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Frequent Contributor
Daryl Flynn
Posts: 100
Registered: ‎01-17-2013

Re: Does God have a plan?

I was going to respond to sedelsorey, but it appears he's removed his post, or he's editing it.

Can we delete our posts here?

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Super Contributor
Posts: 9,355
Registered: ‎04-18-2004

Re: Does God have a plan?


Daryl Flynn wrote:
God exists outside of time and space. So, how could we know? I think the Bible says he always was. Or, something to that nature.
Just not in anyway you can demonstrate. Your mere assertions are just that - mere assertions. Moreover, as apparent support, you provide yet another mere assertion from the Bible. Try to get it together. I'm not interested in your mere assertions.
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Super Contributor
Posts: 9,355
Registered: ‎04-18-2004

Re: Does God have a plan?


Daryl Flynn wrote:

I was going to respond to sedelsorey, but it appears he's removed his post, or he's editing it.

Can we delete our posts here?


I'm learning how to post in this new forum. It's different and I apologize for pulling the prior post. Dunno how to deote an entire post (other than the content). I did repost it which changes.
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Frequent Contributor
Daryl Flynn
Posts: 100
Registered: ‎01-17-2013

Re: Does God have a plan?


sdelsolray wrote:

Daryl Flynn wrote:

guido61 wrote:

Daryl Flynn wrote:

Who created us? :smileyhappy:



Who says we necessarily had to be 'created'?   


Occam's razor: The most simple theory is usually the correct one; we exist, therefore we had to be created.

Creation is the theory which also explains things the most without leaving huge unexplained holes in it, such as where did the Big Bang come from?

Here's a question for atheists? Explain altruism? It doesn't fit in with any of Darwin's theories. Why does it exist?

 

 

You know this forum is dead when I start discussing religion. :smileyvery-happy:

 


Creation is not a scientific theory. There is no empirical evidence to support it. Creation is a mere assertion. Try again. And be more careful in the future with the use of the word "theory".

Occam's razor doesn't apply because by asserting creation you are adding complexity by demandning a creator which is more complex than the creation. That is not the simpler explanation at all.

Your understaniding of the current biological theory of evolution appears deficient. Numerous peer review papaers and numerous lay explanations of how altruism is compatible, indeed predicted, within evolutionary thoery are avaialble. I suggest you read some of them to answer your questions.


Ok, here's his post.

Paragraph 1: Creation is a theory. Theory is a contemplative and rational type of abstract or generalizing thinking, or the results of such thinking.

btw, we can't deduce the existence of God with simple scientific theory as God exists outside of time and space. It's the wrong approach and will lead nowhere.

 

Paragraph 2: Subjective. I don't find the idea of a Creator complex at all. Why do you find it so "complex"?

 

Paragraph 3: It would appear that you can't answer the question. Or, you would. My understanding of Darwin and his theories is perfectly sufficient for this debate. So, again I ask you to explain altruism. Why does it exist?

 

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Trusted Contributor
guido61
Posts: 28,317
Registered: ‎12-09-2001

Re: Does God have a plan?

We could delete posts a couple of days ago. Right now, that feature seems to be missing. Will it return?
--David

FOR SALE: DBX Driverack PX; DBX 231 EQ; Behringer Racktuner; Rane SAC 22 crossover; Alesis D4 drum module; Line 6 Pod Pro rackmount.

Band website: http://www.JumpStartYourParty.com
http://www.gigmasters.com/Rock/Jump-Start/

Stage gear: Korg Kronos, Yamaha Motif, M-Audio Venom, Neo Ventilator, Digitech GSP-1101, Fender Stratocaster, Takamine Eg544SC, Samson SM10 line mixer, Alesis Picoverb, Samson Airline 77 Wireless, APC Smart-UPS SC 450VA
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Frequent Contributor
Daryl Flynn
Posts: 100
Registered: ‎01-17-2013

Re: Does God have a plan?


guido61 wrote:

Daryl Flynn wrote:

God exists outside of time and space. So, how could we know? I think the Bible says he always was. Or, something to that nature.


Preexisting?  Without a creator?

OK, I can fathom that.  But, if that's possible, then certainly you can also fathom that WE were always prexisting as well.  That it didn't take another being to set all this in motion.  That maybe it just always was.

