Sarren wrote:
I feel compelled to ask. What line of thought leads you to your position? I find the agnostic stance interesting, but I have to admit I don't understand how anyone could hold it personally.
Agnosticism is a commonly confused stance primarily in religious belief/non-belief. Most assume it's more along the lines of being an Athiest these days, but not discounting the idea of a larger/greater/higher being or "God". It's actually based on the simple idea that the truth value behind certain belief systems that can associate to religion (although, it doesn't have to primarily be religion) are rejected. It's come to be recognized as saying "I don't know, one way or the other" in regards to a "God".
It's easier to understand in how it's explained today, because it makes more sense since most peoples outlook is "...either you're religious, or you aren't." I'm agnostic, because I reject the concept of structured belief systems surrounding something with no concrete evidence. Elinda made a good point:
Elinda wrote:
I figure if there is some sentient being(s) responsible for the growth and evolution of our natural world in general and our species in particular, and that being wanted me worshiping it or carrying out my life in some particular way, then that Being will be able to let me know in a fairly clear and concise manner. If there is a god(s), but has chosen not to direct or guide us in our societal growth, then that god apparently doesn't care one way or another how I conduct my life - so, I can freely conduct it however I fell compelled to.
Doesn't matter what that
being is. God, Allah, an Alien, the owner of Kentucky Fried Chicken...it doesn't matter. The idea is if there is something greater than us (ie. Mankind) that's responsible for
anything regarding our existence as we know it, and required my money every Sunday to keep the church going, it better damn well appear before me and tell me so. Otherwise, it's all bullsh
it, IMO. Most people come to this conclusion simply by understanding that there cannot be an explanation for anything without evidence, otherwise it's simply
belief in a theory or idea.
Edited for clarity Edited, May 7th 2009 10:47am by Ryneguy