Obviously, I'm not generalising for this to apply to everyone. I just find it interesting really that, some of the kindest, most compassionate, caring, giving and generous people I've known (attributes we might call being a 'good Christian') have been atheists! While on the other hand, I've been shocked by how some (not all obviously) religious people have behaved.
Have you had this experience at all? Talking to atheists, I've gotten the sense they have behaved in such a 'good', kind way because their faith is in humans, rather than a separate entity. They seemed more of the opinion that we all have to help one another because- that's all we've got. Same applies to the lack of afterlife. That we need to make the most of this life perhaps because it's probably all we have.
I suppose it touches on altruism. Why are we nice to each other? Do we actually do it for our own good at the end of the day? That whole saying: 'There's no such thing as an altruistic act.' I suppose, with religious people, the cynic in me wonders if they are sometimes trying to earn brownie points with God.
It is actually fascinating at my parents church that there are all sorts of 'office politics' going on with newer members trying to monopolize certain duties and push others out. There seems to be all this bad feeling which is so bizarre to me when you consider these are supposed to be religious people!
Then, it kind of astounds me the level of kindness I've witnessed in other people who don't have any faith. Is it really because it makes them feel good to give so much of their time to help others? I just find it interesting really. I've always warmed to atheists. I actually wish I was one through and through.
Plus, if there really is a God and heaven and all that and, they've been rejected because they weren't part of the fan club, I'm going to be utterly appalled. Not that it makes any difference what I think but- that would objectively have to be so shit wouldn't it?
Have you had this experience at all? Talking to atheists, I've gotten the sense they have behaved in such a 'good', kind way because their faith is in humans, rather than a separate entity. They seemed more of the opinion that we all have to help one another because- that's all we've got. Same applies to the lack of afterlife. That we need to make the most of this life perhaps because it's probably all we have.
I suppose it touches on altruism. Why are we nice to each other? Do we actually do it for our own good at the end of the day? That whole saying: 'There's no such thing as an altruistic act.' I suppose, with religious people, the cynic in me wonders if they are sometimes trying to earn brownie points with God.
It is actually fascinating at my parents church that there are all sorts of 'office politics' going on with newer members trying to monopolize certain duties and push others out. There seems to be all this bad feeling which is so bizarre to me when you consider these are supposed to be religious people!
Then, it kind of astounds me the level of kindness I've witnessed in other people who don't have any faith. Is it really because it makes them feel good to give so much of their time to help others? I just find it interesting really. I've always warmed to atheists. I actually wish I was one through and through.
Plus, if there really is a God and heaven and all that and, they've been rejected because they weren't part of the fan club, I'm going to be utterly appalled. Not that it makes any difference what I think but- that would objectively have to be so shit wouldn't it?
