Nicole M. Diaz
Phil 8 – Critical Thinking
Summer 2008 Midterm
July 11, 2008
User Name: Nickki53
Email: Nickki53@yahoo.com
~A Mystical Life~
http://nikkid76.blogspot.com
All the readings and assignments for the first three weeks of class have been completed and are posted immediately following the midterm.
11. Richard Dawkins uses the computer virus as an analogy of the virus of the mind. Once a virus is programmed and downloaded into a PC it has the capacity to spread rapidly to others whom open the infected file or site. A virus of the mind is similar in the sense that a toxin or idea is planted into the mind; the idea is shared with others which also can circulate rapidly.
Dawkins considers religion a virus for the mere fact that it is a sentiment with no evidence to prove it other wise. Memes that have been passed down contaminating generation after generation. I agree with Mr.Dawkins to a certain extent. This is an epidemic similar to a bug in the computer, once it is transferred; it is very difficult to control. Like he stated, religion is usually taught at such a young age that it becomes a habitual emotion or behavior. My disagreement is that if it makes a person feel comforted, why categorize religion as an infection of the mind.
12. Praying to Saints for protection is an example of a cargo cult. Many traditional Catholics will surround themselves with pictures or figurines of various Saints. There claim is that when you pray to these items your worries, concerns, or prayer requests are answered. This religious belief or Faith is what has no scientific evidence. A skeptic may ask how it is so that a photograph or ceramic sculpture has such mystical powers to perform such a miraculous fete. It is however, reasonable to convey the possibility that a person is so fixated on their prayer or need that they subconsciously create the outcome themselves. There just is no other scientific explanation to validate this claim otherwise.
13. According to Richard Feynman we must look beyond the obvious when it comes to science. It is essential to dissect our surroundings in order to unleash the true beauty of the world. Mr. Feynman suggests that in order to completely comprehend the world of science we must have doubts to begin the search for answers. The true beauty in discovering how an object came to be is what brings great pleasure. One can find beauty in an object as simple as an ice cube. The crystallizing of water as it freezes creates such beautiful designs and patterns.
14. The movie Karma reveals several examples of the correlation between our behavior and our actions. Do unto others as you have done to you is what comes to mind. Our emotions, thoughts, and moods can influence the events that occur around us. A positive attitude can bring about wonderful situations and experiences while a negative mindset will most likely bring negative energy to a person. The actors in Karma clearly expressed the moods they were in by the way they carried themselves.
15. Darwinian evolution is the theory that man; through natural dependent selection has evolved from an animal species. The predisposed cells would transition over the years; it is this lineage that eventually leads to an intelligent species. John Maynard Smith pioneered the idea that not only did natural, dependent selection assist in the evolution process, but consensus games played a large part as well. Mr. Smith’s theory states that animals prefer to settle a conflict, a loss/loss game if you will. Through this cooperation both species will endure thus challenging John Maynard Smith’s idea of survival of the fittest.
18. Eleven is an eye opening realization of the hatred that still occurs against certain ethnic groups. The director does an excellent job in showing how racism can lead to such random acts of violence. The snapshot of the Twin Towers and the memory of 911 bring many ill feelings to Americans, but we must remember that these events were drawn out by a small handful of men. Not all people of the same race have the same views; it is of great importance that we all remember.
19. Master Da Free John seems to have been a very eccentric man. Although considered to be a genius in the subject of religion and spirituality, many found him to be a fake. Da Free John was the spokesman for the “don’t judge a book by its cover” theory. His writings and teachings brought great enlightenment to the reader, but a photograph of him would bring it all to an end. It is for this reason society must learn to differentiate the message being conveyed from the medium. A person’s intellect or spirituality should not be judged by their appearance or personal lifestyle he/she lives. The underlying message is the important aspect we must take with us.
20. Bertrand Russell has several reasons for not being a Christian. His main reasoning is that there is no physical evidence of the existence of God. Christians use various tactics to persuade its followers into having faith. They argue that without religion mankind would have not existed; we would have no morals which would lead to chaos and injustice. Mr. Russell also disagrees with the idea that Christians instill fear as the foundation of their beliefs. On a personal level, my position on this subject is neutral. When it comes to Christianity I have many doubts of my own. I strongly disagree with the fear that is instilled, my God is not a punishing God. I also dislike the structure of the Church that Christians must follow. Personally I believe and take what brings me comfort and peace. I consider myself to be a spiritual person and talk to God in my own terms.
