach.
Is mankind inherently good, or born evil?
VictoriaNotes comments on Dec 13, 2017:
Here's what you are actually asking. Is mankind inherently prosocial or born antisocial?
Maybe this will help answer your question:
https://www.ted.com/talks/robert_sapolsky_the_biology_of_our_best_and_worst_selves
paul1967 replies on Dec 13, 2017:
Thank you for that link. I'm watching it now.
VictoriaNotes comments on Dec 13, 2017:
Here's what you are actually asking. Is mankind inherently prosocial or born antisocial?
Maybe this will help answer your question:
https://www.ted.com/talks/robert_sapolsky_the_biology_of_our_best_and_worst_selves
paul1967 replies on Dec 13, 2017:
Thank you for that link. I'm watching it now.
For a group of people that insist they aren't willing to take the chance that God may not be real, ...
paul1967 comments on Dec 13, 2017:
Trump said it best."I could stand in the middle of 5th avenue and shoot somebody and I wouldn't lose voters." These words are as accurate as any words ever spoken and it's substantial evidence that suggests just how broken our society has become. It's not just them it's us too. We (American's) don't...
paul1967 replies on Dec 13, 2017:
@pfreddie62 It is we the people of the United States of America that need to take responsibility for our country and we the people who need to stop being told what is reliable news and educate ourselves on how to investigate the truth.
paul1967 comments on Dec 13, 2017:
Trump said it best."I could stand in the middle of 5th avenue and shoot somebody and I wouldn't lose voters." These words are as accurate as any words ever spoken and it's substantial evidence that suggests just how broken our society has become. It's not just them it's us too. We (American's) don't...
paul1967 replies on Dec 13, 2017:
@pfreddie62 It is we the people of the United States of America that need to take responsibility for our country and we the people who need to stop being told what is reliable news and educate ourselves on how to investigate the truth.
What would make you believe in a God?
nancy-talcott comments on Dec 12, 2017:
When he knocks on my door & when I open it, he gives me the things I prayed for when I was religious. He would also give me the things I chanted for when I was a Buddhist. He would apologize for taking so long to get to me & he would actually show me heaven without me having to believe, have faith ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 12, 2017:
I enjoyed reading that. It starts off with me confused as to what you're saying, and the more I read, the more evident your point became. That was very well done.
nancy-talcott comments on Dec 12, 2017:
When he knocks on my door & when I open it, he gives me the things I prayed for when I was religious. He would also give me the things I chanted for when I was a Buddhist. He would apologize for taking so long to get to me & he would actually show me heaven without me having to believe, have faith ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 12, 2017:
I enjoyed reading that. It starts off with me confused as to what you're saying, and the more I read, the more evident your point became. That was very well done.
What would make you believe in a God?
BillRondeau comments on Dec 11, 2017:
meeting someone here to date....
paul1967 replies on Dec 12, 2017:
it's not there yet but I have hope that it will be
BillRondeau comments on Dec 11, 2017:
meeting someone here to date....
paul1967 replies on Dec 12, 2017:
it's not there yet but I have hope that it will be
What colors do you like for Agnostic.com's T-shirt?
AlexiaJaquet1 comments on Dec 9, 2017:
I personally like pink but alot of others would disapprove so I feel light purple is a more realistic colour for me.
paul1967 replies on Dec 9, 2017:
If you like pink stick to pink. What I like or anyone else likes should never stop you from voicing your preferences
AlexiaJaquet1 comments on Dec 9, 2017:
I personally like pink but alot of others would disapprove so I feel light purple is a more realistic colour for me.
paul1967 replies on Dec 9, 2017:
If you like pink stick to pink. What I like or anyone else likes should never stop you from voicing your preferences
I can't date any more Christians.
andygee comments on Dec 7, 2017:
Listen, Paul... Does Christine think there is a difference in iniquity between two girls going at it and and a man and woman, not married to each other, doing the same thing? If she does, and presuming you guys have had carnal knowledge, she may want to go back to catechism class or Sunday school ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 8, 2017:
We hadn't, but your point is well taken because she absolutely has had sex outside of marriage. For us, it was only our third date, but the topic of sex was discussed.
andygee comments on Dec 7, 2017:
Listen, Paul... Does Christine think there is a difference in iniquity between two girls going at it and and a man and woman, not married to each other, doing the same thing? If she does, and presuming you guys have had carnal knowledge, she may want to go back to catechism class or Sunday school ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 8, 2017:
We hadn't, but your point is well taken because she absolutely has had sex outside of marriage. For us, it was only our third date, but the topic of sex was discussed.
I can't date any more Christians.
VictoriaNotes comments on Dec 7, 2017:
I wondered where you had disappeared to, Paul. You've been missed around here. When I was a Christian I never had an attitude like that, so not all Christians are homophobic bigots. But, I'm glad you saw this before you got too invested in the relationship.
Even though I know not all Christians ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 7, 2017:
Thank you for your incredibly kind words. I've been really busy. I'm turning 50 in a few days and I really didn't want to be alone without someone in my life on my 50th birthday. (That sounds so desperate). But if I am I'll survive but that's what I've been doing.
VictoriaNotes comments on Dec 7, 2017:
I wondered where you had disappeared to, Paul. You've been missed around here. When I was a Christian I never had an attitude like that, so not all Christians are homophobic bigots. But, I'm glad you saw this before you got too invested in the relationship.
Even though I know not all Christians ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 7, 2017:
Thank you for your incredibly kind words. I've been really busy. I'm turning 50 in a few days and I really didn't want to be alone without someone in my life on my 50th birthday. (That sounds so desperate). But if I am I'll survive but that's what I've been doing.
I can't date any more Christians.
Megaman comments on Dec 7, 2017:
You did the right thing, man! Dramatic maybe but there have bee times I wish I'd been less tolerant and more bad ass.
Walk away and keep walking away until you find the stuff that makes you feel like you belong.
paul1967 replies on Dec 7, 2017:
At the time I really didn't view it as dramatic. I was just so mad I didn't want to say anything I just wanted to leave.
Megaman comments on Dec 7, 2017:
You did the right thing, man! Dramatic maybe but there have bee times I wish I'd been less tolerant and more bad ass.
Walk away and keep walking away until you find the stuff that makes you feel like you belong.
paul1967 replies on Dec 7, 2017:
At the time I really didn't view it as dramatic. I was just so mad I didn't want to say anything I just wanted to leave.
I can't date any more Christians.
Alexa comments on Dec 7, 2017:
You did the best thing. Someone that gives her child this kind of "education" can't be a good person and you obviously don't need someone like this in your life. I am 21 years old and my dad (he is also Christian) insulted homosexuals his whole life, since I was a child. He always told me how ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 7, 2017:
Respect
Alexa comments on Dec 7, 2017:
You did the best thing. Someone that gives her child this kind of "education" can't be a good person and you obviously don't need someone like this in your life. I am 21 years old and my dad (he is also Christian) insulted homosexuals his whole life, since I was a child. He always told me how ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 7, 2017:
Respect
I can't date any more Christians.
Lauren comments on Dec 7, 2017:
Ugh. That has to be a heck of an assault on your emotions, @Paul1967, compounding what you went through with your divorce.
I agree with @VictoriaNotes, though, about coloring all Christians the same. I wasn't a bigot when I was religious. One of the things that keeps me tolerant is watching my ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 7, 2017:
I've tried to connect with people on this website but it's really hard to get to know someone over text. There is someone that lives very close to me that I find attractive but unfortunately it wasn't mutual. It is what it is and all you can do is keep trying
Lauren comments on Dec 7, 2017:
Ugh. That has to be a heck of an assault on your emotions, @Paul1967, compounding what you went through with your divorce.
I agree with @VictoriaNotes, though, about coloring all Christians the same. I wasn't a bigot when I was religious. One of the things that keeps me tolerant is watching my ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 7, 2017:
I've tried to connect with people on this website but it's really hard to get to know someone over text. There is someone that lives very close to me that I find attractive but unfortunately it wasn't mutual. It is what it is and all you can do is keep trying
I can't date any more Christians.
El-loco comments on Dec 7, 2017:
In your situation I would have wanted to do the same - but I doubt I would have had the guts to do it.
