interesting wiki article,
isolated villagers worshipping americans and stuff.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cargo_cult
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1skNgYdJXK8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MMkVxry-YJI
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interesting wiki article,
isolated villagers worshipping americans and stuff.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cargo_cult
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1skNgYdJXK8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MMkVxry-YJI
It's interesting how the cargo cults demonstrated how easily religions can sprout up through sheer ignorance. As hard evidence, it may very well demonstrate how all religions started.
I also find it interesting that these cargo cult religionists amazingly manage, via their respective doctrine; to use their supposed deities in the interests of the promotion of themselves (being the 'true believers') as the rightful recipients of the cargo.
However the question will always remain as to whether the worship was all about the spiritual deity as theorized, or the obviously physical cargo?
I find it interesting that they have this natural predisposition to recognize something as greater than themselves
It certainly is fascinating from a social sciences/human psychology perspective to notice that pre-scientific cultures tend to assign agency to things they cannot explain via some other method. I don't think this is sound argumentation for their being "a higher power" though.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
For example, most children have fears of boogeymen, but that we all have this common fear doesn't mean there really are monsters underneath any of our beds.
obviously for the cargo, just as the worship of god is to get into heaven, and not burn in hell.Originally Posted by Apopohis Reject
Obviously a religionist's response, however I will reiterate a previous point, now in your direction, my friend - beware ye the leaven of the Pharisees.Originally Posted by dejawolf
Clearly you have little more insight than any 6 year old on your mentioned 'god', his 'heaven'; and 'hell', for these are all spiritual terms, which necessarily requires them to have zero physical quality to them. Yet religious people continue to pin their hopes in the physical - just as these natives looked for their salvation in the physicality of the cargo goods - rather than their (supposed) half spiritual / half physical 'god' - who like all predecessors; will forever remain as nothing more substantial than yet another concocted imagining of religiously minded man.
Huh?Obviously a religionist's response,
I guess in one sense, with all our over hyped zeal in technology, we are also cargo cultistsOriginally Posted by dejawolf
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[quote="PhoenixG"]It certainly is fascinating from a social sciences/human psychology perspective to notice that pre-scientific cultures tend to assign agency to things they cannot explain via some other method. I don't think this is sound argumentation for their being "a higher power" though.[quote]Originally Posted by loftmarcell
of course there is a (quite literal) higher power involved
I'm not sure what direction you are trying to take with this.For example, most children have fears of boogeymen, but that we all have this common fear doesn't mean there really are monsters underneath any of our beds.
Even in the case of bogeymen there is the clear example of a predisposition to a higher power than one's self
The way I see it, there are two alternatives:Originally Posted by loftmarcell
1) You have evidence to support this or
2) This is conjecture.
That our shared experience of imagined things does not make them real.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
I don't know that I would categorize monsters under the bed as a "higher power than one's self".Originally Posted by loftmarcell
I'm not sure I follow?Originally Posted by PhoenixG
You don't think there is any evidence that the cultists had a way a life which involved (in their opinion) higher powers?
Or is it your opinion that there are no higher powers involved in the creation, maintenance and destruction of the universe?
(PS - If your arguing the later, I think you are way out of your league)
Certainly.That our shared experience of imagined things does not make them real.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
However when you try to suggest that human culture can exist without the display of awe and reverence to some object/form/ideal (of course whether they are actually deserving of such awe and reverence is something else) its not clear what consensus of experience you are calling upon, much less what evidence there is for this claim.
explaining that to a 4 year old is probably just as difficult as explaining to a dying gross materialist that there are issues of self beyond the bodyI don't know that I would categorize monsters under the bed as a "higher power than one's self".Originally Posted by loftmarcell
You are making a claim that there is a literal higher power. Here is the quote again for clarity:Originally Posted by loftmarcell
"of course there is a (quite literal) higher power involved"
Per my post, you either have evidence to support this or you do not (meaning that it's conjecture on your part). I hope that helps.
Actual higher powers or a belief in higher powers? Again, belief of something is not evidence for something.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
I have yet to see any evidence for any such "higher powers", therefore I don't see any reason to believe in them. If/when evidence is forthcoming, I shall have to re-evaluate my position.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
I guess we shall have to see about that.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
I'm not sure what this means. I suppose it is arguable as to whether or not "feelings of awe" (I'm ignoring "reverence" because I don't care much for double-barreled arguments) are necessary for our survival, but I do think it fairly safe to conclude that most people have them.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
All that is though is evidence that human animals are generally capable of an emotion that we call "awe". So what?
