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How many know that the Hindu festivals season will kick off in India, Nepal etc.
p-nullifidian comments on Mar 10, 2020:
Your reference to internal plumbing is even more jarring when you consider that a much greater percentage of homes were without it in 1974 when India successfully tested its first nuclear bomb, named Smiling Buddha.
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 14, 2020:
@The-Krzyz Orwellian sarcasm ... a new term to add to my toolbox ... thanks!
p-nullifidian comments on Mar 10, 2020:
Your reference to internal plumbing is even more jarring when you consider that a much greater percentage of homes were without it in 1974 when India successfully tested its first nuclear bomb, named Smiling Buddha.
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 14, 2020:
@The-Krzyz Orwellian sarcasm ... a new term to add to my toolbox ... thanks!
I believe in love, peace, companionship, moral righteousness, honor, wisdom, intelligence, respect, ...
p-nullifidian comments on Mar 12, 2020:
I subscribe to much of what you proclaim, however two terms are problematic to me, personally, as they may be applied in ways that I don't condone: a) moral righteousness, and b) honor. Care to elaborate?
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 14, 2020:
@TCorCM Interesting. I too believe we should 'honor' (or respect) others, until / unless they do something or profess views that are not worthy of such. A subjective judgement, to be sure, but we all have our boundaries.
WRT your point on 'moral righteousness' choosing which values to accept / reject is, once again, very subjective. Even most Christians reject much of the morality found in the Bible.
And regarding your preference to "stick to the old moral values," many, if not most societies are continually evolving in their morals. But some seek to retain their current moral values, while others may seek a return to ancient moral traditions. When considering morally-loaded topics such as the age of consent, same sex marriage and capital punishment, to name but three, there's a wide range of opinion, globally.
p-nullifidian comments on Mar 12, 2020:
I subscribe to much of what you proclaim, however two terms are problematic to me, personally, as they may be applied in ways that I don't condone: a) moral righteousness, and b) honor. Care to elaborate?
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 14, 2020:
@TCorCM Interesting. I too believe we should 'honor' (or respect) others, until / unless they do something or profess views that are not worthy of such. A subjective judgement, to be sure, but we all have our boundaries.
WRT your point on 'moral righteousness' choosing which values to accept / reject is, once again, very subjective. Even most Christians reject much of the morality found in the Bible.
And regarding your preference to "stick to the old moral values," many, if not most societies are continually evolving in their morals. But some seek to retain their current moral values, while others may seek a return to ancient moral traditions. When considering morally-loaded topics such as the age of consent, same sex marriage and capital punishment, to name but three, there's a wide range of opinion, globally.
New survey finds only one in four Americans are practicing Christians who prioritize faith and ...
WilliamFleming comments on Mar 11, 2020:
Interesting to me is that the decline is as great or greater in older people as in the young. Hard to fathom is that half the decline is said to be due to people taking up religions other than Christianity. What religions are they moving to?
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 12, 2020:
@TomMcGiverin, @maturin1919 At last, a definition for Joel Osteen.
WilliamFleming comments on Mar 11, 2020:
Interesting to me is that the decline is as great or greater in older people as in the young. Hard to fathom is that half the decline is said to be due to people taking up religions other than Christianity. What religions are they moving to?
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 12, 2020:
@TomMcGiverin, @maturin1919 At last, a definition for Joel Osteen.
If any non-falsifiable evidence of a god's existing came to light, I would be persuaded to change my...
Surfpirate comments on Mar 11, 2020:
Given your premise that a Supreme Being were to appear physically on Earth, would I accept it and worship it as a god? I am not certain that I would fall down on my knees and worship but I would almost certainly respect the superior nature of this being and accept its guidance if it seemed superior...
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 12, 2020:
Thank you for hitting this topic square on the head. Even if it were proven that an immensely superior entity had set in motion the circumstances for our being, would that require kowtowing? Were such an entity to reveal itself, the inclination I would have is to demand, "WTF?!" And, "Where the hell have you been, asshole?!!" And "Hath not the potter power over the clay" my ass, you son of a bitch!
But to worship? That word should be eliminated from the lexicon. No human being should ever degrade themselves by the act of worship, whether it be toward another person or an idealized deity. We should all remember that it is an unnatural act to kneel or bow, so let's keep our heads raised, and our knees free of dust! Let's determine to worship nothing, and no-one.
Surfpirate comments on Mar 11, 2020:
Given your premise that a Supreme Being were to appear physically on Earth, would I accept it and worship it as a god? I am not certain that I would fall down on my knees and worship but I would almost certainly respect the superior nature of this being and accept its guidance if it seemed superior...
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 12, 2020:
Thank you for hitting this topic square on the head. Even if it were proven that an immensely superior entity had set in motion the circumstances for our being, would that require kowtowing? Were such an entity to reveal itself, the inclination I would have is to demand, "WTF?!" And, "Where the hell have you been, asshole?!!" And "Hath not the potter power over the clay" my ass, you son of a bitch!
But to worship? That word should be eliminated from the lexicon. No human being should ever degrade themselves by the act of worship, whether it be toward another person or an idealized deity. We should all remember that it is an unnatural act to kneel or bow, so let's keep our heads raised, and our knees free of dust! Let's determine to worship nothing, and no-one.
8.8 billion habitable Earth-size planets exist in Milky Way alone
bobwjr comments on Mar 11, 2020:
But nobody close
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 11, 2020:
And no one to save us from ourselves, other than ourselves.
bobwjr comments on Mar 11, 2020:
But nobody close
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 11, 2020:
And no one to save us from ourselves, other than ourselves.
Okay, I was talking with a friend yesterday.
genessa comments on Mar 10, 2020:
Gods do not come out of the sky. They come out of human imagination, or human unimaginative following of someone else's imagination.
g
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 11, 2020:
@PondartIncbendog Where I used to work, the engineers had an acronym for WAGs (wild-ass guesses) that were given in response to management's questions, without any supporting data. They called such an answer a PIDOOMA (pulled it directly out of my ass).
genessa comments on Mar 10, 2020:
Gods do not come out of the sky. They come out of human imagination, or human unimaginative following of someone else's imagination.
g
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 11, 2020:
@PondartIncbendog Where I used to work, the engineers had an acronym for WAGs (wild-ass guesses) that were given in response to management's questions, without any supporting data. They called such an answer a PIDOOMA (pulled it directly out of my ass).
I don't know about you...
Marionville comments on Mar 10, 2020:
As a UK citizen, I don’t believe I’m viewed in that way by anyone, this must be an American thing I presume.
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 11, 2020:
Thankfully, most Brits I've gotten to know never wore their religious preferences on their sleeves. Here in the US, an 'in-your-face' religiosity virus seems to have possessed the minds of tens of millions.
Marionville comments on Mar 10, 2020:
As a UK citizen, I don’t believe I’m viewed in that way by anyone, this must be an American thing I presume.
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 11, 2020:
Thankfully, most Brits I've gotten to know never wore their religious preferences on their sleeves. Here in the US, an 'in-your-face' religiosity virus seems to have possessed the minds of tens of millions.
Orthodox Israeli Rabbi Claims Coronavirus is God’s Revenge for Gay Pride Parades | Beth ...
genessa comments on Mar 9, 2020:
Weird. Jews usually mind their own business more or less. But a fundie is a fundie. .
g
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 10, 2020:
Indeed ... orthodoxy is orthodoxy!
genessa comments on Mar 9, 2020:
Weird. Jews usually mind their own business more or less. But a fundie is a fundie. .
g
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 10, 2020:
Indeed ... orthodoxy is orthodoxy!
Catholic Churches Are Removing Holy Water Out of Fear of Spreading Coronavirus | David Gee | ...
BitFlipper comments on Mar 10, 2020:
this reminds me of the three young women who went to confession. You've probably heard it. The first one is told to wash your hands in the holy water, and the second one is told to gargle with it. Meanwhile, without being told, the third one sits in
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 10, 2020:
Yes, that's an old one, although I must confess when I heard it, the 1st girl, based on her confession, was told to wash her hands in holy water, while the 2nd was directed to wash her breasts. As the two were busy washing, the 3rd showed up saying, 'move over girls, I have to gargle.' At least that is what I remember from decades past.
BitFlipper comments on Mar 10, 2020:
this reminds me of the three young women who went to confession. You've probably heard it. The first one is told to wash your hands in the holy water, and the second one is told to gargle with it. Meanwhile, without being told, the third one sits in
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 10, 2020:
Yes, that's an old one, although I must confess when I heard it, the 1st girl, based on her confession, was told to wash her hands in holy water, while the 2nd was directed to wash her breasts. As the two were busy washing, the 3rd showed up saying, 'move over girls, I have to gargle.' At least that is what I remember from decades past.
Their God is a jerk
WilliamFleming comments on Mar 5, 2020:
How stupid!
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 5, 2020:
@WilliamFleming It wouldn't be much of an issue if they kept to themselves, but they shamelessly picket funerals for servicemen and women, sites of mass shootings and Jewish centers with cruel, vulgar and bigoted signs, sometimes held by their children. Just do a Google images search on 'Westboro Baptist church signs,' and prepare to be nauseated.
WilliamFleming comments on Mar 5, 2020:
How stupid!
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 5, 2020:
@WilliamFleming It wouldn't be much of an issue if they kept to themselves, but they shamelessly picket funerals for servicemen and women, sites of mass shootings and Jewish centers with cruel, vulgar and bigoted signs, sometimes held by their children. Just do a Google images search on 'Westboro Baptist church signs,' and prepare to be nauseated.
Their God is a jerk
WilliamFleming comments on Mar 5, 2020:
How stupid!
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 5, 2020:
How Westboro Baptist! ;-)
WilliamFleming comments on Mar 5, 2020:
How stupid!
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 5, 2020:
How Westboro Baptist! ;-)
Some Atheists can be just as self righteous and judgmental as Christians/religious people.
p-nullifidian comments on Mar 4, 2020:
Why not just say, some people can be self righteous and judgmental, no matter what their personal beliefs?
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 5, 2020:
@VeronikaAnnJ During my Christian upbringing I was taught that we should hate the sin, not the sinner. As a nullifidian I try to uphold the same standard in despising the belief, not the believer.
p-nullifidian comments on Mar 4, 2020:
Why not just say, some people can be self righteous and judgmental, no matter what their personal beliefs?
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 5, 2020:
@VeronikaAnnJ During my Christian upbringing I was taught that we should hate the sin, not the sinner. As a nullifidian I try to uphold the same standard in despising the belief, not the believer.
Life is what it is...Can someone even find true love on earth anymore?
BitFlipper comments on Mar 5, 2020:
If "true love" ever existed, there's no reason to believe it no longer exists. But did it ever exist?
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 5, 2020:
In love, as in war, what's true for one may not be true for the other. I count myself lucky that my partner and I continue.
BitFlipper comments on Mar 5, 2020:
If "true love" ever existed, there's no reason to believe it no longer exists. But did it ever exist?
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 5, 2020:
In love, as in war, what's true for one may not be true for the other. I count myself lucky that my partner and I continue.
dark matter
[a.msn.com]
FearlessFly comments on Mar 4, 2020:
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/dark-matter-source-new-particle-hexaquark-university-of-yor
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 5, 2020:
"Sorry – we can't find that page"
Thank you for sharing.
FearlessFly comments on Mar 4, 2020:
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/dark-matter-source-new-particle-hexaquark-university-of-yor
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 5, 2020:
"Sorry – we can't find that page"
Thank you for sharing.
Do you think it is possible for a professing Christian to be agnostic?
Observer-Effect comments on Mar 4, 2020:
No. It is not.
--------
------
----
--
Webster dictionary definition of Christian:
"One who professes belief in the teachings of Jesus Christ"
------------------------------------------------------------
Webster dictionary definition of Agnostic:
"A person who holds the view ...
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 4, 2020:
@Observer-Effect Of course it's pretending. Such behavior is at the heart of many social interactions. Pretending to enjoy the company of certain individuals, pretending to like the food your hosts have just served you, and answering 'no' to that most important of all questions, 'Does this dress make me look fat?'
We are creatures of great pretense, and yet, for me there remained times of weakness during this transitional phase, when I wished it were not so. I found myself in a quandary, much like Julian Barnes: I no longer believed in God, but I missed him.
Observer-Effect comments on Mar 4, 2020:
No. It is not.
--------
------
----
--
Webster dictionary definition of Christian:
"One who professes belief in the teachings of Jesus Christ"
------------------------------------------------------------
Webster dictionary definition of Agnostic:
"A person who holds the view ...
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 4, 2020:
@Observer-Effect Of course it's pretending. Such behavior is at the heart of many social interactions. Pretending to enjoy the company of certain individuals, pretending to like the food your hosts have just served you, and answering 'no' to that most important of all questions, 'Does this dress make me look fat?'
We are creatures of great pretense, and yet, for me there remained times of weakness during this transitional phase, when I wished it were not so. I found myself in a quandary, much like Julian Barnes: I no longer believed in God, but I missed him.
Do you think it is possible for a professing Christian to be agnostic?
Observer-Effect comments on Mar 4, 2020:
No. It is not.
--------
------
----
--
Webster dictionary definition of Christian:
"One who professes belief in the teachings of Jesus Christ"
------------------------------------------------------------
Webster dictionary definition of Agnostic:
"A person who holds the view ...
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 4, 2020:
@Observer-Effect Outward profession (i.e., publicly witnessed behavior) can include, but is not limited to, bowing one's head during prayer and keeping one's eyes closed, attending church, genuflecting, receiving communion, repeating a creed, saying the Lord's Prayer, leading one's family in prayer when asked, etc. Not all that complicated, really. Deviate from the accepted norm, and one becomes a potential target.
