What gives rise to end-times predictions?
People like Harold Camping and other apocalyptic prognosticians are faithfully following along with the tradition set forth by Jesus in the Gospels, originally in the form of the “Little Apocalypse” of Mark 13. Reading that very passage, we find Jesus spouting the same fear-and-trembling warnings that are repeated on billboards throughout the world. Indeed, if [...]
Is science leading to a new literalism?
As a scientist, I am often astounded when theologians and other scientific laypeople speak about science as a means of “proof.” Far to the contrary, science is a process of expanding human knowledge through the testing of hypotheses, minimizing of bias, and respecting of statistical boundaries. In no sense does science “prove” anything; proof is [...]
Why are so many losing their religion?
In America, the average person who walks away from religion is leaving Christianity, and the numbers indicate that this person doesn’t entertain affiliation with other competing faiths; rather, he or she is much more likely to become a Secular Humanist or hold some similar worldview. As someone who has personally traveled this path, I can [...]
Would you have sanctioned the death of Osama bin Laden?
Secular Humanists hold a wide range of opinions regarding the morality of war. I personally find acts of violence detestable, although I recognize the necessity of using reciprocal violence for the purpose of self-defense. However, the typical self-defense scenario involves the presence of an intruder in one’s household. In that situation, the moral imperative is [...]