Gee, I was hoping that we could talk to some adults. Unless of course you are suggesting that theists share the emotional development of 4 year olds. Personally, I like to think that all adults are capable of more than that.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
The reality is that we have no evidence for "issues of self beyond the body". Accepting such claims without evidence is superstitious wishful thinking, and while such thinking might be as comforting as a nite-lite, that doesn't make it reality. The same thing goes for un-observable "higher powers".
Thanks for your post.
actually I am making a claim that the cargo cult involves issues of higher powers (and extending that to say its typical of all cultures, even those in the lower rungs of gross materialism)Originally Posted by PhoenixG
socially speaking, their culture is atypical.Actual higher powers or a belief in higher powers? Again, belief of something is not evidence for something.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
If you have an example of culture, community or even sub culture that doesn't involve higher powers, perhaps you would have something to talk about
let me ask it another wayI have yet to see any evidence for any such "higher powers", therefore I don't see any reason to believe in them. If/when evidence is forthcoming, I shall have to re-evaluate my position.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Do you consider yourself the topmost entity in the universe or do you think that there are persons/cultural tropes that have greatly influenced the construction of your sense of self?
feel free to explain how you exist in a cultural vacuum or a culture that places you at the pinnacle of perfectionI guess we shall have to see about that.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Most?I'm not sure what this means. I suppose it is arguable as to whether or not "feelings of awe" (I'm ignoring "reverence" because I don't care much for double-barreled arguments) are necessary for our survival, but I do think it fairly safe to conclude that most people have them.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Why fall short of "all"?
Feel free to provide evidence.
I'm not sure what you called upon to bring it to merely "generally capable"All that is though is evidence that human animals are generally capable of an emotion that we call "awe". So what?
Gee, I was hoping that we could talk to some adults. Unless of course you are suggesting that theists share the emotional development of 4 year olds. Personally, I like to think that all adults are capable of more than that.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Actually I was suggesting that the framework of "what is knowable" is constructed differently according to individuals."evidence" is a philosophically surcharged term
The reality is that we have no evidence for "issues of self beyond the body".
Its not so much about asking you to accept something without evidence but asking you to examine the framework in which you deem "what is knowable" is constructedAccepting such claims without evidence is superstitious wishful thinking, and while such thinking might be as comforting as a nite-lite, that doesn't make it reality. The same thing goes for un-observable "higher powers".
[quoteThanks for your post.[/quote]
anytime
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"involves issues of higher powers". I don't know what this means. "Involves" what how?Originally Posted by loftmarcell
You didn't answer my question or address my point. This sentence appears quite random with relation to what you quoted.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Again, actual higher powers or a belief in higher powers? Regarding the former, I would say that unless you have evidence to the contrary, there is no reason to accept that any cultures have "higher powers". In regards to the latter, I would direct you towards your local atheist.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
You're moving the goal post. The original question was if I believe in a higher power that was involved in the creation and maintenance of the universe. Potential influences upon my concept of self is a completely different animal. Even if it were somehow relevant, I think you'd be using "higher power" very liberally (I don't think the guys from the Reasonable Doubts podcast constitute a higher power, even though their discussion regarding free will vs determinism have greatly influence my thinking on the concept of self).Originally Posted by loftmarcell
I don't need to because I'm not making that claim. I will point out again that this sudden shift from "higher power/creator-maintainer of the universe" to "higher power/cultural influences" seems more than a little disingenuous on your part.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Because "some" people are incapable of such experiences (i.e. birth defects, mental retardation, brain injury, emotional trauma, etc). "All" would fail to account for these cases. Therefore I try to avoid building traps for myself by using absolutes.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Same as above. I generally try to avoid absolutes. You're free to use them as much as you'd like.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Again, I don't see what relevance this has to what you were quoting.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
This isn't an argument.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Ok and when that's done, then what?Originally Posted by loftmarcell
there is some element of "self" that is categorized as higher by the addition of awe and reverence.Originally Posted by PhoenixG
For instance compare a common footballer's experience of the game in contrast to the narrative that drives the "football superstar"
I am saying that their culture is atypical.You didn't answer my question or address my point. This sentence appears quite random with relation to what you quoted.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Meaning that there is actually no evidence of a culture existing bereft of some notion of higher powers
I've listen to them deify dawkins on more than one occasion, if that's what you mean ... (you can even check out his website for purchasing the paraphernalia of worship too)Again, actual higher powers or a belief in higher powers? Regarding the former, I would say that unless you have evidence to the contrary, there is no reason to accept that any cultures have "higher powers". In regards to the latter, I would direct you towards your local atheist.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
so we can take it down a notch by examining which entities have shaped your view of of the function/creation of the universe (and how you relate to it) and take it from thereYou're moving the goal post. The original question was if I believe in a higher power that was involved in the creation and maintenance of the universe.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
I think its more a question of looking at the values you attribute to self and how they developed. Kind of like looking at whatever you have idealized in order to come up with whatever values are integral to you.Potential influences upon my concept of self is a completely different animal. Even if it were somehow relevant, I think you'd be using "higher power" very liberally (I don't think the guys from the Reasonable Doubts podcast constitute a higher power, even though their discussion regarding free will vs determinism have greatly influence my thinking on the concept of self).
