Posted by David Stephens on June 23, 1998 at 13:35:15:
In Reply to: arguing against the usage of O's Razor posted by Tammy on June 23, 1998 at 12:45:33:
: Maybe a theological use for Occam's razor would point to more simple explanation of God, rather than the the absurd examples you've supplied.
What is absurd to you is not always absurd to the next person. Absurdity isn't the point, reality is. That's why removing the ideas not supported by evidence simplifies the issue and helps find realty. Even though none of the "might haves" on my list are supported by evidence, two of them are actually believed in some cultures.
:My problem with the use of Occam's razor by the atheist quoted in blue's post is that it is self-serving. O's razor is used to eliminate God. (as if that were possible) The atheist doesn't want the added complication of a personal God, who demands ethical behavior & stands above the human being (who would prefer to think of his reasoning capabilities as the pinnacle of existence.)
Obviously you don't like the atheist view, however it's interesting to note that atheists disregard the same thousands of gods you do... plus one more. Perhaps you just don't want to submit to the rules of Zeus, Allah or Osirus? Perhaps when you examine why you don't believe in the other thousands of gods, you'll understand a bit why atheists lack a belief in all gods.
...really Tammy, you've been here long enough that I'm surprised you're using the "atheists don't want to be ethical" nonsense.
:Or are you more mentally comfortable not answering this question? "Oh, I'm in no position to speculate on ultimate causes. I prefer to focus on the known, the tangible."
What is the point of "answering" questions with invented ideas? If we don't know an answer, isn't it better to just admit that we don't know rather than to spout wishful thinking? Understanding that you don't know the truth usually has to occur before the truth is really found. If you let your wishful thinking supply you the answers, you not only get incorrect invented answers, but you won't even bother to look for the real answers anymore.