If this was recently and if Christine calls you, I think you at least owe her an explanation. You never know - it might make her re-evaluate a few things.
paul1967 replies on Dec 7, 2017:
I agree and I did speak to her today. She did a complete 180 and she apologized for her statement. I forgave her but I don't trust it's genuine. People don't typically reevaluate those kind of beliefs that quickly. Maybe I'm being too hard on her but I think I would rather be overly skeptical and wrong than be accepting and be wrong.
El-loco comments on Dec 7, 2017:
In your situation I would have wanted to do the same - but I doubt I would have had the guts to do it.
If this was recently and if Christine calls you, I think you at least owe her an explanation. You never know - it might make her re-evaluate a few things.
paul1967 replies on Dec 7, 2017:
I agree and I did speak to her today. She did a complete 180 and she apologized for her statement. I forgave her but I don't trust it's genuine. People don't typically reevaluate those kind of beliefs that quickly. Maybe I'm being too hard on her but I think I would rather be overly skeptical and wrong than be accepting and be wrong.
Are we all racists?
DocDee comments on Dec 6, 2017:
I use the term "Raghead" and "Muzzlemen" and "camel rapists" and I am constantly being called a racist I cannot possibly see how unless it is the one calling me a racist that is actually the racist, if they are seeing connotations between the words I use and the people THEY beleive I am talking ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 7, 2017:
I think all those words contribute to the racist's agenda of causing emotional harm to a group. When you say, camel rapist is your intent to describe nobody in general or a middle easterner? If you mean nobody, in general, then you need help with communication skill because that term has been used more often for middle eastern people and one is not a racist for their ability to recognize familiar references cues.
DocDee comments on Dec 6, 2017:
I use the term "Raghead" and "Muzzlemen" and "camel rapists" and I am constantly being called a racist I cannot possibly see how unless it is the one calling me a racist that is actually the racist, if they are seeing connotations between the words I use and the people THEY beleive I am talking ...
paul1967 replies on Dec 7, 2017:
I think all those words contribute to the racist's agenda of causing emotional harm to a group. When you say, camel rapist is your intent to describe nobody in general or a middle easterner? If you mean nobody, in general, then you need help with communication skill because that term has been used more often for middle eastern people and one is not a racist for their ability to recognize familiar references cues.
Should gambling be legal in the U.S.?
paul1967 comments on Dec 4, 2017:
Gambling is legal in the US at the federal level. States can choose to make it illegal if the choose to but that's usually based on voter input. I think I would say I like the system we have in place where the population of a given state chooses whether or not to make it illegal.
paul1967 replies on Dec 6, 2017:
Yeah, I understood, and it was a good question, but my answer was I like it to be the way it is, which is to allow states popular vote to decide. So I guess my answer would be no I don't think it should be a mandatory federal law.
paul1967 comments on Dec 4, 2017:
Gambling is legal in the US at the federal level. States can choose to make it illegal if the choose to but that's usually based on voter input. I think I would say I like the system we have in place where the population of a given state chooses whether or not to make it illegal.
paul1967 replies on Dec 6, 2017:
Yeah, I understood, and it was a good question, but my answer was I like it to be the way it is, which is to allow states popular vote to decide. So I guess my answer would be no I don't think it should be a mandatory federal law.
Incest: Immoral or Moral?
VeganAtheist comments on Dec 3, 2017:
How is this even a fucking question? NO it is not okay to fuck your kids!!! We don't need an invisible man to have a moral code.
paul1967 replies on Dec 6, 2017:
yeah, the question was siblings.
VeganAtheist comments on Dec 3, 2017:
How is this even a fucking question? NO it is not okay to fuck your kids!!! We don't need an invisible man to have a moral code.
paul1967 replies on Dec 6, 2017:
yeah, the question was siblings.
What would make you believe in a God?
Coffeo comments on Dec 1, 2017:
I don't think you could tell them apart. Some people are already trying to make a god using artificial intelligence. There is a well-known SF story (I forget the author) about someone who builds an all-knowing artificial intelligence and asks it if there is a god. The reply is "There is NOW."
paul1967 replies on Dec 2, 2017:
LMAO. I guess if that were true it would be a God of a sort.
Coffeo comments on Dec 1, 2017:
I don't think you could tell them apart. Some people are already trying to make a god using artificial intelligence. There is a well-known SF story (I forget the author) about someone who builds an all-knowing artificial intelligence and asks it if there is a god. The reply is "There is NOW."
paul1967 replies on Dec 2, 2017:
LMAO. I guess if that were true it would be a God of a sort.
Incest: Immoral or Moral?
MilanMichaels comments on Nov 4, 2017:
It's a neutral area when sex is between two consenting adults. It is like asking if a woman who is of the age of consent decides she wants to sell sex and is not coerced nor is she engaging in survival sex work is she acting morally or immorally. It is neutral. I disagree with giving those two ...
paul1967 replies on Nov 5, 2017:
I want to thank you for taking the time to read the entire post. So many answers I've gotten have been from people who clearly read the title but didn't read what I said about it. I'm guilty of that myself from time to time, so I'm not bashing anyone, but I just wanted to thank you
MilanMichaels comments on Nov 4, 2017:
It's a neutral area when sex is between two consenting adults. It is like asking if a woman who is of the age of consent decides she wants to sell sex and is not coerced nor is she engaging in survival sex work is she acting morally or immorally. It is neutral. I disagree with giving those two ...
paul1967 replies on Nov 5, 2017:
I want to thank you for taking the time to read the entire post. So many answers I've gotten have been from people who clearly read the title but didn't read what I said about it. I'm guilty of that myself from time to time, so I'm not bashing anyone, but I just wanted to thank you
The Bible: 1 good thing 1 bad thing (please read full question below)
ThomasMeador comments on Nov 4, 2017:
Name a passage in the Bible that you feel is a positive message.
God is love. Well it would have been good if they had stopped right there.
Name the worst passage, the one that most disturbs you.
The greatest of the commandments is to love God with all your heart --- How much sense does it...
paul1967 replies on Nov 4, 2017:
That is an excellent point, making love a prerequisite for entering the kingdom of heaven is the dumbest thing I've ever heard of in my life. You said it better than I did but you're 100% correct you can't mandate love
ThomasMeador comments on Nov 4, 2017:
Name a passage in the Bible that you feel is a positive message.
God is love. Well it would have been good if they had stopped right there.
Name the worst passage, the one that most disturbs you.
The greatest of the commandments is to love God with all your heart --- How much sense does it...
paul1967 replies on Nov 4, 2017:
That is an excellent point, making love a prerequisite for entering the kingdom of heaven is the dumbest thing I've ever heard of in my life. You said it better than I did but you're 100% correct you can't mandate love
Incest: Immoral or Moral?
basher comments on Nov 4, 2017:
if it's between consenting adults, it's fine. just like all sex. i don't understand why the question still comes up or why people can still be arrested for having consensual sex.
paul1967 replies on Nov 4, 2017:
I agree. I find it unappealing myself but I also find gay sex unappealing but I don't judge anyone for it and I know if they're happy and it makes sense to them I'm all for it.
basher comments on Nov 4, 2017:
if it's between consenting adults, it's fine. just like all sex. i don't understand why the question still comes up or why people can still be arrested for having consensual sex.
paul1967 replies on Nov 4, 2017:
I agree. I find it unappealing myself but I also find gay sex unappealing but I don't judge anyone for it and I know if they're happy and it makes sense to them I'm all for it.
Do you think Street Epistemology is helpful?
atheist comments on Nov 4, 2017:
You mean cognitive therapy for the home!ess?
paul1967 replies on Nov 4, 2017:
No, it's a relatively new approach to discussing religion with people. It's asking what do you believe and why without bringing into the conversation the questioners beliefs. The questioner will propose how reaching rational conclusions are achieved and then examine how the person came to accept his/her views on religious topics. Some passive questioning of the reliability of their logical process for reaching those conclusions will be pointed out. It's all done in a way that is less threatening to the person being questioned.
atheist comments on Nov 4, 2017:
You mean cognitive therapy for the home!ess?
paul1967 replies on Nov 4, 2017:
No, it's a relatively new approach to discussing religion with people. It's asking what do you believe and why without bringing into the conversation the questioners beliefs. The questioner will propose how reaching rational conclusions are achieved and then examine how the person came to accept his/her views on religious topics. Some passive questioning of the reliability of their logical process for reaching those conclusions will be pointed out. It's all done in a way that is less threatening to the person being questioned.