Observer-Effect comments on Mar 4, 2020:
No. It is not.
--------
------
----
--
Webster dictionary definition of Christian:
"One who professes belief in the teachings of Jesus Christ"
------------------------------------------------------------
Webster dictionary definition of Agnostic:
"A person who holds the view ...
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 4, 2020:
@Observer-Effect Outward profession (i.e., publicly witnessed behavior) can include, but is not limited to, bowing one's head during prayer and keeping one's eyes closed, attending church, genuflecting, receiving communion, repeating a creed, saying the Lord's Prayer, leading one's family in prayer when asked, etc. Not all that complicated, really. Deviate from the accepted norm, and one becomes a potential target.
Do you think it is possible for a professing Christian to be agnostic?
Observer-Effect comments on Mar 4, 2020:
No. It is not.
--------
------
----
--
Webster dictionary definition of Christian:
"One who professes belief in the teachings of Jesus Christ"
------------------------------------------------------------
Webster dictionary definition of Agnostic:
"A person who holds the view ...
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 4, 2020:
"No. It is not."
Really? I think I've laid out a path (see above) that, to be honest, tracks with my own personal experience--namely, that it is possible to outwardly profess to be a Christian, while at the same time internally harboring extreme doubts, if not a total rejection of the faith.
Observer-Effect comments on Mar 4, 2020:
No. It is not.
--------
------
----
--
Webster dictionary definition of Christian:
"One who professes belief in the teachings of Jesus Christ"
------------------------------------------------------------
Webster dictionary definition of Agnostic:
"A person who holds the view ...
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 4, 2020:
"No. It is not."
Really? I think I've laid out a path (see above) that, to be honest, tracks with my own personal experience--namely, that it is possible to outwardly profess to be a Christian, while at the same time internally harboring extreme doubts, if not a total rejection of the faith.
Do you think it is possible for a professing Christian to be agnostic?
Mofo1953 comments on Mar 4, 2020:
You either believe in bullshit or you don't. Period.
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 4, 2020:
Has anyone ever complemented you on your nuanced way of looking at things?
Mofo1953 comments on Mar 4, 2020:
You either believe in bullshit or you don't. Period.
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 4, 2020:
Has anyone ever complemented you on your nuanced way of looking at things?
Honestly, what good is NATO?
p-nullifidian comments on Mar 4, 2020:
While in the military, I was assigned to EUCOM (US European Command), working in a NATO bunker in the former West Germany, weeks after Reunification. When I arrived, my CO asked me if I knew the three reasons for the existence of NATO: To keep the Russians out, the Americans in and the Germans down....
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 4, 2020:
@powder Brilliant! I had the opportunity to fly with an Aussie C-130 aircrew. Great bunch of work hard play hard guys. Someday I hope to visit your fair continent and see, as an amateur astronomer, the wonders of the southern celestial hemisphere.
p-nullifidian comments on Mar 4, 2020:
While in the military, I was assigned to EUCOM (US European Command), working in a NATO bunker in the former West Germany, weeks after Reunification. When I arrived, my CO asked me if I knew the three reasons for the existence of NATO: To keep the Russians out, the Americans in and the Germans down....
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 4, 2020:
@powder Brilliant! I had the opportunity to fly with an Aussie C-130 aircrew. Great bunch of work hard play hard guys. Someday I hope to visit your fair continent and see, as an amateur astronomer, the wonders of the southern celestial hemisphere.
If most folks can agree that we "create our own reality" can we then agree that we create our own ...
p-nullifidian comments on Mar 2, 2020:
If an asteroid destroyed the Earth tomorrow, would this reality be our own individual creation, or would it be shared with 7 billion others who experience annihilation? Reality exists whether or not we as individuals accept, deny or even perceive it. In addition to the steady chain of causes and ...
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 3, 2020:
@Matias “If you prefer to say Peking or Beijing is up to you, it is just jour personal choice, and has nothing to do with social (or "cultural" ) reality.”
Really? Nothing to do at all? What if I insisted on a 'personal choice' to refer to Chinese people in terms that my ancestors were comfortable with? In my own lifetime, unless it describes a particular dish, Peking is no longer used, and the adjective ‘Oriental’ has been replaced with ‘Asian,’ when referring to people. Now you might say that I have a personal choice to use whatever terms I wish; however, certain repeated behaviors that are socially unacceptable result in one becoming a social pariah. Banging one's head against the wall in a wasted effort to publicly retain word usage of the past is to commit social suicide, which is akin to madness.
“Therefore sentences like "Jesus Christ is the son of God-Father" or "Donald Trump is the POTUS" express social facts - as long as there are enough people who take these sentences to be true.”
Not only do those two statements in succession tend jar the mind, but they simply aren’t comparable. A century from now, history will record that Donald Trump was the 45th president of the United States—an unalterable fact, no matter how unfortunate. The same cannot be said for the son of God claim.
p-nullifidian comments on Mar 2, 2020:
If an asteroid destroyed the Earth tomorrow, would this reality be our own individual creation, or would it be shared with 7 billion others who experience annihilation? Reality exists whether or not we as individuals accept, deny or even perceive it. In addition to the steady chain of causes and ...
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 3, 2020:
@Matias “If you prefer to say Peking or Beijing is up to you, it is just jour personal choice, and has nothing to do with social (or "cultural" ) reality.”
Really? Nothing to do at all? What if I insisted on a 'personal choice' to refer to Chinese people in terms that my ancestors were comfortable with? In my own lifetime, unless it describes a particular dish, Peking is no longer used, and the adjective ‘Oriental’ has been replaced with ‘Asian,’ when referring to people. Now you might say that I have a personal choice to use whatever terms I wish; however, certain repeated behaviors that are socially unacceptable result in one becoming a social pariah. Banging one's head against the wall in a wasted effort to publicly retain word usage of the past is to commit social suicide, which is akin to madness.
“Therefore sentences like "Jesus Christ is the son of God-Father" or "Donald Trump is the POTUS" express social facts - as long as there are enough people who take these sentences to be true.”
Not only do those two statements in succession tend jar the mind, but they simply aren’t comparable. A century from now, history will record that Donald Trump was the 45th president of the United States—an unalterable fact, no matter how unfortunate. The same cannot be said for the son of God claim.
A Catholic apologist attempted to defend the story of the Exodus... And failed.
[youtu.be]
Sgt_Spanky comments on Mar 2, 2020:
I think it's comical how we're supposed to take seriously what some guy with a PhD and various academic credentials says as if the arguments he's making aren't desperate and ridiculous.
You can be educated and still be deluded and wrong.
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 3, 2020:
@Sgt_Spanky Not meant as a correction ... peace.
Sgt_Spanky comments on Mar 2, 2020:
I think it's comical how we're supposed to take seriously what some guy with a PhD and various academic credentials says as if the arguments he's making aren't desperate and ridiculous.
You can be educated and still be deluded and wrong.
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 3, 2020:
@Sgt_Spanky Not meant as a correction ... peace.
Ok, this is the Science and Religion page,so what are your thoughts on the blurring of Science and ...
skado comments on Feb 29, 2020:
We have a Science and Religion page?
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 2, 2020:
I was wondering that myself!
skado comments on Feb 29, 2020:
We have a Science and Religion page?
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 2, 2020:
I was wondering that myself!
Christian Writer Claims Her PMS is One of the “Effects of Sin” | Beth Stoneburner | Friendly ...
Novelty comments on Feb 28, 2020:
Nothing says non human animals are guilty of sin, so do most healthy reproductive age female mammal species menstruate?
I hate when uncomfortable human biology is used to justify the foolish concept of sin.
It should be considered in wonder and appreciation, not disgust and morbid self reflection.
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 2, 2020:
@KingofHarts Now where have I heard that one?
"I was informed that the inhabitants of earth had been degenerating, losing their strength and comeliness. Satan has the power of disease and death, and in every age the curse has been more visible, and the power of Satan more plainly seen. . . I was informed that those who lived in the days of Noah and Abraham were more like the angels in form, in comeliness and strength. But every generation has been growing weaker, and more subject to disease, and their lives of shorter duration. Satan has been learning how to annoy men, and to enfeeble the race." (Ellen G. White, Spiritual Gifts, Vol. 1, 69.2, 1858.)
Novelty comments on Feb 28, 2020:
Nothing says non human animals are guilty of sin, so do most healthy reproductive age female mammal species menstruate?
I hate when uncomfortable human biology is used to justify the foolish concept of sin.
It should be considered in wonder and appreciation, not disgust and morbid self reflection.
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 2, 2020:
@KingofHarts Now where have I heard that one?
"I was informed that the inhabitants of earth had been degenerating, losing their strength and comeliness. Satan has the power of disease and death, and in every age the curse has been more visible, and the power of Satan more plainly seen. . . I was informed that those who lived in the days of Noah and Abraham were more like the angels in form, in comeliness and strength. But every generation has been growing weaker, and more subject to disease, and their lives of shorter duration. Satan has been learning how to annoy men, and to enfeeble the race." (Ellen G. White, Spiritual Gifts, Vol. 1, 69.2, 1858.)
A Catholic apologist attempted to defend the story of the Exodus... And failed.
[youtu.be]
Sgt_Spanky comments on Mar 2, 2020:
I think it's comical how we're supposed to take seriously what some guy with a PhD and various academic credentials says as if the arguments he's making aren't desperate and ridiculous.
You can be educated and still be deluded and wrong.
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 2, 2020:
Educated? Seriously? Seminaries are institutions of nonsense and theology is the study of nothing. To be ordained is a ceremony of the absurd and degrees like a master or doctor of divinity are of less value than the paper on which such are printed.
Sgt_Spanky comments on Mar 2, 2020:
I think it's comical how we're supposed to take seriously what some guy with a PhD and various academic credentials says as if the arguments he's making aren't desperate and ridiculous.
You can be educated and still be deluded and wrong.
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 2, 2020:
Educated? Seriously? Seminaries are institutions of nonsense and theology is the study of nothing. To be ordained is a ceremony of the absurd and degrees like a master or doctor of divinity are of less value than the paper on which such are printed.
If most folks can agree that we "create our own reality" can we then agree that we create our own ...
p-nullifidian comments on Mar 2, 2020:
If an asteroid destroyed the Earth tomorrow, would this reality be our own individual creation, or would it be shared with 7 billion others who experience annihilation? Reality exists whether or not we as individuals accept, deny or even perceive it. In addition to the steady chain of causes and ...
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 2, 2020:
@Matias Reality is reality—a fact is a fact. That Paris is the capital of France and the Euro is the accepted currency of Italy, are indisputable facts—to disagree with such (i.e., to deny reality) would be madness. If, however, by ‘social reality’ you mean to include things like language, dress, diet, music, art and customs, why not call it ‘cultural reality?’ My wife’s mother was born and raised in Firenze, but that is not how you (Florenz) or I (Florence) might choose to say the city’s name. That this city exists with all its wonders is fact, how we refer to it is subjective. For most of my life, Mumbai was Bombay and Beijing, Peking. Cultural references can change virtually overnight—culture is a subjective choice.
p-nullifidian comments on Mar 2, 2020:
If an asteroid destroyed the Earth tomorrow, would this reality be our own individual creation, or would it be shared with 7 billion others who experience annihilation? Reality exists whether or not we as individuals accept, deny or even perceive it. In addition to the steady chain of causes and ...
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 2, 2020:
@Matias Reality is reality—a fact is a fact. That Paris is the capital of France and the Euro is the accepted currency of Italy, are indisputable facts—to disagree with such (i.e., to deny reality) would be madness. If, however, by ‘social reality’ you mean to include things like language, dress, diet, music, art and customs, why not call it ‘cultural reality?’ My wife’s mother was born and raised in Firenze, but that is not how you (Florenz) or I (Florence) might choose to say the city’s name. That this city exists with all its wonders is fact, how we refer to it is subjective. For most of my life, Mumbai was Bombay and Beijing, Peking. Cultural references can change virtually overnight—culture is a subjective choice.
What do you suppose gives rise to and supports belief in God?
p-nullifidian comments on Mar 2, 2020:
"God belief goes back much further than any attempt to explain anything."
Agreed. Ancient hominids probably didn't care for explanations, they just wanted to make it to the next day. We appear to have an innate fear of animals with fangs and claws, and those who survived likely carried ...
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 2, 2020:
@MarkWD Agreed, but it is still a good question.
p-nullifidian comments on Mar 2, 2020:
"God belief goes back much further than any attempt to explain anything."
Agreed. Ancient hominids probably didn't care for explanations, they just wanted to make it to the next day. We appear to have an innate fear of animals with fangs and claws, and those who survived likely carried ...
p-nullifidian replies on Mar 2, 2020:
@MarkWD Agreed, but it is still a good question.
We all believe in evidence-based science, and that's why we're agnostic/atheist, right?
WilliamCharles comments on Feb 29, 2020:
I am still somewhat gobsmacked that so many skeptics groups seem to buy into the 9/11 official narrative. If there was ever a case to demonstrate the physics of the collapse(s), it was this one. Certainly more thought provoking than the time-honored science fair volcano, regardless of which camp you...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 29, 2020:
Occam's Razor, perhaps?
WilliamCharles comments on Feb 29, 2020:
I am still somewhat gobsmacked that so many skeptics groups seem to buy into the 9/11 official narrative. If there was ever a case to demonstrate the physics of the collapse(s), it was this one. Certainly more thought provoking than the time-honored science fair volcano, regardless of which camp you...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 29, 2020:
Occam's Razor, perhaps?