Or, another way to look at things:  If Occam's Razor tells us that the most simple explanation is that we were created, then perhaps if there's no similaly simple explanation for God's existence, and we've never seen him, then perhaps the most simple explanation is that he doesn't exist at all.


We know we didn't always exist. They've pretty much pinned down the approximate age of the earth. And (although I could be wrong) even the universe. 

If you go by the most simple explanation being that God doesn't exist, then that leaves more questions than it answers. Which wouldn't be using Occam's Razor to find a simple explanation for how the universe came to be.

 

You can't find God with simple human science because he exists outside of time and space. It's like fishing with a dish towel.

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Frequent Contributor
Daryl Flynn
Posts: 100
Registered: ‎01-17-2013

Re: Does God have a plan?


guido61 wrote:
We could delete posts a couple of days ago. Right now, that feature seems to be missing. Will it return?

I hope so. It's a good feature.

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Super Contributor
Chaunch
Posts: 6,483
Registered: ‎08-25-2007

Re: Does God have a plan?

[ Edited ]

sdelsolray wrote:
Re: Does God have a plan?

Chaunch wrote:

Are things unfolding as they should according to him?


First things first. Please establish the actual existence of this particular "God" first. Once that is accomplished, then the discussion can turn to whether that God has a plan.

The question was for people who believe in God.

Let's assume the Christian God exists, does he have a plan?

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Frequent Contributor
Daryl Flynn
Posts: 100
Registered: ‎01-17-2013

Re: Does God have a plan?

[ Edited ]

sdelsolray wrote:

Daryl Flynn wrote:

I was going to respond to sedelsorey, but it appears he's removed his post, or he's editing it.

Can we delete our posts here?


I'm learning how to post in this new forum. It's different and I apologize for pulling the prior post. Dunno how to deote an entire post (other than the content). I did repost it which changes.

Yeah, this new forum can be frustrating.

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Trusted Contributor
guido61
Posts: 28,317
Registered: ‎12-09-2001

Re: Does God have a plan?

We know we didn't always exist. They've pretty much pinned down the approximate age of the earth. And (although I could be wrong) even the universe. 

Yes, but even if we trace it back to the Big Bang. Did God set the Big Bang in motion? Or were the necessary chemicals and conditions for the proper reaction just 'always there'? Seems to me you can't have it both ways. It's just as easy to presume the "always existing" theory for God as it is for The Universe.

If you go by the most simple explanation being that God doesn't exist, then that leaves more questions than it answers. Which wouldn't be using Occam's Razor to find a simple explanation for how the universe came to be.

Again, I'm not sure you get to have it both ways. If the most simple explanation for our existance is "creation" as opposed to "always existed", then for God it has to be either "created" or "doesn't exist". "Always existed" isn't the most simple explanation because we know of no such happening in the universe.

You can't find God with simple human science because he exists outside of time and space. It's like fishing with a dish towel.

Then we're out of room to discuss here. If you're going to keep falling back on "God exists, but he's too far beyond us to understand why or how", then there's nothing real here to discuss. I could just as easily tell you that God is made of soda pop.
--David

FOR SALE: DBX Driverack PX; DBX 231 EQ; Behringer Racktuner; Rane SAC 22 crossover; Alesis D4 drum module; Line 6 Pod Pro rackmount.

Band website: http://www.JumpStartYourParty.com
http://www.gigmasters.com/Rock/Jump-Start/

Stage gear: Korg Kronos, Yamaha Motif, M-Audio Venom, Neo Ventilator, Digitech GSP-1101, Fender Stratocaster, Takamine Eg544SC, Samson SM10 line mixer, Alesis Picoverb, Samson Airline 77 Wireless, APC Smart-UPS SC 450VA
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Super Contributor
Posts: 9,355
Registered: ‎04-18-2004

Re: Does God have a plan?

[ Edited ]

Daryl Flynn wrote:

sdelsolray wrote:

Daryl Flynn wrote:

guido61 wrote:

Daryl Flynn wrote:

Who created us? :smileyhappy:



Who says we necessarily had to be 'created'?   


Occam's razor: The most simple theory is usually the correct one; we exist, therefore we had to be created.

Creation is the theory which also explains things the most without leaving huge unexplained holes in it, such as where did the Big Bang come from?

Here's a question for atheists? Explain altruism? It doesn't fit in with any of Darwin's theories. Why does it exist?

