Sure, I agree. I don't take the stance that all experiences outside of current explanation are hallucinations. I say that any particular one is probably a hallucination, but I admit I have no way whatsoever of analysing it. So I leave its cause as unknown. This is plenty enough to still leave the burden of proof on the person presenting their anecdote as evidence for something. They will reach for the argument from ignorance, of course.
I've also changed my attitude greatly regarding woo of all kinds. I think it's all probably bulllshit, obviously. I eagerly await any actual evidence; at which points I'll take it seriously. However, my philosophical position is that "things are as real to any particular observer as they appear to be". If someone "sees Jesus", and truly believes it is Jesus, then it is Jesus to them. I won't simply tell them they aren't seeing Jesus. They believe what they believe. To them it is real.
Of course, I do doubt the sincerity of some professed beliefs. I don't think for one second every religous person truly believes everything they say. But since I have no good ways of differentiating, I take them at their word generally.
I've also changed my attitude greatly regarding woo of all kinds. I think it's all probably bulllshit, obviously. I eagerly await any actual evidence; at which points I'll take it seriously. However, my philosophical position is that "things are as real to any particular observer as they appear to be". If someone "sees Jesus", and truly believes it is Jesus, then it is Jesus to them. I won't simply tell them they aren't seeing Jesus. They believe what they believe. To them it is real.
Of course, I do doubt the sincerity of some professed beliefs. I don't think for one second every religous person truly believes everything they say. But since I have no good ways of differentiating, I take them at their word generally.
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Please visit my website here! It's got lots of information about atheism/theism and support for new atheists.
Index of useful threads and discussions
Index of my best videos
Quickstart guide to the forum