My Fellow Atheist

[tavarish]

[quote='Arcanus' pid='59984' dateline='1268607614']
Your honesty and candor is noted, and rather appreciated. Thank you.

No problem.

I take issue with (3) and just for two reasons: (i) it does not convey the deep commitment I've been describing, (ii) which I distrust because of how you've been characterizing 'trust' so far in the discussion, compelling me to stress the deep commitment element. Maintain that element and you have my acquiescence.

Alright, how about a deep, ineffable trust and commitment to the concept, which can include, but is not limited to lifestyle sacrifices and changes? It's a bit long, but does it get across what you're trying to illustrate?

Neither question is relevant to the issue at hand (i.e., what I define faith as), so by answering them I would be derailing the issue. I leave it in your hands to show how they actually are relevant.

Actually these are separate questions that I'm personally asking you. The first question was me trying to better understand your understanding of faith.


A quick aside:

I'll admit that I'm a bit on edge, as I'm used to rebutting arguments that are tired and monotonous. I realize that you're not trying to proselytize or guilt others into believing something inherently illogical. This would lead to my posts making points that aren't necessarily part of the argument. It's sort of a pre-emptive attack - I'm used to dealing with a hundred claims at a time. Straw men and red herrings aside, I try not to make fallacial arguments, but I'm not inerrant, and still learning how reasoned debate works.

I've read through your debate and understand that you choose your words very carefully, it's an eye-opener for me to analyze my own writing style and try not to make simple yet inexcusable mistakes.

I look forward to your replies.