It might be more pertinent to examine the role that actors play in the movies that you like to watch than tumbling through the dry ramblings of an atheist's take on a godless universe
I'm just pointing out that even though you may reject some sort of category of higher power, you are definitely working with another setI don't need to because I'm not making that claim. I will point out again that this sudden shift from "higher power/creator-maintainer of the universe" to "higher power/cultural influences" seems more than a little disingenuous on your part.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
So you would agree that anyone who can make the distinction between their self and the self of another has contingent issues of awe and reverence at work?Because "some" people are incapable of such experiences (i.e. birth defects, mental retardation, brain injury, emotional trauma, etc). "All" would fail to account for these cases. Therefore I try to avoid building traps for myself by using absolutes.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
just as a 4 yr old has issues that frame their knowledge, so does a gross materialist.Again, I don't see what relevance this has to what you were quoting.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
In that sense, evidencing that a monster isn't under one's bed can prove just as challenging as evidencing that issues of life continue after the demise of the corporeal bodwhat it is however is the introduction of a whole chapter of philosophy (and what chapter of philosophy is complete without a cluster of arguments?)y
This isn't an argument.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
we could begin discussionOk and when that's done, then what?Originally Posted by loftmarcell
your logic, its broken.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
some atheists thinks dawkins is an awesome guy. therefore they believe dawkins is a god, with supernatural abilities, who can heal the sick just by touching them, and make blind people see again by spitting in his hands, and touching their eyes?
get your logic straight.
dawkinsmight be a bit of a rockstar, bu he is NOT being deified, not even close to the level jesus was, or even some of the saints.
take saint olav. his blood healed wounds? his beard and hair grew after his death?
by your trainwreck of a logic, rockstars are gods.
elvis lives!
who knows, maybe in 2000 years people will be worshipping elvis presley?
People already worship Elvis. Nearly every year in my hilljack town they have a series of bands and singers entertain down at the lake, and every year they have an Elvis impersonator who always draws the biggest crowd.
You're talking about a subjective experience that is completely localized to an individual. That it is common means nothing in this context. Furthermore, if it is localized, then I don't see how you can argue that this is a "higher power". You could argue that an individual is achieving their full potential, but "higher" intrinsically means "outside" or "apart". You cannot have it both ways.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Repeating yourself doesn't tell me anything.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Furthermore, you seem to be either arguing against your own point or are completely unfamiliar with the subject matter.
I believe this has already been addressed in another post.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
At least we are able to clarify what you meant and can move on to listing all the ways your point fails.
This is still moving the goal post. Paraphrasing your point doesn't change it.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
So I repeat: "The original question was if I believe in a higher power that was involved in the creation and maintenance of the universe."
Which has absolutely nothing to do with anything. I'll take it that since you've abandoned your argument, the point is conceded and I can rest my case.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Not at all. Unless you're trying to argue that "god" and "kindergarten teacher" belong in the same category. Pretty sure that kindergarten teachers still put their pants on one leg at a time, poop, occationally forget about loved ones' birthdays, etc, so since they're human they can't also be a "higher power" (at least, not without making the term "higher power" utterly meaningless).Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Not sure how you got that from what I said.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Theory of Mind. Go look it up. Seriously.