Gravity is not uniform. It varies geographically.
t1nick comments on Feb 28, 2020:
In general, the variance in the gravitational pull anywhere on Earth is pretty small. One of the variables necessary to calculate gravity is the radius (squared) from the center of the Earth to the object of interest. in general the greatest difference would be sea level to the top of Mt. Everest, ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 29, 2020:
Indeed, as I remember from my days in satellite operations, the oblateness of the Earth had a greater effect than the topography of a given region on LEOs. And as you say, it is minimal. Atmospheric drag, particularly during solar max (which has actually declined significantly from my days in this field) was the biggest reason for the need to occasionally apply Delta-v.
t1nick comments on Feb 28, 2020:
In general, the variance in the gravitational pull anywhere on Earth is pretty small. One of the variables necessary to calculate gravity is the radius (squared) from the center of the Earth to the object of interest. in general the greatest difference would be sea level to the top of Mt. Everest, ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 29, 2020:
Indeed, as I remember from my days in satellite operations, the oblateness of the Earth had a greater effect than the topography of a given region on LEOs. And as you say, it is minimal. Atmospheric drag, particularly during solar max (which has actually declined significantly from my days in this field) was the biggest reason for the need to occasionally apply Delta-v.
I love how most people who believe the bible can trace their belief to the notion that the bible ...
Mofo1953 comments on Feb 25, 2020:
Who says you can't disprove god? It was done by Epicurus way back then BC in the Epicurean Paradox plus any day with logic, all gods without exception were created by ignorant humans, ergo all are made up and fake.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 29, 2020:
@Mofo1953 On agnositc.com you find those who run the gamut in their certainty. But it was none other than Thomas Huxley--the one who coined the term agnostic--who had this to say:
"Agnosticism puts aside not only the greater part of popular theology, but also the greater part of anti-theology." And, "In matters of the intellect do not pretend that conclusions are certain which are not demonstrated or demonstrable."
Mofo1953 comments on Feb 25, 2020:
Who says you can't disprove god? It was done by Epicurus way back then BC in the Epicurean Paradox plus any day with logic, all gods without exception were created by ignorant humans, ergo all are made up and fake.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 29, 2020:
@Mofo1953 On agnositc.com you find those who run the gamut in their certainty. But it was none other than Thomas Huxley--the one who coined the term agnostic--who had this to say:
"Agnosticism puts aside not only the greater part of popular theology, but also the greater part of anti-theology." And, "In matters of the intellect do not pretend that conclusions are certain which are not demonstrated or demonstrable."
The first case of community transmission of the coronavirus has just occurred in northern ...
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 27, 2020:
When the number of deaths attributed to coronavirus come anywhere near this year's version of the flu, I will be concerned. According to the CDC, the flu has already caused an estimated 26 million illnesses, 250,000 hospitalizations and 14,000 deaths this season, and this is just in the U.S. alone!...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 27, 2020:
@t1nick You may be right, however the death rate, espcially in men, may be due in part to the wide popularity of smoking. Smoking (along with other compromised conditions) is a risk factor in this, as weall as many other diseases.
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 27, 2020:
When the number of deaths attributed to coronavirus come anywhere near this year's version of the flu, I will be concerned. According to the CDC, the flu has already caused an estimated 26 million illnesses, 250,000 hospitalizations and 14,000 deaths this season, and this is just in the U.S. alone!...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 27, 2020:
@t1nick You may be right, however the death rate, espcially in men, may be due in part to the wide popularity of smoking. Smoking (along with other compromised conditions) is a risk factor in this, as weall as many other diseases.
WHY does the AHA questionnaire keep asking "do you believe---" As a Scientist one doesn't BELIEVE ...
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 27, 2020:
What if the word "believe" were replaced with "accept?" I accept the Theory of Evolution, for example.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 27, 2020:
@maturin1919 Yes, that is one of several definitions. However "believing" a thing to be true would seem, to me at least, to be more active than passive, whereas the reverse may be said about "accepting" a thing to be true. Also, the word "in" frequently follows the word "believe," which clearly makes this stance one of conviction. To believe in something carries more psychological weight than merely accepting something, which almost sounds like giving in--a capitulation.
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 27, 2020:
What if the word "believe" were replaced with "accept?" I accept the Theory of Evolution, for example.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 27, 2020:
@maturin1919 Yes, that is one of several definitions. However "believing" a thing to be true would seem, to me at least, to be more active than passive, whereas the reverse may be said about "accepting" a thing to be true. Also, the word "in" frequently follows the word "believe," which clearly makes this stance one of conviction. To believe in something carries more psychological weight than merely accepting something, which almost sounds like giving in--a capitulation.
With all the news about the ERA, the Equal Rights Amendment, these questions came to mind:
1.
skado comments on Feb 23, 2020:
The problem with hyphenated names is that it’s not sustainable, so why start?
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 27, 2020:
Indeed! Have you ever been to a wedding where both kids had hyphenated names? I haven't, but I've wondered what the outcome would be, particularly for their offspring. Hello, my name is Rachel M. Johnson-Smith-Williams-Jones.
skado comments on Feb 23, 2020:
The problem with hyphenated names is that it’s not sustainable, so why start?
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 27, 2020:
Indeed! Have you ever been to a wedding where both kids had hyphenated names? I haven't, but I've wondered what the outcome would be, particularly for their offspring. Hello, my name is Rachel M. Johnson-Smith-Williams-Jones.
Ladies! Could you, would you, after being Seriously cheated on for decades by your ...
evergreen comments on Feb 24, 2020:
Nope - I think too highly of myself. But then, probably wouldn't have been married to a cheater for decades either ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 27, 2020:
@AnneWimsey Sounds like my father, and he never paid my mom a dime of child support!
evergreen comments on Feb 24, 2020:
Nope - I think too highly of myself. But then, probably wouldn't have been married to a cheater for decades either ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 27, 2020:
@AnneWimsey Sounds like my father, and he never paid my mom a dime of child support!
Be ye Aware of - that which U R - as a - Being of Life -
Know - that which is thine - Essence & ...
Cyklone comments on Feb 26, 2020:
Wtf?
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 27, 2020:
Quick, check for a virus!
Cyklone comments on Feb 26, 2020:
Wtf?
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 27, 2020:
Quick, check for a virus!
Abraham
God told Abraham to kill his son and offer him up as a burnt offering.
DavidLaDeau comments on Feb 26, 2020:
Very true. Japheth did in fact murder his daughter with gods consent as a sacrifice to said god.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 27, 2020:
The story is worse than that! Jephthah's teenage daughter was murdered at the hands of her father because he made a promise to God that if those pesky heathen neighbors, the Ammonites, were delivered into Jepththah's hands, whatever came out of his door upon his returning from battle, would be sacrificed. One wonders what he expected to come out of his house ... his wife, his servant, his dog? Alas, his only child and daughter, so happy to see him, came bounding and dancing out of her house to greet him, or so the story goes.
But where was that laggard angel who'd stopped Abraham from sacrificing Isaac? And where was the damn goat? Where is God in all of this? Why didn't this all-knowing and all-loving God, this supposed moral and loving creator, release Jephthah from his promise? And what does this story actually teach us? That young boys are more precious to God than young girls? That God is honored by human sacrifice? These human sacrifice stories are antecedents Christianity, a faith founded entirely on the most violent of acts, and whose symbol is a Roman tool of execution.
DavidLaDeau comments on Feb 26, 2020:
Very true. Japheth did in fact murder his daughter with gods consent as a sacrifice to said god.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 27, 2020:
The story is worse than that! Jephthah's teenage daughter was murdered at the hands of her father because he made a promise to God that if those pesky heathen neighbors, the Ammonites, were delivered into Jepththah's hands, whatever came out of his door upon his returning from battle, would be sacrificed. One wonders what he expected to come out of his house ... his wife, his servant, his dog? Alas, his only child and daughter, so happy to see him, came bounding and dancing out of her house to greet him, or so the story goes.
But where was that laggard angel who'd stopped Abraham from sacrificing Isaac? And where was the damn goat? Where is God in all of this? Why didn't this all-knowing and all-loving God, this supposed moral and loving creator, release Jephthah from his promise? And what does this story actually teach us? That young boys are more precious to God than young girls? That God is honored by human sacrifice? These human sacrifice stories are antecedents Christianity, a faith founded entirely on the most violent of acts, and whose symbol is a Roman tool of execution.
Lol. I guess this sums it up
Omnedon comments on Feb 25, 2020:
Yes, but two of those are old and one is not.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 26, 2020:
Yup, and it implies that the more recent documents are 'fresher' and more accurate. More New Yorkers would recognize and welcome Spiderman, after all, than Jesus Christ. That being the case, Christianity is a 'fresher' take than Judaism, and Islam 'fresher' than either of them. Also, all Protestant faiths from the so-called reformation (Lutherans, Presbyterians, Methodists, Baptists, etc.) represent an improvement upon Catholicism, and the American religions like Mormons, Adventists, Christian Scientists and Jehovah's Witnesses are even more 'fresh' than their antecendents. And then we come to Scientology ... it all makes so much sense!
Omnedon comments on Feb 25, 2020:
Yes, but two of those are old and one is not.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 26, 2020:
Yup, and it implies that the more recent documents are 'fresher' and more accurate. More New Yorkers would recognize and welcome Spiderman, after all, than Jesus Christ. That being the case, Christianity is a 'fresher' take than Judaism, and Islam 'fresher' than either of them. Also, all Protestant faiths from the so-called reformation (Lutherans, Presbyterians, Methodists, Baptists, etc.) represent an improvement upon Catholicism, and the American religions like Mormons, Adventists, Christian Scientists and Jehovah's Witnesses are even more 'fresh' than their antecendents. And then we come to Scientology ... it all makes so much sense!
Have you ever encountered someone like this?[youtu.be]
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 26, 2020:
I believe it's possible to separate mental health issues from religion--the two need not be inextricably linked. The woman's clearly been in the mental health 'system' before, as her terminology and threats would indicate. But did religion do this to her? Not likely. Unless there's a motherfucking ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 26, 2020:
@PondartIncbendog Amen, Motherfucker! Now go, and fuck no more.
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 26, 2020:
I believe it's possible to separate mental health issues from religion--the two need not be inextricably linked. The woman's clearly been in the mental health 'system' before, as her terminology and threats would indicate. But did religion do this to her? Not likely. Unless there's a motherfucking ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 26, 2020:
@PondartIncbendog Amen, Motherfucker! Now go, and fuck no more.
Oh well, you can't be right all the time I suppose.
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 26, 2020:
Poor Joe. Looks like "early onset."
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 26, 2020:
@SpikeTalon Nice new logo.
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 26, 2020:
Poor Joe. Looks like "early onset."
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 26, 2020:
@SpikeTalon Nice new logo.
Oh well, you can't be right all the time I suppose.
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 26, 2020:
Poor Joe. Looks like "early onset."
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 26, 2020:
@SpikeTalon Thanks, just recently returned. Cheers!
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 26, 2020:
Poor Joe. Looks like "early onset."
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 26, 2020:
@SpikeTalon Thanks, just recently returned. Cheers!
Oh well, you can't be right all the time I suppose.
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 26, 2020:
Poor Joe. Looks like "early onset."
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 26, 2020:
But was that actual footage from tonight?
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 26, 2020:
Poor Joe. Looks like "early onset."
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 26, 2020:
But was that actual footage from tonight?
I love how most people who believe the bible can trace their belief to the notion that the bible ...
Mofo1953 comments on Feb 25, 2020:
Who says you can't disprove god? It was done by Epicurus way back then BC in the Epicurean Paradox plus any day with logic, all gods without exception were created by ignorant humans, ergo all are made up and fake.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 25, 2020:
@DenoPenno Yup, including my avatar, Thomas Paine, author of 'Common Sense,' a pamphlet read by more colonists than any other publication of its time, and without which, the American Revolultion might not have happened.
Mofo1953 comments on Feb 25, 2020:
Who says you can't disprove god? It was done by Epicurus way back then BC in the Epicurean Paradox plus any day with logic, all gods without exception were created by ignorant humans, ergo all are made up and fake.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 25, 2020:
@DenoPenno Yup, including my avatar, Thomas Paine, author of 'Common Sense,' a pamphlet read by more colonists than any other publication of its time, and without which, the American Revolultion might not have happened.
State/church separation dealt major blow in 11th Circuit cross ruling - Freedom From Religion ...
phoenixone1 comments on Feb 20, 2020:
On a side note I saw a bumper sticker today that pretty much sums up the Christian philosophy towards us "non believers"... It said, "Its freedom OF religion, not freedom FROM religion"...so basically they are saying that the Constitution doesn't give me a right to denounce Christian beliefs(or ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 25, 2020:
The only use of the word 'freedom' in the First Amendment applies to speech. The so-called Establishment Clause is meant to constrain the Federal Government from selecting a 'national religion,' as was the case for all of Europe. The states, however, were not quite as constrained, and the laws in many are the direct result of religion's influence.
The First Amendment is quite succinct, but it has served us well.
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
phoenixone1 comments on Feb 20, 2020:
On a side note I saw a bumper sticker today that pretty much sums up the Christian philosophy towards us "non believers"... It said, "Its freedom OF religion, not freedom FROM religion"...so basically they are saying that the Constitution doesn't give me a right to denounce Christian beliefs(or ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 25, 2020:
The only use of the word 'freedom' in the First Amendment applies to speech. The so-called Establishment Clause is meant to constrain the Federal Government from selecting a 'national religion,' as was the case for all of Europe. The states, however, were not quite as constrained, and the laws in many are the direct result of religion's influence.
The First Amendment is quite succinct, but it has served us well.
