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NeoGreen

(4,033 posts)
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 11:06 AM Jun 2019

Hypothesis: faith, is a sub-set version of Self-Deception...

...and a symptom of a medical condition.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-deception


Self-deception
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Self-deception is a process of denying or rationalizing away the relevance, significance, or importance of opposing evidence and logical argument. Self-deception involves convincing oneself of a truth (or lack of truth) so that one does not reveal any self-knowledge of the deception.

(snip)

Medicine
Self-deception has a prominent role in several medical conditions, such as borderline personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, and histrionic personality disorder.


i.e. faith is a symptom of a medical condition, a type of disease, specifically a disease of the mind, or by analogy, a mind-virus. Consequently, when a non-faithful individual engages with an individual who claims to be a member of the ‘faithful’ they should have the mind-set that the 'faithful' person is, metaphorically, infected with virus.

The non-faithful should fully acknowledge that a person expressing ‘faith’, who may be willfully ignorant (by definition) as a symptom, is not necessarily otherwise cognitively challenged. Therefore, they should be approached with robust logical arguments against the ideas they express and not be treated with personal derision, condescension or disdain. Such responses are not helpful, instead the non-faithful should focus entirely on the ideas themselves, that is, expose and discuss the roots of the deception as the problem. Also consider, furthering the mind-virus analogy, most ‘faithful’ were 'infected' while they were children, a time where the ability to effect skeptical review of bad ideas is almost non-existent, and their ‘faith’, their ‘disease’, so to speak, was implanted and took root early and was not/is not the result of a conscious/deliberate/informed choice on their part.

The overall hypothesis is that the 'faithful' should be treated/approached with the same empathy and compassion as someone who has a physical disease or some other mental condition.

They are not stupid and it’s not their fault. Their ‘faith’ is a symptom of a disease they were generally exposed to as children and they should be engaged and approached as such.

