We need, as basic philosophies, rationalist, democratic Pantheisms (all Cosmians, all evolving gods), not discriminatory, toxic monotheisms. Be(lieve) in the verified good (and the verified better, meliorism, with George Eliot) in the world. Finite Terrian Paradise needs systemic, prepared protectivity. Let us stop global toxigangsterisms, official and paraofficial, with peace and justice. They are still in power, but not completely, nor infinitely. One mirable Terra-Family-Ship, one finite Time, one ecosociable Peace. [doubttheexperts.com] "My third criticism is that Pinker doesn't know where this all leads. Apparently, he isn't familiar with the phrase "Past performance is no guarantee of future results," which applies not only to investments but to almost everything other than laws of nature. Even with many signs pointing in a positive direction for mankind, there are multiple events that could change the apparent trajectory, and although Pinker may address some of them in his book, the fact is that no one, including Pinker, is sufficiently omniscient to avert all possible future disasters. I find him ignorant and arrogant in his assertion that existential risk is a "useless category," and there are certainly many academics who would agree with me."
Though I have many of Pinker's books I have not had time to digest them. I have heard many of these comments in other places. I enjoy your comments, please keep up the good work.
Could tell with just a glance that this was going to take more study than I am willing to invest. I do appreciate the heads-up. Good luck with what ever it is you're saying.
We don't need any theism, there is no need to deify anything, total pablum.
You are forgetting the Venkman corollary: when someone asks you if you're a god, you say "YES"! I would argue that this points to deification of personage when necessary.