(April 19, 2009 at 4:32 am)dagda Wrote: I think it is because belief (rightly or wrongly) is linked to the word faith. When someone says they belive something then it suggests that they are not 100% sure (or they would have said they KNOW something). This would mean that they have faith that their conclusion is right, despite not having 100% certinty. As faith is wrongly labeled as firmly in the domain of religion, scientific theories etc seem to avoid the word 'belief' because others would see some kind of link with blind faith or religion, which people wish to avoid for whatever reason.
Though I see where you are coming from (the beginning bit at least) I don't entirely agree, someone once said to me that both religions and science are basically beliefs (involve faith) but that the core faith in science is based on evidence whereas that of religion is not. I'm not saying that to be contentious more to show it as an interesting take on the idea especially since it must be obvious to anyone that I DO have faith in science, in the scientific method but (IMO) with good reason.
Kyu
Angry Atheism
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Where those who are hacked off with the stupidity of irrational belief can vent their feelings!
Come over to the dark side, we have cookies!
Kyuuketsuki, AngryAtheism Owner & Administrator
