Doubt you say?
I can fly. What you don't believe me? You want evidence? The reason you don't believe me is because claims, specifically extraordinary claims, require evidence to support them. The less evidence you have to support a claim the more that claim is doubted. And in all but one case this doubt is at the least publicly permitted and is usually widely encouraged. Few, if any, get offended by the fact people doubt claims.
The one exception? Religion. Surprise! Bet you saw that coming. Other than starting a discussion of "how ugly your face is," doubting religion is easily the fastest way to provoke a feeling of insult. People are quick to take offense at the very idea of doubting a religious claim even if they aren't religious themselves or don't believe the specific claim doubted.
Socially this leaves nonbelievers, like myself, in an awkward position when someone makes a religious claim. The nonbeliever is left with four options: nod and agree (lie), try to change the subject, run away or do the outlawed (tell the truth about what you think).
I doubt any nonbeliever likes those options but currently these are the choices. Personally, I tend to just break the law because when the thought-police come to arrest me I can just fly away.
Well This is Awkward?
Socially this leaves nonbelievers, like myself, in an awkward position when someone makes a religious claim. The nonbeliever is left with four options: nod and agree (lie), try to change the subject, run away or do the outlawed (tell the truth about what you think).I doubt any nonbeliever likes those options but currently these are the choices. Personally, I tend to just break the law because when the thought-police come to arrest me I can just fly away.
The "What is Faith" and "What is Doubt" menu items are a great contra addition. When we talk about this in class, please let others know how you accomplished this. Thanks.
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