And I'll repeat my earlier point that adults (hopefully) have better reasoning facilities than children. You seem to want to argue that every one stops developing at the age of four. Do you have anything to support this assertion?Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Unrelated babble.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Indeed we could. Too bad that you prefer jumbled sheets of word of the day toilet paper masked as profundity. Good luck with that.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
this is an example of hero worship
Huh? Is it just me, or is reason on holiday, leaving perhaps; post amassment to steer us towards our destination?Originally Posted by ishmaelblues
I didn't say that they were worshiped in an identical manner or even that they were proclaimed to have identical glories.Originally Posted by dejawolf
I mean in the sense that a category is created that is propped up by paraphernalia, a dogma, an ideal etc etc
Thats the pointOriginally Posted by PhoenixG
its not localized, since the status and glory is a fabrication of category
You are more or less saying "look at these bozos and their funny ways"Repeating yourself doesn't tell me anything.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Furthermore, you seem to be either arguing against your own point or are completely unfamiliar with the subject matter.
I'm simply pointing out that things like sport, music stars and even technology are treated in exactly the same manner in more contemporary times
Random words strung together.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
You can posit all you'd like that what you're describing isn't localized, but you have absolutely nothing to back up such an assertion.
Please prove me wrong.
Yes and no. Regarding the crux of the argument, I'm saying that their funny ways are just like those of all the other bozos (they wear different hats and say different words, but the product is almost entirely the same).Originally Posted by loftmarcell
You're the one that states they are atypical. I'm still trying to find out how you figure that.
Except that you're assigning an arbitrary term ("higher power") and immediately rendering it meaningless. What is this higher power? It's you and me. So how is it higher? We aren't perfect.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Okay, sparky. Thanks.
If you are referencing something that is the subjective experience of everyone in every culture, its not clear why you say its localized.Originally Posted by PhoenixG
/shrug
You don't recognize any "funny hat" wearing and "funny ways" in the culture of technology, sports, music, etc etcYes and no. Regarding the crux of the argument, I'm saying that their funny ways are just like those of all the other bozos (they wear different hats and say different words, but the product is almost entirely the same).Originally Posted by loftmarcell
You're the one that states they are atypical. I'm still trying to find out how you figure that.
?????
You have a category that is propped up by paraphernalia, social behaviors and rituals all pointing towards something perfect, transcendent or the like.Except that you're assigning an arbitrary term ("higher power") and immediately rendering it meaningless. What is this higher power? It's you and me. So how is it higher? We aren't perfect.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Okay, sparky. Thanks.
For instance a person may see their own faults, but pontificate on how technology can fix them.
It's not something that every one in every culture experiences. That should be one great big hint for you that it cannot be anything other than localized. The existence of people that either reject superstitious traditions or interpret them differently than others is pretty strong evidence that each individual within a culture is capable of fabricating their own ideas about "higher powers". This means "higher power" is not something objective.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
I am rejecting your assertion that these are examples of tapping into a "higher power".Originally Posted by loftmarcell
I don't see anything here that counters my point that your "higher power" is so vague that it's meaningless. If it's "higher" it can't be "you" at the same time.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
An extremely interesting observation, yet I would think there to be a reasonably safe argument that everyone actually serves a 'higher power' whether they realize and/or like it, or not – even though the vast majority of us never have the slightest idea that such an ongoing interaction profoundly controls our every decision, and from such a vantage point – our lives – and ultimately our death.Originally Posted by PhoenixG
A person who has permitted a consciousness altering drug of addiction to have sway over his life choices, will for instance; be found to have sufficiently surrendered his existence over to the lure of the seductive promises of the next ‘high’, and if he fails to redress his particular adoration for the thrill, his culmination will most assuredly be in accordance with his ongoing choice of lifestyle.
Yet his addiction generally did not eventuate without the genesis of his own implicit decision, which upon further investigation, will be found to have been according some concept of personal gain of the moment. Therefore, it could well be argued that his ‘higher power’ was, and remains - himself.
A religionist on the other hand, will happily proclaim servitude under his imagined version ‘God’ (by whatever identification), as his ‘leader’. The fact that his principal doesn’t exist beyond his imagination matters little, for such is merely a faceless figurehead at best. Further delving will reveal this individual more than likely serves his insatiable appetite for things such as wealth, possessions & power.