 

 

You know this forum is dead when I start discussing religion. :smileyvery-happy:

 


Creation is not a scientific theory. There is no empirical evidence to support it. Creation is a mere assertion. Try again. And be more careful in the future with the use of the word "theory".

Occam's razor doesn't apply because by asserting creation you are adding complexity by demandning a creator which is more complex than the creation. That is not the simpler explanation at all.

Your understaniding of the current biological theory of evolution appears deficient. Numerous peer review papaers and numerous lay explanations of how altruism is compatible, indeed predicted, within evolutionary thoery are avaialble. I suggest you read some of them to answer your questions.


Ok, here's his post.

Paragraph 1: Creation is a theory. Theory is a contemplative and rational type of abstract or generalizing thinking, or the results of such thinking.

btw, we can't deduce the existence of God with simple scientific theory as God exists outside of time and space. It's the wrong approach and will lead nowhere.

 

Paragraph 2: Subjective. I don't find the idea of a Creator complex at all. Why do you find it so "complex"?

 

Paragraph 3: It would appear that you can't answer the question. Or, you would. My understanding of Darwin and his theories is perfectly sufficient for this debate. So, again I ask you to explain altruism. Why does it exist?

 


As to paragraph 1: Once again, you and I seem to be using different definitions. Certainly, you will admit (and apparently have admitted) that creation "theory" is not a scientific theory. That's what I meant - "theory" as in scientific theory. Your creation "theory", regardless of how you attempt to define it, is solely composed of mere assertions. Mere assertions are a dime a dozen, and frequently boring.  Mere assertions do not a scientific theory make.

As to paragraph 2: You missed the point. Adding a creator to the existing universe/existence adds complexity. 1 + 2 is greater than 2. Accordingly, your addition of a God/creator violates Occam's razor.

As to paragraph 3: I'm not your research assistant. I stated you are deficient in your knowledge of the biological theory of evolution as it applies to altruism. I suggested that you research the subject further. I could give you some information about it (I"ve actually studied the interconnection, read papers and lay material), but I choose not to do so. I have better things to do and you are perfectly capable of researching the topic all by yourself. Nevertheless, let me remind you of one point I previously stated: the current biological theory of evolution predicts that altruism will occur. Do you even know that the theory makes that prediction? Why does it do so? What empirical evidence supports that portion of the theory? What experiments have been documented which test the prediction?  I would suggest an intial reading of the 1976 book The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins.  Not the best thing out there, but it is a lay presentation and easily accessible.

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onelife
Posts: 6,041
Registered: ‎08-14-2005

Re: Does God have a plan?

you can't control the wind but you can learn to sail

contentment is true wealth

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onelife
Posts: 6,041
Registered: ‎08-14-2005

Re: Does God have a plan?


Daryl Flynn wrote:

Here's a question for atheists? Explain altruism? It doesn't fit in with any of Darwin's theories. Why does it exist?

 Altruism is simply Loving Kindness - being kind simply for the sake of being kind.

When someone experiences an act Loving Kindness it is easy to see the value of it. Those who learn from the experience are often willing to help others with no expectation of return. It does not require belief in God or anything other than one's self to be kind.

you can't control the wind but you can learn to sail

contentment is true wealth

\
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Frequent Contributor
Daryl Flynn
Posts: 100
Registered: ‎01-17-2013

Re: Does God have a plan?


sdelsolray wrote:

Daryl Flynn wrote:

sdelsolray wrote:

Daryl Flynn wrote:

guido61 wrote:

Daryl Flynn wrote:

Who created us? :smileyhappy:



Who says we necessarily had to be 'created'?   


Occam's razor: The most simple theory is usually the correct one; we exist, therefore we had to be created.

Creation is the theory which also explains things the most without leaving huge unexplained holes in it, such as where did the Big Bang come from?

Here's a question for atheists? Explain altruism? It doesn't fit in with any of Darwin's theories. Why does it exist?

 

 

You know this forum is dead when I start discussing religion. :smileyvery-happy:

 


Creation is not a scientific theory. There is no empirical evidence to support it. Creation is a mere assertion. Try again. And be more careful in the future with the use of the word "theory".

Occam's razor doesn't apply because by asserting creation you are adding complexity by demandning a creator which is more complex than the creation. That is not the simpler explanation at all.