Incest: Immoral or Moral?
Hominid comments on Nov 3, 2017:
I find this hard to vote for one way or the other. Incest may be an emotionally safe scenario if there's no power-play going on, as siblings know each other well and (if raised well) have healthy trust for each other. On the flip side, there is SUCH a stigma attached to it, their lives would be ...
paul1967 replies on Nov 4, 2017:
I have to tell you that I like the way your brain works and even better the way you express your thought verbally. I do disagree on this point. The fact that society stigmatizes incest doesn't impact the question of is it moral. The issue should read, is it moral to you? I personally think it's unquestionably moral and very unadvisable. When I say it's moral I'm not implying good I'm saying it's not bad and my assessment of what is moral or immoral is based on is it Bad? Or not bad. I don't use, is it Good or bad because something that is moral doesn't necessarily mean it's good or advisable.
Hominid comments on Nov 3, 2017:
I find this hard to vote for one way or the other. Incest may be an emotionally safe scenario if there's no power-play going on, as siblings know each other well and (if raised well) have healthy trust for each other. On the flip side, there is SUCH a stigma attached to it, their lives would be ...
paul1967 replies on Nov 4, 2017:
I have to tell you that I like the way your brain works and even better the way you express your thought verbally. I do disagree on this point. The fact that society stigmatizes incest doesn't impact the question of is it moral. The issue should read, is it moral to you? I personally think it's unquestionably moral and very unadvisable. When I say it's moral I'm not implying good I'm saying it's not bad and my assessment of what is moral or immoral is based on is it Bad? Or not bad. I don't use, is it Good or bad because something that is moral doesn't necessarily mean it's good or advisable.
Do you think Street Epistemology is helpful?
wordywalt comments on Nov 4, 2017:
I know what epistemology is. What is Street epistemology? Never heard of it.
paul1967 replies on Nov 4, 2017:
Street Epistemology is a dialectical approach intent on helping people reflect on the reliability of the methods used to arrive at deeply-held beliefs. Street Epistemology (SE) is the application of epistemology (the study of knowledge) outside of formal academic contexts.
wordywalt comments on Nov 4, 2017:
I know what epistemology is. What is Street epistemology? Never heard of it.
paul1967 replies on Nov 4, 2017:
Street Epistemology is a dialectical approach intent on helping people reflect on the reliability of the methods used to arrive at deeply-held beliefs. Street Epistemology (SE) is the application of epistemology (the study of knowledge) outside of formal academic contexts.
Why do so many Atheist believe in Ghosts?
pasha-one-nine comments on Nov 1, 2017:
I don't believe in ghosts, despite having "seen" one. Our complex minds can conjure up powerful imagined experiences. I thought I "saw" my own late mother, just days after she died suddenly. I wish it had been her, and it's comforting and cheering to think she was saying goodbye to me, but no. It ...
paul1967 replies on Nov 2, 2017:
You are a rare one. I don't know how that would have impacted me; I hope I would have come to the same conclusion you did.
pasha-one-nine comments on Nov 1, 2017:
I don't believe in ghosts, despite having "seen" one. Our complex minds can conjure up powerful imagined experiences. I thought I "saw" my own late mother, just days after she died suddenly. I wish it had been her, and it's comforting and cheering to think she was saying goodbye to me, but no. It ...
paul1967 replies on Nov 2, 2017:
You are a rare one. I don't know how that would have impacted me; I hope I would have come to the same conclusion you did.
What is truth?
VictoriaNotes comments on Oct 31, 2017:
Truth is being in accord with fact -- with reality. I once was blind but now I see. Oh, the irony.
paul1967 replies on Nov 1, 2017:
LMAO, I get the irony you speak off and agree with it. However, I love that religious song. I associate it with a recovery of my youth and ignore the spiritual overtones. I was blind (figuratively) as a youth, getting bad grades, doing drugs and all sorts of awful things I will carry with me to my grave, but Grace to me was a girl named Christine. She opened my eyes, and she allowed me to see. Without my grace, I would never have become the man I am today. That song helped me with my struggle to re-educate myself and the end of my drug use. I wanted to be better than I was. I often wonder whatever happened to Christine.
VictoriaNotes comments on Oct 31, 2017:
Truth is being in accord with fact -- with reality. I once was blind but now I see. Oh, the irony.
paul1967 replies on Nov 1, 2017:
LMAO, I get the irony you speak off and agree with it. However, I love that religious song. I associate it with a recovery of my youth and ignore the spiritual overtones. I was blind (figuratively) as a youth, getting bad grades, doing drugs and all sorts of awful things I will carry with me to my grave, but Grace to me was a girl named Christine. She opened my eyes, and she allowed me to see. Without my grace, I would never have become the man I am today. That song helped me with my struggle to re-educate myself and the end of my drug use. I wanted to be better than I was. I often wonder whatever happened to Christine.
What is truth?
paul1967 comments on Oct 31, 2017:
What is a truth? For most of us, it's our minds accepting and rejecting information based on things we already believe, and most of our foundations that make up our beliefs are dictated to us at a young age. Some people are open to being challenged and open to, reevaluation of long-held beliefs when...
paul1967 replies on Nov 1, 2017:
The problem is semantics. What is true or the truth is always going to be what is believed. Even with science and loads of evidence pointing at an apparent absolute, we can never say "this" is an absolute fact. All we can say is this "conclusion" is our best answer based on the evidence. Now, I agree that I wish people would adopt the scientific method for their stance on deciding what they accept as truth, but none of us do that for everything. We assume knowledge and trust in its reliability. We read the news and if we trust the source we accept that it's true, or we learn something, and it's above our capability to research it with our current level of education we take it as truth.
paul1967 comments on Oct 31, 2017:
What is a truth? For most of us, it's our minds accepting and rejecting information based on things we already believe, and most of our foundations that make up our beliefs are dictated to us at a young age. Some people are open to being challenged and open to, reevaluation of long-held beliefs when...
paul1967 replies on Nov 1, 2017:
The problem is semantics. What is true or the truth is always going to be what is believed. Even with science and loads of evidence pointing at an apparent absolute, we can never say "this" is an absolute fact. All we can say is this "conclusion" is our best answer based on the evidence. Now, I agree that I wish people would adopt the scientific method for their stance on deciding what they accept as truth, but none of us do that for everything. We assume knowledge and trust in its reliability. We read the news and if we trust the source we accept that it's true, or we learn something, and it's above our capability to research it with our current level of education we take it as truth.
Women and Misogyny
VictoriaNotes comments on Oct 31, 2017:
"When men battle it out, they are seen as engaging in healthy competition and vigorous debate. When women do the same things, they are Mean Girls locked in a heated catfight. These perceptions that women are backstabbing and conniving can lead people to believe that workplace disagreements between ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 31, 2017:
I don't in any way disagree with you. Your point is well supported. I have to admit that I'm shocked to hear that men out gossip women. I know men do, and I know I have myself been guilty of workplace gossip, but I wouldn't have believed men did it more.
VictoriaNotes comments on Oct 31, 2017:
"When men battle it out, they are seen as engaging in healthy competition and vigorous debate. When women do the same things, they are Mean Girls locked in a heated catfight. These perceptions that women are backstabbing and conniving can lead people to believe that workplace disagreements between ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 31, 2017:
I don't in any way disagree with you. Your point is well supported. I have to admit that I'm shocked to hear that men out gossip women. I know men do, and I know I have myself been guilty of workplace gossip, but I wouldn't have believed men did it more.
What are you for Halloween? I'm a Pikachu!
CathyD comments on Oct 31, 2017:
I’m the birthday girl! ????
paul1967 replies on Oct 31, 2017:
Happy birthday and a round of drinks on me to celebrate a year of happiness to you.
CathyD comments on Oct 31, 2017:
I’m the birthday girl! ????
paul1967 replies on Oct 31, 2017:
Happy birthday and a round of drinks on me to celebrate a year of happiness to you.
