Huh.

[johncomic]

http://www.uoguelph.ca/news/2009/06/human_brain_stu_1.html

As I read this, I couldn't help noticing the unspoken assumption that only rational or empirical beliefs can be true... and how it furthermore sidesteps the fact that such a viewpoint is itself an article of faith.

In passing, however, I'd like it to be noted that Dr. Davis is one heckuva rockabilly guitarist.

Comments

[ginsu.livejournal.com]

Granted, but he uses thanking God and believing that life has a purpose as examples of the delusional thinking that he says we need to abandon -- implying that there can be no truth or substance to such beliefs

You could make another case about what he thinks, though... something like

"Since we haven't demonstrated Heaven exists through a rational analysis, we can't know there is such a place or state of being. So thanking Heaven is premature, though possibly correct."

This is somewhat different from, and more open-minded than,

"There is no Heaven. Therefore, thanking Heaven is meaningless."

But I think you're right, and he actually means the second.

[johncomic.livejournal.com]

Again, I'm less inclined to argue with the way you put it. This guy needs lessons from you... or maybe from Spock. ;P

[ginsu.livejournal.com]

If only they would portray Spock as a rational, consistent creature in the reimagined franchise...

That I could ever have thought they would, enough to plunk down seven bucks, was an act of faith.