I find it odd that there aren't a bunch of religious people on here trying to convert us to ...

David1955 comments on Feb 22, 2018:

It's not odd to me, and I'll tell you why. First, I am on record as saying that I think this site should be exclusively for nonbelievers. Other places religionists and nonbelievers can get it on, including every opportunity in the real world, but not here, if it were up to me. It isn't, and I respect the site admin right to run it as they wish. Why so few evangelisers? Well, truth is in the real world, like here, the last thing they want is to do battle with committed nonbelievers. People who know history, philosophy, science, Christian history, Christology, and many other areas, and look believers in the eye, literally or figuratively, are the LAST thing religionists want. They do not like or want to be challenged. They want soft targets, people who may be vulnerable to their virus, where they can sting, make their mark, rope them in. They want people who will just believe them. Ever answered the door to evangees and told them you're a committed atheist? They are gone, ASA f'n P. If they do engage, it's largely perfunctorily, and then goodbye. We are not the market they're after. The damaged, the young, the gullible, the vulnerable, the intellectually unchallenging...that's their market. No, there haven't been many believers here, certainly not mainstream dogmatic religious types. I would very surprised if that changed. There are a few New Age types here, but they bang to a different drum. With them, the problem is to pin them down to anything specific. And they know better than to overtly preach.

So, with some of the debates that I've seen, I thought I might pass these along.

David1955 comments on Feb 22, 2018:

And what about you and your fallacious? I've come across you a few times and your statements. I can't say you've impressed me, frankly. Do you consider yourself a role model in logical argument and fallacy avoidance? What's your self-assessment?

Why is a cult so successful?

David1955 comments on Feb 22, 2018:

Good answers here. The psychology of cults is complex and has been studied a lot. Some people are susceptible to cults, or can be susceptible in some situations. I've studied in detail the Charles Manson cult (let's not say Family) and the complex bag of tricks he used, some drawn from pimps he knew who peddled women, through to pop psychology he picked up, and it's amazing how some people like him can 'reality distort' and in effect corrupt those around them. Not always as disastrously or criminally as Manson, but to some degree certainly. I would also add the obvious point I've made before, that cults belong in the spectrum we call religion. A cult is a small unpopular religion, and a religion is a large popular cult. When I say the word religion, I mean the spectrum that ranges from two bit fruitcake cults, right through the big mainstream religions. It's a total spectrum I reject.

Just watching CNN reporting the death of Billy Graham.

David1955 comments on Feb 21, 2018:

It good to see reporting in the media about the negative aspects Mr Graham's efforts. Not the mainstream media though, of course. They always support religion, unless obliged to report things that can't be ignored, like sexual abuse. Even then it's usually "rotten apples"

Fellow conservatives and gun rights supporters! I have started a group called conservative atheists.

David1955 comments on Feb 21, 2018:

I think that's an excellent idea. In fact I almost suggested it to you myself. I very much look toward to not going anywhere near it. That's what groups are for.

The difference between dogs and cats - all you need to know

David1955 comments on Feb 21, 2018:

Cats are great. Dogs are not. The end. (Hope I didn't go too fast for you. :-). )

Did god play a big role in your life growing up?

David1955 comments on Feb 21, 2018:

Nope. But he did sure waste of family time around me, while I watched on indifferently, like the fool on the hill.

Billy Graham, dead today at 99.

David1955 comments on Feb 21, 2018:

Focusing on this guy and money is not the real issue here. All religions are about money. All of them. They all want your hand on your heart, while your head's up your arse, and their hand is in your pocket. As I said in my own post on this, it's his, and others like him, influence on evangelicalism, political evangelicalism, the corruption of American conservatism by religious reactionary conservatives, and you can draw a line right up to Trumpism. When the history is fully written about him, it won't be the money issue that sticks. That's a side issue. It's the corruption by Christian reactionaries, like him, of politics and governance. That was my point in my post on this.

Theater vs home movie?

David1955 comments on Feb 21, 2018:

I go to the movies less and less. The movies are not worth the money. Also the quality of the projection is just not as good as it used to be. Digitized projection is just not good as I remember old projection back in they day. People are annoying at cinemas too. I've got a pretty big TV and I have to pay for internet, which in Australia, like everything else is expensive, so I put the money there and into streaming. I suspect cinemas might be on a slow path to extinction.

How many meals a day do you need. ? I'm living on one

David1955 comments on Feb 21, 2018:

I think the adage eat 3 meals a day is obsolete. Add lack of exercise, fatty food, and other things like sugary drinks and snacks, and many people are eating the equivalent of 4 + meals a day. Big surprise obesity is a problem these days.

I've been gone for a while from the site, has there been any drama I've missed?

David1955 comments on Feb 21, 2018:

A few crazy gun owners, some unhappy Trump supporters, the odd miffed Republican voter, the occasional defiant agnostic, one or two New Age "It's the universe baby" announcers, and here and there a few cries for someone to marry them, but apart from that business as usual. Dirt under the carpet. You'll never find the bodies. Have a better one!

If you could just pick up and move today where would you move to?

David1955 comments on Feb 21, 2018:

Thailand, where I once lived.

Amazing how much atheists know more about religion then believers.

