I’m always thinking, and seldom focusing (ADD), but there’s been a theme to my recent ponderings having to do with the underlying differences between agnostics and true believers—beyond their obvious tolerance and intolerance of ambiguity.
In the process it occurred to me that the whole Judeo-Christian-Islamic tradition is founded on the conviction that there is indeed a supernatural being which created the universe and which—at least insofar as its relationship with the human race is concerned—is an unmitigated asshole.
The supernaturalists talk a lot about their faith, but if faith is the absence of fear, I’ve gotta wonder where the greater faith lies: with those who are convinced that there is a god who’s an asshole, or those who are betting that if there is indeed a god, she/he/it is not an asshole?
Just sayin’ . . . .
Marjorie and I were just talking about the same thing this weekend.
Conclusion: If god is a micromanager, he's either incompetent or malevolent.
On the topic of agnosticism, it's safe ground because you don't have to declare what your belief system is, just that you don't have enough data. It's only recently that I realized what a cowardly position it is, since no one walks around just 'not knowing'. To function in the world, you must have a map of that world in your head. Most agnostics are functionally atheists who hide behind uncertainty so that they can maintain an inoffensive position.
IMHO, anyway.
John
30/8/10 10:20