21. Your inquiry regarding Evangelists having healing powers is one that is subject to skeptical reasoning. The media poisons society with reports of various claims of healings and proposed miracles. So it is understandable how your mind would become cloudy with suspicion. Although I do not have an answer for you, I do suggest you try “FILCHERS”, an acronym for six rules of evidential reasoning. James Lett purposes that there are six rules that must be followed when uncovering the validity of a paranormal phenomena claim. I will describe each for you to follow during your investigation.
First verify the falsifiability of the claim. If the claim is indeed false, the evidence you conjure up will prove it to be false. However, if the claim is true, the evidence will only be tentative until proven otherwise (similar to the innocent till proven quilty premise). The claim must also be a valid logical one which can sometimes be very difficult to prove and may require more investigation on your part. Next be certain you comprehend all the aspects of the evidence whether it is negative or positive. All the findings must be included as to avoid any false conclusions. Which brings me to the next rule; one must honestly accept the outcome of all the evidence that has been examined. Be certain that your investigation can be replicated. This will erect the possibility of any mistakes, fraud, or coincidence in the evidence. If the claim is proven to be a coincidence there is no need to replicate your investigation. The last point I want to share is, make certain the evidence you are claiming as truth is indeed that. The more elaborate the claim is the more proof is needed to support it. I do hope that “FILCHERS” will assist you in unveiling a rational conclusion to your inquiry of evangelistic healings.
22. According to Paul Kurtz, skepticism is vital in religion. He strongly believes that we must be able to examine and ask questions regarding religious events. These claims of miraculous occurrence must have reasoning to why they happened. We consistently question the paranormal phenomena that surround us, insisting on some sort of scientific evidence to base our beliefs. Why then the double standard when it comes to religion. As a society we need to follow Kurtz’s theory and bring skepticism to religion to bring an end to the age old controversy between science and religion.
Phil 8 – Critical Thinking
Summer 2008 Midterm
July 11, 2008
User Name: Nickki53
Email: Nickki53@yahoo.com
~A Mystical Life~
http://nikkid76.blogspot.com
All the readings and assignments for the first three weeks of class have been completed and are posted immediately following the midterm.
11. Richard Dawkins uses the computer virus as an analogy of the virus of the mind. Once a virus is programmed and downloaded into a PC it has the capacity to spread rapidly to others whom open the infected file or site. A virus of the mind is similar in the sense that a toxin or idea is planted into the mind; the idea is shared with others which also can circulate rapidly.
Dawkins considers religion a virus for the mere fact that it is a sentiment with no evidence to prove it other wise. Memes that have been passed down contaminating generation after generation. I agree with Mr.Dawkins to a certain extent. This is an epidemic similar to a bug in the computer, once it is transferred; it is very difficult to control. Like he stated, religion is usually taught at such a young age that it becomes a habitual emotion or behavior. My disagreement is that if it makes a person feel comforted, why categorize religion as an infection of the mind.
12. Praying to Saints for protection is an example of a cargo cult. Many traditional Catholics will surround themselves with pictures or figurines of various Saints. There claim is that when you pray to these items your worries, concerns, or prayer requests are answered. This religious belief or Faith is what has no scientific evidence. A skeptic may ask how it is so that a photograph or ceramic sculpture has such mystical powers to perform such a miraculous fete. It is however, reasonable to convey the possibility that a person is so fixated on their prayer or need that they subconsciously create the outcome themselves. There just is no other scientific explanation to validate this claim otherwise.
13. According to Richard Feynman we must look beyond the obvious when it comes to science. It is essential to dissect our surroundings in order to unleash the true beauty of the world. Mr. Feynman suggests that in order to completely comprehend the world of science we must have doubts to begin the search for answers. The true beauty in discovering how an object came to be is what brings great pleasure. One can find beauty in an object as simple as an ice cube. The crystallizing of water as it freezes creates such beautiful designs and patterns.