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
State/church separation dealt major blow in 11th Circuit cross ruling - Freedom From Religion ...
WilliamFleming comments on Feb 20, 2020:
It seems rather hypocritical that atheists are applauding the decision in Switzerland that the cross on the Jagermeister logo has been used long enough to become “neutral”, while in this case a similar decision is seen as the end of religious freedom. The only difference is that in Switzerland ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 25, 2020:
I found it ironic that your story about the Jagermeister logo, one that I'd missed [thank you for calling our attention to it], took place in a nation whose flag, along with a number of others, contains a cross. ;-)
WilliamFleming comments on Feb 20, 2020:
It seems rather hypocritical that atheists are applauding the decision in Switzerland that the cross on the Jagermeister logo has been used long enough to become “neutral”, while in this case a similar decision is seen as the end of religious freedom. The only difference is that in Switzerland ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 25, 2020:
I found it ironic that your story about the Jagermeister logo, one that I'd missed [thank you for calling our attention to it], took place in a nation whose flag, along with a number of others, contains a cross. ;-)
I love how most people who believe the bible can trace their belief to the notion that the bible ...
Mofo1953 comments on Feb 25, 2020:
Who says you can't disprove god? It was done by Epicurus way back then BC in the Epicurean Paradox plus any day with logic, all gods without exception were created by ignorant humans, ergo all are made up and fake.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 25, 2020:
As a Deist, the god my avatar believed in formed the universe and the laws governing it, and then left for other pursuits. No miracles, no answers to prayer or supplication, no holy books, buildings or prophets, nothing sacred or divine and above all, no organized religion. One might well ask, as did Epicurus, ‘Why call him God?’ To which I would answer, ‘Why not?’ Unlike any of the other gods I’ve been told about, the god of the Deist is one that I could live with—at least he leaves us the hell alone!
Mofo1953 comments on Feb 25, 2020:
Who says you can't disprove god? It was done by Epicurus way back then BC in the Epicurean Paradox plus any day with logic, all gods without exception were created by ignorant humans, ergo all are made up and fake.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 25, 2020:
As a Deist, the god my avatar believed in formed the universe and the laws governing it, and then left for other pursuits. No miracles, no answers to prayer or supplication, no holy books, buildings or prophets, nothing sacred or divine and above all, no organized religion. One might well ask, as did Epicurus, ‘Why call him God?’ To which I would answer, ‘Why not?’ Unlike any of the other gods I’ve been told about, the god of the Deist is one that I could live with—at least he leaves us the hell alone!
‘Belief’ definition
I surmise that one cannot think about beliefs in the singular as if they...
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 25, 2020:
I enjoy comparing / contrasting religion with mathematics. We begin with basic, simple concepts and build upon them. Addition, subtraction, multiplication and division form the building blocks for our learning. Before high school we learn basic geometry and algebra, and in high school we are taught...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 25, 2020:
@Leontion Yup, even the atheist may be covered by an insurance policy that includes damages resulting from 'acts of God!' ;-)
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 25, 2020:
I enjoy comparing / contrasting religion with mathematics. We begin with basic, simple concepts and build upon them. Addition, subtraction, multiplication and division form the building blocks for our learning. Before high school we learn basic geometry and algebra, and in high school we are taught...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 25, 2020:
@Leontion Yup, even the atheist may be covered by an insurance policy that includes damages resulting from 'acts of God!' ;-)
Carnival Celebration Includes Burning Effigy of Kissing Same-Sex Couple as Children Watch and Adults...
OnTheInside comments on Feb 24, 2020:
Not looking for an answer, but how can we be at this point in this world? Admittedly though, when I first clicked on the post, expecting to be depressed, I was waiting to find out where in America this had happened. 😭
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 25, 2020:
How can we be indeed. But to quote many, including one of my favorite poets (Neil Peart):
Why are we here?
Because we're here
Roll the bones
Roll the bones
Why does it happen?
Because it happens
Roll the bones
OnTheInside comments on Feb 24, 2020:
Not looking for an answer, but how can we be at this point in this world? Admittedly though, when I first clicked on the post, expecting to be depressed, I was waiting to find out where in America this had happened. 😭
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 25, 2020:
How can we be indeed. But to quote many, including one of my favorite poets (Neil Peart):
Why are we here?
Because we're here
Roll the bones
Roll the bones
Why does it happen?
Because it happens
Roll the bones
‘Belief’ definition
I surmise that one cannot think about beliefs in the singular as if they...
Jolanta comments on Feb 24, 2020:
Blah, blah, blah. Too hard to even think about that is my belief.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 25, 2020:
"Blah, blah, blah?" Sounds almost like Charlie Brown's teacher: "Wah waaah wah wah waaaah wah waah..."
Jolanta comments on Feb 24, 2020:
Blah, blah, blah. Too hard to even think about that is my belief.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 25, 2020:
"Blah, blah, blah?" Sounds almost like Charlie Brown's teacher: "Wah waaah wah wah waaaah wah waah..."
‘Belief’ definition
I surmise that one cannot think about beliefs in the singular as if they...
gearl comments on Feb 24, 2020:
I would say that Mormonism, Jehovah's Witness beliefs, Catholic beliefs or conservative beliefs are belief structures. I see your point but really don't understand why you raised it.
"God the father had to have a father if it is what we believe a father does."
Father's have children. All ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 25, 2020:
Indeed. I had no clue what the definition of a father was until my daughter and son showed me.
gearl comments on Feb 24, 2020:
I would say that Mormonism, Jehovah's Witness beliefs, Catholic beliefs or conservative beliefs are belief structures. I see your point but really don't understand why you raised it.
"God the father had to have a father if it is what we believe a father does."
Father's have children. All ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 25, 2020:
Indeed. I had no clue what the definition of a father was until my daughter and son showed me.
I discover more and more that in any group of people, there's a tendency for it to fragment.
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 14, 2020:
Common cause enabled 13 distinct colonies to unite in revolt against a monarch, draw up a constitution and establish a new form of government. When properly motivated and organized, it is amazing what can be accomplished.
And yet we as a nation are founded on the principle of equality. The ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 25, 2020:
@Kymmacg Your humor holds a somber and unfortunate kernel of truth. In the context of our conversation, the Stockholm Syndrome may be seen as equating to gaslighting--the psychological and perhaps physical intimidation of women at the hands of men. I find such a concept as unbearably cruel.
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 14, 2020:
Common cause enabled 13 distinct colonies to unite in revolt against a monarch, draw up a constitution and establish a new form of government. When properly motivated and organized, it is amazing what can be accomplished.
And yet we as a nation are founded on the principle of equality. The ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 25, 2020:
@Kymmacg Your humor holds a somber and unfortunate kernel of truth. In the context of our conversation, the Stockholm Syndrome may be seen as equating to gaslighting--the psychological and perhaps physical intimidation of women at the hands of men. I find such a concept as unbearably cruel.
Who has been the most influential Atheist/Agnostic famous person for you?
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 24, 2020:
The lectures of Robert Green Ingersoll, as read by Michael Scott Earl (http://reasonworks.com). Ingersoll was a brilliant orator and forward thinker, and Mike Earl's readings of his speeches, and The Age of Reason by my avatar, as well as some of his own essays, opened and then completely blew my ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 24, 2020:
@DavidLaDeau Ingersoll was unique in his time; a late 19th century iconoclast who dared to attack religion, advocate for civil rights as well as the rights of women. An excellent intro to this giant, who was heard in person by more citizens than any other celebrity or politician of his age, is found in the book by Susan Jacoby, "The Great Agnostic: Robert Ingersoll and American Freethought." I highly recommend this book.
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 24, 2020:
The lectures of Robert Green Ingersoll, as read by Michael Scott Earl (http://reasonworks.com). Ingersoll was a brilliant orator and forward thinker, and Mike Earl's readings of his speeches, and The Age of Reason by my avatar, as well as some of his own essays, opened and then completely blew my ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 24, 2020:
@DavidLaDeau Ingersoll was unique in his time; a late 19th century iconoclast who dared to attack religion, advocate for civil rights as well as the rights of women. An excellent intro to this giant, who was heard in person by more citizens than any other celebrity or politician of his age, is found in the book by Susan Jacoby, "The Great Agnostic: Robert Ingersoll and American Freethought." I highly recommend this book.
I discover more and more that in any group of people, there's a tendency for it to fragment.
Omnedon comments on Feb 21, 2020:
@p-nullifidian For some reason the reply button on this thread wasn't working for me, so I'll respond here.
[ramble start]
I agree that the anonymity that the Internet can provide tends to allow the real person to show through -- not that it somehow changes the person. It can enable one to ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 24, 2020:
Nice ramble, well said. "I've encountered some people that seem to carry courtesy from real-life into the virtual world...anonymity doesn't affect the way they express themselves."
I strive to be that kind of person.
Omnedon comments on Feb 21, 2020:
@p-nullifidian For some reason the reply button on this thread wasn't working for me, so I'll respond here.
[ramble start]
I agree that the anonymity that the Internet can provide tends to allow the real person to show through -- not that it somehow changes the person. It can enable one to ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 24, 2020:
Nice ramble, well said. "I've encountered some people that seem to carry courtesy from real-life into the virtual world...anonymity doesn't affect the way they express themselves."
I strive to be that kind of person.
I discover more and more that in any group of people, there's a tendency for it to fragment.
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 14, 2020:
Common cause enabled 13 distinct colonies to unite in revolt against a monarch, draw up a constitution and establish a new form of government. When properly motivated and organized, it is amazing what can be accomplished.
And yet we as a nation are founded on the principle of equality. The ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 24, 2020:
@Kymmacg While I don’t consider myself a pedant, I do feel that accuracy and consistency are important regarding terminology and definitions. I may be open to a broadened definition of a minority, however class would seem to be the strongest factor behind minoritarianism, as we appear inclined to allow ourselves to be led by plutocrats and even kleptocrats. Votes effect change or maintain the status quo, and 10 million more women than men voted in 2016. But when presented with the opportunity to elect the first woman to be president, 42% of the female vote went to a misogynistic grabber of female genitalia!
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 14, 2020:
Common cause enabled 13 distinct colonies to unite in revolt against a monarch, draw up a constitution and establish a new form of government. When properly motivated and organized, it is amazing what can be accomplished.
And yet we as a nation are founded on the principle of equality. The ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 24, 2020:
@Kymmacg While I don’t consider myself a pedant, I do feel that accuracy and consistency are important regarding terminology and definitions. I may be open to a broadened definition of a minority, however class would seem to be the strongest factor behind minoritarianism, as we appear inclined to allow ourselves to be led by plutocrats and even kleptocrats. Votes effect change or maintain the status quo, and 10 million more women than men voted in 2016. But when presented with the opportunity to elect the first woman to be president, 42% of the female vote went to a misogynistic grabber of female genitalia!
In a Huge First, Physicists Have Captured Individual Atoms And Watched Them Merge: ...
Novelty comments on Feb 22, 2020:
Atom sex.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 23, 2020:
And carbon will bond with just about anything to make a molecule--a very promiscuous atom, that carbon!
Novelty comments on Feb 22, 2020:
Atom sex.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 23, 2020:
And carbon will bond with just about anything to make a molecule--a very promiscuous atom, that carbon!
I discover more and more that in any group of people, there's a tendency for it to fragment.
APaleBlueDot comments on Feb 13, 2020:
I believe your observation that things are worse now is correct. Social media creates echo chambers, as well as isolation. Echo chambers and isolation are damaging to civil society, as civil society, by its definition must take disparate views into account and unify.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 21, 2020:
@Omnedon, @APaleBlueDot I somewhat disagree with the notion that proximity is the key to connection. Mind you I live and have worked for decades in Silicon Valley, however I have many friends or co-workers who met on line, connected and eventually--sometimes after more than a year--decided to meet and later wed. Here, the connection was sparked and fueled without any face-to-face interaction. A distinction should be made between "Likes" or "ReTweets" vs. the intimacy that can occur over great distances via person-to-person interactions over this medium.
APaleBlueDot comments on Feb 13, 2020:
I believe your observation that things are worse now is correct. Social media creates echo chambers, as well as isolation. Echo chambers and isolation are damaging to civil society, as civil society, by its definition must take disparate views into account and unify.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 21, 2020:
@Omnedon, @APaleBlueDot I somewhat disagree with the notion that proximity is the key to connection. Mind you I live and have worked for decades in Silicon Valley, however I have many friends or co-workers who met on line, connected and eventually--sometimes after more than a year--decided to meet and later wed. Here, the connection was sparked and fueled without any face-to-face interaction. A distinction should be made between "Likes" or "ReTweets" vs. the intimacy that can occur over great distances via person-to-person interactions over this medium.
I discover more and more that in any group of people, there's a tendency for it to fragment.
APaleBlueDot comments on Feb 13, 2020:
I believe your observation that things are worse now is correct. Social media creates echo chambers, as well as isolation. Echo chambers and isolation are damaging to civil society, as civil society, by its definition must take disparate views into account and unify.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 21, 2020:
@Omnedon I understand. We should recognize that social media and the internet in general act much like alcohol, apparently removing one's inhibitions and sense of propriety. But just like alcohol, it doesn't alter who we really are, at our core; rather it exposes it. Alcohol is nature's truth serum. A mean and vulgar drunk is but an exaggeration of who one really is, just as a happy and sensitive inebriate is an amplification of his/her personna. The internet tends to expose who we truly are.
