03-22-2004, 11:38 AM
Allright.. I'm very busy with a calculation, but I'm gonna take some of my time to make some things clear :D
First of all, one thing I want you all to know: I'm an atheist as well, lol.
Second, the thought that all humans have some level spirituality isn't mine. It's from last century's philosopher, Weber. I just happen to agree with him. Quark obviously doesn't, and, like his teacher, I respect that.
Third, I argue that religion is natural in the sense that it gives your life a meaning. Quite likely, it's a ficticious/illusory meaning, but it does give you some confort and will to keep on living. What would human life be without spirituality? Well, living a life that is aimless except for reproduction would probably lead to more depressions, suicides and therefore possible species extinction. I believe Nature put spirituality into humans as a counter the anguish of death. Religion is, in my point of view, simply a life-preserving instinct. It is possible to rationalize the fear of death, and some of us certainly did that. However, statistics show that 95%+ of the world's population do not do it. They just believe in a Deity and that's it. In a sense, they may be living a lie, but it sure is very tranquilizing. And who knows... maybe they're even right!
Fourth, while I definitely do not believe in a Deity, I still have the hope that death would not be the end to my existance. This hope is what I think all of us have, deep, deep inside. It's not a belief, it's just hope. Having hope is not offensive. It's a beautiful thing :)
First of all, one thing I want you all to know: I'm an atheist as well, lol.
Second, the thought that all humans have some level spirituality isn't mine. It's from last century's philosopher, Weber. I just happen to agree with him. Quark obviously doesn't, and, like his teacher, I respect that.
Third, I argue that religion is natural in the sense that it gives your life a meaning. Quite likely, it's a ficticious/illusory meaning, but it does give you some confort and will to keep on living. What would human life be without spirituality? Well, living a life that is aimless except for reproduction would probably lead to more depressions, suicides and therefore possible species extinction. I believe Nature put spirituality into humans as a counter the anguish of death. Religion is, in my point of view, simply a life-preserving instinct. It is possible to rationalize the fear of death, and some of us certainly did that. However, statistics show that 95%+ of the world's population do not do it. They just believe in a Deity and that's it. In a sense, they may be living a lie, but it sure is very tranquilizing. And who knows... maybe they're even right!
Fourth, while I definitely do not believe in a Deity, I still have the hope that death would not be the end to my existance. This hope is what I think all of us have, deep, deep inside. It's not a belief, it's just hope. Having hope is not offensive. It's a beautiful thing :)