David1955 comments on Feb 20, 2018:

Not that surprising to me anymore. In my view the beliefs of a great many religious people amount to little more than a handful of generalizations they learnt at an early stage of life. Go much beyond these and discussion soon runs out, Yes, there are exceptions, but many people's religion has little or nothing to do with beliefs or knowledge, but with identity and ritual. Reading history, real history, science, e.g. evolution or theoretical physics (your point here), or the bases of their religion, not so much. And let's face it, that's exactly what religions want - believers, not readers or questioners. Religions are theological Ponzi schemes, and you don't want the investors asking too many questions, right?

How do you feel about buddbism ?

David1955 comments on Feb 20, 2018:

While I agree with some of the philosophical aspects of Buddhism noted here, there are aspects of Buddhism that I do not like. Won't go into detail here, but things like karma and reincarnation are not nice concepts, having lived in a Buddhist country myself at length. But I wanted to say here that in reading about the Buddha himself -- and let's be clear there is the Buddha and there is Buddhism, like there is Jesus (at least the myth of) and there is Christianity. Important to focus on these separately. I am not a Buddhist scholar, but it is said that the Buddha said, and emphasized before his death, these things: 1 - Don't build temples and churches. The teachings should be in the mind. 2 - Don't wear symbols, religious ornaments and alike. It's not about worship of objects; 3 - Don't believe in faith. Faith is like a long line of blind men running down the hill holding hands, he said. They have comfort but no greater vision; 4 - Don't worship me. I'm a model that should inspire you, but I am not to be worshipped. Well, what did they do? What do Buddhists do? They built temples - prolifically; They wear symbols - prolifically They refer to faith in their worship - prolifically They worship Buddha - prolifically (even if technicality they don't, in practice they do.) What do we always know about religions? Religions are NOT founded by founders; Religions ARE founded by followers; They build the theology, the morals, the rules, and the religious 'theatre' and the rest, and any link to the founder becomes debatable. True of Christianity. True of Buddhism; True of all religions;

What is your biggest fear?

David1955 comments on Feb 20, 2018:

Not being able to end my life at a time of my choosing; losing the capacity to do that. I'd rather jump with pride than be pushed in humiliation. I do not think it is either negative, nihilistic, or depressing to think like this.

I notice that this site is mostly made up of people from the U.

David1955 comments on Feb 20, 2018:

Well, you Americans could have had all the wonders of the British Empire and Commonwealth, but you through it all away in that War of Independence scuffle a while back, mainly over tea. Oh well, live and learn. :-)

I liked Jesus, in fact I spent my whole childhood in love with him.

David1955 comments on Feb 19, 2018:

Yes the Jesus meme has proved to be one of the most resilient, replicating, dividing, evolving and changing into a thousand Jesuses, perfectly adaptable to different cultures, personalities, and psychologies, political ideologies and historical contexts. Of course it doesn't mean any of it is really true, and in all likelihood, none of it is. In fact that is the point about a mythological figure: people take and adapt as they want to make them feel good and self satisfied. King Arthur, Robin Hood, Sherlock Holmes, etc.. powerful largely or completely mythological figures that come to represent something we want to believe in, a figure that inspires in some way. And they keep evolving and changing with the generations, just like Jesus has. But I've always been someone who clearly separates historical fact from historical fiction. Unfortunately, religious believers largely don't do this. The 'feel good' factor is too strong to give up. As for the universe stuff in your post, I'm afraid that sort of New Age pseudo religious talk just bounces off me. Channeling ones inner Chopra Depaak.

How many level 10's?

David1955 comments on Feb 19, 2018:

Level 7 is like getting to Pluto. But level 10 is like the next closest sun outside our solar system. Ooh, it's a long way. (Honestly, I don't worry about it. I just do what I do)

Joe Biden might run for President. I love this man! Your thoughts?

David1955 comments on Feb 19, 2018:

He's seems to be a very nice man, from reading and watching him. But he's part of the structure of that party that has gone from failure to failure, that corporate elite that doesn't connect to people. His time has passed, sorry.

I'm level 3.

David1955 comments on Feb 19, 2018:

I hope you don't crash or freeze, like Microsoft products. :-) (Not a big fan of MS here). Welcome.

Religion and politics are the same - it's all about control

David1955 comments on Feb 19, 2018:

It's sad to see the cynicism here about politics. I understand it. Political discourse has been corrupted over recent decades, most shockingly in supposedly progressive political parties. But such cynicism works only to the advantage of reactionary political forces, which foster cynicism about politics, and benefit from people's sense of abandonment of and believe in political processes. But how else do we facilitate change - through the largess of the world's rich elites, multinational corporations, global media? I think not. What people want to see is idealism and conviction in politics. It was good to see some of that in the Bernie Sanders movement recently. No wonder the big parties scuttled him. I'm a naturally very cynical person. But I'll be damned if I'll accept just sailing passively toward a dystopian future to the benefit of the elites.

Religion and politics are the same - it's all about control

David1955 comments on Feb 19, 2018:

No. Religion is about faith and belief. Evidence doesn't apply. Politics is, or should be, about ideas and philosophies, open to support, review, criticism, and revision. Healthy politics is supporting a political philosophy but being open to the realities of political action. When people's politics become faith based, then you have a crossover from religion to politics. We see this in the Trump base. Any discussion about the realities is irrelevant to them. And this is about manipulation and control of this base by the Trump movement.

Is there a reason we should speak respectfully of the dead?

David1955 comments on Feb 18, 2018:

Yes, if they deserve it, reflecting their memory to others or in collective history. For example, I don't find myself saying anything respectful about Adolf Hitler.