APaleBlueDot comments on Feb 13, 2020:
I believe your observation that things are worse now is correct. Social media creates echo chambers, as well as isolation. Echo chambers and isolation are damaging to civil society, as civil society, by its definition must take disparate views into account and unify.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 21, 2020:
@Omnedon I understand. We should recognize that social media and the internet in general act much like alcohol, apparently removing one's inhibitions and sense of propriety. But just like alcohol, it doesn't alter who we really are, at our core; rather it exposes it. Alcohol is nature's truth serum. A mean and vulgar drunk is but an exaggeration of who one really is, just as a happy and sensitive inebriate is an amplification of his/her personna. The internet tends to expose who we truly are.
I discover more and more that in any group of people, there's a tendency for it to fragment.
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 14, 2020:
Common cause enabled 13 distinct colonies to unite in revolt against a monarch, draw up a constitution and establish a new form of government. When properly motivated and organized, it is amazing what can be accomplished.
And yet we as a nation are founded on the principle of equality. The ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 21, 2020:
@Kymmacg Understood, and I accept your point--the brush I was painting with was perhaps too broad. That said, the Declaration of Independence is not a legally binding document, and the point I was trying to make was that rights once attributed only to property-holding white men have been expanded, not that we've arrived.
I recognize that the struggle for full equality has been a never-ending one, occuring little by little, state by state, law by law, and ruling by ruling. I support the ERA, which will codify the equality of women in the 'law of the land.' I don't understand, however, how minority status may be ascribed to women in a country where females represent 51% of the population. Perhaps I'm missing something.
p-nullifidian comments on Feb 14, 2020:
Common cause enabled 13 distinct colonies to unite in revolt against a monarch, draw up a constitution and establish a new form of government. When properly motivated and organized, it is amazing what can be accomplished.
And yet we as a nation are founded on the principle of equality. The ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 21, 2020:
@Kymmacg Understood, and I accept your point--the brush I was painting with was perhaps too broad. That said, the Declaration of Independence is not a legally binding document, and the point I was trying to make was that rights once attributed only to property-holding white men have been expanded, not that we've arrived.
I recognize that the struggle for full equality has been a never-ending one, occuring little by little, state by state, law by law, and ruling by ruling. I support the ERA, which will codify the equality of women in the 'law of the land.' I don't understand, however, how minority status may be ascribed to women in a country where females represent 51% of the population. Perhaps I'm missing something.
I get it, The United States is not a Chiristian nation on the Books.
WilliamFleming comments on Feb 15, 2020:
Under the constitution the government can not favor any one religion. Can you name any laws that favor Christianity? If there are any they should be challenged in court.
Politicians want to win favor with the voters, and for that reason there are some government policies and laws that facilitate ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 21, 2020:
@273kelvin Having lived in Europe for several years, I recognize the distinctions. However, as an anti-monarchist, I am revolted by the concept of a 'sovereign' who is both head of the state, as well as the Church of England. And yet, one must ask, which circumstance is to be preferred: a nation with a consititutionally mandated indifference toward religion or a deity, yet filled with zealous religious organizations and leaders who wield great political power, versus a nation with embedded religious institutions and leaders who appear to have been neutered, politically?
WilliamFleming comments on Feb 15, 2020:
Under the constitution the government can not favor any one religion. Can you name any laws that favor Christianity? If there are any they should be challenged in court.
Politicians want to win favor with the voters, and for that reason there are some government policies and laws that facilitate ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 21, 2020:
@273kelvin Having lived in Europe for several years, I recognize the distinctions. However, as an anti-monarchist, I am revolted by the concept of a 'sovereign' who is both head of the state, as well as the Church of England. And yet, one must ask, which circumstance is to be preferred: a nation with a consititutionally mandated indifference toward religion or a deity, yet filled with zealous religious organizations and leaders who wield great political power, versus a nation with embedded religious institutions and leaders who appear to have been neutered, politically?
I think you guys have the wrong idea about what you call "Hinduism"
Moravian comments on Feb 19, 2020:
Explain away the obnoxious caste system then.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 20, 2020:
@JeffMesser Under the basic principle of universal human rights, we must, in my opinion, reject outright any principle that privelges an accident of birth, as this implies (or asserts) that a force (or process) outside of our understanding of nature is behind a kharmic determination.
Moravian comments on Feb 19, 2020:
Explain away the obnoxious caste system then.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 20, 2020:
@JeffMesser Under the basic principle of universal human rights, we must, in my opinion, reject outright any principle that privelges an accident of birth, as this implies (or asserts) that a force (or process) outside of our understanding of nature is behind a kharmic determination.
I get it, The United States is not a Chiristian nation on the Books.
WilliamFleming comments on Feb 15, 2020:
Under the constitution the government can not favor any one religion. Can you name any laws that favor Christianity? If there are any they should be challenged in court.
Politicians want to win favor with the voters, and for that reason there are some government policies and laws that facilitate ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 20, 2020:
@273kelvin One must distinguish the Constitution from the legislation passed in the state houses of 50 individual and separate governments, as well as that of the Nation. Motivated by a surge of anti-Communist fear, and supported by many religious organizations, "In god we trust" was added to our paper currency, as well as the term "Under God" inserted into the pledge of allegiance in the 1950s. State capitals have passed even more religoiusly motivated bills. As of this moment, our Constitution does not reference or acknowledge a deity--in other words, it is officially agnostic.
WilliamFleming comments on Feb 15, 2020:
Under the constitution the government can not favor any one religion. Can you name any laws that favor Christianity? If there are any they should be challenged in court.
Politicians want to win favor with the voters, and for that reason there are some government policies and laws that facilitate ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 20, 2020:
@273kelvin One must distinguish the Constitution from the legislation passed in the state houses of 50 individual and separate governments, as well as that of the Nation. Motivated by a surge of anti-Communist fear, and supported by many religious organizations, "In god we trust" was added to our paper currency, as well as the term "Under God" inserted into the pledge of allegiance in the 1950s. State capitals have passed even more religoiusly motivated bills. As of this moment, our Constitution does not reference or acknowledge a deity--in other words, it is officially agnostic.
It is an established fact that believers are deluded and liars.
evergreen comments on Feb 17, 2020:
I don't get the part about all believers being liars as well ... ?
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 20, 2020:
I had a loving and gentle great aunt who was a devout Christian and believed she would see me again in heaven, one day, even though I'd intimated my doubts about all of that to her. Was she deluded? Yes, but she most certainly was not a liar. Lying requires an intentional state that we simply cannot ascribe to every believer.
evergreen comments on Feb 17, 2020:
I don't get the part about all believers being liars as well ... ?
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 20, 2020:
I had a loving and gentle great aunt who was a devout Christian and believed she would see me again in heaven, one day, even though I'd intimated my doubts about all of that to her. Was she deluded? Yes, but she most certainly was not a liar. Lying requires an intentional state that we simply cannot ascribe to every believer.
A mottled orange, red, and yellow orb surrounded by stars
Betelgeuse, Betelgeuse, Betelgeuse.
ToolGuy comments on Feb 13, 2020:
Whatever happens was a long time ago.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 14, 2020:
@ToolGuy We agree. The term "now" is relative, as we are detecting photons that left Betelgeuse over 640 years in the past. Similarly, when our skies were illuminated about 1,000 years ago by a supernova, visible even during the day, from what is now known as the Crab Nebula, what the world witnessed, and indeed what we see today, occurred more than 6,500 years in the past. Our telescopes are, in a sense, time machines.
ToolGuy comments on Feb 13, 2020:
Whatever happens was a long time ago.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 14, 2020:
@ToolGuy We agree. The term "now" is relative, as we are detecting photons that left Betelgeuse over 640 years in the past. Similarly, when our skies were illuminated about 1,000 years ago by a supernova, visible even during the day, from what is now known as the Crab Nebula, what the world witnessed, and indeed what we see today, occurred more than 6,500 years in the past. Our telescopes are, in a sense, time machines.
Why some believe in God
xenoview comments on Feb 13, 2020:
I'm an atheist. I have a lack of belief in any gods. I'm an agnostic. I don't have any knowledge that any gods are real.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 14, 2020:
Likewise. And to those two legs I add a third: I am a nullifidian. I have no faith or religious belief.
xenoview comments on Feb 13, 2020:
I'm an atheist. I have a lack of belief in any gods. I'm an agnostic. I don't have any knowledge that any gods are real.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 14, 2020:
Likewise. And to those two legs I add a third: I am a nullifidian. I have no faith or religious belief.
I discover more and more that in any group of people, there's a tendency for it to fragment.
APaleBlueDot comments on Feb 13, 2020:
I believe your observation that things are worse now is correct. Social media creates echo chambers, as well as isolation. Echo chambers and isolation are damaging to civil society, as civil society, by its definition must take disparate views into account and unify.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 14, 2020:
I find the oft repeated meme that social media (or the internet) creates isolation somewhat jarring. We existed for millennia without social media and the internet, never understanding or even knowing about other opinions and cultures, but now this tool that allows us to communicate with people around the globe is supposedly making us more isolated?
Whether we label them a club, or a church, or a political party, what we blithely call echo chambers have, and probably always will exist. People are most comfortable when sharing their commonly held ideas and, yes, prejudices. This is just part of what makes us human. Our ability to better discern, collect more data and to analyze it doesn't necessarily present a new trend. Just because we may now see the landscape in greater detail doesn't mean that the land itself has changed.
APaleBlueDot comments on Feb 13, 2020:
I believe your observation that things are worse now is correct. Social media creates echo chambers, as well as isolation. Echo chambers and isolation are damaging to civil society, as civil society, by its definition must take disparate views into account and unify.
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 14, 2020:
I find the oft repeated meme that social media (or the internet) creates isolation somewhat jarring. We existed for millennia without social media and the internet, never understanding or even knowing about other opinions and cultures, but now this tool that allows us to communicate with people around the globe is supposedly making us more isolated?
Whether we label them a club, or a church, or a political party, what we blithely call echo chambers have, and probably always will exist. People are most comfortable when sharing their commonly held ideas and, yes, prejudices. This is just part of what makes us human. Our ability to better discern, collect more data and to analyze it doesn't necessarily present a new trend. Just because we may now see the landscape in greater detail doesn't mean that the land itself has changed.
America Isn’t Growing Hostile Towards Christians, It’s Growing Hostile Towards Religious ...
Paul4747 comments on Feb 10, 2020:
*We’re just growing hostile towards hypocrites and religious bullies who aren’t content to just live their lives the way they please, but who instead seek to impose their extremist beliefs on the rest of us.*
Except that the Bible calls for precisely that, in so many words. The Torah demands ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 11, 2020:
@Paul4747 Paul, a.k.a. Saul of Tarsus, was not a gentile… He was a Jew and a Roman citizen.
Paul4747 comments on Feb 10, 2020:
*We’re just growing hostile towards hypocrites and religious bullies who aren’t content to just live their lives the way they please, but who instead seek to impose their extremist beliefs on the rest of us.*
Except that the Bible calls for precisely that, in so many words. The Torah demands ...
p-nullifidian replies on Feb 11, 2020:
@Paul4747 Paul, a.k.a. Saul of Tarsus, was not a gentile… He was a Jew and a Roman citizen.
What is "Compartmentalization" with regard to religion?
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 17, 2018:
Compartmentalization, it seems to me, is an evolutionary survival mechanism. In order to continue, we learned to compartmentalize psychological horrors and trauma, often locking them in a vault within the labyrinthine chambers of our minds.
And just as we are able to compartmentalize trauma, we ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 18, 2018:
@Matias First, let me say that my ideas / opinions hardly qualify as ‘theory,’ but are more similar to your term, ‘impressions.’ ;-)
Second, our impressions aside, the fact that we are able to cite religious scientists who, by definition, would most assuredly claim to unify their faith with their profession, is as old as faith itself, and their refusal to, as you have said, “put the two [faith and science] into separate compartments” demonstrates absolutely nothing, other than their own religious bias.
Third, in the case of the religious scientists, not only have they succeeded, to a point, in compartmentalizing their faith from their research, they have repackaged this dichotomy into a fully unified, if not complementary, philosophy.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 17, 2018:
Compartmentalization, it seems to me, is an evolutionary survival mechanism. In order to continue, we learned to compartmentalize psychological horrors and trauma, often locking them in a vault within the labyrinthine chambers of our minds.
And just as we are able to compartmentalize trauma, we ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 18, 2018:
@Matias First, let me say that my ideas / opinions hardly qualify as ‘theory,’ but are more similar to your term, ‘impressions.’ ;-)
Second, our impressions aside, the fact that we are able to cite religious scientists who, by definition, would most assuredly claim to unify their faith with their profession, is as old as faith itself, and their refusal to, as you have said, “put the two [faith and science] into separate compartments” demonstrates absolutely nothing, other than their own religious bias.
Third, in the case of the religious scientists, not only have they succeeded, to a point, in compartmentalizing their faith from their research, they have repackaged this dichotomy into a fully unified, if not complementary, philosophy.
I love this post. Read it and see if you agree
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 17, 2018:
Theologically incorrect. "It's like this: I created man and woman with FREE WILL." No theologian would ever accept that God created man and woman WITH original sin. Original sin comes with Adam's choice. The rest is clearly a rehash of the statements of Michael Shermer and others, with whom I ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 18, 2018:
@Matias While Michael Shermer may have some "very nice words" for religion, here's one of his more choice statements, with which I fully identify:
"I have a problem with resurrection. So, you believe that Jesus was son of God and God Incarnate also. Three in one and One in three. A Trinitarian belief. … As I understand it, for us to be saved, God sacrificed Himself, to Himself, to save us, from Himself. This sounds to me incomprehensible, barking mad!"