I have a neighbour who just moved in next door, and he asked me what denomination I was.
JayLindsey comments on Oct 26, 2017:
Simply explain God is a vain and jealous woman and Jesus is a rich Jew!
paul1967 replies on Oct 26, 2017:
LMAO
JayLindsey comments on Oct 26, 2017:
Simply explain God is a vain and jealous woman and Jesus is a rich Jew!
paul1967 replies on Oct 26, 2017:
LMAO
Incest: Immoral or Moral?
Diarmaede comments on Oct 25, 2017:
I cannot really give a "Yes" or "No" answer to that question. Most of us in this group have grown up in the USA, so we cannot help but thinking "Ew!" when we think of incest. However, in other cultures it is perfectly acceptable. In pre-Cook Hawaii, incest in the royal family was not only ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 25, 2017:
Well said
Diarmaede comments on Oct 25, 2017:
I cannot really give a "Yes" or "No" answer to that question. Most of us in this group have grown up in the USA, so we cannot help but thinking "Ew!" when we think of incest. However, in other cultures it is perfectly acceptable. In pre-Cook Hawaii, incest in the royal family was not only ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 25, 2017:
Well said
Democracy has never worked well but it's more dysfunctional than ever these days.
paul1967 comments on Oct 25, 2017:
We are splitting in half. We were a country more in the center at one time but the right keeps moving further and further right and the left keeps moving further and further left. I'm one of those hanging on the far left edge because I don't want the scale to tip so far right that we become ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 25, 2017:
I agree and before you posted that I thought to myself, Is that true? Is the left moving left and it was too late to edit. So that's a long-winded way of saying you're correct in my opinion.
paul1967 comments on Oct 25, 2017:
We are splitting in half. We were a country more in the center at one time but the right keeps moving further and further right and the left keeps moving further and further left. I'm one of those hanging on the far left edge because I don't want the scale to tip so far right that we become ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 25, 2017:
I agree and before you posted that I thought to myself, Is that true? Is the left moving left and it was too late to edit. So that's a long-winded way of saying you're correct in my opinion.
Why do so many Atheist believe in Ghosts?
LoveThyDog comments on Oct 25, 2017:
I highly doubt that any true atheist believes in ghosts. It's just incompatible to logic and reason. I mean, if you've come so far as to declare yourself an atheist, I just don't see how it's possible. Do you know any atheists who believe in Santa or the Easter Bunny? Then again, it takes all ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 25, 2017:
read the posts below and see for yourself. Unless theists are masquerading here as atheists we have a good third according to this unscientific poll
LoveThyDog comments on Oct 25, 2017:
I highly doubt that any true atheist believes in ghosts. It's just incompatible to logic and reason. I mean, if you've come so far as to declare yourself an atheist, I just don't see how it's possible. Do you know any atheists who believe in Santa or the Easter Bunny? Then again, it takes all ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 25, 2017:
read the posts below and see for yourself. Unless theists are masquerading here as atheists we have a good third according to this unscientific poll
Incest: Immoral or Moral?
LoveThyDog comments on Oct 25, 2017:
Uh- do I really have to answer that? If you think about screwing your mother, father, daughter, son, brother, sister, etc. instead of the big pool of humans you have to choose from, then I'd suggest a shrink. And I don't need to hear about the flawed theory of cultural relativism. It's proven ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 25, 2017:
I'm not trying to be combative but did you respond only to the title of the question or was this your response to the whole issue below the title?
LoveThyDog comments on Oct 25, 2017:
Uh- do I really have to answer that? If you think about screwing your mother, father, daughter, son, brother, sister, etc. instead of the big pool of humans you have to choose from, then I'd suggest a shrink. And I don't need to hear about the flawed theory of cultural relativism. It's proven ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 25, 2017:
I'm not trying to be combative but did you respond only to the title of the question or was this your response to the whole issue below the title?
What would make you believe in a God?
LoveThyDog comments on Oct 25, 2017:
I couldn't care less if God came down from the heavens, and professed to be the second coming of Jesus. I would only ask him, 'if you truly are a benevolent god, then why did you create beings who have to feed on other living beings (your creation) to survive?"
paul1967 replies on Oct 25, 2017:
Isn't it a shame that Gods creation is smarter than God lol?
LoveThyDog comments on Oct 25, 2017:
I couldn't care less if God came down from the heavens, and professed to be the second coming of Jesus. I would only ask him, 'if you truly are a benevolent god, then why did you create beings who have to feed on other living beings (your creation) to survive?"
paul1967 replies on Oct 25, 2017:
Isn't it a shame that Gods creation is smarter than God lol?
How would you feel if you found out that the person you have feeling for was transgender?
HeathenFarmer comments on Oct 25, 2017:
Pre-op no I would lose all physical interest I would probably have no problem being friends but I don't believe I could get over the feeling they had deceived me. Post-op, they think they are a women and I do too, I may be shocked upon finding out but i would get over it and would feel no different...
paul1967 replies on Oct 25, 2017:
I feel the same way. Except the deception part because of the scenario I gave was an analogy of how you felt before you interacted with them, would you follow through if they said I'm pre-op or post-op transgender. They would be upfront about it.
HeathenFarmer comments on Oct 25, 2017:
Pre-op no I would lose all physical interest I would probably have no problem being friends but I don't believe I could get over the feeling they had deceived me. Post-op, they think they are a women and I do too, I may be shocked upon finding out but i would get over it and would feel no different...
paul1967 replies on Oct 25, 2017:
I feel the same way. Except the deception part because of the scenario I gave was an analogy of how you felt before you interacted with them, would you follow through if they said I'm pre-op or post-op transgender. They would be upfront about it.
Why do so many Atheist believe in Ghosts?
MarcusF comments on Oct 25, 2017:
It depends on what is meant by the word ghost. In scientific terms If energy cannot be destroyed but only change forms then the energy that was part of a personal life force might hang around longer then the physical body it may take some time before it disperses or does whatever it does after an ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 25, 2017:
Here is my issue with that energy argument, Lifeforms put off energy all the time, 24/7 we release energy, but nobody thinks that that energy is a manifestation of ourselves. If death triggers energy to manifest in a way that binds it into a human form, then we should have evidence for that. To my knowledge, the energy we put out during our life is no different than the energy we put out at the time of death other than the output diminishes to nothing over a few hours
MarcusF comments on Oct 25, 2017:
It depends on what is meant by the word ghost. In scientific terms If energy cannot be destroyed but only change forms then the energy that was part of a personal life force might hang around longer then the physical body it may take some time before it disperses or does whatever it does after an ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 25, 2017:
Here is my issue with that energy argument, Lifeforms put off energy all the time, 24/7 we release energy, but nobody thinks that that energy is a manifestation of ourselves. If death triggers energy to manifest in a way that binds it into a human form, then we should have evidence for that. To my knowledge, the energy we put out during our life is no different than the energy we put out at the time of death other than the output diminishes to nothing over a few hours
Why do so many Atheist believe in Ghosts?
Optimistic comments on Oct 25, 2017:
I was about 35 when I saw my first ghost. I have seen a few since and have one who visited me for a while. Do not be afraid they are just lost souls. Not everyone is sensitive enough to see them. When you get in touch with your inner spirit you will also see spirits. Kind of nice.
paul1967 replies on Oct 25, 2017:
I'm sorry if this comes across as condescending, I don't mean it to be but what you're describing sound utterly insane. You claim that you are visited and have a relationship with dead people. What is a spirit? How do you define spirit? If you're able to see why can't you assist people to detect them? If they exist and they are detectable, then science can study them,
Optimistic comments on Oct 25, 2017:
I was about 35 when I saw my first ghost. I have seen a few since and have one who visited me for a while. Do not be afraid they are just lost souls. Not everyone is sensitive enough to see them. When you get in touch with your inner spirit you will also see spirits. Kind of nice.
paul1967 replies on Oct 25, 2017:
I'm sorry if this comes across as condescending, I don't mean it to be but what you're describing sound utterly insane. You claim that you are visited and have a relationship with dead people. What is a spirit? How do you define spirit? If you're able to see why can't you assist people to detect them? If they exist and they are detectable, then science can study them,
Do you actively represent Atheists (in person or on the web)?
paul1967 comments on Oct 24, 2017:
I debate publically in churches and online. There are a surprising number of pastors, minister and fathers wanting to discuss any number of subjects. I started by mailing out flyers years ago thinking I wouldn't get any to respond but I get calls all the time. They invite me to debate anything from ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 24, 2017:
To Hugene2002: I sent those flyers at over five years ago. I might be able to dig one up on MS word. I'll see if I can find it. All it said: Greetings to Pastor (insert his name) My name is Paul I would like to discuss holding a debate at your Church as a fundraising opportunity for your church. I volunteer my time during this event, and all video and ticket sales will be the property of the (Insert Church name). Two formats that I offer are debate and discussion. I then layout the rules I'm willing to proceed with, for example, no interruptions during the speakers time. You must wrap your speech up within 1 minute of the timer.