Therefore in truth, as with the drug addict above; his prime master is again his own gratification - his own ‘self/isness’.
Interestingly, the more you dissect and discern the innate particulars for just about anyone’s life choices, the more it becomes obvious that the actual ‘higher power’ for the vast majority of us, is profoundly our self, or more correctly – our servitude to our appetite/flesh.
Moreover, this pervasive service to our appetite/flesh, actually has it’s own genesis – as from deep within our surreptitious and stealthy emotions, which (again) emanate from within our (physical) flesh.
So what is the ONLY alternative to such a rampant personal servitude to one's self?
The answer is as obvious as it is breathtaking – the emancipating and redeeming selection to serve the other half or our core reasoning – indeed our intellect; thereby placing our capricious emotions as subservient. Which astoundingly, is the antithesis of the preeminent way of dealing with our existence.
Now there's a leader worth developing a servitude towards.
I think it will eventually come to pass that my appreciation for the work of Steven Pinker will to make my ability to communicate with other humans impossible.Originally Posted by Apopohis Reject
If we could show that addiction is not a naturally occuring phenomenon observed within humans, I would probably be able to give you the benefit of the doubt here. Since all evidence shows otherwise, I cannot see how this is an example of a "higher power". It's not "higher". It's just another possible behavioral computation for "human".Originally Posted by Apopohis Reject
"Higher power" = "meta-human". I don't see anything meta-human to addiction.
If I am missing the point, please tell me.
Same as above and I think you're dangerously close to agreeing with me in the following paragraphsOriginally Posted by Apopohis Reject
Again, if "belief" is a human phenomenon, then it cannot be meta-human at the same time.
Indeed. It is a localized and subjective, therefore it cannot also be "higher".Originally Posted by Apopohis Reject
Yes, it seems quite common that people seem to value certain forms of servitude as service to "the greater good". But this "greater good" is a construct which is given to, not taken from. "Higher power" suggests the opposite and lacks the benefit of any kind of evidence.Originally Posted by Apopohis Reject
My 2 cents.
My apologies to you and Mr. Pinker, for I know little of his efforts at preventing my esteemed forum colleague from divesting any residual loose coinage or verbiage.Originally Posted by PhoenixG
Indeed ‘higher power’ is generally synonymous with meta-human, yet I would suggest the overall picture needs a little further clarification prior to hanging over our mantelpiece.Originally Posted by PhoenixG
Although you might be expecting an argument along the lines: ‘addiction is, by our own silly choices; an aberration that for a time comes upon ‘me’ as an unhelpful and disruptive passenger in the vehicle I steer around for 60 or 70 years of life, and maybe disembarks somewhere down the track via an alternative choice when ‘I’, as the driver and owner, employ a more reasoned headspace’, I’m afraid I’m going to disappoint you, my friend.
Indeed addiction is a naturally occurring aberration in human life, yet is a matter of degrees. We may not all have in our personal vehicle, passengers of the seductive persuasion of heroin, alcohol, gambling and tobacco, yet I would argue that those who do, have merely placed themselves at the more visible end of the spectrum, and even though they are to be applauded when and if they get around to demanding the disembarkation of such unhelpful passengers, nevertheless they will return to the more general and (perhaps) less salient enchantment demon/s that haunt us all.
Of course, as with all passengers lacking a reasoned level of discipline, some of the above have the decided propensity of raucous behaviour occasioning a form of hostage-taking in the decision making process of the one behind the steering wheel – invariably with deleterious results. But if we may later return to those on the passenger manifesto, we find it is actually up front where the real action is to be witnessed.
To fully appreciate the ‘Higher Power’ for our vehicle, we need to look within, to view the driver – the one who steers the show around for the duration. However, contrary to popular belief, he is not alone in the front of the cabin, for there is also a navigator next to him, yet not all is as wholesome and ambrosial as it might appear. A deeper investigation will reveal that right here is also the genesis of the human dilemma, which in turn gives sway to those unruly passengers we may at times wish to disavow.
It is a fact of our existence that the vast majority of vehicles manage some motivation for a time, and therefore only function under the head stewardship of either the driver or the navigator, yet; never both. For astoundingly, even though the vehicle requires both to get anywhere at all, they constantly fail at melding a happy concordance on any decision whatsoever. Even so; agree they must, or catatonic the entire show will remain.
