(November 29, 2012 at 1:41 pm)phi5100 Wrote: 1. Does the universe have a beginning that requires a cause? If so, what was this cause?
Based on current knowledge, I'd have to say no, it doesn't have a beginning.
(November 29, 2012 at 1:41 pm)phi5100 Wrote: 2. In what terms do you define the value of human life? Is the life of a human child more or less valuable, for example, than that of an endangered species of primate?
In terms of their life making or potentially making my own life more valuable. Thus, life of a human child would be more valuable than that of the primate.
(November 29, 2012 at 1:41 pm)phi5100 Wrote: 3. Does your worldview ground free will - which is required for consciousness, rationality, moral judgments, moral choices, and moral responsibility?
Yes - and no, freewill is not required for consciousness and rationality, but is a product of it.
(November 29, 2012 at 1:41 pm)phi5100 Wrote: 4. What are the grounds for (1) moral values and (2) moral duties?
Your life.
(November 29, 2012 at 1:41 pm)phi5100 Wrote: 5. Is it rational for you to risk your life to save a stranger?
If the stranger represents a value that you are unwilling to live without - then yes.
(November 29, 2012 at 1:41 pm)phi5100 Wrote: 6. Which religion, if any, were you raised in? What were the factors that led to your leaving that religion?
Hinduism. Rational thinking and education.