To ZenBear: I don't have any qualifications, no degree in biology, philosophy, or theology. I am self-taught on all of these topics, and I have tons of friends who are very qualified review my work and attend the debates. I feel I'm very prepared and I understand how to convey the actual science in ways scientist don't. People get offended when we call humans primates, I explain to them that humans are humans a chimp is a chimp, a silverback gorilla is a silverback gorilla. Science uses comparative anatomy to lump groups into classifications. I then take it away from the personnel and describe how a wolf is a wolf and coyotes are coyotes, and Bassett Hound is a Bassett Hounds, but they all share common physical traits, so they are classified as being a part of the family Canidae. Bring it back to us. I say so just as all Primates have forward-facing eyes, opposable thumbs, nails instead of claws......etc. These similarities get us grouped in with as a primate.
paul1967 comments on Oct 24, 2017:
I debate publically in churches and online. There are a surprising number of pastors, minister and fathers wanting to discuss any number of subjects. I started by mailing out flyers years ago thinking I wouldn't get any to respond but I get calls all the time. They invite me to debate anything from ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 24, 2017:
To Hugene2002: I sent those flyers at over five years ago. I might be able to dig one up on MS word. I'll see if I can find it. All it said: Greetings to Pastor (insert his name) My name is Paul I would like to discuss holding a debate at your Church as a fundraising opportunity for your church. I volunteer my time during this event, and all video and ticket sales will be the property of the (Insert Church name). Two formats that I offer are debate and discussion. I then layout the rules I'm willing to proceed with, for example, no interruptions during the speakers time. You must wrap your speech up within 1 minute of the timer.
To ZenBear: I don't have any qualifications, no degree in biology, philosophy, or theology. I am self-taught on all of these topics, and I have tons of friends who are very qualified review my work and attend the debates. I feel I'm very prepared and I understand how to convey the actual science in ways scientist don't. People get offended when we call humans primates, I explain to them that humans are humans a chimp is a chimp, a silverback gorilla is a silverback gorilla. Science uses comparative anatomy to lump groups into classifications. I then take it away from the personnel and describe how a wolf is a wolf and coyotes are coyotes, and Bassett Hound is a Bassett Hounds, but they all share common physical traits, so they are classified as being a part of the family Canidae. Bring it back to us. I say so just as all Primates have forward-facing eyes, opposable thumbs, nails instead of claws......etc. These similarities get us grouped in with as a primate.
Do you actively represent Atheists (in person or on the web)?
paul1967 comments on Oct 24, 2017:
I debate publically in churches and online. There are a surprising number of pastors, minister and fathers wanting to discuss any number of subjects. I started by mailing out flyers years ago thinking I wouldn't get any to respond but I get calls all the time. They invite me to debate anything from ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 24, 2017:
No usually, and I prefer it that way. I have lost ever debate I have been at because the audience is generally less than 50 people and they are all theists. The vote is read before and after the debate. It will be, for the proposal, against the proposal, and abstain. My goal isn't to win. My goal is to correct misinformation and allow people to hear for the first time what science is actually saying. Many theists claim they don't believe in evolution and when doing a debate my opening line is; For all of you who don't accept evolution, you might be surprised to find out that you don't understand the very thing you claim is untrue. You're being taught evolution not by the scientists but by the apologists, and they are often misinformed themselves. I'm here tonight to clear that up for you. Thank you for allowing me this opportunity to explain what is actually being said by science, and then you decide for yourself if the apologetics taught to you, balance up to the real explanation provided by science. The best chance to educate people is in the question and answer period. I often forgo my rebuttal in favor of more time in question and answer. The claims asserted by the pastor aren't worth my time responding to usually, but sometimes I will and sometimes I won't. You would be shocked to hear some of the questions asked during Q&A. If our ancestors were monkeys why are there still monkeys? I am not a monkey! Why do you insist on calling humans monkeys! Since God created Adam and Eve in human form, why do you still think man evolved from monkeys? The list is endless. I feel great about doing this, and I would do it more often if I could.
paul1967 comments on Oct 24, 2017:
I debate publically in churches and online. There are a surprising number of pastors, minister and fathers wanting to discuss any number of subjects. I started by mailing out flyers years ago thinking I wouldn't get any to respond but I get calls all the time. They invite me to debate anything from ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 24, 2017:
No usually, and I prefer it that way. I have lost ever debate I have been at because the audience is generally less than 50 people and they are all theists. The vote is read before and after the debate. It will be, for the proposal, against the proposal, and abstain. My goal isn't to win. My goal is to correct misinformation and allow people to hear for the first time what science is actually saying. Many theists claim they don't believe in evolution and when doing a debate my opening line is; For all of you who don't accept evolution, you might be surprised to find out that you don't understand the very thing you claim is untrue. You're being taught evolution not by the scientists but by the apologists, and they are often misinformed themselves. I'm here tonight to clear that up for you. Thank you for allowing me this opportunity to explain what is actually being said by science, and then you decide for yourself if the apologetics taught to you, balance up to the real explanation provided by science. The best chance to educate people is in the question and answer period. I often forgo my rebuttal in favor of more time in question and answer. The claims asserted by the pastor aren't worth my time responding to usually, but sometimes I will and sometimes I won't. You would be shocked to hear some of the questions asked during Q&A. If our ancestors were monkeys why are there still monkeys? I am not a monkey! Why do you insist on calling humans monkeys! Since God created Adam and Eve in human form, why do you still think man evolved from monkeys? The list is endless. I feel great about doing this, and I would do it more often if I could.
Would you want a Christian God to be real?
Paul comments on Oct 24, 2017:
Not if what the Bible says about him is actually true no of course not! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8VN8xXYDPnk=PLdsG5Ji2dgW7qDfr9D35tNFXVZHn0uKMZ
paul1967 replies on Oct 24, 2017:
I'm watching it. This is an interesting resource.
Paul comments on Oct 24, 2017:
Not if what the Bible says about him is actually true no of course not! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8VN8xXYDPnk=PLdsG5Ji2dgW7qDfr9D35tNFXVZHn0uKMZ
paul1967 replies on Oct 24, 2017:
I'm watching it. This is an interesting resource.
I 100% know there is a God or is no God
ThomasMeador comments on Oct 24, 2017:
I am 100% certain that there is no supernatural god. So, what would I do if proof of one were presented to me? Well, as a mater of fact, proof is presented to me quite often. I simply examine the proof, point out the errors in it, and go on about my business. If you can prove the existence of the ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 24, 2017:
What if God isn't supernatural, what if the supernatural is just beyond our current capability to measure but later was observable?
ThomasMeador comments on Oct 24, 2017:
I am 100% certain that there is no supernatural god. So, what would I do if proof of one were presented to me? Well, as a mater of fact, proof is presented to me quite often. I simply examine the proof, point out the errors in it, and go on about my business. If you can prove the existence of the ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 24, 2017:
What if God isn't supernatural, what if the supernatural is just beyond our current capability to measure but later was observable?
Why do so many Atheist believe in Ghosts?