Therefore the ‘Higher Power’ for every vehicle, most definitely is not some meta-physical-super-daddy sitting on a great throne at a divine control panel in the clouds, or any other removed mythical physical-meta-domain. Contrary to what some believe, neither is it any part of the physicality of that vehicle, nor (should it be) any of the mixed assemblage of passengers behind.
The ‘Highest Power’ is indeed the predominant of the two dissenting front seat occupants – either the driver, or the navigator.
Under such circumstances, the required truce at the motivational end of the cabin is often under such duress that it can be quite difficult to recognise who has the controlling hand at any time - most particularly whilst our ongoing failure continues, in discerning the reality; that there are actually two up front, yet only one thereof is in control.
Again, for every functioning vehicle; there are two intrinsic 'higher powers’;
A; who has at any time, the upper hand in the decision making process, and;
B; who has had to acquiesce to A in the current choice of direction.
Of course, it could be further argued that there exists after a fashion, many other powers bidding for the tag ‘higher'. Even so, I would regard all these as extrinsic, and although they strive for inclusion as a passenger, and from there seek to exercise their influence, the ultimate choices will emanate from between the two 'higher powers' in control.
Ahhhh! What's a little danger between a bout or two of healthy jousting between a couple-a buddies with pointy sticks?Originally Posted by PhoenixG
Generally, I see it as a natural consequence that we primarily drive our vehicles down the road that best fits our belief at that moment – to eventually arrive at the destination of our desire. The belief upon which we base our trust at any time, for our choice of direction, is the culmination of one or more extraneous suggestion/s, and (always) through an uneasy discussion between the driver and navigator, then motivating decision via truce. The more unruly passengers on board of course; the more turbulent the decision making process, and more likely the errors in selection.
We need to keep in mind that the physical vehicle is merely that which conveys the far more essential occupants around the place - while it remains in good order at least. The occupants up front and the physical vehicle remain a single entity, only whilst the vehicle is operational. The passengers, whether compliant, progressive, ennobling or otherwise will come and go from time to time via agreement and acceptance between those up front.
They are respectively; both entirely subjective and ‘higher’ - in more ways than can be explored in the overall focus of this post.Originally Posted by PhoenixG
At the most fundamental level however, it may be noted that we all give service at any given instance, to our spotlighted target of; suggested advancement. For if it was my determination that my focus was upon something unlikely to provide suitable improvement, I would assuredly; be seeking an alternate (higher potential) avenue along which to proceed.
We generally make our every choice at any time, with regards promotion towards our intended goal – even if that goal is constantly moving; due too many unruly back seat passengers, all having their own agenda and sway.
Put another way; whatever (objective) focus we make a (subjective) choice of direction upon, presents for that moment as; ‘higher’ than our present location.
The vehicle rarely (if ever) is headed off in a direction that has not presented in some manner, as a ‘greater good’ - embracing a promised ’higher’ outcome. So after a fashion, the direction of choice is, for the duration; offered as the equivalent of ‘power’ behind the decision - towards it; even if only time will reveal if the promised evolution is proven - with reward (or pain).Originally Posted by PhoenixG
The nefarious passengers are, not surprisingly; less than interested in reasoned ‘evidence’ of any hue, for their attention rarely digresses from their own selfish agenda, often mastering in surreptitious treachery, so would best be left to perish – extraneous to the vehicle of conveyance - if only it were possible! Yet whether we like it or not, it is an unspoken, inconvenient and evaded rule of the human journey, that we seem required to deal in a general sense, with (at least one) regressive and repugnant back seat companion, who really doesn’t like being the only ornery fellow on board, so strives to bolster his influence through similar support.
To shed extra light on the ongoing fireworks up front, is the reasonably disturbing observation; that our prime duo are less than equally yoked, and would; upon open-eyed investigation, appear to be heading us off in the direction of destruction, which not so amazingly, is precisely where every vehicle appears right now; to terminate.