Discuss.
122 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
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Hypothesis: faith, is a sub-set version of Self-Deception... (Original Post) NeoGreen Jun 2019 OP
No known cure Cartoonist Jun 2019 #1
I think reason cures faith FiveGoodMen Jun 2019 #42
Maybe a few simple reasons? Bretton Garcia Jun 2019 #60
Reason has to be taught. trev Jul 2019 #119
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. FiveGoodMen Jul 2019 #120
That's the one. Thanks, trev Jul 2019 #121
I really can't think of a bigger waste of time SCantiGOP Jun 2019 #2
Yet here you are. Act_of_Reparation Jun 2019 #3
Yep, no matter where you go SCantiGOP Jun 2019 #4
That's two posts now Cartoonist Jun 2019 #6
and this is three SCantiGOP Jun 2019 #8
Which wouldn't have existed without yours in the first place. trotsky Jun 2019 #9
Amazing how the same few "just happen" to follow the same pattern. guillaumeb Jun 2019 #13
And there you go with your group smears. trotsky Jun 2019 #15
So my notice of small group tactics is a smear? guillaumeb Jun 2019 #17
Uh huh. n/t trotsky Jun 2019 #19
I thought you were a fan of the scientific method. guillaumeb Jun 2019 #20
Only when used properly. Thus, I'm not a fan of what you do. trotsky Jun 2019 #39
And you are the determiner? guillaumeb Jun 2019 #40
Good. Glad you understand you're not using the scientific method. n/t trotsky Jun 2019 #41
It's almost like some of us know how to work an RSS feed. AtheistCrusader Jun 2019 #47
It is "amost" something. guillaumeb Jun 2019 #51
I'm sorry that the internet is a scary place for you. AtheistCrusader Jun 2019 #71
I am sorry that dissent is a scary thing for you. guillaumeb Jun 2019 #76
Please say that to yourself while looking at the mirror. MineralMan Jun 2019 #77
Why? Did it work for you? eom guillaumeb Jun 2019 #81
No need. I didn't say it in the first place. MineralMan Jun 2019 #83
Wait, am I allowed to respond to you now, without frightening you with 'harmony'? AtheistCrusader Jun 2019 #85
As a musician, I like harmony, and dissonance. eom guillaumeb Jun 2019 #88
This won't surprise you, but I am skeptical. AtheistCrusader Jun 2019 #89
Does that make you an agnostic? guillaumeb Jun 2019 #115
Skeptic. AtheistCrusader Jun 2019 #116
Well said. guillaumeb Jun 2019 #117
Oh, I'll bet you can, actually. MineralMan Jun 2019 #7
As are you. guillaumeb Jun 2019 #14
Yes, but I'm not claiming that the thread is useless. MineralMan Jun 2019 #24
I'm not all that big on analogies, but here is one that isn't bad Major Nikon Jun 2019 #5
Time to pull out this classic Sam Harris quote about Dubya again. trotsky Jun 2019 #10
Even scarier it wouldn't precipitate a national emergency Major Nikon Jun 2019 #11
This message was self-deleted by its author Freelancer Jun 2019 #54
With "GOP" starting the comments ... Bretton Garcia Jun 2019 #59
Had to stop reading to lol after the first 7.5 words... Act_of_Reparation Jun 2019 #86
Laughable. guillaumeb Jun 2019 #12
You should really try expanding your vocabulary... NeoGreen Jun 2019 #18
And you might try actual discussion instead of name calling. guillaumeb Jun 2019 #21
And pray tell, what name did I call... NeoGreen Jun 2019 #22
Did you read your own post? guillaumeb Jun 2019 #23
I wrote it, and so my question still stands... NeoGreen Jun 2019 #27
Your attempt at analysis is noted. guillaumeb Jun 2019 #29
I asked for discussion, and all I am getting from you is deflection... NeoGreen Jun 2019 #32
I gave a answer. guillaumeb Jun 2019 #33
You did not give an answer. Mariana Jun 2019 #38
And take note, the OP doesn't 'validate' my view... NeoGreen Jun 2019 #34
I took notice of your method. guillaumeb Jun 2019 #35
To post a hypothesis and ask for discussion on the points presented?... NeoGreen Jun 2019 #36
Someone is working hard on their victimization Major Nikon Jun 2019 #45
So very clever. guillaumeb Jun 2019 #50
That poster did not call you any name. MineralMan Jun 2019 #25
Illogical. guillaumeb Jun 2019 #26
Well, you're here in the Religion Group this afternoon, MineralMan Jun 2019 #28
Thank you for asking so politely. guillaumeb Jun 2019 #30
Yes, and I have replied in that thread, as well, as is my wont. MineralMan Jun 2019 #31
Why did you post his term, this particular word? NeoGreen Jun 2019 #70
I'll repeat the question: where's the name-calling? trotsky Jun 2019 #44
Read the post. guillaumeb Jun 2019 #49
Can I play? Cartoonist Jun 2019 #53
The OP is important, if problematic Bretton Garcia Jun 2019 #61
True. guillaumeb Jun 2019 #75
Wrong motivation Cartoonist Jun 2019 #84
I did. Where's the name-calling? n/t trotsky Jun 2019 #67
Fucking whataboutism. n/t trotsky Jun 2019 #43
Using those exact words no less Major Nikon Jun 2019 #46
I understand that you believe this to be true. eom guillaumeb Jun 2019 #48
Dude, you LITERALLY said "what about." trotsky Jun 2019 #66
Yeah, what about that? MineralMan Jun 2019 #82
We can prove physical miracles don't arrive ... Bretton Garcia Jun 2019 #63
This message was self-deleted by its author Freelancer Jun 2019 #79
You mean edhopper Jun 2019 #91
This message was self-deleted by its author Cartoonist Jun 2019 #16
No doubt imo. elleng Jun 2019 #37
For Lord's sake, people! Let's start over. The original posts comments on faith sound very Karadeniz Jun 2019 #52
Faith is a shield Cartoonist Jun 2019 #55
This message was self-deleted by its author Freelancer Jun 2019 #57
This message was self-deleted by its author Freelancer Jun 2019 #56
Faith as Logic is somewhat interesting Bretton Garcia Jun 2019 #62
Guil might like this Bretton Garcia Jun 2019 #65
Hi NeoGreen - As someone who believes in god (I'm Catholic) I find this discussion very Pendrench Jun 2019 #58
The Bible warned that many believers are "deceived" by "false" Christianity Bretton Garcia Jun 2019 #64
Hi Bretton - thank you for responding to my post. Pendrench Jun 2019 #68
Depends; from case to case. Bretton Garcia Jun 2019 #78
Hi Bretton - sorry for the delayed response...I was away from my computer for awhile. Pendrench Jun 2019 #87
If you learned some tolerance from your religion, that seems helpful Bretton Garcia Jun 2019 #90
Hi Bretton - Thank you again for your thoughtful reply. Pendrench Jun 2019 #92
So the ideas you place faith onto aren't worthy of challenge and criticism? Major Nikon Jun 2019 #93
Hi Major Nikon - thank you for responding to my post. Pendrench Jun 2019 #94
It still sounds as if you think belief itself is beyond criticism Major Nikon Jun 2019 #95
Hi Major Nikon - Than you again for your thoughtful reply. Pendrench Jun 2019 #96
What is religion without accepting certain things as incontrovertible? Major Nikon Jun 2019 #97
Hi Major Nikon - Thank you again for your reply. Pendrench Jun 2019 #98
Your question was, if I understand it correctly... Major Nikon Jun 2019 #99
Hi Major Nikon - Yes - you understood my question correctly, and I appreciate and respect your Pendrench Jun 2019 #100
Pendrench... NeoGreen Jun 2019 #69
Hi NeoGreen - thank you for your thoughtful reply. Pendrench Jun 2019 #72
Pendrench... NeoGreen Jun 2019 #73
Hi NeoGreen - thank you again for your reply. Pendrench Jun 2019 #74
My pleasure... NeoGreen Jun 2019 #80
What are the alternatives to faith that can bring comfort and compassion? MaryMagdaline Jun 2019 #103
What? trotsky Jun 2019 #104
I've heard, read this. It makes intuitive sense but MaryMagdaline Jun 2019 #106
You should at least understand that it's possible other people see it differently than you do. trotsky Jun 2019 #107
I am encouraged to know they (you) are out there MaryMagdaline Jun 2019 #111
Hi trotsky - I completely agree with you. Pendrench Jun 2019 #113
Hi MaryMadaline - Although I am a believer (Catholic), I do not think that life is meaningless for Pendrench Jun 2019 #105
DSM-V defines "mental disorder" as follows: The Velveteen Ocelot Jun 2019 #101
As I said in previous posts... NeoGreen Jun 2019 #108
Utilitarian question MaryMagdaline Jun 2019 #102
If the 19 hijackers were 'cured' of their 'self-deceptions'... NeoGreen Jun 2019 #109
With your example, we would be better off. MaryMagdaline Jun 2019 #110
US Marines, or any branch on the US military... NeoGreen Jun 2019 #112
Here we disagree. Give me 50k true believers vs 100k atheists MaryMagdaline Jun 2019 #114
And the Atheists will win, just... NeoGreen Jul 2019 #122
Dysrationalia NeoGreen Jul 2019 #118

