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Originally Posted by Phaseolus  ...let me present you with an imaginary situation which I would like you to asses with a little empathy. 500 years ago, there lived a farmer who had a large family and toiled his little patch all day in the hope of providing the basic nessecities for his loved ones. The only consolation he had in his tough and dreary life which infused him with the strength to wake up every morning was an unwavering conviction that GOD was looking after his lot and a promise of paradise in the afterlife. Now which realization do you think would affect him worse.. that the world is not flat but round or that GOD was and is a figment of his imagination. You see... As i was telling GX.. The concept of god is too convenient and will be forfeited very reluctantly if ever. I hope you see my point. |
I see your point but I do think the list of predominantly secular countries does constitute evidence that the majority can give up this belief. Though, it would be nice if the list could be independently verified.
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Originally Posted by Phaseolus Another question... I am convinced that world in its current state of affairs could never give up GOD/religion but this distinguished pattern of rising materialism/atheism in proportion with wealth..like in Europe and in America to some extent (I know it is not universally applicable, the middle east being a prime example) is perhaps an indication that at some future point the possibility could be feasible? To put it simply.. do you think an easier life style eliminates the need for GOD? |
I agree that the world in its current state of affairs could never give up belief in god/religion. In fact, I view this as a tautology. As for your question, the simple answer is no, I do not think an easier life style eliminates the need for god. It may help but it is not sufficient to do so. I am actually quite tempted to say that a change in aesthetics would be necessary. I think your farmer example gives an indication of this; it seems the farmer needs his belief in god because otherwise life would just be to ugly.