Hugene2002 comments on Oct 23, 2017:
As the vote clearly shows, most atheists don't believe in ghosts. I used to believe in ghosts when I was a theist, as it only makes sense to believe in imaginary things when religious. The clarity of thought you can have when not under the influence of religion is so great and uplifting, I wish it ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 23, 2017:
One third is not a small number. I suspect it's far less in reality maybe closer to 10%, but to me, that's still a big number
Hugene2002 comments on Oct 23, 2017:
As the vote clearly shows, most atheists don't believe in ghosts. I used to believe in ghosts when I was a theist, as it only makes sense to believe in imaginary things when religious. The clarity of thought you can have when not under the influence of religion is so great and uplifting, I wish it ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 23, 2017:
One third is not a small number. I suspect it's far less in reality maybe closer to 10%, but to me, that's still a big number
Why do so many Atheist believe in Ghosts?
Mantra comments on Oct 23, 2017:
Because Halloween is coming :p? I don't think religion and ghosts (and other supernatural things) are related, at least not to people like me. I have a militant atheist friend who most certainly believes in ghost as she has first-hand experiences on a few occasions. I've talked with several friends ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 23, 2017:
But you can understand why that is a bad reason for believing something right?
Mantra comments on Oct 23, 2017:
Because Halloween is coming :p? I don't think religion and ghosts (and other supernatural things) are related, at least not to people like me. I have a militant atheist friend who most certainly believes in ghost as she has first-hand experiences on a few occasions. I've talked with several friends ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 23, 2017:
But you can understand why that is a bad reason for believing something right?
Why do so many Atheist believe in Ghosts?
Paul628 comments on Oct 23, 2017:
I like your clothing question, but I can't think of a time when I saw an atheist say they believed in ghosts.
paul1967 replies on Oct 23, 2017:
Out of the 17 posts 5 say they believe in ghosts
Paul628 comments on Oct 23, 2017:
I like your clothing question, but I can't think of a time when I saw an atheist say they believed in ghosts.
paul1967 replies on Oct 23, 2017:
Out of the 17 posts 5 say they believe in ghosts
Why do so many Atheist believe in Ghosts?
LadyStardust96 comments on Oct 23, 2017:
I believe in Ghosts, but don't think they are specific to religion. To be honest I don't have a good answer why I do, and maybe it will change as I get older.
paul1967 replies on Oct 23, 2017:
I think that's a very honest answer.
LadyStardust96 comments on Oct 23, 2017:
I believe in Ghosts, but don't think they are specific to religion. To be honest I don't have a good answer why I do, and maybe it will change as I get older.
paul1967 replies on Oct 23, 2017:
I think that's a very honest answer.
How do you respond to criticism?
rodandros comments on Oct 23, 2017:
What if you are being criticized for doing things differently, but more effectively? I'm pretty sure everybody has heard the statement "that's not how we do things here" How do you react to that?
paul1967 replies on Oct 23, 2017:
Well if it's my job I'm going to do it the way they do it but if it's my education or something that is personal to me and it works better for me than of course I'm going to do it the way I do it
rodandros comments on Oct 23, 2017:
What if you are being criticized for doing things differently, but more effectively? I'm pretty sure everybody has heard the statement "that's not how we do things here" How do you react to that?
paul1967 replies on Oct 23, 2017:
Well if it's my job I'm going to do it the way they do it but if it's my education or something that is personal to me and it works better for me than of course I'm going to do it the way I do it
Why do so many Atheist believe in Ghosts?
Paul628 comments on Oct 23, 2017:
I like your clothing question, but I can't think of a time when I saw an atheist say they believed in ghosts.
paul1967 replies on Oct 23, 2017:
Search past posts here.
Paul628 comments on Oct 23, 2017:
I like your clothing question, but I can't think of a time when I saw an atheist say they believed in ghosts.
paul1967 replies on Oct 23, 2017:
Search past posts here.
Is lusting really a bad thing? Can lust ever be enough to maintain a relationship?
Paul comments on Oct 22, 2017:
It's like Woody Allen said:
Sex without love is an just an empty experience. - But as empty experiences go it's one of the *best*!
L.O.L!
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
LMAO yes yes it is
Paul comments on Oct 22, 2017:
It's like Woody Allen said:
Sex without love is an just an empty experience. - But as empty experiences go it's one of the *best*!
L.O.L!
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
LMAO yes yes it is
I 100% know there is a God or is no God
nomyth comments on Oct 22, 2017:
We can not see the ends of the universe. We can not find its beginning or end. What caused the Big Bang? That question was how I used to support my belief in a god, as a teen. Two years later I'd realized that the Big Bang can not prove a god. Whatever the cause, we've got to keep looking. ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
It's so silly it doesn't even count as an explanation. All it does is say I have nothing supporting this conclusion and I don't know how it works, but it fits with what I want to believe
nomyth comments on Oct 22, 2017:
We can not see the ends of the universe. We can not find its beginning or end. What caused the Big Bang? That question was how I used to support my belief in a god, as a teen. Two years later I'd realized that the Big Bang can not prove a god. Whatever the cause, we've got to keep looking. ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
It's so silly it doesn't even count as an explanation. All it does is say I have nothing supporting this conclusion and I don't know how it works, but it fits with what I want to believe
I 100% know there is a God or is no God
SleepingOnABoat comments on Oct 22, 2017:
I'm not 100% sure of anything. Should I say I am 99.999% sure I am wearing shoes, or do I just say I am wearing shoes? Some would say I am agnostic, but the probability of a god of any sort existing is so small that we can just say there is no god.
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
LMAO fair point
SleepingOnABoat comments on Oct 22, 2017:
I'm not 100% sure of anything. Should I say I am 99.999% sure I am wearing shoes, or do I just say I am wearing shoes? Some would say I am agnostic, but the probability of a god of any sort existing is so small that we can just say there is no god.
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
LMAO fair point
How would you feel if you found out that the person you have feeling for was transgender?
kltuckmn comments on Oct 22, 2017:
Not ever being in that situation, I don't know . I would certainly hope it wouldn't make a difference in our relationship.
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
That was my answer too. I don't know but I would like to believe it wouldn't impact how I felt because if it did it would be because of a repressed intolerance.
kltuckmn comments on Oct 22, 2017:
Not ever being in that situation, I don't know . I would certainly hope it wouldn't make a difference in our relationship.
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
That was my answer too. I don't know but I would like to believe it wouldn't impact how I felt because if it did it would be because of a repressed intolerance.
Do You Believe in Evolution?
VanoDupont comments on Oct 22, 2017:
Seems hard to believe that some can't believe facts. Evolution is fact, believe it or not. I believe I entered to many believe's.
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
Lol at least your too many believes line up to the evidence.
VanoDupont comments on Oct 22, 2017:
Seems hard to believe that some can't believe facts. Evolution is fact, believe it or not. I believe I entered to many believe's.
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
Lol at least your too many believes line up to the evidence.
When I was researching religion and asking my friends and coworkers about the power of prayer it ...
VictoriaNotes comments on Oct 22, 2017:
But SS, don't you know? The "righteous" ones will tell you that in order for your prayers to be answered, you have to be filled with the "holy spirit." Lol
As someone who was once a sincere believer and prayed often and earnestly, I came to the same conclusion. However, unanswered prayer ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
I would be very interested in that story if you ever wanted to share it. What caused you to come to the realization that, God was a man made the concept and not the other way around.
VictoriaNotes comments on Oct 22, 2017:
But SS, don't you know? The "righteous" ones will tell you that in order for your prayers to be answered, you have to be filled with the "holy spirit." Lol
As someone who was once a sincere believer and prayed often and earnestly, I came to the same conclusion. However, unanswered prayer ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
I would be very interested in that story if you ever wanted to share it. What caused you to come to the realization that, God was a man made the concept and not the other way around.
I have a neighbour who just moved in next door, and he asked me what denomination I was.
JosephHarrison comments on Oct 22, 2017:
I'll be honest. Were I in your shoes, I'd have drowned him in derision and mockery within the first five minutes. I'm not a merciful man, nor am I one to hide my true thoughts. Deep down, I'd know that it wouldn't do any good because it would just reinforce his beliefs, but it would do me some good ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
I agree and believe me when I say I have gone toe to toe with my share of theists. However, in my experience, doing that in the middle of the Bible belt surrounded by neighbours who are all theist, mocking isn't the best approach. I have to live around these people. As much as I would like to, I can't go around mocking them every time they come over to talk about their ideas of a God. All I will do is show them why faith is a terrible way to know if something is true.