Cartoonist

(7,532 posts)
1. No known cure
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 11:21 AM
Jun 2019

While I no longer suffer from the disease, I don't really know how I recovered. It happened over a period of time and used no drugs.

trev

(1,480 posts)
119. Reason has to be taught.
Sat Jul 20, 2019, 09:35 PM
Jul 2019

That's why religious proponents make every effort to indoctrinate children.

It's even in Proverbs. I'm on my phone so won't bother to log out and look it up, but the verse basically says your child will adhere to your teachings for life.

FiveGoodMen

(20,018 posts)
120. Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Tue Jul 23, 2019, 10:54 AM
Jul 2019

Proverbs 22:6


Cartoonist

(7,532 posts)
6. That's two posts now
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 11:54 AM
Jun 2019

What I think you mean is that you don't want anyone to discuss this, so you tried to cut it off before it began.

trotsky

(49,533 posts)
9. Which wouldn't have existed without yours in the first place.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 12:21 PM
Jun 2019

Just gets more fascinating as we go.

guillaumeb

(42,649 posts)
17. So my notice of small group tactics is a smear?
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 12:42 PM
Jun 2019

I am using the scientific method of observation and analysis.

trotsky

(49,533 posts)
39. Only when used properly. Thus, I'm not a fan of what you do.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 01:57 PM
Jun 2019

But getting an apology from you is greatly appreciated, even if it's dripping with contempt and trademark Christian love.

guillaumeb

(42,649 posts)
76. I am sorry that dissent is a scary thing for you.
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 11:59 AM
Jun 2019

But just because you feel you are correct about an issue does not constitute proof.

MineralMan

(147,591 posts)
83. No need. I didn't say it in the first place.
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 12:30 PM
Jun 2019

What I post is always my opinion, as I state in my signature line. You're welcome not to share that opinion. We can discuss that, on a case-by-case basis, no?

AtheistCrusader

(33,982 posts)
85. Wait, am I allowed to respond to you now, without frightening you with 'harmony'?
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 12:53 PM
Jun 2019

I wouldn't want to make you uncomfortable.

Hard enough to defend your positions as it is.

MineralMan

(147,591 posts)
24. Yes, but I'm not claiming that the thread is useless.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 12:58 PM
Jun 2019

It's not. In fact it's a perfectly good thread for this group.

As always, thanks for your comment. I can always count on you to reply to me, whether we were having a conversation or not. That way, I know you're OK.

Major Nikon

(36,900 posts)
5. I'm not all that big on analogies, but here is one that isn't bad
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 11:50 AM
Jun 2019

If your neighbor thought your satellite dish was transmitting mind control beams into his home designed to corrupt him, you'd probably think he is insane or at least highly irrational. Meanwhile the exact same belief happens with some religionists about homosexuality and society views them as rational people.

Quite often people in this group focus on the belief in one or more deities as the issue. That's not really the issue. Religion makes numerous unsupported incredible claims that go far beyond belief in one or more deities. The issue is what they believe their invisible overlord is telling them to do. That's where the real delusional behavior begins.

trotsky

(49,533 posts)
10. Time to pull out this classic Sam Harris quote about Dubya again.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 12:22 PM
Jun 2019

“The president of the United States has claimed, on more than one occasion, to be in dialogue with God. If he said that he was talking to God through his hairdryer, this would precipitate a national emergency. I fail to see how the addition of a hairdryer makes the claim more ridiculous or offensive.”

Major Nikon

(36,900 posts)
11. Even scarier it wouldn't precipitate a national emergency
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 12:30 PM
Jun 2019

Meanwhile that same presidunce couldn’t differentiate between god or Dick Cheney telling him to invade Iraq.

Response to Major Nikon (Reply #5)

Bretton Garcia

(970 posts)
59. With "GOP" starting the comments ...
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 03:56 AM
Jun 2019

... with an attempt at a power play, to shut off further commentary or investigation/therapy? Then we hear a warning about right-wing terrorism!? Yes, we might in fact take threats of right wing terrorism, suicide attacks, seriously.

So: when we confront a patent in angry Denial, patience and caution are clearly advised.

To our patients? In a democracy, it is thought to be good to allow many points of view to be expressed. Including those that challenge your own faith.

guillaumeb

(42,649 posts)
12. Laughable.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 12:36 PM
Jun 2019

What about the self deception of those who feel they are competent to declare others to be deceived when speaking of unprovable matters?

Discuss? Hardly.

