>I'm curious: why do you have such a problem with the "accidental" universe?
>You claim to be a non-theist and the need for "directedness" in nature is
>usually a need for theism--a need for someone in charge.
Susan
Hi Susan,
I don't have "anything against" an accidental universe; I merely think the
evidence and common sense indicate it is not accidental--that it is the
result of very complex designs. Unlike materialists, I have no objection to
opposing views. I think differences of opinion are healthy. My choice would
be to let those scientists who believe the universe is accidental continue
their research along those lines. I would not ridicule them or try to deny
authenticity to their beliefs. I wouldn't even try to change the mind of any
materialist. I'll be content if the day ever comes when everyone who is not
a strict materialist is no longer accused of being a "creationist" and
"attacking science", of "believing in fairies and the Easter bunny and a flat
earth", of having the "burden of proof" to prove what is to me is obvious
(design). I lose track of the number of "burdens of proof" handed out every
day by Darwinists.. If "design" is ever accepted as a POSSIBILITY
(unprovable, perhaps), I personally will probably lose interest in this
debate. Few of those people advocating design wish to stop scientific
research and claim "god did it". Most are in favor of a science which does
not dogmatically declare that reality consists of nothing but materialism.
None of this affects me, as I am not a scientist. As an Agnostic, I don't
concern myself with unanswerable questions, such as the nature of any
"designers" However I believe the philosophy of materialism has had a
pernicious effect upon society. Denigration of "free will", and the
philosophies of Marx and Freud are examples. Nevertheless, I never called
anyone who believed in Marxism a "commie", and I hated McCarthyism. Much as
I disliked Freudianism, I didn't call psychiatrists "shrinks". I always felt
the truth would prevail without any form of intimidation or name-calling.
Bertvan
P.S. If you want to understand my aversion to imposing ideas upon anyone, see
my web site. Nothing much to do with evolution, but it does explain how I
became so bold as to doubt "scientific authorities".
Http://members.aol.com/bertvan