Ranger18 Mar 2006

"Are you saying that those who believe in God don't somehow feel his presence, that they believe in him because someone else said so and why not believe, it all seems so logical?" - I wouldn't know whether or not other believers genuinely feel Him. I know that I don't, I never went to Church, I never had someone teach me biblical narrative, yet I believe. Why? Through a lot of thought, and because I just have this innate feeling that I ought to lead a 'good' life. If God doesn't exist then I find no reason to believe that there is any form of morality. Make of that what you will.

"Someone who hasn't been in love...Romeo and Juliet...'Yes, love is a mysterious and wonderous thing that certainly exists'" - Yes, I am saying precisely that. If someone had lived their entire life devoid of 'love', I sincerely doubt that they would be compelled to believe just through seeing a play. They might be curious enough to find out, but they wouldn't suddenly believe.
What do I believe love is? That's difficult to answer. Some form of emotional and social bond through prolonged contact with a certain person, maybe? But then, I also think there's a difference between parental love, friendship love and romantic love. When I know what romantic love is, I'll let you know. And do I believe it exists? No. I believe it might exist, but again there's a difference.
Art - that's trickier. Fundamentally it's the appreciation of mastery of a skill - same with sport. Metaphysically though? I'm not convinced. Seeing a painting might trigger a memory associated with a certain emotion, or might cause a train of imaginative thought...but as a connection with God? No. Similarly, when you see someone demonstrate exceptional talent at, say, football, do you think 'That is divinely inspired'?

The actual quote was 'I would rather know remorse...', but I suppose your version works as well.

I think I missed something out in this post...if so I'll rectify things.