NeoGreen

(4,033 posts)
27. I wrote it, and so my question still stands...
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 01:03 PM
Jun 2019

...what 'name' did I 'call'? I don't see it, so please be so kind as to highlight the specific text, the 'name' I called. Or, failing that, please explain why is this triggering such a vehement response from you. Does this represent something personal, something deeper, for you?

guillaumeb

(42,649 posts)
29. Your attempt at analysis is noted.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 01:07 PM
Jun 2019

Perhaps the reason for your post is rooted in something from your past.

Or it might be that because this article validates your own view, you feel it must be correct.

NeoGreen

(4,033 posts)
32. I asked for discussion, and all I am getting from you is deflection...
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 01:10 PM
Jun 2019

..., and therefore, I sense I have 'hit a nerve', so to speak.

NeoGreen

(4,033 posts)
34. And take note, the OP doesn't 'validate' my view...
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 01:14 PM
Jun 2019

...it is my hypothesis, I'm not into self-validation and circular references.

I asked for discussion, not validation.

NeoGreen

(4,033 posts)
36. To post a hypothesis and ask for discussion on the points presented?...
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 01:17 PM
Jun 2019

...yes, ouch, that was/is my method. Touche'

Major Nikon

(36,900 posts)
45. Someone is working hard on their victimization
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 04:51 PM
Jun 2019

As usual.

He’s made the same lame ass allegation before, and will insist ad nauseum he was called a name, even when he can’t manage to figure out what name he was called. Funny how that works. Sounds kinda familiar.

MineralMan

(147,591 posts)
25. That poster did not call you any name.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 01:00 PM
Jun 2019

You must have read that into the post, between the lines, or something.

MineralMan

(147,591 posts)
28. Well, you're here in the Religion Group this afternoon,
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 01:04 PM
Jun 2019

but so far, I haven't seen you post anything about religion. Instead, you are making snide comments to other posters here. I'm not sure what the usefulness of that might be.

So, do you have a religion topic you would like to discuss today, or will you spend your brief time in the group today simply posting vague attacks on others here?

NeoGreen

(4,033 posts)
70. Why did you post his term, this particular word?
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 08:04 AM
Jun 2019

It is not included in my OP. You can search the text until the last black hole has evaporated from the universe and you won't find it, so where did this word come from?

It is a product of your mind, and it is curious that you should openly post it here.

Is there something deeper there, in your mind, that you need to explore?

Cartoonist

(7,532 posts)
53. Can I play?
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 08:33 PM
Jun 2019

In the OP, there are several possibilities. While there is NO actual name calling, some terms can be twisted into descriptive designations.

Self-deceptor
Mind-virus owner
Willfully ignorant (by definition)
Putting quotation marks around faith and faithful is highly offensive.

Bretton Garcia

(970 posts)
61. The OP is important, if problematic
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 04:53 AM
Jun 2019

I agree that the language is a bit more aggressive than therapeutic.

Though it caught my attention...

Maybe there's a place for a "Dr. Phil" intervention in the Faith community?

Personally I very much like the content here. Though for myself I like to generally pursue a more calmly reasoned approach.

Still? It's a democracy. Let many approaches blossom?

To be sure, I might say that if a contributor is going to advance a view as calm therapy, he's going to have to explain any use of aggressive language.

Maybe Neo Green should be introduced as using "Dr. Phil"-style therapy?

guillaumeb

(42,649 posts)
75. True.
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 11:55 AM
Jun 2019

Framing the majority of humans as the victims of a virus as a way of elevating those who are not subject to this supposed virus.

Cartoonist

(7,532 posts)
84. Wrong motivation
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 12:31 PM
Jun 2019

We're just trying to help. We recognize the virus. Many of us suffered the same thing. You are wrong in saying we do this just as a self aggrandizing conceit.

Major Nikon

(36,900 posts)
46. Using those exact words no less
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 04:54 PM
Jun 2019

Not that there’s any sense trying to hide what was always a transparent tactic.

trotsky

(49,533 posts)
66. Dude, you LITERALLY said "what about."
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 07:08 AM
Jun 2019

Your cherry-picked definition from a website of ONE meaning of the word doesn't change that, no matter how desperately you wish that were the case.

Bretton Garcia

(970 posts)
63. We can prove physical miracles don't arrive ...
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 05:07 AM
Jun 2019

As they were advertised in say, John 14.13.

And? Metaphorical, "spiritual" Christians know this. That is exactly why they chose to call them metaphors. Because taken literally, even the simplist sense of science suggests such promises are clearly false

So can we agree on that?

Response to Bretton Garcia (Reply #63)

edhopper

(34,836 posts)
91. You mean
Thu Jun 27, 2019, 07:44 AM
Jun 2019

unprovable as in, absolutely no evidence at all?

Yeah, that is worth discussing.

The delusion of lack of evidence for, and evidence against existing, means "faith is being tested."

It's the logic of a schizophrenic.


Response to NeoGreen (Original post)

Karadeniz

(23,424 posts)
52. For Lord's sake, people! Let's start over. The original posts comments on faith sound very
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 08:15 PM
Jun 2019

reasonable to me. Before I'd finished reading, I thought most people's faith could be chalked up to its being socially acceptable within their niche. As far as Christianity is concerned, faith is now the buzzword for being Christian rather than modeling one's thoughts and actions on Christian teachings. As James wrote, you can't have one without the other. Faith-Christianity is not a true religion, at least as far as the original communities felt.

