Posted by Al; [Aldurant] on November 28, 1999 at 14:15:34 {hcnmikA.FkF1SfI4E1Nwt74NX2uzuA}:
In Reply to: Basic ? for Athiests posted by chappy on November 27, 1999 at 19:51:17:
1. yes, but defining the qualities makes all the difference in the world, like not being all-powerful, like not having the same sort of "consciousness", etc.
2. Yes, there is no question that we are ignorant of something. This, though, has zero bearing on the probability of any suggestion and anyone who suggests it does is conning people, starting with themselves.
3. No, not at all, unless it gave me some sort of specific practical or technical knowledge which would change specific decisions. My ethics and perception of virtue would be identical as would the general direction and intent of my life.
4. Yes. But i must also say that i "like" the opposite also. Order and principles are what i like. This entails a preoccupation with what actually is in existence to the best of my ability. if i am ignorant of it, then honesty requires that i pass over it in silence. And honesty is just one thing required for me to enjoy my life.
And, yes, dogma is a good thing to leave out. it is just politics.
Al