Q's from a theist

[Paul the Human]

I’m late to the party, but I’m bored, so… what the hell… I’ll answer your questions.

1. What is the predominate belief of your family and friends?

Mostly Christian, half of those Catholic.

2. What is your general location?

Muskegon, Michigan, USA

3. Have you changed your beliefs in the past?

Raised Catholic and realized I was an atheist in my teen years, so... yeah... sorta. I don't actually recall ever believing those ridiculous stories were true, even as a kid, to be honest.

4. What is your highest level of education?

High enough.

5. Many people have argued that the “big bang” implies a finite universe. Some people (myself included) believe that a finite universe tends to have more theistic leanings. How would you respond to this?

With a blank stare, probably. The term 'Theistic Leanings' is just silly. Only people that can't say 'I have no idea' have to resort to saying 'goddidit'.

6. If you have not already answered above- do you believe in a finite or eternal universe?

I believe that the universe exists, because I perceive it. Has it always been there? No one knows. Will it always be there? No one knows. But the question is which do I believe, isn't it? Okay then... I believe that the question has given rise to several very interesting fields of study as those who refuse to accept 'goddidit' for an answer have searched for the truth. I have no need to know which is the correct theory, as I know that the universe exists now... and that's really all that matters.

7. How would you respond to the fine tuning argument?

With laughter, which is all it deserves. Perhaps a bit of pity for those so desperate to believe that they cling to such nonsense.

8. Do you believe in IDT (Intelligent Design Theory), TOE (Theory of Evolution), or other?

Silly question. All life on earth is a product of evolution through natural selection. That is simply fact.

9. Based on the question above, what would you say are the general points that back up your belief in this?

The 'general point' that backs up that belief is that... it's a fact. That's why IDT exists. That evolution through natural selection is an indisputable fact has caused many poor souls to rework their belief system so that their magical father figure stories fit the actual facts.

10. How does a belief in [response above] relate to an atheist/agnostic belief?

It doesn't relate. Admittedly, most atheists are aware that evolution through natural selection is how "it" actually happened, but there are certainly those that cling to some unsubstantiated notion or the other.

11. Do you believe that morals are relative/preference? Please Explain

What people call "morals" come from the natural survival instinct that is hardwired into all life. A large part of survival depends on being accepted into the group. The group, of course, has rules. Each group has it's own rules. Each group is a society.

Fuck it. This is easier. Survival Instincts + Societal Pressures = Morality. Don't forget to toss in that pinch of individuality, though. It's important. It's how people's ethics and values (what you call 'morality') can differ within a society.

12. Is your belief partly due to something that you may not be able to explain to others?

Apparently. I haven't met a theist willing to stop imagining things and see reality based on anything I've said, so...