Cartoonist

(7,532 posts)
55. Faith is a shield
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 08:43 PM
Jun 2019

It's their last and final word. When they run out of cognitive arguments, they throw out the word "faith" to signal that reality and logic have no place in their ideology.

Response to Cartoonist (Reply #55)

Response to Karadeniz (Reply #52)

Bretton Garcia

(970 posts)
62. Faith as Logic is somewhat interesting
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 04:59 AM
Jun 2019

Inherently understandable. An appeal to instinctive Reasonableness?

Some theologians like Aquinas or Augustine referred to the "rational soul "

I've made the argument too that the "word" or "logos," relates to our English cognate "logic."

Bretton Garcia

(970 posts)
65. Guil might like this
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 05:36 AM
Jun 2019

Though he usually uses it unfortunately, just to attack reason and logic and science, as just more faith.

But Guil? What if we turn it around? Religious faith was just an early version, prescience, of Logic?

It may be that there are no "presuppositionless inquiries." But given that, the provisionally best grounded studies, those advancing the most likely convincing results, "fruits," would be Reason, Science, Logic.

Or for religious folks, the "rational soul."

Pendrench

(1,389 posts)
58. Hi NeoGreen - As someone who believes in god (I'm Catholic) I find this discussion very
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:39 PM
Jun 2019

interesting - thank you for posting!

There was one aspect of your post that I wanted to ask your opinion about, specifically: When would it be appropriate for someone who is non-faithful to "expose and discuss the roots of the deception" with someone who identifies as a person of faith?

Obviously I'm talking about outside of this group - since the purpose here is to discuss such issues - but in society as a whole, should this engagement only take place when a person of faith tries to convert someone who does not believe the same as they do or (worse) the person of faith insults or condemns someone because they do not believe?

In other words, do you see this sort of engagement initiated as a reaction to people of faith who overstep their bounds or should this engagement be a proactive step by non-faithful individuals to try to help cure the faithful of this disease?

Thank you again for posting!

Wishing you well and peace.

Tim

Bretton Garcia

(970 posts)
64. The Bible warned that many believers are "deceived" by "false" Christianity
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 05:10 AM
Jun 2019

And by "delusions" and "false spirits."

So there is a useful biblical language, precedent, to describe delusions even in very religious people. Even those "Christians" who think they are following Christ, may be following a "false Christ."

Pendrench

(1,389 posts)
68. Hi Bretton - thank you for responding to my post.
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 07:44 AM
Jun 2019

To your point, if there are Christians who may be following a false Christ - and it is viewed as a symptom of a disease (i.e, self-deception) - would it be more appropriate and/or effective to be reactive or proactive when initiating engagement to address/counter a person of faith?

Thank you again - wishing you well and peace!

Tim



Bretton Garcia

(970 posts)
78. Depends; from case to case.
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 12:12 PM
Jun 2019

Christians are privileged, and not used to very direct criticism in general though. And that has allowed them to live with far too many illusions, unchallenged, for far too long.

So SOME criticism is in order. When, is a matter for individual judgment.


Pendrench

(1,389 posts)
87. Hi Bretton - sorry for the delayed response...I was away from my computer for awhile.
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 03:36 PM
Jun 2019

First of all, thank you again for taking the time to respond to another of my posts.

If I may ask another question - in your opinion, should ALL illusions held by a Christian (such as myself) be challenged and criticized? For example, as a Catholic, I believe in the Trinity as well as Transubstantiation - so I can understand and respect why someone who does not believe as I do would find these beliefs worthy of challenge and criticism. On the other hand, are there certain aspects of faith (again, in your opinion) that should be celebrated?

I ask because I think that the way I try to live my life is a byproduct of my faith - not to avoid being sent to hell or to bargain my way into heaven (if either place exists), but rather because I believe that the love of god is to be shared by and with everyone - regardless of their belief or unbelief - and that I can best share that love by offering comfort and support where I can, especially among those who are less fortunate than myself.

Of course it could be argued that I might still try to live my life that way even if I was not raised Catholic (others certainly have), but the fact of that matter is that I was raised that way...so perhaps even if others do not agree with what I believe, I hope at least that my actions and deeds (inspired by my faith) have a positive impact on others.

I imagine that we will not agree on most topics concerning religion and/or faith, but I greatly appreciate the opportunity to discuss this with you.

Wishing you well and peace -

Tim

Bretton Garcia

(970 posts)
90. If you learned some tolerance from your religion, that seems helpful
Thu Jun 27, 2019, 12:15 AM
Jun 2019

But at some stage, we hope you will see some bad effects coming from religion too.

Who will teach tolerance if there is no religion? Maybe the Constitution; Liberalism.

Liberal Christianity has a few, albeit problematic, overlaps with atheist liberalism.

Some say we are religious as children; cf. St. Paul. But we add to, modify that, as we become adults.

Pendrench

(1,389 posts)
92. Hi Bretton - Thank you again for your thoughtful reply.
Thu Jun 27, 2019, 08:12 AM
Jun 2019

Last edited Thu Jun 27, 2019, 08:44 AM - Edit history (1)

I absolutely agree that there are other ways to teach tolerance outside of religion - and I also agree (and acknowledge) that there are some bad effects that stem from religion.

