In an interview on Revelation TV, Professor Dawkins is invited to comment on the presenting pastor's own moment of revelation.
He describes a variety of somatic phenomena including, hypersensitivity to colours and sounds, an impression of invulnerability in combination with insignificance and euphoria. These are apparently his principle reasons for belief in God.
Whilst always having been a Christian, he chose his professional pathway at this point.
In countering Dawkins' gentle suggestion that there may be more than one explanation for these issues, none of which need be paranormal, the pastor responds;
'I am just a simple man Richard.. Not an Intellectual like yourself'.
More in the spirit of a rant than a blog entry I must address this pastor and all others I have heard make such ill considered statements.
Claiming 'Simplicity' has no virtue. We are all 'Simple men', the more for taking a reasoned approach when discussing such matters.
A step by step, evidenced based enquiry is a much simpler process than fitting a God into the gaps in your knowledge. I have no need of a god since the gaps I have in my understanding are simply filled by learning.
How refreshing it is to sometimes stumble upon believers who are willing to consider alternatives to magical thinking and assumption. They exist in numbers. Their variety as great as any philosophically minded people.
We share the potential for intellectual inquiry, please try not to substitute assumption for understanding. Education is not scary when you open your mind and religion is no substitute for intellect and cultural experience.
No need to fear. Celebrate your cerebral self!
Friday, 15 June 2012
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