Your understaniding of the current biological theory of evolution appears deficient. Numerous peer review papaers and numerous lay explanations of how altruism is compatible, indeed predicted, within evolutionary thoery are avaialble. I suggest you read some of them to answer your questions.


Ok, here's his post.

Paragraph 1: Creation is a theory. Theory is a contemplative and rational type of abstract or generalizing thinking, or the results of such thinking.

btw, we can't deduce the existence of God with simple scientific theory as God exists outside of time and space. It's the wrong approach and will lead nowhere.

 

Paragraph 2: Subjective. I don't find the idea of a Creator complex at all. Why do you find it so "complex"?

 

Paragraph 3: It would appear that you can't answer the question. Or, you would. My understanding of Darwin and his theories is perfectly sufficient for this debate. So, again I ask you to explain altruism. Why does it exist?

 


As to paragraph 1: Once again, you and I seem to be using different definitions. Certainly, you will admit (and apparently have admitted) that creation "theory" is not a scientific theory. That's what I meant - "theory" as in scientific theory. Your creation "theory", regardless of how you attempt to define it, is solely composed of mere assertions. Mere assertions are a dome a dozen, and frequently boring.  Mere assertions do not a scientific theory make.

As to paragraph 2: You missed the point. Adding a creator to the existing universe/existence adds complexity. 1 + 2 is greater than 2. Accordingly, your addition of a God/creator violates Occam's razor.

As to paragraph 3: I'm not your research assistant. I stated you are deficient in your knowledge of the biological theory of evolution as it applies to altruism. I suggested that you research the subject further. I could give you some information about it (I"ve actually studied the interconnection, read papers and lay material), but I choose not to do so. I have better things to do and you are perfectly capable of researching the topic all by yourself. Nevertheless, let me remind you of one point I previously stated: the current biological theory of evolution predicts that altruism will occur. Do you even know that the theory makes that prediction? Why does it do so? What empirical evidence supports that portion of the theory? What experiments have been documented which test the prediction?  I would suggest an intial reading of the 1976 book The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins.  Not the best thing out there, but it is a lay presentation and easily accessible.


P 1:  If you have a scientific theory as to how the Big Bang came to be, I'd like to hear it. I at least have a theory.

 

P 2:  No, answering the question of how the Big Bang happened by saying "it was created" is using the most simple explanation. That is preciously Occam's Razor. You need to get past the fact you personally don't like the answer. If you have a better or even more simple answer, let's hear it.

 

P 3: I'm not asking you to be my research assistant, am I? I'm asking you to debate the topic using your own thoughts and knowledge and not refer me to some author, one whom I may not even respect his theories. So, one last time I ask you to explain how altruism fits in with your disbelief in a higher being? Why do humans exhibit altruism? It doesn't fit with Darwin's theory of evolution (of which I believe for the most part, but, that it was put into motion by a creator). Altruism appears to be something hardwired into human beings that comes from somewhere else than simply a mere biological evolutionary function.

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Frequent Contributor
Daryl Flynn
Posts: 100
Registered: ‎01-17-2013

Re: Does God have a plan?


onelife wrote:

Daryl Flynn wrote:

Here's a question for atheists? Explain altruism? It doesn't fit in with any of Darwin's theories. Why does it exist?

 Altruism is simply Loving Kindness - being kind simply for the sake of being kind.

When someone experiences an act Loving Kindness it is easy to see the value of it. Those who learn from the experience are often willing to help others with no expectation of return. It does not require belief in God or anything other than one's self to be kind.


It does not require belief in God, but where does it come from? Why does it exist?

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Super Contributor
Posts: 9,355
Registered: ‎04-18-2004

Re: Does God have a plan?

[ Edited ]

Daryl Flynn wrote:

sdelsolray wrote:

Daryl Flynn wrote:

sdelsolray wrote:

Daryl Flynn wrote:

guido61 wrote:

Daryl Flynn wrote:

Who created us? :smileyhappy:



Who says we necessarily had to be 'created'?   


Occam's razor: The most simple theory is usually the correct one; we exist, therefore we had to be created.

Creation is the theory which also explains things the most without leaving huge unexplained holes in it, such as where did the Big Bang come from?

Here's a question for atheists? Explain altruism? It doesn't fit in with any of Darwin's theories. Why does it exist?