I think that discussions like this are helpful for both sides to understand our differences, and see if (perhaps) there are areas where we can find agreement.

Thank you again - wishing you well and peace.

Tim

Major Nikon

(36,900 posts)
93. So the ideas you place faith onto aren't worthy of challenge and criticism?
Thu Jun 27, 2019, 11:19 AM
Jun 2019

Without realizing it I think you've made the point as to why faith should not be celebrated. It requires people to suspend critical thought.

This is perhaps the #1 problem with organized religion. It posits ideas as divine and inarbitrable. That's why we can't seem to pry away ideas about why it's a good idea to hate based on oral tradition from the stone age.

Pendrench

(1,389 posts)
94. Hi Major Nikon - thank you for responding to my post.
Thu Jun 27, 2019, 01:23 PM
Jun 2019

First of all, if I gave the impression that ideas about my faith are not worthy of challenge and/or criticism...that was not my intent, and if my post conveyed that message, then the fault lies with me, and I apologize for not being more clear.

The point that I wanted to make, was that there ARE certain aspects of faith which lend themselves to discussion/debate/challenge/criticism (such as belief in the Trinity or Transubstantiation) but I also wanted to ask: If a person of faith lives their life in positive service to others based on their faith, should that also be challenged or criticized? In other words, should the belief itself be challenged/criticized or should just the actions resulting from those beliefs?

That was the gist of my initial response to Bretton Garcia - I hope that I was more clear in my response to you.

Thank you again for the opportunity for discussion - wishing you well and peace.

Tim

Major Nikon

(36,900 posts)
95. It still sounds as if you think belief itself is beyond criticism
Thu Jun 27, 2019, 02:58 PM
Jun 2019

Assuming this is what you are saying, it’s not all that surprising. It’s pretty hard to envision religion without dogma, and Christianity is certainly no exception. What I’m pointing out is this is the inherent flaw of religion. Whenever any idea is exempt from criticism, corruption is the inevitable result. This is true with many things besides religion, but is especially true in that instance.

Pendrench

(1,389 posts)
96. Hi Major Nikon - Than you again for your thoughtful reply.
Thu Jun 27, 2019, 04:01 PM
Jun 2019

Actually, I try to be open to criticism and debate on most topics, including issues of faith (that's the only way one grows and learns) which is why I appreciate the opportunity to discuss this with you and others.

If I stated that there was a particular idea/belief that I thought was beyond criticism, I would be more than happy to discuss it with you.

Thank you again - wishing you well and peace!

Tim

Major Nikon

(36,900 posts)
97. What is religion without accepting certain things as incontrovertible?
Thu Jun 27, 2019, 04:42 PM
Jun 2019

How else does one define faith?

Pendrench

(1,389 posts)
98. Hi Major Nikon - Thank you again for your reply.
Thu Jun 27, 2019, 05:38 PM
Jun 2019

I think on this point we are in agreement - as a person of faith (specifically a Catholic) there are certain ideas that I accept and believe, including the Resurrection, Transubstantiation, and the divinity of Jesus - but why should having these beliefs shield me from dissenting views and criticism?

These are my beliefs (not yours), so you should have every right to disagree, criticize, and (if so desired) mock me for these beliefs.

It is my hope and goal, however, that these beliefs guide me in treating others fairly and with respect, but if they don't, then you have every right to call me out for my actions.

Again, I appreciate the discussion - wishing you well and peace

Tim

Major Nikon

(36,900 posts)
99. Your question was, if I understand it correctly...
Thu Jun 27, 2019, 07:25 PM
Jun 2019

Are there aspects of faith that should be celebrated?

My answer is no for the reasons given which have nothing to do with how you view your faith on a personal level. Regardless of what potential you think faith has for benevolence, in practice it has even more potential for malevolence. Either way it’s still a dishonest way of behavior modification. I can really see nothing worth celebrating.

Pendrench

(1,389 posts)
100. Hi Major Nikon - Yes - you understood my question correctly, and I appreciate and respect your
Fri Jun 28, 2019, 07:58 AM
Jun 2019

answer to that question, as well as your right to question and criticize my beliefs.

Obviously we see this differently and will not reach agreement on this issue, but I greatly appreciate your well thought out position/comments and your civility in discussing this with me.

Thank you again - wishing you well and peace.

Tim

NeoGreen

(4,033 posts)
69. Pendrench...
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 07:58 AM
Jun 2019

...Thanks for your reply, I will do my best to address your comments and questions.

When would it be appropriate for someone who is non-faithful to "expose and discuss the roots of the deception" with someone who identifies as a person of faith?

My post above does not suggest that those without 'faith' should engage, but is focused on if and when they do engage.

In other words, do you see this sort of engagement initiated as a reaction to people of faith who overstep their bounds or should this engagement be a proactive step by non-faithful individuals to try to help cure the faithful of this disease?

First, the hypothesis uses an analogy to express the main point and is a priori on shaky ground, as with most analogies, when the details are discussed. That being said, I don't think there is a cure, in the medical sense, I merely wish to provide a possible means for those who are without 'faith' to frame their dialog/approach in discussion with those who claim 'faith'.

The only way out of the 'faith' trap, that is to defeat the virus so to speak, is for the individual to escape on their own.

