RE: Long term advice when debating theists.
April 17, 2015 at 10:52 pm
(This post was last modified: April 17, 2015 at 11:10 pm by The Reality Salesman01.)
(April 17, 2015 at 6:41 pm)TBrian37 Wrote: I hate the word "rules" not because in you are incorrect by using that term, you are flat out right!Within the realm of rational discourse and intellectual honesty, "protecting social norms" is not a priority and it is against the rules to place significance on it over that which is most likely true. Your frustration is understandable, but I don't expect that you'd be as bothered by an White English speaking American who cannot translate a Chinese Restaurant menu from Mandarin to Latin. Sometimes the problem isn't with the material, it's a students inability to properly comprehend it. Just take a deep breath.
What I hate about words like "rules" or "evidence" is that humans cant let go of bad claims. It is more important for most humans to protect their social norms than to admit they got it wrong.
(April 17, 2015 at 6:41 pm)Brian37 Wrote:(April 17, 2015 at 6:17 pm)Jenny A Wrote: It helps a little to talk about what constitutes evidence and rational discourse before getting into the specifics. Often, once the rules are understood, there is no argument. The Christian signs off with it's self-evident, or I just know.
I hate the word "rules" not because in you are incorrect by using that term, you are flat out right!
What I hate about words like "rules" or "evidence" is that humans cant let go of bad claims. It is more important for most humans to protect their social norms than to admit they got it wrong.
(April 17, 2015 at 8:30 pm)Polaris Wrote: Don't underestimate a theist based off stereotypical notions you have......underestimate? When you go to the grocery store, and you see an object in the produce section next to oranges that resonates with you to be object of "Apple", do you assume it is an apple simply because it happens to bare the likeness in every regard, or do you anticipate it to be made of wax since there are actually some wax apples that are in existence?
I don't know you, or your views, but I imagine that you think of yourself as a more sophisticated Christian. And that may be the case. And while that may mean something to you while being compared to other Christians who subscribe to more fantastical delusions, to me, that makes you the equivalent of the tallest midget or the smartest retard.
If you happen to be the exceptional Christian who is capable of making a rational argument for the existence of a god, then demonstrate it. But don't play coy with vague statements that shift the burden of stupidity on everyone else that attends your church...
Also, welcome!