Massive study of Australia's gun laws shows one thing: they work

David1955 comments on Feb 18, 2018:

The big difference between the US and the Australia on this are, firstly, we never had the saturation and proliferation of firearms that they have in the US. There are so many guns in the US one wonders how they could ever deal with it, but even then starting with those hideous assault weapons would help. Secondly, though some people like their weapons and resisted the stronger laws back in the 1990s after Pt Arthur, there never was the same conflation here with gun ownership and 'freedom' and anti-government resentment that seems widespread in the US, the idea that they need to feel self-protection against attackers but also against that big bad government that's coming after them and their precious guns. It's a kind of paranoia, cultural and historical that never existed here, thankfully, and these things are always based on one word: fear.

Be honest! Have you ever let someone just fall during church when they caught the Holy Ghost?

David1955 comments on Feb 18, 2018:

I haven't but I would like to (let them fall). Any complaint I would reply that it's up to Holy Spirit to provide a soft landing. Second answer, surely a sore ass is not asking too much to be 'one' with the HS. (Don't they pay those people to do it on camera?)

The Dalai Lama said, and I paraphrase, it is not necessarily helpful to believe in god to be a ...

David1955 comments on Feb 17, 2018:

The comments here about Buddhism not being theistic and not worshipping Buddha are quite right. That said, as one who lived in a Buddhist country (Thailand) for many years make no mistake an awful lot of praying and worshipping goes on, exactly to whom and why is something you don't get easily from practitioners. There may not be a Buddhist God and Buddha may not be a god but you could be forgiven for thinking so watching Buddhists. Those who say Buddhism is a philosophy not a religion (I thought that once) should spent time in a Buddhist country. Oh, it's a religion alright, with praying above, supernatural beliefs and mysticism laid on.

What would you never pay for?

David1955 comments on Feb 17, 2018:

Trump memorabilia. Not even his glued on hair. Hell, I wouldn't take it for free.... Wait, there is one thing of his I would pay for: his impeachment documents.

Online Employment - Community's Experiences

David1955 comments on Feb 16, 2018:

Thanks for all replies. Very interesting to discover what other people are doing. Wondering about an employment category, or maybe a group for people to share on this.

Has anyone read the Communist Manifesto?

David1955 comments on Feb 16, 2018:

Studied political science and political philosophy at university, so yes, along with Marxism, not to be lumped in with Communism, in detail, aspects of which have influenced my thinking to this day. The more I see the world going, and the globalised weaponised capitalism that has evolved since the 70s, the more relevant I find aspects of Marxism, even more than when I was a young buck Uni student back in the 70s.

Russian Ties?

David1955 comments on Feb 16, 2018:

I feel concern that someone in Russia, be it Putin, or those who do his bidding, has a file on Trump, in essence a political hand grenade, which can be lobbed into the US political system at a time of their choosing, with little or no damage to them (the US and Russia are global rivals anyway) and Trump, a compromised asset, knows it, and lives in the knowledge that this can happen and does what he can to appease Russia. What an appalling situation the Republican Party has allowed to happen to their country. And they call themselves patriots. It's shameful.

I'll Pray for you. Building bridges between Theist and Atheist.

David1955 comments on Feb 16, 2018:

Reading this it seems to me that if the intent of such a comment is condescending, patronising or to have a 'dig' at us, then hard atheist applies. If the person means well and that's their way of trying to be nice or supportive, then you let it go or take it in that spirit. It's a case by case situation. In this situation, it seems like you read the intent well and responded accordingly. I'm a very forthright atheist too, but I keep any serious rebuke of someone only when it's really needed. Sometimes humour works just as well. Humour can be deadly and disarming. I hope that medical treatment based on science and good medical practice will heal your son, I really do. That's what we atheists would say.

Is anybody else an outcast of their family?

David1955 comments on Feb 16, 2018:

Outcast would be too strong, but out of sync, yes, on a different wavelength, certainly, out of tune with the family melody, no doubt, outside the circle, oh yes. Does it worry me? Not a jot!

God must be very busy with 2 trillion known galaxies in the universe with billions of planets in ...

David1955 comments on Feb 16, 2018:

Isn't it really true that they don't exactly how many galaxies there are, and the number keeps going up. But don't think about the galaxies; think about the billions and billions and billions (channeling my Carl Sagan here) of planets and so on that must be there. But never forget this: No matter how many billions and trillions of things God has to keep watch over, he is never too busy to worry about what you are doing in your bedrooms! :-) (Apparently, according to his religions)

Is the idea of calling someone atheist strange?

David1955 comments on Feb 16, 2018:

Wasn't it Stephan Fry who said famously if people didn't make up a whole lot of ridiculous unproven things we wouldn't have to waste time saying that we don't believe in them. Very true.

Trying to reconcile a quandry

David1955 comments on Feb 16, 2018:

I think it goes to a basic question as to why a religion like Christianity is seemingly inherently conservative, politically, socially, economically, and culturally. That includes regressive attitudes towards creating social and economic equality. To those who shout at this, I ask how many Christian organizations do you immediately think of as progressive? Christian political parties - conservative; Christian social groups - conservative; Christian representative groups - conservative. Catholic Church, evangelists etc etc -- conservative. Odd, since their supposed founder 'Jesus' was a zealot, apparently, who challenged authority - according to their myth. In my view it has nothing to do with their history, but with the religious mind, which retreats into conservative, anti progressive thinking. Why is something I'm still researching and reading about. Psychology and neurology, I think.