Pendrench

(1,389 posts)
72. Hi NeoGreen - thank you for your thoughtful reply.
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 09:38 AM
Jun 2019

That makes perfect sense.

If I may ask another question - in your opinion, if an individual (like myself) who claims to be a person of faith is self-delusional in this regard, would it be possible (or even likely) for me to escape the "faith trap" on my own if I see that faith as being beneficial?

For example, as you may have seen in a recent post of mine, my father died last Tuesday:
https://www.candlelightfuneralhome.com/notices/Tom-Lynch?fbclid=IwAR34Q7Emcxxl-pLx8VXkk2T6Fl4OUKIdIt7zLJWMbzB3CV98YJPvolrIkVc

During his life, my father was a very devout Catholic, and that faith not only gave him great comfort, but (in my opinion) it also helped shape his worldview and the way he treated others - with great compassion and love. My mother also shared this faith, and that faith gave her great comfort during the time he was dying - not to mention the words of support and comfort the priest provided at his funeral.

To that end, not that I think that you or anyone else in this group is trying to dissuade me from my own personal beliefs/faith, but for the sake of discussion, do you think faith is always a trap, when (for some) it may be the only available means of solace, support, and comfort?

Thank you again for the opportunity to discuss this with you.

Wishing you well and peace.

Tim



NeoGreen

(4,033 posts)
73. Pendrench...
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 10:12 AM
Jun 2019

... my response(s):

in your opinion, if an individual (like myself) who claims to be a person of faith is self-delusional in this regard, would it be possible (or even likely) for me to escape the "faith trap" on my own if I see that faith as being beneficial?


I really can't speculate on the probability or even the likelihood of your specific ability to escape, other than to say it is possible and that the probability isn't fixed across time.

During his life, my father was a very devout Catholic, and that faith not only gave him great comfort, but (in my opinion) it also helped shape his worldview and the way he treated others - with great compassion and love. My mother also shared this faith, and that faith gave her great comfort during the time he was dying - not to mention the words of support and comfort the priest provided at his funeral.

To that end, not that I think that you or anyone else in this group is trying to dissuade me from my own personal beliefs/faith, but for the sake of discussion, do you think faith is always a trap, when (for some) it may be the only available means of solace, support, and comfort?


No doubt the belief can be a catalyst for comfort and in some cases compassion, regardless of the 'flavor'. However, the level(s) of comfort/solace, no matter how great, do not provide one iota toward the truth of the base beliefs. Transubstantiation is not a real thing. It does not comport with the real world. Creationism is not a real thing. Resurrection is not a real thing. The End-Of-Days in not a real thing.

These beliefs are incompatible with the desire to create and maintain a durable society. Managing the future of society through the 'lens' of religious philosophies and 'truths' is illegitimate and dangerous.

Plus, there are better alternatives in the world that can be catalysis for comfort and compassion, and which have the added benefit of not requiring a belief in magic. It is up to you to seek them out and find them.

Pendrench

(1,389 posts)
74. Hi NeoGreen - thank you again for your reply.
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 10:57 AM
Jun 2019

Although I'm relatively sure that we will not reach agreement on this topic, I greatly appreciate the opportunity to discuss this with you.

Thank you again - wishing you well and peace!

Tim

MaryMagdaline

(7,884 posts)
103. What are the alternatives to faith that can bring comfort and compassion?
Fri Jun 28, 2019, 08:20 AM
Jun 2019

I don’t logically believe in god, etc, but I envy my parents’ resolute faith. Without it, life is meaningless. Believers do have an advantage over the rest of us.

trotsky

(49,533 posts)
104. What?
Fri Jun 28, 2019, 08:36 AM
Jun 2019

Without religious faith, "life is meaningless"? That is simply not true.

One perspective:

https://www.atheistrepublic.com/blog/corymarkum/life-without-god-meaningless

...And yet, there is a silver lining if we but know where and how to recognize it. The above realization, as horrible as it is, also has the capacity to simultaneously engender a powerful, and I think unique, type of significance and meaning to this one, perpetually fleeting life. Again, for those who believe in god, this life is just a precursor, a sort of preliminary round; it is a mere half a century or so of corporeal life preceding an eternity of existence in an incorporeal, better, afterlife. But for atheists, this life is all there is. This life, this world, here and now, and c’est fini—the show’s officially and irrevocably over. Rather than the comprehension of this inescapable fate making our lives less meaningful, these things can instead make our lives and the time that we do have on this planet more meaningful.

...For the godless, the sheer finitude of this life, combined with its fragility, makes every second of it incomparably more astounding and more valuable than it would be if it were merely a chapter taken from an infinite book of life.

MaryMagdaline

(7,884 posts)
106. I've heard, read this. It makes intuitive sense but
Fri Jun 28, 2019, 08:54 AM
Jun 2019

It really is no substitute for the belief in afterlife. If religion is the opiate of the people (it is) I’m not sure a benevolent god or dictator would not prescribe it for the benefit of mankind.

trotsky

(49,533 posts)
107. You should at least understand that it's possible other people see it differently than you do.
Fri Jun 28, 2019, 09:17 AM
Jun 2019

I'm sorry you think life is meaningless without religion, but not everyone does.

