@josh_is_exciting So, humans will ignore reality if it doesn't jive with their social setting.. That it’s more ‘to their benefit’ to remain a part of that social setting than understand the greater world … as they’re stampeded off a cliff

...Their denial of reality is purposeful, and benefits them because it unites them. And, intelligent people can be ‘true believers,’ as long as the benefits continue to flow.. And yet again, the fear of death remains the hook … where ignorant bliss is better than cold reality..

Thank you for the insight, I’ve fortunately never had to make that choice. And though I had religious friends, I was their breath of fresh air, the person they could tell anything, and an example that ‘nonbelief’ could be a rich and interesting thing I pitied them, though, with their limited lives of sad boundaries.. I’m glad you escaped, and have remained in the real world, a magnificently complex, rich and amazing world!

To me, to ignore reality or hard-earned & learned facts in order to remain in a fantasy world is a criminal offence to one's humanity. What ‘creator’ or parent for that matter would be proud or satisfied with offspring incapable or unwilling to seek information beyond ..the 3rd grade? Such a parent would have failed.

A multitude of cultures have been discovered, and their ‘beliefs’ are often pushed as well. Do remaining religions constitute humans incapable of evolving, if by choice? There were eons of human history when clinging to tribal or cultural beliefs - or wandering alone into the wilderness (to perhaps populate another continent) were the only visible options. Now, there’s more.

The problem I have is, the religious treat religion as a democracy, as if ‘more votes for a god’ make that god real. And anyone daring to detract from the count is ..blasphemous - and in need of punishment. So insecure in their beliefs ..that even one detractor is too many. Far from content in their makebelieve world, they’re more than willing to subjugate the innocent, the free, and the brave..

I’ve engaged with many a relitionist, some, obviously, if purposely unaware of the concept of evolution, for example... I’d be happy to ...well, not happy, but willing to leave them there … if they weren’t blocking a busy sidewalk expecting the larger society to, not only accept their worthless literature, but actually ‘believe it.’ They’re lost.

The ones that puzzle me know better ..or are living with the constant internal conflict you described. Often militant, it quickly becomes obvious they’re working harder to bolster their own beliefs than to change mine. Obviously intelligent, their internal struggle appears painful. I’ve likely asked if ‘that’s the attitude or love’ they’re promoting..? In comparison, I feel at peace within a wonderful world..

What you describe is definitely a theme around here … for those having had to escape the programing of their youth.. I’m sorry. I’ve moved on in many ways in life, but for the most part, can comfortably recall my past with honest joy ..and likely pick up (now ancient) friendships with those I knew having no animosity toward either.

We are evolving at light speed, both biologically and culturally. Humans clinging to past social mores have become an impediment to all and must be expected to understand the basics of life and science. It is no longer in the best interest of the human collective to allow or encourage the denial of reality.

@josh_is_exciting I'm glad you're here