Where's your god now?

David1955 comments on Feb 16, 2018:

It's events like these that reminds me that according to the religious God believes in Free Will, and that's why we should pray for his guidance ... (What?)

Will silvereyes ever run out of poignant questions?

David1955 comments on Feb 16, 2018:

She's a wonder of creation (in both senses). I do note, however, that her eyes appear to be blue and not silver. (I'm observant like that).

Do you tend to lean towards nihilism?

David1955 comments on Feb 15, 2018:

Yeah, a bit, honestly. Facing the stark realities of life can have that effect. I keep it in check.

What’s one of your funniest church experiences?

David1955 comments on Feb 15, 2018:

When I was a kid we went to the Catholic Church, small town, only a short distance from our house. We had a little bitsa of a dog, terrier type, smart as a wip, called Ringo.( Hey, it was the 60s). We'd lock in him, sort of, but sometimes he'd get out, and being Sunday morning he'd know we were at Church. More than once, half way through the Mass, Ringo would come darting into the church, sniffing his way down the isle, until he found us, to the amusement of the congregation, and the priest, who on one occasion said "Just in time for communion I see Ringo." :-)

Six U.S. intelligence agencies warn against using Huawei phones

David1955 comments on Feb 15, 2018:

Yeah, watch it, the Chinese will spy on you, just like the NSA........say what? (Dave, the Americans are the good guys, remember? Oh yeah, I forgot that....)

How do you change you profile from agnostic to athiest. I’m done playing make believe.

David1955 comments on Feb 15, 2018:

Just a question. What was it that brought about this change in your position? Was it the end of a process of thinking about the issue, or was there a final argument or proposition which influenced you? I am seriously interested, as there is a lot of discussion here (sometimes a little spirited) between agnostics and atheists. Thanks.

Always a party going on in Thailand! For two days the air has been filled the noise of exploding ...

David1955 comments on Feb 15, 2018:

Next get ready for Songkran in April. How to drown in the streets when it's incredibly hot and not a drop of rain. Now that's one to avoid. What a country!

Name several cultural assumptions that have tripped you up when traveling, either coming to the US, ...

David1955 comments on Feb 14, 2018:

From a Former Expat to a Current Expat in Thailand, I must say leaving all western cultural assumptions behind for successful living in that country is essential. You go from usually a culture of false black and whites to a culture of vast shades of grey. How I miss it.

How do you change you profile from agnostic to athiest. I’m done playing make believe.

David1955 comments on Feb 14, 2018:

You've made my day! Certainly make sure you change your profile.

My daughter is 8 years and insists that she is a Christian.

David1955 comments on Feb 14, 2018:

Wow that's a switch! Usually it's parents that impose religion on children, something I think is wrong. Interesting for you to see if she changes over time. A tricky one for a parent. As long as there is discussion going on that's ok.

Why can’t religious people understand that atheism isn’t a religion?

David1955 comments on Feb 14, 2018:

I totally, completely, absolutely, fully, comprehensively and overwhelmingly agree with you! If there is one thing that really blows wind up my skirt it is that comment from religionists. It shows that they understand neither religion nor atheism. And it's a put down that I have heard from religious people far too often.

What's your dream job?

David1955 comments on Feb 14, 2018:

I'd like to do what Dawkins, Krauss and Harris do, in promoting atheism on a global stage. Happily spend my remaining years contributing to that, if I could.

I read a book this past year which has really affected the way I think about religion.

David1955 comments on Feb 14, 2018:

I've read similar ideas in articles and in chapters of books on atheism, and I find this psychological and neurological aspect of religious belief interesting too. I'll also check this book out. Thanks.

I'm coming to the realization that there are many liberals here.

David1955 comments on Feb 14, 2018:

Yes, I think you're right. Generally speaking, though not exclusively, non believers in religion are also progressive thinkers, or what you call liberals. It kind of goes with the territory. Not surprisingly.

How to respond to the "God is energy" belief/claim.

David1955 comments on Feb 14, 2018:

This falls into the area of what I call New Age pseudo religious piffle, waffle and drivel that abounds amongst those who like to think they are too hip and cool for ordinary religion, so they indulge in a kind of half-assed science and religion combo. Some of it here too. God is a Creative Process; God is a universal energy constant; God is a spiritual flow; God is a universal awareness...etc. Some people fall for this kind of stuff thinking they are a bit 'sciency' and bit 'up there' spiritual. You push this stuff and it's same old religious crap camouflaged with bad science. Some authors in atheism have really exposed this stuff. As they should.

Anyone believe in luck?

David1955 comments on Feb 13, 2018:

Based on my lottery tickets over the years, my answer would have to be in the negative. :-<

Israeli police find 'sufficient evidence' to indict Netanyahu on corruption charges - CNN

David1955 comments on Feb 13, 2018:

Good. As long as that man is around, you can forget about the prospect of any peaceful resolution.

What are you most passionate about?

David1955 comments on Feb 13, 2018:

The pursuit of a rational, scientific, socially equitable world free of mysticism, supernaturalism, and religion.

Just started a group for spiritual atheists. If that's you, come by and join us!

David1955 comments on Feb 13, 2018:

Spiritual Atheists?"......Ooooohhhhkaaaay. Hey @silvereyes. You asked earlier about biting one's tongue? Here it is :-)

How often do you self-censor? Is it hard to bite your tongue?