 

 

You know this forum is dead when I start discussing religion. :smileyvery-happy:

 


Creation is not a scientific theory. There is no empirical evidence to support it. Creation is a mere assertion. Try again. And be more careful in the future with the use of the word "theory".

Occam's razor doesn't apply because by asserting creation you are adding complexity by demandning a creator which is more complex than the creation. That is not the simpler explanation at all.

Your understaniding of the current biological theory of evolution appears deficient. Numerous peer review papaers and numerous lay explanations of how altruism is compatible, indeed predicted, within evolutionary thoery are avaialble. I suggest you read some of them to answer your questions.


Ok, here's his post.

Paragraph 1: Creation is a theory. Theory is a contemplative and rational type of abstract or generalizing thinking, or the results of such thinking.

btw, we can't deduce the existence of God with simple scientific theory as God exists outside of time and space. It's the wrong approach and will lead nowhere.

 

Paragraph 2: Subjective. I don't find the idea of a Creator complex at all. Why do you find it so "complex"?

 

Paragraph 3: It would appear that you can't answer the question. Or, you would. My understanding of Darwin and his theories is perfectly sufficient for this debate. So, again I ask you to explain altruism. Why does it exist?

 


As to paragraph 1: Once again, you and I seem to be using different definitions. Certainly, you will admit (and apparently have admitted) that creation "theory" is not a scientific theory. That's what I meant - "theory" as in scientific theory. Your creation "theory", regardless of how you attempt to define it, is solely composed of mere assertions. Mere assertions are a dome a dozen, and frequently boring.  Mere assertions do not a scientific theory make.

As to paragraph 2: You missed the point. Adding a creator to the existing universe/existence adds complexity. 1 + 2 is greater than 2. Accordingly, your addition of a God/creator violates Occam's razor.

As to paragraph 3: I'm not your research assistant. I stated you are deficient in your knowledge of the biological theory of evolution as it applies to altruism. I suggested that you research the subject further. I could give you some information about it (I"ve actually studied the interconnection, read papers and lay material), but I choose not to do so. I have better things to do and you are perfectly capable of researching the topic all by yourself. Nevertheless, let me remind you of one point I previously stated: the current biological theory of evolution predicts that altruism will occur. Do you even know that the theory makes that prediction? Why does it do so? What empirical evidence supports that portion of the theory? What experiments have been documented which test the prediction?  I would suggest an intial reading of the 1976 book The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins.  Not the best thing out there, but it is a lay presentation and easily accessible.


P 1:  If you have a scientific theory as to how the Big Bang came to be, I'd like to hear it. I at least have a theory.

 

P 2:  No, answering the question of how the Big Bang happened by saying "it was created" is using the most simple explanation. That is preciously Occam's Razor. You need to get past the fact you personally don't like the answer. If you have a better or even more simple answer, let's hear it.

 

P 3: I'm not asking you to be my research assistant, am I? I'm asking you to debate the topic using your own thoughts and knowledge and not refer me to some author, one whom I may not even respect his theories. So, one last time I ask you to explain how altruism fits in with your disbelief in a higher being? Why do humans exhibit altruism? It doesn't fit with Darwin's theory of evolution (of which I believe for the most part, but, that it was put into motion by a creator). Altruism appears to be something hardwired into human beings that comes from somewhere else than simply a mere biological evolutionary function.


Paragraph 1: The Big Bang is already a scientific theory, at least according to some. Personally, I consider it a strong hypothesis, with somewhat compelling supporting empirical evidence. You do not have a scientific theory, you have mere assertions which you semantically label as a "theory", in an apparent effort to shortchange evidentiary requirements. Understand further, that a mere assertion, particularly a mere assertion about the existence of certain sky fairies, is an informal logical fallacy. Do you wish to continue to hold your position based on an informal logical fallacy? Why should I continue to debate you on this point? Give me a rational reason.  Give me evidence.  Or at least move on to the special pleading fallacy, so we can document the typical theist irrationality sequence.

Paragraph 2: Says you. I am not persuaded in the least. Other answers, which are far less complex, and do not violate Occam's Razor include, but are not limited to, (i) the universe has always existed, (ii) the anthropic principle requires existence as it currently exists, or (iii) natural laws of physics and chemistry demand current existence.  No sky fairies requires whatsoever.