Barking mad, indeed! That pretty much sums up the doctrine behind Christianity, and my admiration of Michael Shermer.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 17, 2018:
Theologically incorrect. "It's like this: I created man and woman with FREE WILL." No theologian would ever accept that God created man and woman WITH original sin. Original sin comes with Adam's choice. The rest is clearly a rehash of the statements of Michael Shermer and others, with whom I ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 18, 2018:
@Matias While Michael Shermer may have some "very nice words" for religion, here's one of his more choice statements, with which I fully identify:
"I have a problem with resurrection. So, you believe that Jesus was son of God and God Incarnate also. Three in one and One in three. A Trinitarian belief. … As I understand it, for us to be saved, God sacrificed Himself, to Himself, to save us, from Himself. This sounds to me incomprehensible, barking mad!"
Barking mad, indeed! That pretty much sums up the doctrine behind Christianity, and my admiration of Michael Shermer.
I have questions.
PhitDoctor50 comments on Oct 16, 2018:
On the other hand, exposure to all kinds of other toxins is probably on the rise, so there may be too many confounds to sort it out. Recently, for example, rates of autism spectrum disorder are on the rise and the cause is unknown (other than knowing it's not vaccines).
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 16, 2018:
@OpposingOpposum Agreed. Our ability to recognize and properly diagnose childhood disabilities or disorders has improved markedly in the past few decades. Thus, even as we may see a growing number of childhood disorders overall, the percentages may have remained steady. We cannot know for certain, but some very famous, so-called eccentric persons, such as Sir Isaac Newton, may have been autistic, based on reports of their behavior. @PhitDoctor50 may be right about the potential impact of the increased presence of toxic compounds, but we can't act on 'gut feelings' when it comes to causes and effects. We need scientifically sound studies and analysis.
PhitDoctor50 comments on Oct 16, 2018:
On the other hand, exposure to all kinds of other toxins is probably on the rise, so there may be too many confounds to sort it out. Recently, for example, rates of autism spectrum disorder are on the rise and the cause is unknown (other than knowing it's not vaccines).
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 16, 2018:
@OpposingOpposum Agreed. Our ability to recognize and properly diagnose childhood disabilities or disorders has improved markedly in the past few decades. Thus, even as we may see a growing number of childhood disorders overall, the percentages may have remained steady. We cannot know for certain, but some very famous, so-called eccentric persons, such as Sir Isaac Newton, may have been autistic, based on reports of their behavior. @PhitDoctor50 may be right about the potential impact of the increased presence of toxic compounds, but we can't act on 'gut feelings' when it comes to causes and effects. We need scientifically sound studies and analysis.
I may not believe in god as other people might, but I love checking out the religious rituals of ...
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 11, 2018:
Indeed, and the Hindus, for example, have traditions that date back millennia, but what is the significance and, more importantly, the usefulness of such behaviors and practices? When my Catholic relatives dip their fingers in 'holy' water, genuflect and take communion, their rituals may, or may not...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 15, 2018:
@ChiquitaSrta Well, we all must admit that those who ingest psychedelics inevitably refer to their experience as 'higher.' But as a skeptic I must ask, 'higher than what?' Seriously, what is the scientific / clinical baseline here?
I reject any claims of 'higher consciousness,' no matter what the source, without scientifically demonstrable evidence. To me, people who resort to using the term 'higher consciousness' belong with the 'new agers' who claim healing from rocks and crystals and view Deepak Chopra as their guru. We can no more use drugs to explain reality than we can our dreams. And please, let's not go there!
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 11, 2018:
Indeed, and the Hindus, for example, have traditions that date back millennia, but what is the significance and, more importantly, the usefulness of such behaviors and practices? When my Catholic relatives dip their fingers in 'holy' water, genuflect and take communion, their rituals may, or may not...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 15, 2018:
@ChiquitaSrta Well, we all must admit that those who ingest psychedelics inevitably refer to their experience as 'higher.' But as a skeptic I must ask, 'higher than what?' Seriously, what is the scientific / clinical baseline here?
I reject any claims of 'higher consciousness,' no matter what the source, without scientifically demonstrable evidence. To me, people who resort to using the term 'higher consciousness' belong with the 'new agers' who claim healing from rocks and crystals and view Deepak Chopra as their guru. We can no more use drugs to explain reality than we can our dreams. And please, let's not go there!
Conversation starter.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 11, 2018:
Wait, I saw this one! Didn't Marty go back in time and inform Doc Brown about the Flux Capacitor? Holy Logic Loop, Batman, you've found a 'temporal paradox!' ;-)
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 15, 2018:
@LenHazell53 Thank you for setting me straight! Peace.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 11, 2018:
Wait, I saw this one! Didn't Marty go back in time and inform Doc Brown about the Flux Capacitor? Holy Logic Loop, Batman, you've found a 'temporal paradox!' ;-)
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 15, 2018:
@LenHazell53 Thank you for setting me straight! Peace.
Thoughts and Prayers
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 12, 2018:
A well-funded, well-organized disaster plan and relief program is worth a million 'thoughts and prayers!'
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 15, 2018:
@snytiger6 I stand corrected. Well said! Peace.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 12, 2018:
A well-funded, well-organized disaster plan and relief program is worth a million 'thoughts and prayers!'
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 15, 2018:
@snytiger6 I stand corrected. Well said! Peace.
Do you believe animals to be sentient?
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 12, 2018:
"What do you think makes something sentient?"
This is the first, and most important question to explore. Please provide a definition of sentience and perhaps we might actually have a meaningful discussion. Without a clear definition of this 'loaded' term, however, what we offer in response likely...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 15, 2018:
@Suzanna An excellent beginning. And when the first AI / robot / android is capable of producing such demonstrations, does anyone believe that sentience will be conceded by all? And what exactly is love, after all? If there are different 'love languages,' is it not possible that particular behaviors and commitments are as important in describing love as are the base feelings of sexual lust, for example? I recommend, as a backdrop, the Star Trek Next Generation episode, "The Measure of a Man" which explores the concepts discussed. Definitions are sometimes at the mercy of subjective decision making, which to some might be called, 'whim.' Peace.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 12, 2018:
"What do you think makes something sentient?"
This is the first, and most important question to explore. Please provide a definition of sentience and perhaps we might actually have a meaningful discussion. Without a clear definition of this 'loaded' term, however, what we offer in response likely...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 15, 2018:
@Suzanna An excellent beginning. And when the first AI / robot / android is capable of producing such demonstrations, does anyone believe that sentience will be conceded by all? And what exactly is love, after all? If there are different 'love languages,' is it not possible that particular behaviors and commitments are as important in describing love as are the base feelings of sexual lust, for example? I recommend, as a backdrop, the Star Trek Next Generation episode, "The Measure of a Man" which explores the concepts discussed. Definitions are sometimes at the mercy of subjective decision making, which to some might be called, 'whim.' Peace.
I may not believe in god as other people might, but I love checking out the religious rituals of ...
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 11, 2018:
Indeed, and the Hindus, for example, have traditions that date back millennia, but what is the significance and, more importantly, the usefulness of such behaviors and practices? When my Catholic relatives dip their fingers in 'holy' water, genuflect and take communion, their rituals may, or may not...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 15, 2018:
@Felinae With all respect, I have read Moyers' writings, listened to his many interviews, including the one way back with Joseph Campbell. And having read excerpts of Campbell's work, as well as hearing his interviews, I am inclined to regard much of what he's said as pure--to quote Michael Shermer--'woo woo.' Whether it's Campbell or Sheldrake or Chopra, et al, while they may have something to say, they lack the objective, material and scientific rigor to back it up.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 11, 2018:
Indeed, and the Hindus, for example, have traditions that date back millennia, but what is the significance and, more importantly, the usefulness of such behaviors and practices? When my Catholic relatives dip their fingers in 'holy' water, genuflect and take communion, their rituals may, or may not...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 15, 2018:
@Felinae With all respect, I have read Moyers' writings, listened to his many interviews, including the one way back with Joseph Campbell. And having read excerpts of Campbell's work, as well as hearing his interviews, I am inclined to regard much of what he's said as pure--to quote Michael Shermer--'woo woo.' Whether it's Campbell or Sheldrake or Chopra, et al, while they may have something to say, they lack the objective, material and scientific rigor to back it up.
Spirituality: Same nonsense by another name?
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 9, 2018:
So we have a vernacular issue ... right? So let's come up with a better term! I've heard it said that indigenous people who live in the arctic have many words for what we simply call 'snow.' The word 'love' is similarly ultra-generic. So, if there is a better term to describe an emotional state in...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 15, 2018:
@Tunisianamber A mechanism is the opposite of a 'higher being,' rather referring to a process of natural laws.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 9, 2018:
So we have a vernacular issue ... right? So let's come up with a better term! I've heard it said that indigenous people who live in the arctic have many words for what we simply call 'snow.' The word 'love' is similarly ultra-generic. So, if there is a better term to describe an emotional state in...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 15, 2018:
@Tunisianamber A mechanism is the opposite of a 'higher being,' rather referring to a process of natural laws.
I may not believe in god as other people might, but I love checking out the religious rituals of ...
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 11, 2018:
Indeed, and the Hindus, for example, have traditions that date back millennia, but what is the significance and, more importantly, the usefulness of such behaviors and practices? When my Catholic relatives dip their fingers in 'holy' water, genuflect and take communion, their rituals may, or may not...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 12, 2018:
@Felinae I have only recently read excerpts and quotes attributed to Campbell, as well as watched some of his interviews on YouTube. And while this sampling is far from thorough, I have heard / read enough to know that Joseph Campbell was not an atheist, and approached his subjects from a perspecitve of belief, as opposed to non belief. Perhaps you can assist in distilling Campbell's crucial arguments, which evidently prompted you to recommend his material?
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 11, 2018:
Indeed, and the Hindus, for example, have traditions that date back millennia, but what is the significance and, more importantly, the usefulness of such behaviors and practices? When my Catholic relatives dip their fingers in 'holy' water, genuflect and take communion, their rituals may, or may not...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 12, 2018:
@Felinae I have only recently read excerpts and quotes attributed to Campbell, as well as watched some of his interviews on YouTube. And while this sampling is far from thorough, I have heard / read enough to know that Joseph Campbell was not an atheist, and approached his subjects from a perspecitve of belief, as opposed to non belief. Perhaps you can assist in distilling Campbell's crucial arguments, which evidently prompted you to recommend his material?
Narcissistic Sociopath Symptoms
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 8, 2018:
Not sure where this stat comes from, but to be fair, according to UNICEF roughly 3.1 million children die from starvation / malnutrition each year, or about 8,500 per day. That this is a tragedy few would dispute, but it's also important that we don't overstate the problem.
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 11, 2018:
@Hebert54 Of course, all death is tragic, but the point from the very beginning was getting our facts (statistics) straight.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 8, 2018:
Not sure where this stat comes from, but to be fair, according to UNICEF roughly 3.1 million children die from starvation / malnutrition each year, or about 8,500 per day. That this is a tragedy few would dispute, but it's also important that we don't overstate the problem.
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 11, 2018:
@Hebert54 Of course, all death is tragic, but the point from the very beginning was getting our facts (statistics) straight.
Spirituality: Same nonsense by another name?
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 9, 2018:
So we have a vernacular issue ... right? So let's come up with a better term! I've heard it said that indigenous people who live in the arctic have many words for what we simply call 'snow.' The word 'love' is similarly ultra-generic. So, if there is a better term to describe an emotional state in...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 11, 2018:
@Tunisianamber Weighing in here, the universe is comprised of energy (or force) and matter. In any case, if 'some people' have the ability to 'tune in' to vibrations of energy, a mechanism would necessarily be at work, the description of which we await--might you offer a definition?
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 9, 2018:
So we have a vernacular issue ... right? So let's come up with a better term! I've heard it said that indigenous people who live in the arctic have many words for what we simply call 'snow.' The word 'love' is similarly ultra-generic. So, if there is a better term to describe an emotional state in...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 11, 2018:
@Tunisianamber Weighing in here, the universe is comprised of energy (or force) and matter. In any case, if 'some people' have the ability to 'tune in' to vibrations of energy, a mechanism would necessarily be at work, the description of which we await--might you offer a definition?
As we settle into fall I'm thinking of christmas.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 11, 2018:
You've struck a nerve. I've long been against this behavior. Perhaps we will one day look back on the entire practice of telling our children things which we either don't believe, or cannot claim to know to be true, as a form of child abuse. Why do we fill our children's minds with falsehoods that ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 11, 2018:
@Crusader "Jesus was historically a real living man with secular writings confirming his existence."
The historicity of a man named Jesus is based on two oblique references by Roman historians who wrote without having any firsthand accounts or eyewitnesses, and whose writings were published generations after the supposed death of Christ. And while the writings of Tacitus may have been unaltered, most scholars agree that the writings of Josephus were subjected to interpolation by later Christians.
In any case, let us concede that "a real living man" named Jesus, who rebelled against the authorities in Palestine, for which he was executed, actually existed. That is where it must end! A man who rebelled against the authorities existed and was executed by the Romans. Everything that came after--from the alleged fulfillment of prophecy, to the virgin birth, to the miracles, to the transfiguration, to the resurrection, to the ascension--all of these are what turn this "real living man" into a mythological creature. And all of this was none of his doing--real human beings fabricated a mythology and a faith, which led to numerous grandiose novels, later whittled down to a so-called canon of scripture, following his death. This Jesus Christ propagated in the New Testament truly is like Santa Claus!
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 11, 2018:
You've struck a nerve. I've long been against this behavior. Perhaps we will one day look back on the entire practice of telling our children things which we either don't believe, or cannot claim to know to be true, as a form of child abuse. Why do we fill our children's minds with falsehoods that ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 11, 2018:
@Crusader "Jesus was historically a real living man with secular writings confirming his existence."