David1955 comments on Feb 13, 2018:

Yeah, when I read new age religious nonsense posted here I bite my tongue usually. Let it go, Dave, let it go, I say to myself. Same goes for some right wingers here too.

How many of you are introverted?

David1955 comments on Feb 13, 2018:

Well I fall into the introvert category, and yet I've long thought this psychological distinction is at best simplistic and at worse flawed. Critics will say that predominantly people fall into one category or another. Perhaps true, but people can indeed exhibit different personalities depending on the situation. Look at some comedians. They can be very introverted but when doing comedy become something or someone else, quite the opposite And extroverts can shrink in certain situations. I'm not a psych expert, but I don't think we should pigeon hole ourselves based on this division. I think I did too much when younger, and I think it was a mistake.

Do you think your birth order has impacted your personality?

David1955 comments on Feb 13, 2018:

Yeah. I am the youngest of 4. Two older brothers and one older sister. No wonder I'm a wreck. Never had a chance. And they're all kitchen Catholics, too. Well, there it is. Anyone got Dr Phil's number? :-)

If you were given the chance, would you like to stay a certain age forever?

David1955 comments on Feb 13, 2018:

29.Old enough to be respected, but not yet middle aged. (Now if I could get my carbon "stack" and find a group of 29 y o "sheathes" , or whatever it is, I'd be set); 29 is also a good age to be for a male in terms of, well, let's just say, libido, and leave it at that. :-)

Does anyone here believe in post death existence OTHER than religious afterlife?

David1955 comments on Feb 13, 2018:

I meant before to post a link about Robert Lanza's book, should anyone be interested about that. ( I previously noted I don't believe his conclusion). http://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/is-there-an-afterlife-the-science-of-biocentrism-can-prove-there-is-claims-professor-robert-lanza-8942558.html

Should atheism be taught in schools?

David1955 comments on Feb 13, 2018:

I wish young people were taught about the factual history of religions, like any history course. But you would never get an approved curriculum on that. None of the parties would ever agree. From my experience, the more people, both young and older, know about the real history of religions, the more likely they are to see through the claims of religions.

Ghosts are as mythical as God but what if an atheist believes in Ghosts.

David1955 comments on Feb 13, 2018:

Strictly speaking an atheist, if applying logic consistently, doesn't 'believe' in anything without evidence. So since there's no evidence for ghosts (US Ghost shows notwithstanding) then there's an inconsistency in approach. You might tell your Aussie mate that, tactfully. (Big fella, is he?) :-)

I am curious of anyone here that reads this, what brought you here.

David1955 comments on Feb 13, 2018:

I joined thinking it was too good to be true. But, actually, it's not. Of course I'm still waiting for helicopters with flood lights to descend on me at midnight and drag my ass of to Geronimo Bay or somewhere for 'enhanced interrogation.' Something to look forward to.

There has been discussion of an atheist can be "spiritual".

David1955 comments on Feb 13, 2018:

It's a word that means everything and nothing, and that's the problem with it. Some people like to impress others with talk about how 'spiritual' they are. It's a sort of boast, a way to impress. "I don't know if I'm religious, but I'm spiritual." Right... Sorry, but I don't buy it, and I'm inclined not to let people get away with using it. For example, your statement that spiritual is from within, not from without. I have no earthly idea what that means. Sorry.

What are you here for?

David1955 comments on Feb 12, 2018:

I joined primarily because I wanted to have contact with and exchange ideas and views with nonreligious people of all kinds, something that is hard for me to do regularly in the real world. The other things are secondary.

Believer Bashing?

David1955 comments on Feb 12, 2018:

If you are referring to activity on this site, it is called agnostic.com, clearly for the non religious community, primarily but not exclusively. If believers can't stand the heat, then they should stay out this kitchen. They choose to be here. Go onto a religious site and spout atheism and see how well you are received.

How much of a heretic are you?

David1955 comments on Feb 12, 2018:

Perhaps the site should have been called Heretic.com? No, the agnostics would have gone ballistic. :-)

Does anyone here believe in post death existence OTHER than religious afterlife?

David1955 comments on Feb 12, 2018:

Reading the responses here, and thinking about this subject generally, I suspect there is a bigger number of people in the non religious community that keep in the back of their minds some post life possibility of some kind. Not saying that they don't genuinely reject religion and it's fantasies about heaven and God, but just a corner in their thinking that says, well, who knows what all this universe is really about anyway. Maybe something else goes on, well beyond religious thinking. I'm not criticising that, I just think it's an interesting aspect of the nonbeliever community. As for me, like some others here, if there's no evidence for it, then it's just speculation.

How much of a heretic are you?

David1955 comments on Feb 12, 2018:

I like the word heretic. It's one of my favourite words. Heretic to heretic, good to know you. :-)

Do you feel guilty when you kill insects, rats, or any other lower animals in/around your house?

David1955 comments on Feb 12, 2018:

I'm reminded of a TED talk Sam Harris gave a year or two ago about AI and the challenge it presents. Within 50 years, maybe less, AI will reach human intelligence and then grow exponentially. The implications are huge. But it was his analogy with pests and bugs that struck me the most. He said we make movies about killer robots and so on in the future that want to exterminate us. But what if they, AI, or whatever, beyond our control, simply think of us like we think of bugs. We don't personally hate bugs and pests, it's not personal or malicious, it's just that they are inconvenient and in the way. So we get rid of them. He said what if AI saw us in the same way, a pest that was just in the way. I've thought about that a lot. I like Harris enormously, as you know from my posts. Since then every time I spray flies or on ants, I think of it.

