Ridicule was the wrong word. I retract my previous statement. Critical analysis of one's experience is needed, especially when one is looking for a rational understanding of what happens during an experience. I simply meant that we should avoid 'making fun' of someone's religious experiences. But as far as pulling an experience apart for the sake of critical analysis, I am completely for it.
At the same time, most people are not ready to critically analyse their religious experiences and hence will continue to believe regardless of what people tell them or argue. Even if the best thing for society would be to get rid of religion, I hardly think we would ever accomplish the task. However, I wouldn't be an atheist if I hadn't looked at my own religious experiences.
What christians need to realise is that personal experience is invalid evidence; it proves nothing and never will. It's completely personal, and should remain that way without them trying to push it onto everyone else.
At the same time, most people are not ready to critically analyse their religious experiences and hence will continue to believe regardless of what people tell them or argue. Even if the best thing for society would be to get rid of religion, I hardly think we would ever accomplish the task. However, I wouldn't be an atheist if I hadn't looked at my own religious experiences.
What christians need to realise is that personal experience is invalid evidence; it proves nothing and never will. It's completely personal, and should remain that way without them trying to push it onto everyone else.
"I think that God in creating Man somewhat overestimated his ability." Oscar Wilde
My Blog | Why I Don't Believe in God
My Blog | Why I Don't Believe in God