Indeed there is our seasoned and highly intelligent yet softly spoken navigator (sometimes portrayed in chidren's cartoons as a pleasant angel perched upon the hero's shoulder), perusing the map book and constantly striving to provide well informed direction. He is of course; not in the driver's seat, which is jealously guarded by a physically stronger and earthy, yet wildly vacillating, brash and presumptuous neophyte (respectively presented as a harsher talking 'devil' on the opposing shoulder), who resents the intelligence of the navigator, and as with all brash youngsters; knows better anyways.
In such an environment, it's not difficult to realise our first dilemma; that the motivational truce fails at being entirely cohesive, and the second; that too often the hero of our story proudly 'jumps in' with both feet, only to later discover he would have done well to first take heed of a more seasoned consideration.
So now, if we may get back to that passenger dilemma; it is not so laborious a task to discover which of the two up front is more likely to receive the erratic emotional appeals, from (in particular); those who seek their own selfish and destructive agenda in the progress (or otherwise) of our life's journey.
**Finally I would like to note; even though I have to admit to this not being the most effortless or buoyant post to formulate, I hope hesitation will not be a factor when you have cause to discard further currency.
and lo and behold, the persons who reject the "superstitions" as lofty ideals of a fantasy simply go on to create another setOriginally Posted by PhoenixG
really?
I am rejecting your assertion that these are examples of tapping into a "higher power".Originally Posted by loftmarcell
You don't think persons are attracted to these avenues to make themselves "greater" in ways remarkably similar to transcendence, etc?
Its not vague.I don't see anything here that counters my point that your "higher power" is so vague that it's meaningless. If it's "higher" it can't be "you" at the same time.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Its very precise.
Just like the difference between a ten year old lap top and the latest one (even though both of them might have/had scope to the same title of greatness).
And the fact that a person remains different from the host of tropes that they call upon to bolster themselves means that "higher" can't be "you" at the same time
(In other words, the advertisements lie)
Your quote tags are broken. Please fix them. Thanks.
doneOriginally Posted by PhoenixG
Where?Originally Posted by loftmarcell
What avenues? This is what I mean by "vague".Originally Posted by loftmarcell
And "remarkably similar to transcendence" sounds incredibly speculative. Do you have anything more than speculation to offer? Sound argumentation perhaps? I dare not ask for evidence.
No, it's not. If anyone can be a "higher power", then "higher power" is something common and hardly deserving of the adjective "higher". I ask you what's "higher" and the closest thing I've seen to an answer is some hand-waving about "transcendence".Originally Posted by loftmarcell
So by your own argument, "higher" is relative? Making it subjective, per my argument, no? Congratulations. You just argued yourself into a circle.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
But "different" doesn't mean "higher". We're all "different" and if that means we're all "higher" then "higher" is meaningless. I think I've said this about three times now.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
practically anywhere you lookOriginally Posted by PhoenixG
whether it be music, sport or technology.
Given the nature of this forum, perhaps we could talk of technology.
Until recently, modern science, seen as a religion, lacked a deity suitable as an object of worship. The machine, which is generally pictured as something that has gears, moving parts, and so on, has existed for a long time now. To modern man the machine certainly represents power, control, mastery over nature-in other words, attributes a worshipable deity should have. But the machine lacks mystery. In fact, it often demystifies in the sense that people believe that most anything can be transformed, metaphorically at least, into the form of a machine and then understood as such. The machine has become an almost universally applicable metaphor that demystifies both itself and the thing to which it refers. This thinking holds true for both intellectuals of all persuasions as well as for ordinary people. Perhaps most people today think a thing is not understood until it has been reduced to a mechanical process.
I think that this phenomenon has contributed to science's inability to provide an idol which the faithful can worship as truly representative of their common faith. Now recently, within my lifetime, the computer has appeared, and it seems to me that the computer fills that need. Modern man has seen that machines which physically destroy and reconstruct his environment — the steam-shovel, for example — are made in his own image. The steam-shovel has an arm and a hand, and it digs into the ground, picks up objects and so forth. Clearly, it is a kind of imitation of a certain aspect of man. But the computer takes things a step farther. When instructing a computer to think (if I may use that term for a moment) in imitation of human thought, we cross a subtle line.
http://www.gosai.com/science/computerized-gods.html
see aboveWhat avenues? This is what I mean by "vague".Originally Posted by loftmarcell
And "remarkably similar to transcendence" sounds incredibly speculative. Do you have anything more than speculation to offer? Sound argumentation perhaps? I dare not ask for evidence.
