(March 21, 2014 at 10:02 pm)Hezekiah Wrote: I would argue that that which is good does not rely on self-interest, but rather something deeper than self-interest. I agree with Doubting Thomas and add, that the ideal religious practice would be that which recognizes the right people have to believe what they please, and for the interested mind it would gladly share why it hold to its belief. That way respect and reason on both sides. A lot to ask for, I know, but I hold those of the same faith to a higher standard. Especially in light of all the misrepresentations and misconceptions some who claim to be under it seem to have about the religion itself.
The problem with Christianity is that a strict interpretation of its doctrine doesn't allow for others to believe as they please. Believing in something else means you deserve an eternity of torment, and it's hard not to be pushy about your beliefs when that is the consequence. Its very nature requires it to be thrust upon the unwilling.
Even if the open windows of science at first make us shiver after the cozy indoor warmth of traditional humanizing myths, in the end the fresh air brings vigor, and the great spaces have a splendor of their own - Bertrand Russell
