@fresco,
Quote:Kuhn for example would point out that "empirical evidence" is what we call "agreed observations described according to a particular directive paradigm". This leads to a highly simplified one-liner that "reality is a social construction]
In the abstract maybe. I believe with my eyes only...the only ones that count in my book.
I appreciate your thoughtful replies; I have actually learned from them. (although admittedly some of it is above my head)
I believe that people come to religion in only 3 ways:
1.) They were indoctrinated with dogma during their formative years...not an easy thing to change even if they know intellectually thats its all a bunch of whooey.
2.) They have had a "religious experience"...which is merely a small electrical diturbance in the left pre-frontal cortex not unlike a mild form of epilepsy.
3.) They dont necessarily believe but are hedging their bet.
I have spoken to several scientists who tell me that it is easier to "get along" just by saying that they believe there might be something out there, etc.
After all, declaring you are an atheist is not unlike in the old days saying you were gay.
In his private papers, some of which were discovered in the last 10 years, it is evident that Einstein didnt believe and he felt those who did were childish and superstious and that god was a product and expression of human weakness. However he very well could not say so publicly.
I suspect that if it were more socially acceptable to be an atheist you would see more scientists (and others) admitting to this stance.