One simple question

[tavarish]

http://usualrhetoric.blogspot.com/2010/0...eists.html

I wrote it because Arcanus doesn't choose answer.


An Open letter to theists

In regards to religion, my stance is relatively strong, but not at all immovable or impervious to persuasion. Having said this, I have come across a subject within the realm of belief that I observe to be inconsistent with the actions and ideologies of those who abide by it.

To present this issue, I have a single question to ask to theists (preferably those who believe in a personal God). The question is derived from a discussion I've had with the authors of the blog "Aristophrenium".

They weren't kind enough to give me an answer at all, so I hope to get some sort of response from a similarly level-headed theist regarding this matter.

Here it is:

"How do you determine what is real and what is not real?"


I suspect this will give me more insight into the matter, and will accurately illustrate exactly where our point of disagreement is.

[Godhead]

My answer to the question is this :

I determine what is real and what's not by what I perceive, what I think I perceive, what I believe, and what I feel. My assessment of what's real and what isn't is based on a combination of all of those things. I trust my physical senses, and my sense of logic, and my emotions and intuition.

[Pippy]

How do YOU tell?

I just kinda guess. You have a better method?

[Minimalist]

I like to examine evidence but I guess that leaves you guys out.

[Cego_Colher]

oh, uhm. I'm not sure I do. I suppose if I can apply more then one sense to it. or ask other people if they "smell that skunk too?" I guess, I could just accept it and if it's real it's real, if it's not I'm crazy, but I am already crazy so I guess that matters little. Oh, also "people on the internet are not real people." I use that mantra when there are bigots and stupid people commenting that I stupidly read.

[tavarish]

My answer to the question is this :

I determine what is real and what's not by what I perceive, what I think I perceive, what I believe, and what I feel. My assessment of what's real and what isn't is based on a combination of all of those things. I trust my physical senses, and my sense of logic, and my emotions and intuition.

Uh huh. And through what method do you determine your perceptions, emotions and beliefs are correct?

---

How do YOU tell?

I just kinda guess. You have a better method?

Question wasn't directed towards myself, nor was is a trick question in which I have an upper hand. It was directed towards theists for the purpose of delving into their mindset and system of belief.

[Godhead]

Tavarish -

If it feels right, I take it as true.

[Zen Badger]

I usually poke it with a stick until it retaliates.

This is reliable in about 88.7365333% of cases, roughly speaking.

[Autumnlicious]

Tavarish -

If it feels right, I take it as true.

Jenny McCarthy would like your help...

[tavarish]

Tavarish -

If it feels right, I take it as true.

You're still not getting it. By what criteria do you determine if something feels "right"?