Pendrench

(1,389 posts)
113. Hi trotsky - I completely agree with you.
Fri Jun 28, 2019, 09:47 AM
Jun 2019

In my opinion, the fact that one does not adhere to a particular religion and/or set of beliefs (such as I do) does not make their life meaningless. It may, in fact, give MORE meaning to their life, and to the lives of those they love and cherish.

Wishing you well and peace.

Tim

Pendrench

(1,389 posts)
105. Hi MaryMadaline - Although I am a believer (Catholic), I do not think that life is meaningless for
Fri Jun 28, 2019, 08:45 AM
Jun 2019

those who do not have faith, or that we who profess a certain faith have any sort of advantage over those who do not believe.

For example, my father recently died (on June 18) - and while I can personally say that my faith offered me comfort, I can also say that I found comfort in the memories of my father, as well as seeing his legacy live on in his children and grandchildren, not to mention the friends he made, and all the good he accomplished in his life.

Those things are independent of faith, and can be shared and celebrated by all of us...so I definitely can see how faith is not necessary to find comfort in such situations.

As far as compassion is concerned, I would bet that many of the people who took care of my dad during his last illness probably did not believe in god...yet their compassion to him and to our family stemmed from the fact that they were simply good, caring people, not because of what they believed or did not believe.

Anyway, those are just my personal thoughts on this issue - I welcome the opportunity to continue this discussion with you and others.

Wishing you well and peace

Tim

The Velveteen Ocelot

(120,883 posts)
101. DSM-V defines "mental disorder" as follows:
Fri Jun 28, 2019, 08:10 AM
Jun 2019

"A mental disorder is a syndrome characterized by clinically significant disturbance in an individual's cognition, emotion regulation, or behavior that reflects a dysfunction in the psychological, biological, or developmental processes underlying mental functioning. Mental disorders are usually associated with significant distress in social, occupational, or other important activities." If a person's religion isn't causing him/her significant distress in his/her important activities, it wouldn't be classified as a mental disorder.

NeoGreen

(4,033 posts)
108. As I said in previous posts...
Fri Jun 28, 2019, 09:19 AM
Jun 2019

...I was using an analogy to express a hypothesis of an idea. The analogy is not the idea itself.

Also, please consider, the idea is, at its base, a suggestion focused toward people who do not claim 'faith', not the other way around.

Plus, I merely suggested that 'faith' is a form of self-deception and then noted that self-deception is a symptom of mental disorders.

I did not say that 'faith' = mental disorder. You reading too much into the hypothesis.

NeoGreen

(4,033 posts)
109. If the 19 hijackers were 'cured' of their 'self-deceptions'...
Fri Jun 28, 2019, 09:22 AM
Jun 2019

...before 911, wouldn't they have been better off?
The other passengers?
The citizens of the US?
The world as a whole?

MaryMagdaline

(7,884 posts)
110. With your example, we would be better off.
Fri Jun 28, 2019, 09:37 AM
Jun 2019

THEY on the other hand, ended up no worse than they would have, had they lived exemplary lives, loved mankind and cured cancer. They still end up dead and going into nothingness.

They died, however, thinking they would get into heaven. As a wartime advantage, score one for bin laden. If society needs soldiers, the believers have an advantage.

NeoGreen

(4,033 posts)
112. US Marines, or any branch on the US military...
Fri Jun 28, 2019, 09:44 AM
Jun 2019

...don't have "Gott Mit Uns" imprinted on their belts.

The overall advantage is with the secular society whose service members are not deluded with irrational ideas and hold to the idea that: "The object of war is not to die for your country but to make the other bastard die for his."

MaryMagdaline

(7,884 posts)
114. Here we disagree. Give me 50k true believers vs 100k atheists
Fri Jun 28, 2019, 09:49 AM
Jun 2019

If I’m forming an army. Patton was good for motivating the anti-believers, though.

NeoGreen

(4,033 posts)
118. Dysrationalia
Thu Jul 11, 2019, 09:30 AM
Jul 2019
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dysrationalia


Dysrationalia
Dysrationalia is defined as the inability to think and behave rationally despite adequate intelligence. It is a concept in educational psychology and is not a clinical disorder such as a thought disorder. Dysrationalia can be a resource to help explain why smart people fall for Ponzi schemes and other fraudulent encounters.

(snip)

Examples

One example that can be related to dysrationalia centers on two former Illinois schoolteachers who pulled their children from the local public school in the area because discussions of the Holocaust are a part of the history curriculum. These parents, who are presumably competent due to their college education, believe that the Holocaust is a myth and should not be taught to their children. This is an example of a problem in belief formation regardless of intelligence.

A survey was given to Canadian Mensa club members on the topic of paranormal belief. Mensa members are provided membership strictly because of their high-IQ scores. The survey results show that 44% of the members believed in astrology, 51% believed in biorhythms, and 56% believed in the existence of extraterrestrial visitors. All these beliefs have no valid evidence.

There are many examples of people who are famous because of their intelligence, but often display irrational behavior. Martin Heidegger, a renowned philosopher, was also a Nazi apologist and used the most fallacious arguments to justify his beliefs. William Crookes, a famous scientist who discovered the element thallium and a Fellow of the Royal Society, was continually duped by spiritual mediums yet never gave up his spiritualist beliefs. Kary Mullis, an American biochemist and 1993 Nobel Prize winner, is also an astrology supporter and a global warming and HIV/AIDS denier.
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