RE: Lack of "Connection" to something higher - is this holding atheism back?
February 25, 2012 at 7:15 pm
@ Rhythm: No, joining a church wouldn't have the same benefits because an atheist doesn't share the same purpose of a believer.
@Padraic: I agree, there are many reasons for religion. However, the average person adhering to a religion does not use it as a tool of social control or political power, it's primarily used to fulfill an emotional and social need.
As for leaders aligning themselves with a religion for purposes of social control or political power, that's irrelevant. I'm discussing the alternatives to religion for people who may desire or feel the need for it. Unless you're mentioning it because you think it could be an issue with a secular alternative, in which I'm interested and would like your thoughts.
I know people don't join religion just for a sense of awe because I research. It's not a fact, it's just what typically happens. Go ask some converts to a religion why they joined. See how many of them say it was just for the "awe factor."
In the words of PZ Myers, you're a dictionary atheist. While you may not like it, many atheists, besides sharing a lack of belief in any sort of deity, share the same values, values which made them atheists in the first place. A value for truth, honesty, human rights. Also, out of curiosity, why did you decide to pick out that point?
@ 5th Horseman:
Yes, I agree with your statement, both in the literal and metaphorical stance. But many people are willing to give up the "perfect situation" for something that connects with others. Going it solo may feel good, but you don't get to enjoy all the fun that comes with doing it with a partner (or group) There are pros and cons to each
@Zen Badger: No, I'm new to the forums, though if someone posted something similar it may reinforce my point. No troll
@Padraic: I agree, there are many reasons for religion. However, the average person adhering to a religion does not use it as a tool of social control or political power, it's primarily used to fulfill an emotional and social need.
As for leaders aligning themselves with a religion for purposes of social control or political power, that's irrelevant. I'm discussing the alternatives to religion for people who may desire or feel the need for it. Unless you're mentioning it because you think it could be an issue with a secular alternative, in which I'm interested and would like your thoughts.
I know people don't join religion just for a sense of awe because I research. It's not a fact, it's just what typically happens. Go ask some converts to a religion why they joined. See how many of them say it was just for the "awe factor."
In the words of PZ Myers, you're a dictionary atheist. While you may not like it, many atheists, besides sharing a lack of belief in any sort of deity, share the same values, values which made them atheists in the first place. A value for truth, honesty, human rights. Also, out of curiosity, why did you decide to pick out that point?
@ 5th Horseman:
Yes, I agree with your statement, both in the literal and metaphorical stance. But many people are willing to give up the "perfect situation" for something that connects with others. Going it solo may feel good, but you don't get to enjoy all the fun that comes with doing it with a partner (or group) There are pros and cons to each
@Zen Badger: No, I'm new to the forums, though if someone posted something similar it may reinforce my point. No troll
