Introduction

[Violet]

My name is Tom. I am 47 and an Atheist. I became one less than five years ago when I noticed that the pieces didn't fit. Although I'm not religious myself I fully believe that anyone has the freedom to believe whatever they wish as long as it doesn't impinge upon the freedom of others. I'm very interested in any aspect of the human condition and read up on these subjects : History, Religion, Physics, Psychology, Philosophy.

I am not a learned man, but try to understand as much as I can about the world I inhabit. I also read Science Fiction. I try to treat everyone as equal, but am only human and am sometimes guilty of putting myself before others. I do however believe in the Golden Rule. I also believe that you can condemn someone for what they have said or done, but not them as individuals. The bar for this is absolute. No exceptions.

I'm imperfect so therefore don't have the moral authority to judge others, irrespective of whatever their wrongdoing may be. I believe in physical exercise as well and walk regularly and weightlift daily. I also believe that it is possible to go through your entire adult life without ever having to borrow a single penny. Everyone should be capable of living within their means. I'm not afraid of death and look forward to spending all of eternity in a blissful state of non-consciousness after I shake off this mortal coil. I also don't like paragraphs that much. Thank you for having gotten this far anyway. Tom.

Oh this is so much better.

Use paragraphs if you want me to read your post. I only start reading blocks if I feel they will be worth reading (like if Dotard posted something, or if there is an actual (interesting) debate going on.).

You being new... I do not feel it is worth reading. I'll read it later, now that it's quoted. Hi. Welcome. Use more paragraphs

[Kayenneh]

Hey, welcome to the forums! ^_^

I try to treat everyone as equal, but am only human and am sometimes guilty of putting myself before others.
I'm imperfect so therefore don't have the moral authority to judge others, irrespective of whatever their wrongdoing may be.

I consider the word equal a mathematical term (e.g. 2 = 1+1) and not a word that should be applied to humans. We are in no sense equal, not intellectual, DNA (well, certain twins have the same), thoughs, status etc. But if you mean what I think, I agree that we should be able to see past these things and respect each other. Respect has to be earned, though.. Altruism is a wonderful trait, but you should be the most important person in your life. To be slightly narcissistic is only good, but all in moderation, of course.

Perfection is also a word that should be solely reserved for mathematics, a cirle or a square might be perfect, the word cannot apply to humans. Everyone has the right to judge, but if your judgement is based on subjective feelings instead of objective proof, one might not care much for it. Yes, everyone can judge, but is the one being judged who should consider if it's worth listening to or not.

[frankiej]

After all, God is the most narcissistic person in all fiction.