Richard Dawkins: religion should be offended at every opportunity

David1955 comments on Feb 12, 2018:

I think there is a difference between offending a religion and offending individuals intentionally. The religions are the appalling institutions, and theology and practices. Affronting these should be habit with serious nonbelievers. Now if believers get offended by that, well that's too bad, but they as individuals are not being targeted. You see what I mean. I've done this myself. I have said things to a Catholic like: "You seem like a nice person. But your church has an appalling history, it is responsible for unspeakable crimes, thwarting humanity and progress, its theology is absurd, its notion history is a joke, and it continues to impose policies especially in the third world that are outrageous. Sorry, but that's my view." Now, they won't agree, but I'm not attacking them personally. If they are offended, then that's their problem;

Is it possible to be an atheist and to be politically conservative?

David1955 comments on Feb 12, 2018:

Well, judging from the number of people on this site who claim to be atheist or agnostic, but are obviously very politically conservative, I would have to say yes. I don't quite understand it. Although it might be said that political views and religious views are separate, in truth in life they are not. When I come across someone here who is clearly very conservative in their views, I tend to steer clear. I know otherwise it might not end well. Come to think of it, it's the same for me in the real world.

Religion—particularly, Christianity has lobotomized the Black psyche for centuries.

David1955 comments on Feb 11, 2018:

Not being an American myself, but I recall discussion a while back when Neil Degrass Tyson complained that the black community in the US is excessively characterised in culture and depiction as more religious and more overtly religious compared to other communities. I cannot attest to any direct experience or insight on this, but I wonder if he is right and black people are thought of, incorrectly, as naturally more religious. A stereotype?

Is " High noon " unamerican?

David1955 comments on Feb 11, 2018:

High Noon is a gem of a movie, a very unflattering but all too accurate depiction of human character, set in a western setting. What does the movie suggest? That people are with you when the going is good, but will desert you when things get tough; that people are nice, but only until it costs them or they have to put themselves out for you; that a man (or woman) who goes out on a limb for a higher cause or the greater good is a rare thing. It's not UnAmerican, unless you equate the old west mythology with America. The themes of High Noon were more universal than that. For my money the scene in the church with Gary Cooper is superb, in his perfect subtle underplaying acting, and the meaning of the scene: people at prayer and avoiding reality.

Has anyone heard of an Atheist church? How to get one started.

David1955 comments on Feb 11, 2018:

This has been discussed here before. It would be a contradiction. No, sorry. We aren't worshipers.

Conspiracy theories?

David1955 comments on Feb 11, 2018:

Watergate. Nixon and co conspired to conceal the truth about their illegal activities, and because of tape recordings in the Oval Office, and the No 2 in the FBI leaking info to the press, the investigations of the "conspiracy theorists" Woodward and Bernstein were validated. Yes, they followed journalistic practice, followed the evidence, but first they had a theory that some kind of conspiracy had taken place, which they were able to reveal, luckily for them. Otherwise they might have gone down in history as a pair of crazy conspiracy theorists as well. Both Carl Berstein and John Dean have said in interviews that without those recordings Nixon might have gotten away with it. And we'd have today just another crazy conspiracy theory to laugh at. Think about that. The misdeeds and corruption of powerful people is very hard to prove, and they know it.

Finally watching Wonder Woman.

David1955 comments on Feb 11, 2018:

What an incredibly boring movie. I watched without paying for it. If they stop going to see superperson movies what will Follywood do? Bring back musicals? Westerns?

Who is your favorite Author on Atheism / Free thinking? Living or dead, and why?

David1955 comments on Feb 11, 2018:

Deceased: Bertrand Russell's essays on religion and atheism and agnosticism have been very influential in my thinking, really since I was in my teens. Living: Dawkins, most notably, and then Sam Harris;

What's so special about gold?

David1955 comments on Feb 11, 2018:

I have some 99.7% Gold jewelry I bought in Thailand a long time ago. I really love it. I think I could be Goldfinger, if I had the chance.....Fort Knox here I come!

More shit from the orange guy in the WH.

David1955 comments on Feb 11, 2018:

I'd call Trump a Nincompoop but that would actually be an insult to Nincompoops who are otherwise harmless people. They say his daily intelligence 'briefs' were dumbed down for him, but they are still too hard so they are dumbing them down even further. My (nonexistent) God!

I am a photographer.

David1955 comments on Feb 11, 2018:

The truth is using film is just not practical. I have a fabulous Olympus 35 mm auto SLR camera that cost an arm and a leg 20 years ago, a beautiful camera, but where am I going to take the film? And then what, scan onto my computer? I look at it now with sadness. It's a beautiful relic. I used to do BW print photography back in the 70s. Doing that stuff is wonderful to do. But just like I don't think I could go back to BW TV, I know my film days are over. And film is just expensive.

I often ask why can't there be some really rich billionaire types who are progressive, atheist, anti...

David1955 comments on Feb 11, 2018:

@SamKerry Regarding Bill Gates Foundation, you asked below: http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/politics/gates-foundation-accused-of-dangerously-skewing-aid-priorities-by-promoting-big-business-a6822036.html @think-beyond

I often ask why can't there be some really rich billionaire types who are progressive, atheist, anti...

