Formal logic for Dummies?

[robvalue]

Well, I think theists generally use "universe" to mean all that exists when they're making rubbish arguments. But scientifically it seems more and more that universe just means self-contained reality. It seems like quite a silly word to use in this respect.

[ignoramus]

I'm starting to suspect that the word universe is a bit like god.
It can mean anything to anyone...

[robvalue]

Yeah. It's why I always try and start any discussion with a clear definition of terms, to stop dodgy sliding about halfway.

With a theist, it's rare if we actually make it past the definition stage, as they often can't/won't define the terms they are discussing. I imagine that it may be the first time they've ever had to stop and actually think what they are really taking about.

Would a theist be happy to define "the universe" as "most of what exists"?

[ignoramus]

hahaha ...remember that theist who wouldn't acknowledge that his toothbrush is plastic and belongs in our reality!
He thought I was going to trip him up with one of his fallacies so he refused to acknowledge that simple fact.

Fucking sad and hilarious at the same time.

[robvalue]

That really happened? Wow, that's priceless

A theist, on a desperate defensive, once denied that the bible actually says anything that it says. Go figure.

[Edwardo Piet]

A theist, on a desperate defensive, once denied that the bible actually says anything that it says. Go figure.

Isn't that like 90% of Christians nowadays?

Good thing I think--better than them actually believing in that terrible book.

They just think they believe in it instead and see it all as a "metaphor".

When Jesus said "I bring not peace but a sword" it's a metaphorical sword. In fact he was probably being kinky.

[robvalue]

Yeah, that is new radical Christianity. Ignoring the bible. It's just people don't often come out and say it explicitly.

[Edwardo Piet]

I'll come and say it explicitly. I IGNORE THE BIBLE. It does not function in my life. I read a bit years ago and it sucked ass.

Oh wait, are we still just talking about Christians?

[robvalue]

I'm all for ignoring the bible too, of course. And the Quran. This new radical style of the religions is far superior in every way. And God doesn't seem to care either, which is handy.