Both atheists and theists genuinely believe that they ultimately know the truth, or are closer to the truth than the opposing side. Some are more tolerant of the differences, but each side deeply holds the conviction that their side is right. Does the fact that there are people who believe just as genuinely in an opposing viewpoint affect, in any way, how you look at religion?
In truth, despite my mean comments. I believe religion is what you make of it. If it brings you happiness and helps you live a good life. Then, you can be satanic or worship dog fleas for all I care. I am all about people having good character and the ability to laugh at the craziness of the world and this message board.
not really...the way i look at God is the way it is...the fact that others disbelieve as strongly as i believe doesn't change my beliefs...nor should it...
I have my own beliefs on religion, but the only thing other people's viewpoint affect on my view is it makes me think more. I take the time to think about their side and if that is something that I believe. I am agnostic myself, and that's the best thing for me to believe.
I'm an acoustic (Sp) while I believe in the big bang and all that I have problems with the beginning of the universe. I can agree that the universe may be in a time loop etc etc etc. But while I understand there maybe an outside force I can't think it is a creator like God in the bible I would like to call it the laws of nature, although it would be something similar to the laws of physics but not yet know.
Nobody REALLY knows for sure, so to have deep convictions is a waste of time. I only agree with the atheists more because they answer logically, with thoughts from their OWN heads without having to rely on the same book for everything!
I think people are motivated by different things. People who believe in the existence of deities do so on the basis of faith, and aren't afraid to admit it - Indeed, they regard faith as a virtue. I see this as "I'll believe what I want to be true, regardless of the fact that there's no valid argument or evidence for it". Conversely, atheists do not have the same kind of motivation to believe in something that there is no valid reason to believe in - Even if we recognize that maybe it would be nice if there really was some kind of father figure 'up there' to look after us. Atheists choose not to deny reality.
So, I would say it's not to do with how people perceive arguments or evidence, but to do with whether the wish to believe overrides reason.
The fact that we must learn to (internally) deal with and be tolerant of and get along with others who truly believe in an opposing viewpoint is a requirement if we're to live in a free society.
I came to this conclusion a long time ago, my only hope is that as many people as possible can come to the same conclusion as soon as possible. Maybe yahoo answers will help, can't see how it would hurt.
I respect everyone for having a belief, i am a devout christian, while one of my closest friends is a devout Athiest. And we have the most interesting and respectful debates and arguments for hours on end. We both respect each others beliefs and understands, yet doesn't not agree with them. So i think although i can understand, realize and respect my mates or anyone Else's atheistic belief, it wont change my faith and devotion to God
God is non-debatable either His Word the bible. Religion is a way of reaching to God so if you are an Atheist you have no religion. As for people who believes there is God, their religion will affect their viewpoint of what is truth. This is the reason why religion cannot save a person. What is important is your relationship to God.
Any one will know the truth - but only at end from which point there is no return.
Whatever you are, an atheist or a theist - one of the following situations will be the end:
1. Believe in God and see that He is there
2. Believe in God and see that He is not there.
3. Believe not and see that He is not there
4. Believe not and see that He is there.
Out of four above situations, which is more desirable?
Conviction in Atheism vs. Theism?