14. The movie Karma reveals several examples of the correlation between our behavior and our actions. Do unto others as you have done to you is what comes to mind. Our emotions, thoughts, and moods can influence the events that occur around us. A positive attitude can bring about wonderful situations and experiences while a negative mindset will most likely bring negative energy to a person. The actors in Karma clearly expressed the moods they were in by the way they carried themselves.
15. Darwinian evolution is the theory that man; through natural dependent selection has evolved from an animal species. The predisposed cells would transition over the years; it is this lineage that eventually leads to an intelligent species. John Maynard Smith pioneered the idea that not only did natural, dependent selection assist in the evolution process, but consensus games played a large part as well. Mr. Smith’s theory states that animals prefer to settle a conflict, a loss/loss game if you will. Through this cooperation both species will endure thus challenging John Maynard Smith’s idea of survival of the fittest.
18. Eleven is an eye opening realization of the hatred that still occurs against certain ethnic groups. The director does an excellent job in showing how racism can lead to such random acts of violence. The snapshot of the Twin Towers and the memory of 911 bring many ill feelings to Americans, but we must remember that these events were drawn out by a small handful of men. Not all people of the same race have the same views; it is of great importance that we all remember.
19. Master Da Free John seems to have been a very eccentric man. Although considered to be a genius in the subject of religion and spirituality, many found him to be a fake. Da Free John was the spokesman for the “don’t judge a book by its cover” theory. His writings and teachings brought great enlightenment to the reader, but a photograph of him would bring it all to an end. It is for this reason society must learn to differentiate the message being conveyed from the medium. A person’s intellect or spirituality should not be judged by their appearance or personal lifestyle he/she lives. The underlying message is the important aspect we must take with us.
20. Bertrand Russell has several reasons for not being a Christian. His main reasoning is that there is no physical evidence of the existence of God. Christians use various tactics to persuade its followers into having faith. They argue that without religion mankind would have not existed; we would have no morals which would lead to chaos and injustice. Mr. Russell also disagrees with the idea that Christians instill fear as the foundation of their beliefs. On a personal level, my position on this subject is neutral. When it comes to Christianity I have many doubts of my own. I strongly disagree with the fear that is instilled, my God is not a punishing God. I also dislike the structure of the Church that Christians must follow. Personally I believe and take what brings me comfort and peace. I consider myself to be a spiritual person and talk to God in my own terms.
21. Your inquiry regarding Evangelists having healing powers is one that is subject to skeptical reasoning. The media poisons society with reports of various claims of healings and proposed miracles. So it is understandable how your mind would become cloudy with suspicion. Although I do not have an answer for you, I do suggest you try “FILCHERS”, an acronym for six rules of evidential reasoning. James Lett purposes that there are six rules that must be followed when uncovering the validity of a paranormal phenomena claim. I will describe each for you to follow during your investigation.
First verify the falsifiability of the claim. If the claim is indeed false, the evidence you conjure up will prove it to be false. However, if the claim is true, the evidence will only be tentative until proven otherwise (similar to the innocent till proven quilty premise). The claim must also be a valid logical one which can sometimes be very difficult to prove and may require more investigation on your part. Next be certain you comprehend all the aspects of the evidence whether it is negative or positive. All the findings must be included as to avoid any false conclusions. Which brings me to the next rule; one must honestly accept the outcome of all the evidence that has been examined. Be certain that your investigation can be replicated. This will erect the possibility of any mistakes, fraud, or coincidence in the evidence. If the claim is proven to be a coincidence there is no need to replicate your investigation. The last point I want to share is, make certain the evidence you are claiming as truth is indeed that. The more elaborate the claim is the more proof is needed to support it. I do hope that “FILCHERS” will assist you in unveiling a rational conclusion to your inquiry of evangelistic healings.
22. According to Paul Kurtz, skepticism is vital in religion. He strongly believes that we must be able to examine and ask questions regarding religious events. These claims of miraculous occurrence must have reasoning to why they happened. We consistently question the paranormal phenomena that surround us, insisting on some sort of scientific evidence to base our beliefs. Why then the double standard when it comes to religion. As a society we need to follow Kurtz’s theory and bring skepticism to religion to bring an end to the age old controversy between science and religion.
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