The historicity of a man named Jesus is based on two oblique references by Roman historians who wrote without having any firsthand accounts or eyewitnesses, and whose writings were published generations after the supposed death of Christ. And while the writings of Tacitus may have been unaltered, most scholars agree that the writings of Josephus were subjected to interpolation by later Christians.
In any case, let us concede that "a real living man" named Jesus, who rebelled against the authorities in Palestine, for which he was executed, actually existed. That is where it must end! A man who rebelled against the authorities existed and was executed by the Romans. Everything that came after--from the alleged fulfillment of prophecy, to the virgin birth, to the miracles, to the transfiguration, to the resurrection, to the ascension--all of these are what turn this "real living man" into a mythological creature. And all of this was none of his doing--real human beings fabricated a mythology and a faith, which led to numerous grandiose novels, later whittled down to a so-called canon of scripture, following his death. This Jesus Christ propagated in the New Testament truly is like Santa Claus!
Can anyone show me scientific proof that a fetus is not human?
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 9, 2018:
A fetus is what we label an embryo at about the ninth week. Prior to this, it is just an embryo or blastocyst or zygote. Is a zygote human? It has the genetic constituents of two contributors. And yet, when you or I scratch our asses, we lose thousands of living cells, each with the DNA necessary to...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 10, 2018:
@Renickulous Very well, we will agree to disagree. Just remember one thing in your quest to remake laws: we are in agreement that the cells are human, just not human beings. Science doesn't seek to prove negatives (or the 'non-existence' of something), and the distinction you draw between human DNA or cells, and fully human or a human being, is the one upon which the case, and the courts, have already rested. Science cannot make law, just as the legal system cannot engage in science.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 9, 2018:
A fetus is what we label an embryo at about the ninth week. Prior to this, it is just an embryo or blastocyst or zygote. Is a zygote human? It has the genetic constituents of two contributors. And yet, when you or I scratch our asses, we lose thousands of living cells, each with the DNA necessary to...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 10, 2018:
@Renickulous Very well, we will agree to disagree. Just remember one thing in your quest to remake laws: we are in agreement that the cells are human, just not human beings. Science doesn't seek to prove negatives (or the 'non-existence' of something), and the distinction you draw between human DNA or cells, and fully human or a human being, is the one upon which the case, and the courts, have already rested. Science cannot make law, just as the legal system cannot engage in science.
Narcissistic Sociopath Symptoms
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 8, 2018:
Not sure where this stat comes from, but to be fair, according to UNICEF roughly 3.1 million children die from starvation / malnutrition each year, or about 8,500 per day. That this is a tragedy few would dispute, but it's also important that we don't overstate the problem.
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 10, 2018:
@Hebert54 I'm not trying to diminish anything, I'm trying to be accurate and honest about the problem, and avoid overstating it. Please, I beg of you, be reasoned, scientific and logical. The data you've cited include numerous other causes of death, apart from starvation, and this diverges from the very point made in the graphic--can you see that? Now what you've gone and done here is mixed with statistics--not the most scientifically literate thing to do, agreed? ;-)
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 8, 2018:
Not sure where this stat comes from, but to be fair, according to UNICEF roughly 3.1 million children die from starvation / malnutrition each year, or about 8,500 per day. That this is a tragedy few would dispute, but it's also important that we don't overstate the problem.
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 10, 2018:
@Hebert54 I'm not trying to diminish anything, I'm trying to be accurate and honest about the problem, and avoid overstating it. Please, I beg of you, be reasoned, scientific and logical. The data you've cited include numerous other causes of death, apart from starvation, and this diverges from the very point made in the graphic--can you see that? Now what you've gone and done here is mixed with statistics--not the most scientifically literate thing to do, agreed? ;-)
Can anyone show me scientific proof that a fetus is not human?
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 9, 2018:
A fetus is what we label an embryo at about the ninth week. Prior to this, it is just an embryo or blastocyst or zygote. Is a zygote human? It has the genetic constituents of two contributors. And yet, when you or I scratch our asses, we lose thousands of living cells, each with the DNA necessary to...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 10, 2018:
@Renickulous "you mislabel the argument ... Im not controlling her body, im defending the baby."
Mislabelling? I would assert that labelling the zygote a 'baby' represents the worst form of mislabelling. And if you're trying to excuse yourself from the male-dominant control over women, it won't work. Because in order to do what you claim is 'defending the baby' you have to control a woman's actions--you must prevent her from obtaining RU-486 and you must stop her from having a D&C. In other words, you must figuratively reach inside her body to clutch her uterus, removing from her any control over her reproductive choices.
Do you not realize that conception occurs in the Fallopian tube, and that the presence of an IUD can prevent the blastocyst from implanting itself in the wall of the uterus? Would you claim control of this process as well?
And as your so-called argument over ‘proof' that a zygote (or embryo, as you’ve called it) isn’t human, it is so. What else is it, after all? It isn’t alien, or from another species! But just as our liver or blood or any tissue is human, so are embryonic cells, whether they exist in a woman's uterus, or a Petri dish or a deep freezer. They are simply identified as human cells by their DNA, nothing more, nothing less. And science would not seek to prove otherwise, would it? You're just making way to much over the word 'human,' which does not mean the same thing as a human being.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 9, 2018:
A fetus is what we label an embryo at about the ninth week. Prior to this, it is just an embryo or blastocyst or zygote. Is a zygote human? It has the genetic constituents of two contributors. And yet, when you or I scratch our asses, we lose thousands of living cells, each with the DNA necessary to...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 10, 2018:
@Renickulous "you mislabel the argument ... Im not controlling her body, im defending the baby."
Mislabelling? I would assert that labelling the zygote a 'baby' represents the worst form of mislabelling. And if you're trying to excuse yourself from the male-dominant control over women, it won't work. Because in order to do what you claim is 'defending the baby' you have to control a woman's actions--you must prevent her from obtaining RU-486 and you must stop her from having a D&C. In other words, you must figuratively reach inside her body to clutch her uterus, removing from her any control over her reproductive choices.
Do you not realize that conception occurs in the Fallopian tube, and that the presence of an IUD can prevent the blastocyst from implanting itself in the wall of the uterus? Would you claim control of this process as well?
And as your so-called argument over ‘proof' that a zygote (or embryo, as you’ve called it) isn’t human, it is so. What else is it, after all? It isn’t alien, or from another species! But just as our liver or blood or any tissue is human, so are embryonic cells, whether they exist in a woman's uterus, or a Petri dish or a deep freezer. They are simply identified as human cells by their DNA, nothing more, nothing less. And science would not seek to prove otherwise, would it? You're just making way to much over the word 'human,' which does not mean the same thing as a human being.
Why didn't Kavanaugh listen to Ford's testimony?
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 10, 2018:
Perhaps he was too busy preparing his conspiracy laden emotional outburst to be 'bothered' by Dr. Ford?
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 10, 2018:
@Renickulous It's one thing to be angry over an accusation, but it's an entirely different thing for a judge to behave in the way he did, and say the things he said, particularly the unsubstantiated assertions of a left-wing conspiracy to stop his nomination to revenge the Clintons. His performance was, to say the least, most 'un-judgelike' and not the qualities one looks for in a Supreme Court justice. We can only hope that this was a blip, and that he will be collegial, fair-minded and even-tempered throughout the remainder of his career, as he has shown very early on, since joining the Court.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 10, 2018:
Perhaps he was too busy preparing his conspiracy laden emotional outburst to be 'bothered' by Dr. Ford?
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 10, 2018:
@Renickulous It's one thing to be angry over an accusation, but it's an entirely different thing for a judge to behave in the way he did, and say the things he said, particularly the unsubstantiated assertions of a left-wing conspiracy to stop his nomination to revenge the Clintons. His performance was, to say the least, most 'un-judgelike' and not the qualities one looks for in a Supreme Court justice. We can only hope that this was a blip, and that he will be collegial, fair-minded and even-tempered throughout the remainder of his career, as he has shown very early on, since joining the Court.
I saw this article on Facebook today and thought it would make a good post on this site.
Beowulfsfriend comments on Oct 10, 2018:
The right of kings: people get what they deserve. If the conjecture that god chose Trump is so, then god chose Hitler and so many other dicks.
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 10, 2018:
Yup ... all good Christians believe that God is in control, and that his plan includes who our leaders are.
"Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves."
Romans 13:1-2 (NIV)
It is a text like this that makes me even prouder of rebels like Thomas Paine, Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson, and all the other revolutionaries.
Beowulfsfriend comments on Oct 10, 2018:
The right of kings: people get what they deserve. If the conjecture that god chose Trump is so, then god chose Hitler and so many other dicks.
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 10, 2018:
Yup ... all good Christians believe that God is in control, and that his plan includes who our leaders are.
"Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves."
Romans 13:1-2 (NIV)
It is a text like this that makes me even prouder of rebels like Thomas Paine, Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson, and all the other revolutionaries.
The discomforting truth is that in our consciousness we all have interpreters narrating our lives, ...
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 9, 2018:
Are you implying that we lack free will?
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 10, 2018:
@Matias Incredibly, we agree! My question was rhetorical. ;-)
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 9, 2018:
Are you implying that we lack free will?
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 10, 2018:
@Matias Incredibly, we agree! My question was rhetorical. ;-)
SSHHHHHHH! Shut The Fuck Up!
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 9, 2018:
Watching the proceedings, and the interviews held after, one cannot help but wonder how our nation came to be led by a bunch of white old men. Seriously? We are painfully monochromatic at the top! Whether it's Trump, or Grassley, or Hatch, or Graham or McConnell or Corker or ... even Bret Kavanaugh ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 10, 2018:
@GipsyOfNewSpain There is nothing 'holy' or 'sacred' about the Constitution, which anyone with sense can see is not perfect. It has been improved upon, over time, and on at least one occasion (the 18th Amendment), worsened.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 9, 2018:
Watching the proceedings, and the interviews held after, one cannot help but wonder how our nation came to be led by a bunch of white old men. Seriously? We are painfully monochromatic at the top! Whether it's Trump, or Grassley, or Hatch, or Graham or McConnell or Corker or ... even Bret Kavanaugh ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 10, 2018:
@GipsyOfNewSpain There is nothing 'holy' or 'sacred' about the Constitution, which anyone with sense can see is not perfect. It has been improved upon, over time, and on at least one occasion (the 18th Amendment), worsened.
Can anyone show me scientific proof that a fetus is not human?
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 9, 2018:
A fetus is what we label an embryo at about the ninth week. Prior to this, it is just an embryo or blastocyst or zygote. Is a zygote human? It has the genetic constituents of two contributors. And yet, when you or I scratch our asses, we lose thousands of living cells, each with the DNA necessary to...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 10, 2018:
@Renickulous "...the second a woman tests positive for pregnancy she then counts as 2 people if the physical crime was against her."
The states differ widely in their laws on the subject, with a number of states having no law at all. That you would support measures to remove from women control over their bodies is not surprising, you're a man. As one myself, I personally find it the height of oppressive arrogance for men to try to remove control of a woman's reproductive decision making, and impose their own personal belief system. I don't believe men have a role here, as most women would prefer not to have a man lay claim to her uterus any more than a man would want a woman to grip him tightly by the balls.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 9, 2018:
A fetus is what we label an embryo at about the ninth week. Prior to this, it is just an embryo or blastocyst or zygote. Is a zygote human? It has the genetic constituents of two contributors. And yet, when you or I scratch our asses, we lose thousands of living cells, each with the DNA necessary to...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 10, 2018:
@Renickulous "...the second a woman tests positive for pregnancy she then counts as 2 people if the physical crime was against her."
The states differ widely in their laws on the subject, with a number of states having no law at all. That you would support measures to remove from women control over their bodies is not surprising, you're a man. As one myself, I personally find it the height of oppressive arrogance for men to try to remove control of a woman's reproductive decision making, and impose their own personal belief system. I don't believe men have a role here, as most women would prefer not to have a man lay claim to her uterus any more than a man would want a woman to grip him tightly by the balls.
Narcissistic Sociopath Symptoms
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 8, 2018:
Not sure where this stat comes from, but to be fair, according to UNICEF roughly 3.1 million children die from starvation / malnutrition each year, or about 8,500 per day. That this is a tragedy few would dispute, but it's also important that we don't overstate the problem.
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 9, 2018:
@Hebert54 You don't appear interested in reading what I wrote, do you? Let me restate: "That this is a tragedy few would dispute, but it's also important that we don't overstate the problem." It's crucial in today's environment of 'faux figures' and 'fake news' that we get our numbers correct, and according to your post, instead of 3.1 million, it would be 9.49 million. Unless you think it wise to exaggerate facts by a factor of three, I rest my case.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 8, 2018:
Not sure where this stat comes from, but to be fair, according to UNICEF roughly 3.1 million children die from starvation / malnutrition each year, or about 8,500 per day. That this is a tragedy few would dispute, but it's also important that we don't overstate the problem.
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 9, 2018:
@Hebert54 You don't appear interested in reading what I wrote, do you? Let me restate: "That this is a tragedy few would dispute, but it's also important that we don't overstate the problem." It's crucial in today's environment of 'faux figures' and 'fake news' that we get our numbers correct, and according to your post, instead of 3.1 million, it would be 9.49 million. Unless you think it wise to exaggerate facts by a factor of three, I rest my case.
Can anyone show me scientific proof that a fetus is not human?