JosephHarrison comments on Oct 22, 2017:
I'll be honest. Were I in your shoes, I'd have drowned him in derision and mockery within the first five minutes. I'm not a merciful man, nor am I one to hide my true thoughts. Deep down, I'd know that it wouldn't do any good because it would just reinforce his beliefs, but it would do me some good ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
I agree and believe me when I say I have gone toe to toe with my share of theists. However, in my experience, doing that in the middle of the Bible belt surrounded by neighbours who are all theist, mocking isn't the best approach. I have to live around these people. As much as I would like to, I can't go around mocking them every time they come over to talk about their ideas of a God. All I will do is show them why faith is a terrible way to know if something is true.
Why are religious people on this site? What is their intention?
VictoriaNotes comments on Oct 21, 2017:
The first follow I had here was from a Christian guy who 100% believed in god/Jesus. He was also a newbie and sent me a PM, but I couldn't read it because the system was glitching. But, it did make me wonder why he would try to contact me. They know they are not supposed to be "unequally yoked" with...
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
send all your theist to me. I enjoy debate even when it goes in one ear and out the other. Every once in a great while something sticks but usually even then they run off to a Christian apologetic website to learn how spin it in knots and muddy the water to avoid recognizing what's clear and evident to everyone honest enough to evaluate it.
VictoriaNotes comments on Oct 21, 2017:
The first follow I had here was from a Christian guy who 100% believed in god/Jesus. He was also a newbie and sent me a PM, but I couldn't read it because the system was glitching. But, it did make me wonder why he would try to contact me. They know they are not supposed to be "unequally yoked" with...
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
send all your theist to me. I enjoy debate even when it goes in one ear and out the other. Every once in a great while something sticks but usually even then they run off to a Christian apologetic website to learn how spin it in knots and muddy the water to avoid recognizing what's clear and evident to everyone honest enough to evaluate it.
If you could nominate an Atheist to lead our nation, who would that be and why.
paul1967 comments on Oct 20, 2017:
Christopher Hitchens would make a great president when he was alive obviously.
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
He did become a citizen, but since he wasn't born here he still couldn't be president, but I thought this was just a what if you could break all the rules and pick your president
paul1967 comments on Oct 20, 2017:
Christopher Hitchens would make a great president when he was alive obviously.
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
He did become a citizen, but since he wasn't born here he still couldn't be president, but I thought this was just a what if you could break all the rules and pick your president
Do You Believe in Evolution?
Rory_C-137 comments on Oct 9, 2017:
...None of those answers is accurate. Macro and micro evolution are the exact same thing, so those options make no sense, there is no evidence a god exists, and I certainly don't believe one does, so I can't choose that one, and the last option is a joke. Evolution is a fact. Pull the "just a ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
I hope you take this as just a fun conversation and not a combative argument. A fact is I'm holding a rock in my hand. The theory is when I release it from my hand it will fall to the ground using Newtonian laws of gravity the proof is in the observation of this occurring. I was once you arguing that evolution was a fact in a mock debate with a creationist, here is what the head of the biology department said to correct me. Science could have at one time proclaimed that the Newtonian law of gravity was a fact because all the evidence of the day supported it. Orbital predictions were verified based on this "fact," and in 1846 the planet Neptune was discovered using these same predictive powers offered by Newtonian gravitational laws. It wasn't until Einstein came up with the General Theory of Relativity that science realized how and why Newton was wrong. Einstein's theory of General Relativity better supported what we see in nature and we still don't call even that a fact. Theories like evolution, are detailed models that best represent the fact that lifeforms change over time, and the proof is the evidence that these changes are occurring. Why this is happening is answered by the theory of evolution, but a better theory could in the future replace it. And yes micro and macro are the same things given time.
Rory_C-137 comments on Oct 9, 2017:
...None of those answers is accurate. Macro and micro evolution are the exact same thing, so those options make no sense, there is no evidence a god exists, and I certainly don't believe one does, so I can't choose that one, and the last option is a joke. Evolution is a fact. Pull the "just a ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 22, 2017:
I hope you take this as just a fun conversation and not a combative argument. A fact is I'm holding a rock in my hand. The theory is when I release it from my hand it will fall to the ground using Newtonian laws of gravity the proof is in the observation of this occurring. I was once you arguing that evolution was a fact in a mock debate with a creationist, here is what the head of the biology department said to correct me. Science could have at one time proclaimed that the Newtonian law of gravity was a fact because all the evidence of the day supported it. Orbital predictions were verified based on this "fact," and in 1846 the planet Neptune was discovered using these same predictive powers offered by Newtonian gravitational laws. It wasn't until Einstein came up with the General Theory of Relativity that science realized how and why Newton was wrong. Einstein's theory of General Relativity better supported what we see in nature and we still don't call even that a fact. Theories like evolution, are detailed models that best represent the fact that lifeforms change over time, and the proof is the evidence that these changes are occurring. Why this is happening is answered by the theory of evolution, but a better theory could in the future replace it. And yes micro and macro are the same things given time.
How would you feel if you found out that the person you have feeling for was transgender?
CS60 comments on Oct 21, 2017:
I’m a straight transman and it wouldn’t matter. Pre, non, and post op doesn’t matter either. Some trans people only want to be with cis people. I’ve dated a pre-op transwoman and it took me a bit to get comfortable, but there was enough attraction. I’ve learned that I fall in love with...
paul1967 replies on Oct 21, 2017:
Excuse my ignorance, but what is a "cis person"
CS60 comments on Oct 21, 2017:
I’m a straight transman and it wouldn’t matter. Pre, non, and post op doesn’t matter either. Some trans people only want to be with cis people. I’ve dated a pre-op transwoman and it took me a bit to get comfortable, but there was enough attraction. I’ve learned that I fall in love with...
paul1967 replies on Oct 21, 2017:
Excuse my ignorance, but what is a "cis person"
How would you feel if you found out that the person you have feeling for was transgender?
kiramea comments on Oct 21, 2017:
My daughter is in a very serious relationship with a transgender. When I first met her girlfriend, I had no clue, and personally I did not care. I want my daughter to be happy. As for me...... I have always told my children that you fall in love with the person, not the gender. If I saw someone and ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 21, 2017:
I fully agree
kiramea comments on Oct 21, 2017:
My daughter is in a very serious relationship with a transgender. When I first met her girlfriend, I had no clue, and personally I did not care. I want my daughter to be happy. As for me...... I have always told my children that you fall in love with the person, not the gender. If I saw someone and ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 21, 2017:
I fully agree
How would you feel if you found out that the person you have feeling for was transgender?
snytiger6 comments on Oct 21, 2017:
I am pretty open minded. Beign gay, I have have known several transgender persons, I do nto think my feelings as far as caring for the person would change. although my sexual attraction might.
I have known couples who were wholly committed to each other who no longer have sex... at leat not with...
paul1967 replies on Oct 21, 2017:
I think it's indoctrination of a different sort. I think we're indoctrinated to feel it's gross. The one's who are free to explore are the atraditional sexualist among all the traditional sexualist out there
snytiger6 comments on Oct 21, 2017:
I am pretty open minded. Beign gay, I have have known several transgender persons, I do nto think my feelings as far as caring for the person would change. although my sexual attraction might.
I have known couples who were wholly committed to each other who no longer have sex... at leat not with...
paul1967 replies on Oct 21, 2017:
I think it's indoctrination of a different sort. I think we're indoctrinated to feel it's gross. The one's who are free to explore are the atraditional sexualist among all the traditional sexualist out there
How would you feel if you found out that the person you have feeling for was transgender?
SunnySmiles comments on Oct 21, 2017:
I have a friend who doesn't identify as a lesbian but is in a long term relationship w a woman. Both have been married and both have children. The way she described falling in love w her girlfriend was something like this- " when I met her I just KNEW she was the love of my life. Id never been w ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 21, 2017:
I've never had that happen to me and maybe if it did I would feel different but I would like to think it wouldn't matter. We are all trapped by an iron age sexual concepts. I love who I love and I love women no matter what gender they were born as.
