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Susan opined
it is as clear as can be I think that ancient people decided that there were forces which did things because of human behaviour , thus leading to the invention of gods. This is, and has been ever since, the alternative superstition, but people who are believers do not like the idea that such beliefs can easily be labelled superstitions. Because of the increasing scientific understanding of the natural world and the universe, those who command the loyalty of billions for their religions must invent less and less credible falsehoods to explain. Such as, 'god is beyond time and space'

Actually Susan, I think that what ancient people decided was that there were forces of Nature that did NOT do what people wanted. Like volcanoes, storms, earthquakes etc. We call them, even today, forces of nature. They can still destroy us and our plans. I suggest that what was superstitious was thinking people could do things which avert these natural processes.

So I take it now that “alternative superstition “ simply means ancient superstitions or Susan’s interpretation of ancient superstitions.

In terms of your last two sentences, I think that modern religions have already handled the issues of ancient or original superstitions quite well. God for modern religions is really tied to the concept of good or goodness. Especially, a lifestyle based on love of life and reciprocity towards one’s neighbors.

Now the notion that ‘god is beyond space and time’ was a later notion based on the idea that the machinery that drove the world was just past the pearl blue sky. Was it Albrect Durer who did the famous painting of man peering into the clockwork just beyond what we see?

You know Susan, god does not have to be interpreted as a “supernatural existent” and , if so, then you don’t have an argument at all. I can only suggest being careful with the argument of supernatural reality. It works both ways. IMO, of course.

My definition is simple, god is the word people use to name the meaning they find in life. Not “supernatural “ at all.

Hope this helps!

Edited for typos.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 10-Nov-18 00:01 by Eddie Larry.