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 9, 2018:
A fetus is what we label an embryo at about the ninth week. Prior to this, it is just an embryo or blastocyst or zygote. Is a zygote human? It has the genetic constituents of two contributors. And yet, when you or I scratch our asses, we lose thousands of living cells, each with the DNA necessary to...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 9, 2018:
@Renickulous "In court its at conception..."
What court is that? Abortion remains legal in the states.
"... its the unborn body were protecting..."
Who's 'we?' Are you or your friends or those who you designate going to literally reach inside of the woman, and clutch her uterus, claiming that the zygote is the property of the state? Do we really want that type of totalitarianism?
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 9, 2018:
A fetus is what we label an embryo at about the ninth week. Prior to this, it is just an embryo or blastocyst or zygote. Is a zygote human? It has the genetic constituents of two contributors. And yet, when you or I scratch our asses, we lose thousands of living cells, each with the DNA necessary to...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 9, 2018:
@Renickulous "In court its at conception..."
What court is that? Abortion remains legal in the states.
"... its the unborn body were protecting..."
Who's 'we?' Are you or your friends or those who you designate going to literally reach inside of the woman, and clutch her uterus, claiming that the zygote is the property of the state? Do we really want that type of totalitarianism?
SSHHHHHHH! Shut The Fuck Up!
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 9, 2018:
Watching the proceedings, and the interviews held after, one cannot help but wonder how our nation came to be led by a bunch of white old men. Seriously? We are painfully monochromatic at the top! Whether it's Trump, or Grassley, or Hatch, or Graham or McConnell or Corker or ... even Bret Kavanaugh ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 9, 2018:
@GipsyOfNewSpain I get your point ... it is, more or less, in its representative form, a democracy, as set forth in our Constitution. A true (or full) democracy it was never intended to be.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 9, 2018:
Watching the proceedings, and the interviews held after, one cannot help but wonder how our nation came to be led by a bunch of white old men. Seriously? We are painfully monochromatic at the top! Whether it's Trump, or Grassley, or Hatch, or Graham or McConnell or Corker or ... even Bret Kavanaugh ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 9, 2018:
@GipsyOfNewSpain I get your point ... it is, more or less, in its representative form, a democracy, as set forth in our Constitution. A true (or full) democracy it was never intended to be.
$100,000 door stop.
Lukian comments on Oct 5, 2018:
22 lbs doorstop?
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
Big door...
Lukian comments on Oct 5, 2018:
22 lbs doorstop?
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
Big door...
Discovery of first genetic variants associated with meaning in life -- ScienceDaily
sfvpool comments on Oct 4, 2018:
I am skeptical of studies such as these, where the study participants are asked about their happiness. First, there was no definition of happiness given. Second, depending on the individual's culture, they may be more apt to describe themselves as happy. Third, there seems to be, in science, a ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
@Piece2YourPuzzle Agreed. And in any case, correlation is not causation. My question implies that contentment (or happiness, if you prefer) might be the default setting. No evidence for this either, just a thought.
sfvpool comments on Oct 4, 2018:
I am skeptical of studies such as these, where the study participants are asked about their happiness. First, there was no definition of happiness given. Second, depending on the individual's culture, they may be more apt to describe themselves as happy. Third, there seems to be, in science, a ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
@Piece2YourPuzzle Agreed. And in any case, correlation is not causation. My question implies that contentment (or happiness, if you prefer) might be the default setting. No evidence for this either, just a thought.
This is just the beginning of my article, written in 2000, entitled "Isaiah Was a False Prophet.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 5, 2018:
With all respect, I once held in high regard the secular scholars and historians who engage in biblical criticism. Critics like Bart Ehrman and Robert M. Price were once favorite authors of mine. But when I finally saw the bible as it really is--not history, but a work of fiction--I began to see ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
@BestWithoutGods An earnest 'sidewalk epistemologist' with your chops would present a formidable challenge for any religionist who understands only that which he/she has been taught to understand. One-on-one conversations are likely the best way to exchange ideas and knowledge.
Incidentally, of the four major 19th century American sects (or, as some of labelled them, cults)--JWs, Christian Scientist, Mormons and Seventh-day Adventists--which have you found to be most open to discussion? They all seem pretty set in their ways and devoted to their prophets, in my experience anyway. One would think it an easier task to demonstrate as false prophets the fairly recent, well documented examples of Charles Taze Russell, Mary Baker Eddy, Joseph Smith and Ellen G. White, than that of Isaiah!
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 5, 2018:
With all respect, I once held in high regard the secular scholars and historians who engage in biblical criticism. Critics like Bart Ehrman and Robert M. Price were once favorite authors of mine. But when I finally saw the bible as it really is--not history, but a work of fiction--I began to see ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
@BestWithoutGods An earnest 'sidewalk epistemologist' with your chops would present a formidable challenge for any religionist who understands only that which he/she has been taught to understand. One-on-one conversations are likely the best way to exchange ideas and knowledge.
Incidentally, of the four major 19th century American sects (or, as some of labelled them, cults)--JWs, Christian Scientist, Mormons and Seventh-day Adventists--which have you found to be most open to discussion? They all seem pretty set in their ways and devoted to their prophets, in my experience anyway. One would think it an easier task to demonstrate as false prophets the fairly recent, well documented examples of Charles Taze Russell, Mary Baker Eddy, Joseph Smith and Ellen G. White, than that of Isaiah!
I've just been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and am seeking therapy to improve my coping skills.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 5, 2018:
Are you sure that's what she said? Have you tried putting it back on her? "So, are you saying to me, Ms. Therapist, that if I were a JW again, I wouldn't be depressed? Because that's what it sounded like to me." If you get her to agree with that point, tell her you're going to file a complaint with ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
@Matias I am not a psychologist, so I do not know the nuances, but it would clearly depend on the state of mind and wishes of the patient. IF the therapist were endorsing or in any way affirming a religious path in favor of the secular or atheist path that @Phantom_mind appears to have chosen, the therapist is not acting in the best interest of her client. I doubt there's a specific code signed by Jerry Brown on this, but one could still lodge a complaint. And yes, California is the capital of oddball cures, therapies and practices. We may lead the world in quacks and phony healers. Now where did I leave my healing stones? ;-)
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 5, 2018:
Are you sure that's what she said? Have you tried putting it back on her? "So, are you saying to me, Ms. Therapist, that if I were a JW again, I wouldn't be depressed? Because that's what it sounded like to me." If you get her to agree with that point, tell her you're going to file a complaint with ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
@Matias I am not a psychologist, so I do not know the nuances, but it would clearly depend on the state of mind and wishes of the patient. IF the therapist were endorsing or in any way affirming a religious path in favor of the secular or atheist path that @Phantom_mind appears to have chosen, the therapist is not acting in the best interest of her client. I doubt there's a specific code signed by Jerry Brown on this, but one could still lodge a complaint. And yes, California is the capital of oddball cures, therapies and practices. We may lead the world in quacks and phony healers. Now where did I leave my healing stones? ;-)
I've just been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and am seeking therapy to improve my coping skills.
mordant comments on Oct 4, 2018:
In fairness to your therapist, leaving the Witnesses was a loss and she may simply be opining that you haven't adequately mourned that. You lost community and belonging. That doesn't mean you ought to go back to that particular community, but that you may need to find it elsewhere. Likely in your ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
Should've read your post before I made mine! Redundant I've become. :-(
mordant comments on Oct 4, 2018:
In fairness to your therapist, leaving the Witnesses was a loss and she may simply be opining that you haven't adequately mourned that. You lost community and belonging. That doesn't mean you ought to go back to that particular community, but that you may need to find it elsewhere. Likely in your ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
Should've read your post before I made mine! Redundant I've become. :-(
Discovery of first genetic variants associated with meaning in life -- ScienceDaily
dreamsinflux comments on Oct 4, 2018:
This is interesting but far to vague. It provoked more questions than anything else for me. I enjoyed it though. Thank you for sharing.
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
@WilliamFleming If we can identify genetic markers for depression, it should go without saying that its opposite is discoverable. Whether you label it happiness or simply contentment, such a state could be associated with the lack of said markers, if not additional markers that do not express in depressive persons. All of this is conjecture without seeing the data, however.
dreamsinflux comments on Oct 4, 2018:
This is interesting but far to vague. It provoked more questions than anything else for me. I enjoyed it though. Thank you for sharing.
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
@WilliamFleming If we can identify genetic markers for depression, it should go without saying that its opposite is discoverable. Whether you label it happiness or simply contentment, such a state could be associated with the lack of said markers, if not additional markers that do not express in depressive persons. All of this is conjecture without seeing the data, however.
Discovery of first genetic variants associated with meaning in life -- ScienceDaily
sfvpool comments on Oct 4, 2018:
I am skeptical of studies such as these, where the study participants are asked about their happiness. First, there was no definition of happiness given. Second, depending on the individual's culture, they may be more apt to describe themselves as happy. Third, there seems to be, in science, a ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
So, if we can identify symptoms of depression, why could we not identify the opposite? And are you saying that people, when asked, wouldn't be able to tell you if they were happy unless you gave them a definition for it? What a buzzkill that survey might be! "I'm happy!" "No you're not, says so right here!"
Attribute too much to genetics? Are you saying that environmental factors are ignored, because that is not what I read.
"We also find that there are environmental factors that are important for happiness, but not for meaning and vice versa."
Once again, if a genetic marker(s) may be assoicated with depression, why would one think it unlikely that a lack of same marker would not be associated with a lack of depression (i.e., happiness)? Finally, a data set comprised of 220,000 respondents is significant.
sfvpool comments on Oct 4, 2018:
I am skeptical of studies such as these, where the study participants are asked about their happiness. First, there was no definition of happiness given. Second, depending on the individual's culture, they may be more apt to describe themselves as happy. Third, there seems to be, in science, a ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
So, if we can identify symptoms of depression, why could we not identify the opposite? And are you saying that people, when asked, wouldn't be able to tell you if they were happy unless you gave them a definition for it? What a buzzkill that survey might be! "I'm happy!" "No you're not, says so right here!"
Attribute too much to genetics? Are you saying that environmental factors are ignored, because that is not what I read.
"We also find that there are environmental factors that are important for happiness, but not for meaning and vice versa."
Once again, if a genetic marker(s) may be assoicated with depression, why would one think it unlikely that a lack of same marker would not be associated with a lack of depression (i.e., happiness)? Finally, a data set comprised of 220,000 respondents is significant.
Flat-earthers, unite!! But not globally (for obvious reasons).
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 5, 2018:
Ever play the game Risk? The whole world is in two dimensions, and can most certainly be united--by force! And these strange people can also unite, if not globally, 'cylindrically' or, 'Mercatorially,' if you prefer. ;-)
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
@Kattywampus69 You need it way more than I do, sorry to say ... you live in North Carolina. :-(
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 5, 2018:
Ever play the game Risk? The whole world is in two dimensions, and can most certainly be united--by force! And these strange people can also unite, if not globally, 'cylindrically' or, 'Mercatorially,' if you prefer. ;-)
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
@Kattywampus69 You need it way more than I do, sorry to say ... you live in North Carolina. :-(
Question.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 5, 2018:
Consider what Christianity might become, were it to morph into the faith of retired Bishop John Shelby Spong, who espouses the following 12 Points of Reform in his book, A New Christianity for a New World:
1. Theism, as a way of defining God, is dead. So most theological God-talk is today ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
@brentan I find Jordan Peterson to be too full of himself, despite whatever useful points he makes.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 5, 2018:
Consider what Christianity might become, were it to morph into the faith of retired Bishop John Shelby Spong, who espouses the following 12 Points of Reform in his book, A New Christianity for a New World:
1. Theism, as a way of defining God, is dead. So most theological God-talk is today ...
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
@brentan I find Jordan Peterson to be too full of himself, despite whatever useful points he makes.
Flat-earthers, unite!! But not globally (for obvious reasons).
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 5, 2018:
Ever play the game Risk? The whole world is in two dimensions, and can most certainly be united--by force! And these strange people can also unite, if not globally, 'cylindrically' or, 'Mercatorially,' if you prefer. ;-)
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
@Kattywampus69 Double IPA this evening!
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 5, 2018:
Ever play the game Risk? The whole world is in two dimensions, and can most certainly be united--by force! And these strange people can also unite, if not globally, 'cylindrically' or, 'Mercatorially,' if you prefer. ;-)
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
@Kattywampus69 Double IPA this evening!
Question.
brentan comments on Oct 4, 2018:
I think they are necessary to combat the spiritual malaise in society caused by the spiritual vacuum. I hope they stay in place until viable alternatives are set in place to give meaning to life and reasons to be just.
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
@brentan Agreed. Hence the reference to Bishop Spong, above.
brentan comments on Oct 4, 2018:
I think they are necessary to combat the spiritual malaise in society caused by the spiritual vacuum. I hope they stay in place until viable alternatives are set in place to give meaning to life and reasons to be just.
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
@brentan Agreed. Hence the reference to Bishop Spong, above.
Flat-earthers, unite!! But not globally (for obvious reasons).
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 5, 2018:
Ever play the game Risk? The whole world is in two dimensions, and can most certainly be united--by force! And these strange people can also unite, if not globally, 'cylindrically' or, 'Mercatorially,' if you prefer. ;-)
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
@Kattywampus69 Your flat out flatulent Flatley flattery nearly flattened me, but fell flat.
p-nullifidian comments on Oct 5, 2018:
Ever play the game Risk? The whole world is in two dimensions, and can most certainly be united--by force! And these strange people can also unite, if not globally, 'cylindrically' or, 'Mercatorially,' if you prefer. ;-)
p-nullifidian replies on Oct 5, 2018:
@Kattywampus69 Your flat out flatulent Flatley flattery nearly flattened me, but fell flat.
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