Paragraph 3: Once again, you are deficient in your understanding of the biological theory of evolution. I choose not to waste my time educating you on the interplay between the theory and altruism. I can only suggest (for the third time) that you study the subject yourself. Another hint: anthropocentrism is not a virtue, it is an apologetic excuse, and a bad one at that.

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Trusted Contributor
guido61
Posts: 28,317
Registered: ‎12-09-2001

Re: Does God have a plan?


Daryl Flynn wrote:

It does not require belief in God, but where does it come from? Why does it exist?


Where does love come from?  Or empathy?    or hatred? or jealousy?  or any emotion?  It's part of our genetic/chemical makeup.   From the same raw emotions that give a will to survive or reproduce.  They just don't always manefest themselves in the same manner all the time.

--David

FOR SALE: DBX Driverack PX; DBX 231 EQ; Behringer Racktuner; Rane SAC 22 crossover; Alesis D4 drum module; Line 6 Pod Pro rackmount.

Band website: http://www.JumpStartYourParty.com
http://www.gigmasters.com/Rock/Jump-Start/

Stage gear: Korg Kronos, Yamaha Motif, M-Audio Venom, Neo Ventilator, Digitech GSP-1101, Fender Stratocaster, Takamine Eg544SC, Samson SM10 line mixer, Alesis Picoverb, Samson Airline 77 Wireless, APC Smart-UPS SC 450VA
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Valued Contributor
onelife
Posts: 6,041
Registered: ‎08-14-2005

Re: Does God have a plan?

[ Edited ]

Daryl Flynn wrote:

P 1:  If you have a scientific theory as to how the Big Bang came to be, I'd like to hear it. I at least have a theory.

P 2:  No, answering the question of how the Big Bang happened by saying "it was created" is using the most simple explanation. That is preciously Occam's Razor. You need to get past the fact you personally don't like the answer. If you have a better or even more simple answer, let's hear it.

P 3: I'm not asking you to be my research assistant, am I? I'm asking you to debate the topic using your own thoughts and knowledge and not refer me to some author, one whom I may not even respect his theories. So, one last time I ask you to explain how altruism fits in with your disbelief in a higher being? Why do humans exhibit altruism? It doesn't fit with Darwin's theory of evolution (of which I believe for the most part, but, that it was put into motion by a creator). Altruism appears to be something hardwired into human beings that comes from somewhere else than simply a mere biological evolutionary function.


First of all Daryl, let me say that it is nice to be having a civilized discussion about this even though we have differing points of view.

According to the Buddha, who was not a god nor did he ever claim to be - he was just a man, like any one of us, who took the time and made the effort required to figure things out: 

There are these four unconjecturables that are not to be conjectured about, that would bring madness & vexation to anyone who conjectured about them. Which four?

The Buddha-range of the Buddhas[1] is an unconjecturable that is not to be conjectured about, that would bring madness & vexation to anyone who conjectured about it.

The jhana-range of a person in jhana...[2]

The [precise working out of the] results of kamma...

Conjecture about [the origin, etc., of] the world is an unconjecturable that is not to be conjectured about, that would bring madness & vexation to anyone who conjectured about it.

These are the four unconjecturables that are not to be conjectured about, that would bring madness & vexation to anyone who conjectured about them.

1. I.e., the range of powers a Buddha develops as a result of becoming a Buddha.

2. I.e., the range of powers that one may obtain while absorbed in jhana.

link

you can't control the wind but you can learn to sail

contentment is true wealth

\
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Super Contributor
Posts: 2,456
Registered: ‎02-23-2009

Re: Does God have a plan?

[ Edited ]

Daryl Flynn wrote:

sdelsolray wrote:

Daryl Flynn wrote:

sdelsolray wrote:

Daryl Flynn wrote:

guido61 wrote:

Daryl Flynn wrote:

Who created us? :smileyhappy:



Who says we necessarily had to be 'created'?   


Occam's razor: The most simple theory is usually the correct one; we exist, therefore we had to be created.

Creation is the theory which also explains things the most without leaving huge unexplained holes in it, such as where did the Big Bang come from?

Here's a question for atheists? Explain altruism? It doesn't fit in with any of Darwin's theories. Why does it exist?

