What would make me accept the existence of a deity?

[CapnAwesome]

Absolutely I would. I can think of too many ways one might duplicate many of God's supposed powers with sufficiently advanced technology. And I am not going to worship anybody just because he has better toys than I do. Someone from the Middle Ages might think I am God, or something close to it, because of the things I could do with access to modern technology.

Why shouldn't we be skeptical?

I think you guys are being silly to be so dogmatically entrenched in your position that even the appearance of god(s) would not make you accept them to be true. Imagine the following scenario:

God: "Hello and good morning people of earth, get ready for your daily God broadcast. The weather looks pretty good accept for Las Vegas, which I will be smiting with a 30% chance of rain. Once again I'm going to have to apologize for leaving no evidence of my existence for all those thousands of years, I'm just kind of a dick like that"

Ryantology: "I know that these God broadcasts have been going on for a while, but I think there are more reasonable explanations!"

God: "Now it's come to my attention that since my appearance, virtually all the Atheists have become believers because, ya know, I'm here. However I understand two stubborn fucks, Ryantology and Celi are still holding out"

Ryantology: "Damn straight, you could be Alien technology or something."

*Poof* Ryantology turns into a chicken.

God: "Damn straight, I am the almighty! Now in sports, I'd like to announce to all the Athletes that I just don't give a shit, so stop praying and kneeling every time you make a touchdown.

Ryantology: "Cluck cluck"

God: "Oh yeah sorry about that"

*Ryantology turns back into a man*

Ryantology: "Well I am still skeptical."


I think there is a point that skepticism is just stupid. Obviously this is a little tongue in cheek, but I don't think God appearing is actually that high of a burden of proof. I mean we are talking about an omnipotent being and the best he seems to be able to do is provide vague feelings towards people who already believe.