SunnySmiles comments on Oct 21, 2017:
I have a friend who doesn't identify as a lesbian but is in a long term relationship w a woman. Both have been married and both have children. The way she described falling in love w her girlfriend was something like this- " when I met her I just KNEW she was the love of my life. Id never been w ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 21, 2017:
I've never had that happen to me and maybe if it did I would feel different but I would like to think it wouldn't matter. We are all trapped by an iron age sexual concepts. I love who I love and I love women no matter what gender they were born as.
Avoiding the Friend Zone
KHepburnShadow comments on Oct 21, 2017:
Everyone starts off in my 'friend zone', then, as time progresses, it may or may not develop into something else. I find it amusing that people dread the 'fz'. I'd rather take my time to work out whether I want a greater level of involvement and intimacy with someone else. Intentional result is what...
paul1967 replies on Oct 21, 2017:
I think it's a different definition of friend zone. To me anyways the friend zone would be me having feelings for someone who doesn't reciprocate because of whatever reason. I'm on board with your definition of FZ because it's a good foundation, but there comes a time where one wants more, and the other doesn't, that is the FZ I'm talking about.
KHepburnShadow comments on Oct 21, 2017:
Everyone starts off in my 'friend zone', then, as time progresses, it may or may not develop into something else. I find it amusing that people dread the 'fz'. I'd rather take my time to work out whether I want a greater level of involvement and intimacy with someone else. Intentional result is what...
paul1967 replies on Oct 21, 2017:
I think it's a different definition of friend zone. To me anyways the friend zone would be me having feelings for someone who doesn't reciprocate because of whatever reason. I'm on board with your definition of FZ because it's a good foundation, but there comes a time where one wants more, and the other doesn't, that is the FZ I'm talking about.
Is lusting really a bad thing? Can lust ever be enough to maintain a relationship?
Squirrellglider comments on Oct 20, 2017:
I think lust is just another name for initial sexual attraction, and thus nearly every sexual relationship that develops will start off with some degree of lust. Whether that develops into love is purely a matter of time and chance and chemistry.
paul1967 replies on Oct 21, 2017:
That is exactly the way I feel about it too. People around me (here in the Bible belt) always tell me a lustful heart is an evil heart. I reply then in your worldview we're all pretty freaken evil because without lust we wouldn't survive as a species.
Squirrellglider comments on Oct 20, 2017:
I think lust is just another name for initial sexual attraction, and thus nearly every sexual relationship that develops will start off with some degree of lust. Whether that develops into love is purely a matter of time and chance and chemistry.
paul1967 replies on Oct 21, 2017:
That is exactly the way I feel about it too. People around me (here in the Bible belt) always tell me a lustful heart is an evil heart. I reply then in your worldview we're all pretty freaken evil because without lust we wouldn't survive as a species.
Is lusting really a bad thing? Can lust ever be enough to maintain a relationship?
AMGT comments on Oct 20, 2017:
Lust and love are literally chemical cocktails that our brains produce.
Lust is the initial cocktail prior to moving into bonding..
We can move into bonding or love, even if that person doesn’t necessarily meet our standards.
I know too, that when we’re all lusty, our ability to think ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 21, 2017:
I agree with you on the issue of my girlfriend/wife having an equal or better intelligence to my own. I might add educated and intelligent because they aren't the same thing. You can be super smart and be as dumb as a rock. I'm about average intelligence, but on many topics, I find myself better informed than people who are far more intelligent. I'm driven to absorb new and better information and not afraid of being wrong, especially on this site, because when I've been shown I'm wrong it's always done with the utmost respect. Another great thing about this site is I find myself changing my mind all the time because I'm surrounded by brilliant independent, critical thinkers who see a given topic from another perspective I had never considered. Everyone here, you included have blown my mind with something I hadn't considered. I can't begin to thank all of you for that.
AMGT comments on Oct 20, 2017:
Lust and love are literally chemical cocktails that our brains produce.
Lust is the initial cocktail prior to moving into bonding..
We can move into bonding or love, even if that person doesn’t necessarily meet our standards.
I know too, that when we’re all lusty, our ability to think ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 21, 2017:
I agree with you on the issue of my girlfriend/wife having an equal or better intelligence to my own. I might add educated and intelligent because they aren't the same thing. You can be super smart and be as dumb as a rock. I'm about average intelligence, but on many topics, I find myself better informed than people who are far more intelligent. I'm driven to absorb new and better information and not afraid of being wrong, especially on this site, because when I've been shown I'm wrong it's always done with the utmost respect. Another great thing about this site is I find myself changing my mind all the time because I'm surrounded by brilliant independent, critical thinkers who see a given topic from another perspective I had never considered. Everyone here, you included have blown my mind with something I hadn't considered. I can't begin to thank all of you for that.
Incest: Immoral or Moral?
JosephHarrison comments on Oct 21, 2017:
Ironically, in the Biblical worldview, incest is not only acceptable but is the very way in which our species has survived - twice. Adam and Eve, then Noah and his happy little family. Disregard the fact that such a situation is biologically impossible. Anyway, back to the real world.
Incest ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 21, 2017:
People keep saying that it's not immoral or moral. I would say gay sex is moral because it's two people enjoying a sexual act. Doesn't everything land in one of those two camps? At the very least if we say something isn't wrong isn't that the same as saying it's moral? Isn't morality a description of things wrong or not wrong? I open to being shown that I'm wrong.
JosephHarrison comments on Oct 21, 2017:
Ironically, in the Biblical worldview, incest is not only acceptable but is the very way in which our species has survived - twice. Adam and Eve, then Noah and his happy little family. Disregard the fact that such a situation is biologically impossible. Anyway, back to the real world.
Incest ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 21, 2017:
People keep saying that it's not immoral or moral. I would say gay sex is moral because it's two people enjoying a sexual act. Doesn't everything land in one of those two camps? At the very least if we say something isn't wrong isn't that the same as saying it's moral? Isn't morality a description of things wrong or not wrong? I open to being shown that I'm wrong.
Avoiding the Friend Zone
Sdjess comments on Oct 21, 2017:
"Friend zone" used to be called a one-sided crush. You can't force attraction.
paul1967 replies on Oct 21, 2017:
I'm suffering from that, and I can't seem to shake it. I give too much I get nothing. I just have to remember it's only chemicals running through my brain and it's up to me to stop it.
Sdjess comments on Oct 21, 2017:
"Friend zone" used to be called a one-sided crush. You can't force attraction.
paul1967 replies on Oct 21, 2017:
I'm suffering from that, and I can't seem to shake it. I give too much I get nothing. I just have to remember it's only chemicals running through my brain and it's up to me to stop it.
Is lusting really a bad thing? Can lust ever be enough to maintain a relationship?
VictoriaNotes comments on Oct 20, 2017:
No, I don't see lust as being a bad thing. Like romantic love, one can be duped into thinking they're more compatible with someone than they actually are. both activate regions in the brain's reward system that coincide with areas rich in oxytocin, vasopressin and dopamine receptors (released during...
paul1967 replies on Oct 20, 2017:
You seem to know a lot about this. Is it just an interest or is it personal experience? Or both?
VictoriaNotes comments on Oct 20, 2017:
No, I don't see lust as being a bad thing. Like romantic love, one can be duped into thinking they're more compatible with someone than they actually are. both activate regions in the brain's reward system that coincide with areas rich in oxytocin, vasopressin and dopamine receptors (released during...
paul1967 replies on Oct 20, 2017:
You seem to know a lot about this. Is it just an interest or is it personal experience? Or both?
I 100% know there is a God or is no God
Lucidmoon comments on Oct 20, 2017:
I lost any faith I had at age 8 when I asked our priest how Man was one of the first things created, but they did not exist at the same time as the Dinosaurs. His response was that they lived on different sides of the earth, and that's why they never came into contact with each other... I feigned ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 20, 2017:
After reading your responses, I'm beginning to realize that people are justified in being 100% regarding a "belief." After all, belief isn't knowledge, it's belief.
Lucidmoon comments on Oct 20, 2017:
I lost any faith I had at age 8 when I asked our priest how Man was one of the first things created, but they did not exist at the same time as the Dinosaurs. His response was that they lived on different sides of the earth, and that's why they never came into contact with each other... I feigned ...
paul1967 replies on Oct 20, 2017:
After reading your responses, I'm beginning to realize that people are justified in being 100% regarding a "belief." After all, belief isn't knowledge, it's belief.
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