 

 

You know this forum is dead when I start discussing religion. :smileyvery-happy:

 


Creation is not a scientific theory. There is no empirical evidence to support it. Creation is a mere assertion. Try again. And be more careful in the future with the use of the word "theory".

Occam's razor doesn't apply because by asserting creation you are adding complexity by demandning a creator which is more complex than the creation. That is not the simpler explanation at all.

Your understaniding of the current biological theory of evolution appears deficient. Numerous peer review papaers and numerous lay explanations of how altruism is compatible, indeed predicted, within evolutionary thoery are avaialble. I suggest you read some of them to answer your questions.


Ok, here's his post.

Paragraph 1: Creation is a theory. Theory is a contemplative and rational type of abstract or generalizing thinking, or the results of such thinking.

btw, we can't deduce the existence of God with simple scientific theory as God exists outside of time and space. It's the wrong approach and will lead nowhere.

 

Paragraph 2: Subjective. I don't find the idea of a Creator complex at all. Why do you find it so "complex"?

 

Paragraph 3: It would appear that you can't answer the question. Or, you would. My understanding of Darwin and his theories is perfectly sufficient for this debate. So, again I ask you to explain altruism. Why does it exist?

 


As to paragraph 1: Once again, you and I seem to be using different definitions. Certainly, you will admit (and apparently have admitted) that creation "theory" is not a scientific theory. That's what I meant - "theory" as in scientific theory. Your creation "theory", regardless of how you attempt to define it, is solely composed of mere assertions. Mere assertions are a dome a dozen, and frequently boring.  Mere assertions do not a scientific theory make.

As to paragraph 2: You missed the point. Adding a creator to the existing universe/existence adds complexity. 1 + 2 is greater than 2. Accordingly, your addition of a God/creator violates Occam's razor.

As to paragraph 3: I'm not your research assistant. I stated you are deficient in your knowledge of the biological theory of evolution as it applies to altruism. I suggested that you research the subject further. I could give you some information about it (I"ve actually studied the interconnection, read papers and lay material), but I choose not to do so. I have better things to do and you are perfectly capable of researching the topic all by yourself. Nevertheless, let me remind you of one point I previously stated: the current biological theory of evolution predicts that altruism will occur. Do you even know that the theory makes that prediction? Why does it do so? What empirical evidence supports that portion of the theory? What experiments have been documented which test the prediction?  I would suggest an intial reading of the 1976 book The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins.  Not the best thing out there, but it is a lay presentation and easily accessible.


P 1:  If you have a scientific theory as to how the Big Bang came to be, I'd like to hear it. I at least have a theory.

 

P 2:  No, answering the question of how the Big Bang happened by saying "it was created" is using the most simple explanation. That is preciously Occam's Razor. You need to get past the fact you personally don't like the answer. If you have a better or even more simple answer, let's hear it.

 

P 3: I'm not asking you to be my research assistant, am I? I'm asking you to debate the topic using your own thoughts and knowledge and not refer me to some author, one whom I may not even respect his theories. So, one last time I ask you to explain how altruism fits in with your disbelief in a higher being? Why do humans exhibit altruism? It doesn't fit with Darwin's theory of evolution (of which I believe for the most part, but, that it was put into motion by a creator). Altruism appears to be something hardwired into human beings that comes from somewhere else than simply a mere biological evolutionary function.


You are asserting that altruism doesn't jibe with the theory of evolution due to your own preconceptions. The answer is quite simple; The individuals in cooperative groups are more likely to survive and therefore pass on those traits to their offspring. A much simpler explanation than something put it there. 

"Every illegal gun starts out as a legal gun."- bOoradley
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Super Contributor
Posts: 13,049
Registered: ‎06-02-2009

Re: Does God have a plan?


Orygun wrote:
 The individuals in cooperative groups are more likely to survive and therefore pass on those traits to their offspring. A much simpler explanation than something put it there. 

Well, that sounds nice, but I don't know that it's true, don't know that cooperation does in fact enhance survival at a species level. Our species can cooperate on the Manhattan project as well as farming. Secondly, that's insufficient to provide an evolutionary explanation.  Features in evolution (according to the hypothesis) do not arise for any reason, rather, they are selected if they prove beneficial.  So you still have to lay out the sequence of mutations that would produce cooperation in the first place.

 

I have noticed that those who deny God also deny their own humanity
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