David1955 comments on Feb 11, 2018:

Actually, I wasn't so much referring to rich people giving money to charity and doing "good works" for which they usually receive good PR and so on. That's fine, and I'm sure it does good work, but keep in mind these things can have all kinds of financial benefits for them, like they Foundations they set up (I'll follow up one comment below about Gates foundation later). All that's fine, sometimes well intentioned, other times part of the system play that the rich engage. But I had in mind a wider point. Think of the people who regularly get mentioned here as inspirational figures in atheism and movements promoting religious non belief and values that go with that. Bertrand Russell, Dawkins, Krausse, Sam Harris, Carl Sagan, Hitchens, and so on. How many inspirational figures referred to in these posts are billionaires and alike? Well, you say, that's not their job. Why isn't it? Why are all we everyday folk pulling this train inspired as we often are by philosophers, scientists, writers, and alike. When do ever hear the super rich and particular the high profile types on the forefront of the debate about religion? No, it doesn't look good. It doesn't sound good. Doesn't fit the image, might offend their business interests. Like Gates muttering about how he might as well believe in God, he once said. (Not that his opinion on anything impresses me.) Money on charity, that's fine. Oh, but don't go near religion. In fact it seems to me with these super rich jonnies that if they get half a chance to have photo op with the Pope, well great, there they are. But, maybe I'm wrong. Maybe they all believe in religion anyway. But for me, I'd love if it there were just one high flyer in the business world who was openly one of us (well, most of us) and we could refer to them as inspiring. A multi billionaire giving money for a mosquito program (for which there was probably a nice tax break) is not what I have in mind.

The U.S. Drops Out of the Top 10 in Innovation Ranking - Bloomberg

David1955 comments on Feb 10, 2018:

If the US spent just a modest proportion of the trillions it spends on its empire, on scientific and technological innovation, what strides and advancement it, and the world as a flow on effect, would make. And the fact is the country would better, fairer, and stronger if it did. Reactionary political thinking is sabotaging the potential of that great country.

When we break rules, we are right, because we are Americans.

David1955 comments on Feb 10, 2018:

Yes, the US has, since the end of WW2, has been unable to reconcile two unreconcilable facts about itself: a bastion of freedom and and democracy on the one hand, and managing its global empire on the other. The implication here is that the plutocracy -- essentially a military-industrial-corporate-political complex/ruling class --- which rules the US extends its hegemony through the American Empire. And yes, the economic ideology and military alliances, including intelligence link-ups, form the basis of this power. The problem is, as witnessed by the Trump disaster, the US's internal cohesion, such is it ever was, is unravelling. Where that leads, no one knows. On Australia, I don't recall Fraser's quote, but I don't think we think we are Amercans, but many of us on the progressive side, resent Australia being in effect America's "bitch" in the Asia-Pacific, more or less on call when needed. When America says "jump" we shout "how high!?" The shame is the all our political parties pander to American approval. Many of us would like to see the US-AUS alliance as one based on mutual respect and shared values, not the kind of disgusting sycophancy that led us to disgraces like Vietnam and Iraq, and even Afganistan, which hasn't been about terrorism since all the terrorists fled the country within weeks of the invasion, and now the evolving surveillance hegemony. I actually think that Americans and Australians as people share many similar qualities, including a resentment of excessive authority and a belief in individualism. That's why, personally I have always enjoyed the company of Americans. But the alliance between our two countries is an alliance between classes and power structures.

Most common atheist stereotypes or misconceptions you've encountered?

David1955 comments on Feb 10, 2018:

Something else that I remembered is the patronising and false assertion by religionists that atheists might be absorbed by all that science and evidence and reason stuff, but aren't really connected to that higher realm of spiritual awareness and consciousness that religion provides, that "higher" realm of God. BA-LO-NEY.

Truth in advertising: realistic bathroom sign in Hat Yai, Thailand

David1955 comments on Feb 10, 2018:

And in English too. The Thais must have thought it was better to be unambiguous in case the Farang missed it. Last time I was in Hat Yai there were few English signs at all. But that was years ago.

Most common atheist stereotypes or misconceptions you've encountered?

David1955 comments on Feb 10, 2018:

That atheists are neither ethical nor moral, not just in a sexual sense, and are not of good character.

Do your socks match? Always?

David1955 comments on Feb 9, 2018:

Yes, as I only wear black. Always match. Problem solved. BTW, you look like Will Forte, the alleged humourist. :-)

2018 Winter Olympics, who's watching?

David1955 comments on Feb 9, 2018:

The Winter What?....oh,oh, oh, yes, I remember now, that's the event where huge amounts of money are spent... by a bunch of trough gorgers and junket devourers known as the Olympic Committee traveling around the world staying in 5 star hotels and eating in the finest restaurants with all kinds of lavish accompaniments, trimmings and trappings, while arranging an ideal inspiring sports event to honour peace and world fellowship, not to mention shady deals and pocket lining, for a bunch of type A personality compulsive obsessive alpha predator sports addicts who give their all for national pride, while at the same lining up those commercial contracts and deals, while the host country spends years paying of the debt incurred through running it, money which might have been spent on infrastructure and services of real benefit to the local population. That's what this world really needs: Sports Idealism. (Don't think I'll be catching it.)

Why did god creat all the cosmos?