Everyone is attracted to the notion of "higher power". The real question is which narratives that support it are factual or not.No, it's not. If anyone can be a "higher power", then "higher power" is something common and hardly deserving of the adjective "higher". I ask you what's "higher" and the closest thing I've seen to an answer is some hand-waving about "transcendence".Originally Posted by loftmarcell
So by your own argument, "higher" is relative? Making it subjective, per my argument, no? Congratulations. You just argued yourself into a circle.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Higher is certainly relative to lower, much like the latest laptop is relative to one that is a decade old.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
rather than repeating yourself it might serve the discussion better if you respond to .....But "different" doesn't mean "higher". We're all "different" and if that means we're all "higher" then "higher" is meaningless. I think I've said this about three times now.
And the fact that a person remains different from the host of tropes that they call upon to bolster themselves means that "higher" can't be "you" at the same time
"rather than repeating yourself it might serve the discussion better if you respond to ..... "
I did. You responded by repeating something you quoted earlier. How's that for the pot calling the kettle black?
I didn't edit out part of your work in my response though ....Originally Posted by PhoenixG
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I didn't edit yours either.
Did you intend to address what I said, or are we done here?
On three occasions you've overlooked clear assertions of difference that translate into a hierarchy.Originally Posted by PhoenixG
But anyway, if you want to continue on with your assertions that there is no higher or lower, I have a dusty lap top tucked away that I am happy to trade with you for a latest model.
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Which has absolutely nothing to do with "editing your work"Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Sorry if I'm not inclined to chase down every irrelevant rabbit-trail you care to introduce.
Actually, no I'm not.
"Newer" and "older" have nothing to do with "higher power". That fact that we've gone from "higher power" as a transcendent all-force to "higher force" as a more powerful laptop makes it pretty obvious that your term ("higher power") is as vague and meaningless as I've consistently pointed it out to be.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
The do however introduce the notion of "higher" to a person who insists everything is simply an issue of "difference"Originally Posted by PhoenixG
The Weizenbaum reference is right there waiting for you ..........That fact that we've gone from "higher power" as a transcendent all-force to "higher force" as a more powerful laptop makes it pretty obvious that your term ("higher power") is as vague and meaningless as I've consistently pointed it out to be.
Okay, well have a good time debating with whomever that person is.Originally Posted by loftmarcell
I'm not going to address your non-sequitur (hence why I didn't respond the first time you posted it).Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Loftmarcell what you said about reverence for consumer products really chimed my own thoughts. I think we all feel in our guts how "just wrong" it would be to nail or rope a sleek new television screen to the wall, though it "still works great". I'm reminded of the reverence for Art we used to have, embodied in massive gilt painting frames, pedestals for statues, etc. But it's more: we're unauthorized to sully nice consumer goods, even those we've paid for, even where we know such sully would improve them. It's like we don't really own the objects. So who or what do they belong to? If nothing: wouldn't that be curious in a culture where everything is property?
Actually its a short article (by a historically acclaimed major contributer to the AI industry who happens to be critical of it) discussing the issue of technology bordering on the transcendent/religious.Originally Posted by PhoenixG
I thought it might be helpful since you are having major problems in comprehending the mere introduction of such a subject
Sometimes you get crazy artists who do things to try and suggest otherwise (I recall one guy who was one of the first in queue to get a new X box and before the long line of bystanders, took it out of its packaging and smashed it with a sledgehammer), but this is hardly a ripple in the huge upstream migration of consumerism.Originally Posted by Pong
If you have a culture where everything is property you also bring the social body in to line. So not only is it that ideas of selfhood are totally framed by property, but also idealized notions of selfhood too. So my consumption illustrates not only who I am but also who I want to be (so ruminations of an ideal or higher self/power can be relegated to issues of what they do and do not own).
BTW this fits in remarkably well if one has a mechanistic view of the self.
Originally Posted by loftmarcell
I see. So a bumper sticker is kinda like a nose piercing?Originally Posted by loftmarcell
Thats pure gold. :-DOriginally Posted by Pong
more like, because they don't have a mobile phone or whatever its okay that they starve or die in millionsOriginally Posted by Pong
I've only just started reading this...
So, your idea is that computers are god? OK then...
obviouslyOriginally Posted by drowsy turtle
errr.... noSo, your idea is that computers are god? OK then...
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