David1955 comments on Feb 9, 2018:

I imagine he wisely decided not to create only some of it but to finish the job, and since had nothing else better to do the rest of that week....

Life is what you make it? True or false?

David1955 comments on Feb 9, 2018:

True if you're part of the Kennedy family. For the majority, life is an endless parade of comprises and survival. It's not a cliche I like. Sorry.

I think what surprises me most is the look of confusion on people's face when you say that you don't...

David1955 comments on Feb 9, 2018:

It's ok to say you don't believe in God, but don't whatever you do say you're an atheist. That's crossing the line..... :-)

Does the structure of American society lend to unhappiness or dissatisfaction?

David1955 comments on Feb 9, 2018:

In some parts of the world outside the US, definitely, yes. There is certainly unhappiness around the world about that blackguard currently in the Oval Office. ( :-) )

Who is Your Favorite Philosopher?

David1955 comments on Feb 9, 2018:

Bertrand Russell. Of relevance here, I think his analysis of atheism versus agnosticism is as insightful as I've ever read. He was an atheist and I fully agree with his reasoning. His genius was to take complex issues and to deduce the fundamentals.

So I've heard of Brotherhood's, and Sisterhood's, but I propose we start a Sibinghood in which all ...

David1955 comments on Feb 8, 2018:

Funnily enough I've used the term brother and sister atheists referring to fellow non believers, and in a respectful way. I can see what you're getting at. Not sure about some agnostics, though. I think they're more like first cousins. (Oh, I'm gonna be roasted for that one. :-) )

Natural versus learned Agnostics?

David1955 comments on Feb 8, 2018:

I regret to say that I do believe some people are born with a predisposition to religion, and, in many cases, no amount of books, arguments or discussion will change them. I don't know why. It's something I have thought about a lot. It seems to be nature, rather than nurture. On the other hand, some are born with a natural immunity to religion, and no amount of upbringing, books, religious instruction etc will reach them. Between these groups, there are others, with varying degrees of religiosity, from non to religious, and I think upbringing, experience, reading, exposure to knowledge and many other things affect their views. I don't particularly like this analysis myself. But it's what I have concluded from my observation. I would love to think that all people are born non religious, and that eliminating religious influence would eliminate religion. I just don't think it's that easy.

Trump Says America Is A Nation Of Believers : NPR

David1955 comments on Feb 8, 2018:

He's right. Increasingly a nation of people who BELIEVE their country will be lucky to survive him, who BELEVE the sooner he is relegated to the dustbin of history, the better. BTW, I posted a while back that I believe that Trump in time will be revealed as the Manchurian Candidate President. Few took any notice. But I still hold the view that when all the facts are revealed that Trump is a compromised asset of the Russians, being played by them, in one of the great spy master stories of all time. And may they hang it on the Republican Party forever that they were instrumental in this happening. History always reveals.

blocking a god believer?

David1955 comments on Feb 8, 2018:

I agree with you. I didn't join here to have encounters with religionists either. I find it boring. After all, it's not hard in the real world for atheists to find believers to run into. Go to any religious place or group and there they are. Jesus, all I have to do is go jogging as I do most days and I'll run across Christian door knockers, bibles in hand, ready for a "Jesus loves ya baby" chat and big sell. I really would like a place where I can actually get away from the bastards! That said, the rules of the site are as stated, and I respect Admin's call on this, to allow anyone in as long as they respect the conditions. But @walklightly since you have raised the issue I just wanted to say my piece. I have asked several believers why they are actually here, and for the life of me I still can't work it out. They are not going to be influenced by non believers, and they are not going to change us, so what's the point. Since we are certainly "lost souls" from their view, why wouldn't they prefer to spend time with their fellow "saved". Beats me.

What does American greatness mean to you?

David1955 comments on Feb 8, 2018:

What does "Greatness" mean? Well it's the quality of being great, distinguished, outstanding. The US has never been uniformly great. It has achieved moments of greatness. Intervention in WW1 and 2. But its role in world leadership has been anything but great: witness, Vietnam, Middle East, Afganistan and Iraq. On the other hand the sheer power of its military has provided a balance against dark forces in the world which we shouldn't underestimate. The US's mixed track record in the world is not new. It's been that way since the end of WW2. More misses than hits. It's history of race and native peoples is also hardly a testament to greatness. But it's hardly the only country with shame in this regard, including my own. No, what makes us question the US's greatness now is its loss of idealism. That's what used to be the core of its greatness. America's head might get confused, but it's heart was always in the right place. Now, not so much. America preaches democracy, but hardly practices it. Its political parties are corrupt puppets of the elites, its electoral system a travesty in the 21st Century. It cries foul about interference in its elections, while taking every opportunity to intervene in the affairs of other countries, somehow thinking it has the high moral ground. Its mantra of individualism and opportunity has descended into a twisted parody of those things, a country characterised by class greed, political opportunism and plutocracy. While too many Americans live within the self affirmation of the US's mainstream media's myopia, the rest of the world, certainly the western world, can see contemporary America with withering clarity. America was never and has never been uniformly Great. But at its best it had an ability to rise to Greatness when it needed to. The question is: Can it still do that, or is the Age of American Greatness over?

If you met god after you died, what would you tell him?

David1955 comments on Feb 8, 2018:

You're are miserable failure, with countless deaths, unimaginable human misery, and egregious sins of omission, failure, indifference and incompetence at your feet. Apologise and will yourself out of existence, immediately!